30+ Best Recipes to Cook in September

Embrace the flavors of early fall with the 30+ Best Recipes to Cook in September! From cozy one-pot dinners and hearty soups to apple-inspired desserts, pumpkin treats, and comforting drinks, this roundup is packed with seasonal favorites your family will love. Whether you’re looking for back-to-school weeknight meals, game day appetizers, or fall-flavored sweets, these comforting recipes will make September feel warm, flavorful, and inviting.

Recipes to Make in September

Now that we're nestled into September—it's not too long that we'll begin to witness the leaves falling and the cozy vibes started, so as a recipe developer, it’s truly a dream to begin delving into a bit more comfort recipes! I’m all about whipping up dinners, desserts + drinks that celebrate end of summer and fall produce. I even made my own pumpkin spice seasoning—Haha. Clearly I'm ready!

I couldn’t resist sharing some of my favorites that I know y’all will love this month. I’ve included a little bit of everything: warming soups, creamy pasta dishes, sweet treats, and even some delicious drinks. I hope these recipes inspire you to embrace the transition of the season and enjoy every delicious moment! And if you're looking for food beyond the physical, I've got you covered with spiritual food that soothes the soul.

Why September is the Perfect Month for Cozy Recipes

September marks the transition from summer to fall, which means cooler evenings, back-to-school routines, and the start of football season. It’s the perfect time to lean into cozy dinners, warm soups, and seasonal desserts featuring apples, pumpkin, and spices. These recipes bring comfort while making the most of what’s in season.

The Best Seasonal Ingredients to Cook with in September

Cooking with fresh, in-season produce makes your meals more flavorful, nourishing, and budget-friendly. September is the sweet spot between summer and fall, so you’ll find both late-summer favorites and early-fall staples. Here’s what shines this month:

• Apples. From sweet Honeycrisp to tart Granny Smith, apples are perfect for cider, pies, crisps, and bundt cakes.
• Pumpkin. Cozy and versatile, pumpkin adds warmth to soups, breads, cakes, and even pasta sauces.
• Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn, Delicata). Great for roasting, soups, and casseroles that taste like fall in a bowl.
• Sweet Potatoes. Naturally sweet and hearty, they shine in soups, casseroles, or mashed with cozy spices.
• Pears. Juicy and lightly floral, pears elevate crisps, cobblers, and even fall-inspired cocktails.
• Tomatoes. September is peak tomato season; use them for comforting soups, sauces, and one-pot pastas.
• Corn. Sweet corn is at its best now and adds coziness to cornbread, chowders, and skillet bakes.
• Broccoli + Cauliflower. These cruciferous veggies thrive this month and make creamy soups or roasted sides.
• Carrots. Sweet and earthy, they pair perfectly with stews, soups, and fall bakes like carrot cake.
• Brussels Sprouts. Roast them with balsamic or maple for a cozy September side dish.
• Figs. In season through early fall, figs add sweetness to salads, baked goods, and cheese boards.
• Plums. Another late-summer fruit that transitions well into fall crisps and cobblers.
• Grapes. Perfect for snacking, but also amazing roasted for savory dishes or baked into breads.
• Herbs (Sage, Rosemary, Thyme). These cozy herbs add warmth to chicken, pasta, and soups.

Jump to:

• Recipes to Make in September
• Why September is the Perfect Month for Cozy Recipes
• The Best Seasonal Ingredients to Cook with in September
• Tips for Making the Most of September Cooking
• 30+ Best Recipes to Cook in September
• Drinks + Appetizers
• Comforting Dinners + Salads
• Soul-Satisfying Desserts
• Cozy Soups
• SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING + COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THESE RECIPES!
• What Makes a Recipe Cozy + Comforting?
• Quick + Easy Comfort Food for Busy Weeknights
• Cozy Recipes Perfect for Game Day
• That's A Wrap On This September Recipes Roundup!
• More Roundups You Will LOVE
• MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

Tips for Making the Most of September Cooking

• Shop local farmers markets for peak-season produce.
• Batch cook soups and pasta bakes to freeze for busy weeks.
• Add cozy spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and smoked paprika to boost flavor.
• Pair comforting meals with warm drinks or mocktails for extra seasonal flair.

30+ Best Recipes to Cook in September

Drinks + Appetizers

Refreshing Homemade Lemonade

This easy homemade lemonade is refreshing, tangy, and perfectly sweetened with real lemons and natural ingredients—ideal for summer sipping or any day you need a citrus boost!

Apple Caramel Espresso Martini 

Unlike the traditional version, this recipe is entirely dairy-free, has no Kahlua (instead a nice substitute), and is the perfect balance between sweet, mild, and absolutely toasty for the cooler months! Entirely dairy-free and vegan!

Pesto Whipped Feta Dip

Indulge in the creamy delight of our Whipped Feta Pesto Dip—a fusion of tangy feta, aromatic pesto, and creamy goodness perfect for dipping or spreading. This delectable blend is an irresistible crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Spicy Fried Chicken Wings

Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, these Spicy Fried Chicken Wings are brined in buttermilk, coated in seasoned flour, and fried to perfection every time.

Soft Honey Butter Dinner Rolls

Pure magic—pillowy, golden, and brushed with sweet, buttery perfection. Perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or anytime you need a little extra comfort on your plate! Overnight + Vegan Option.

Homemade Apple Juice

Get ready to fall in love with the taste of Fall! This Homemade Fresh Apple Juice is like a big hug in a glass—sweet, crisp, and oh-so-refreshing. Perfect for sipping on chilly days!

Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings

These traditional Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings are the perfect handheld food for any occasion, especially during the warmer months!

 Easy Garlic Herb Three Bean Dip

This Easy Garlic Herb Three Bean Dip is the ultimate plant-based snack or appetizer for the entire family. Jam-packed with a creamy hummus base made from white beans and topped with roasted veggies ----this dip is sure to be the star on any table.

My Fave Easy Classic Bruschetta

With just a handful of simple ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fresh parsley + garlic. This dish bursts with flavor. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply craving a light and tasty snack, this bruschetta is sure to impress. Gluten-free Option.

Apple Cider Mocktail

Made with an easy homemade apple syrup, freshly-squeezed orange juice, lemon juice, and topped with your favorite bubbly, this mocktail is the best addition to any holiday table or weekend! Completely Vegan.

Jamaican Spicy 'Pepper' Shrimp

Made in just 30 minutes, this shrimp is smothered in a spicy scotch bonnet seasoning + base, with hints of butteriness, and is perfect when eaten by itself or with your favorite simple side. Meat + dairy-free options.

Homemade Everything Bagel Chex Mix

Craving a snack that's both crunchy and flavorful? Homemade Everything Bagel Chex Mix is your go-to—packed with nuts, pretzel sticks, and Chex cereals, all coated in the beloved Everything Bagel seasoning.

Comforting Dinners + Salads

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo

This One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo is bold, comforting, and ready in just 45 minutes—perfect for an easy, flavor-packed weeknight dinner!

Tuscan Marry Me Salmon

This Tuscan Marry Me Salmon features pan-seared fillets in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce—easy, elegant, and ready in just 45 minutes TOTAL!

Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad with Hot Honey Chickpeas

This Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad with Hot Honey Chickpeas is the perfect simple lunch or dinner with sweet + spicy hot honey chickpeas, kale, croutons, shaved parmesan, lemon zest, and an easy lemon dressing tossed together for the best flavor combo!

Authentic Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta

This Authentic Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta is the perfect combo of smoky jerk chicken, creamy pasta, and fresh veggies. Bold, tasty, and super easy to make—what’s not to love?

BBQ Braised Rib Street Tacos

BBQ Braised Rib Street Tacos made with tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, bold BBQ flavor, and fresh toppings—perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or game day!

Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe

This Spicy Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and packed with bold Indian-inspired flavors—perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or satisfying your takeout cravings at home.

Green Goddess Chicken Salad with Crunchy Quinoa

This Green Goddess Chicken Salad with Crunchy Quinoa is a refreshing + satisfying dish that brings a burst of flavor and texture to your plate. It's perfect for a light yet hearty meal that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.

Creamy Weeknight Alfredo Pasta

Quick and creamy, this Meatless Weeknight Alfredo Pasta is a 30-minute vegetarian dinner with rich, cheesy sauce—perfect for busy nights or Meatless Mondays.

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Jamaica with this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken dish! Packed with spicy flavors, tender chicken + creamy coconut milk - It's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Fall Harvest BBQ Chickpea Kale Salad

There's nothing like this Fall Harvest BBQ Chickpea Kale Salad which comes loaded with so much bold flavor and healthy ingredients that are perfect for the Fall season. Drenched in a delicious Honey Mustard Sauce, this salad is guaranteed to be on rotation!

Southern Smothered Steak

Coated in a light seasoned flour, the steak is pan-fried until golden, then smothered in a savory gravy made with caramelized onions, garlic, and a hint of herbs and spices. This hearty Southern classic pairs perfectly with fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or cornbread for the ultimate soul food dinner. 

Weeknight Bruschetta Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella and a fresh tomato-basil bruschetta topping—this Weeknight Bruschetta Chicken is light, flavorful, and ready fast!

Creamy Tuscan 'Marry Me' Chicken

Using homemade Tuscan seasoning, heavy cream, sundried tomatoes, white cooking wine, parmesan, hints of lemon flavor, and kale, this decadent chicken dish comes together in a flash, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Even the kids will love this creamy chicken! Dairy-free + Vegan options.

Soul-Satisfying Desserts

Baked Vegan Apple Cider Donuts

These delicious Baked Vegan Apple Cider Donuts are super easy to make, only requires one bowl, is all vegan, and comes with a gluten-free option.

Easy Southern Peach Cobbler [with Canned Peaches]

This Easy Southern Peach Cobbler [with Canned Peaches] is an old fashioned way to whipping together this timeless dessert often enjoyed with a few scoops of ice cream for a real treat for the entire family!

Southern Peach Cobbler Cinnamon Rolls

These Southern Peach Cobbler Cinnamon Rolls are a celebration of flavor—juicy peach filling, warm spices, a melt-in-your-mouth crumble, and a silky cream cheese glaze that ties it all together. It’s summer soul food at its best. Perfect for slow mornings, holiday brunches, or when you simply want to impress.

No-Churn Salted Caramel Oreo Ice Cream

Easy No-Churn Salted Caramel Oreo Ice Cream made with crushed Oreos, creamy vanilla base, and swirls of rich salted caramel—no ice cream maker needed!

Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake

This Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake is soft, buttery, and topped with fresh strawberry sauce, glaze, and shortbread crumbs for a stunning dessert twist.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake

If you're as obsessed with fall flavors as I am, you’re going to love this one! Picture a cozy caramel apple cheesecake with a nutty crust, creamy caramel filling, and a sweet apple glaze on top. It’s like having a bite of fall in every forkful!

Southern Strawberry Dump Cake

This easy Southern Strawberry Dump Cake is a sweet, buttery dessert made with cake mix and juicy strawberries—perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight treat!

My Fave Vanilla Birthday Cake

Moist, buttery, and full of classic flavor, this homemade Vanilla Birthday Cake is the ultimate celebration treat. Easy, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion!

Biscoff Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls

If you love Biscoff cookies and cinnamon rolls, you're in for a REAL treat. These Biscoff Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls combine the best of both worlds into one delicious, epic creation. Perfect for kids and adults-alike!

Southern Strawberry Banana Pudding

Southern Strawberry Banana Pudding is a tasty twist on the classic banana pudding, adding a fresh strawberry kick that's just irresistible. It’s an easy way to jazz up a beloved dessert and perfect for any get-together!

McDonald's Copycat Apple Pie

These McDonald's Copycat Apple Pies are even better than the originals—crispy, warm, and packed with spiced apple goodness. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

Cozy Soups

Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup

This velvety, smooth Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with rich, comforting flavors! Perfect for chilly days, it’s the ultimate cozy companion for your favorite grilled cheese.

Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Made from roasted broccoli, chopped carrots, sharp cheddar, vegetable stock, heavy cream, and an array of herbs + seasonings, this soup is one that everyone will love. Serve with a side of bread, crackers, or enjoy it alone. Whip together in less than 1 hour. Vegan + gluten-free options available. 

Roasted Carrot Soup + Cheesy Croutons

Made from herb roasted carrots, vegetable stock, heavy cream, onions, garlic, and an array of herbs + seasonings, this soup is one that the whole family will love time and time again. Serve with a healthy dose of jumbo cheesy herb croutons or enjoy it alone. Whip together in less than 1 hour. Vegan option available.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A great weeknight option or comforting weekend addition for the entire family, this soup boasts of it’s major flavor factor and comes loaded with tender, soft potato gnocchi, major garlic flavor, herbs + seasonings, chopped kale, and beautifully shredded chicken! Vegan + Gluten-Free options.

Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Satisfy those tastebuds by making this Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup! A silky smooth texture and rich umami flavor makes this the perfect meatless soup for chilly Fall + winter nights.

Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup

A great weeknight option or weekend addition, this soup boasts of it’s major flavor factor and comes loaded with shredded chicken, tender wide egg noodles, seasonings + herbs, chopped kale, hint of lemony flavor, and delicious veggies. Slow Cooker + Gluten-Free options.

Easy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

The warmth of great herbs + spices and succulent taste of savory flavors which is beautifully paired with a creamy base that makes this bowl of goodness completely irresistible. Topped with crispy homemade croutons, this soup will be your newest family staple. All Vegan + Gluten-free ingredients. Whip together in less than 1 hour total.

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

It’s rich, velvety, and packed with bold flavors that are sure to leave you satisfied. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this soup is loaded with creamy potato goodness and cheesy perfection! Slow Cooker + Vegan Options.

Apple Cheddar Sweet Potato Soup

Savory roasted sweet potatoes, apples, fresh herbs + spices, vegetable stock, and heavy cream for a fully velvety eating experience-----A true soup season favorite for the entire family. Vegan + Gluten-free Option.

Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup feels like a warm, comforting hug from grandma! It’s easy to make, packed with delicious flavor, and the perfect way to warm up any time!

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING + COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THESE RECIPES!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this 30+ Recipes to Cook in September list. Everything from my fave loaf pan, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

What Makes a Recipe Cozy + Comforting?

Comfort food is more than just hearty—it’s about nostalgia, warmth, and ease. Think one-pot pastas that make busy weeknights simple, casseroles and bakes that feed a crowd, and seasonal desserts that feel like a hug in every bite. Cozy September recipes often balance convenience with flavor, making them family-friendly and soul-satisfying.

Quick + Easy Comfort Food for Busy Weeknights

Back-to-school season means less time in the kitchen. That’s why quick one-pot meals, creamy pastas, and skillet dinners are September favorites. Recipes like creamy orzo, salmon skillets, and spicy butter chicken deliver cozy comfort in under an hour.

Cozy Recipes Perfect for Game Day

Football season kicks off in September, making it the perfect time for shareable appetizers and hearty bites. Think spicy fried wings, rib tacos, cheesy dips, and cornbread muffins—recipes that are cozy, fun, and crowd-pleasing.

That's A Wrap On This September Recipes Roundup!

And there you go, friends—our collection of 30+ Recipes to Make in September! With these delicious dishes in your arsenal, you’re bound to discover a new favorite or rekindle your love for a classic.

More Roundups You Will LOVE

So if you loved this roundup of 30+ Best Recipes to Cook in September then be sure to check out more of my roundups on my fave recipes!

• 40+ Best Dinner Ideas for Two [Date Night]
• 40 Best Game Day Recipes
• 34 Delicious Banana Recipes
• 32 Easy Vegan Breakfast Recipes
• 21 Sunday Dinner Ideas
• Best Pizza Toppings for Any Night
• 35 Most Popular Fall Drinks

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried any of these 30+ Best Recipes to Cook in September or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag me @shanikagrahamwhite on Instagram. I love hearing from you!

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