As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, there’s a natural desire for grounding, warming foods that provide comfort and nourishment. November is the perfect time to embrace the flavors of the season and indulge in hearty dishes that warm both body and soul.

From roasted root vegetables to comforting soups and holiday favorites, here are some delicious ideas for what to cook in November.

In short: November is all about root vegetables, winter squash, cranberries, apples and Brussels sprouts, plus a little Thanksgiving prep. Below are nine ideas, each with a recipe of mine to try.

1. Roasted Root Vegetables

November is the time for root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Roasting these veggies brings out their natural sweetness and creates a caramelized, savory flavor. Try tossing them with olive oil, salt, and herbs before roasting them in the oven for a delicious side dish.

Try this: Black Bean & Sweet Potato Salad or Roasted Sweet Potatoes

2. Squash Soup

Butternut squash and pumpkin are still in season during November, making them perfect for comforting soups. Whether you prefer a classic butternut squash soup or a creamy pumpkin bisque, these warming soups will keep you cozy on chilly autumn evenings.

Try this: Healing Butternut Squash & Carrot Curry Soup

3. Thanksgiving Turkey Stock

Of course, no November cooking list would be complete without mentioning Thanksgiving turkey! Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or having an intimate celebration, try turning what’s left of your turkey into a delicious turkey stock for an incredible soup base all month long.

Try this: Post-Thanksgiving Turkey Stock Recipe

4. Cranberries

Cranberries are at their peak during November, making it the ideal time to whip up a cranberry salad or fresh cranberry sauce.

Try this: Cranberry, Kale & Quinoa Salad

Try this: Fresh Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Walnut

The tartness of fresh cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweetness of sugar and orange zest. It’s an essential accompaniment to your Thanksgiving meal.

5. Baked Apples

November is apple season, which means it’s time to indulge in all things apple-related. A classic roasted apple is a must-have dessert during this month. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Try this: Baked Apples Recipe

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are in season during November and make a fantastic side dish when roasted to perfection. Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these little cabbages become crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Add some balsamic glaze or bacon for extra flavor.

Try this: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Edges

7. Mulled Cider

Warm up on chilly evenings with a mug of mulled cider.

Simmer apple cider with cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and a touch of honey for a comforting beverage that will fill your home with delightful aromas.

Try this: Mulled Cider Recipe

8. A Big Pot of Chili

Chili is the ultimate cold-weather dinner: one pot, lots of leftovers, and it freezes beautifully. Make a batch on Sunday and you have lunches for days. Beans, ground turkey or beef, tomatoes and warm spices are all you need.

Try this: Awesome Ground Turkey Chili

Try this: Awesome Vegetarian Chili

9. Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Prep

The easiest Thanksgiving is the one you start early. Cranberry sauce needs at least a day to set, and homemade turkey stock can be made up to 5 days ahead, so your gravy and stuffing come together the night before instead of at the last minute.

Try this: Turkey Stock for Make-Ahead Gravy & Stuffing

Try this: Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce

November Cooking FAQs

What fruits and vegetables are in season in November?

Winter squash (butternut, acorn and pumpkin), sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips, beets, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, cranberries, apples and pears are all at their best right now.

What’s an easy healthy dinner for a cold November night?

Soup is hard to beat. My Butternut Squash & Carrot Curry Soup and Hearty White Bean and Kale Soup are both cozy, filling and full of vegetables. For something a little more special, my Classic French Onion Soup with melted Gruyère toasts is perfect on a cold night.

What can I make ahead for Thanksgiving?

Cranberry sauce and turkey stock are the two easiest things to get out of the way early. Roasted vegetables can be prepped (washed and chopped) a day ahead, too. For the full spread, see my Thanksgiving menu ideas.

What should I cook with leftover turkey?

Turn the carcass into After-Thanksgiving Turkey Stock, then use the meat in my Leftover Turkey Chopped Salad.

Looking for more seasonal ideas? Browse my easy healthy fall recipes.

Enjoy the flavors of November with these delicious recipes. Whether you’re cooking for Thanksgiving or simply enjoying the autumnal ingredients, these dishes will bring warmth and comfort to your table.