Name: Pancetta Roast Chicken with Walnut Stuffing
Yield: Makes 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, divided; Chopped hearts, livers, and gizzards reserved from chickens (optional); 1 cup chopped onion; 3/4 cup small cubes peeled carrot; 2 large fresh sage leaves, minced; 1 large garlic clove, halved; 1/4 cup dry white wine; 1 cup small cubes crustless country bread; 1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts; 1 large egg, beaten to blend; 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 4-pound chickens, rinsed, patted dry; 12 thin pancetta slices; 3 large fresh fennel bulbs, trimmed, each cut into 6 wedges

Topping the chicken with pancetta slices before roasting adds a rich flavor.

What to drink:

If you'd like to add a bottle of red to the party, Alex recommends the Scacciadiavoli 2003 Rosso di Montefalco ($15). The Sangiovese blend is made in Umbria, and its ripe flavors pair nicely with the rich ingredients (pancetta, guanciale, truffles, mascarpone) in this menu.

Recipe notes

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.