There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of goodness on a chilly winter day. As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes start to fall, our thoughts turn to hearty, satisfying meals that can help us thaw out from the inside out. Whether you’re curled up by the fireplace or snuggled up with a blanket, these 20 cozy cold-day recipes are sure to become your new favorite go-to’s for comforting meals.
From classic soups and stews to creamy pasta dishes and rich casseroles, we’ve got you covered with our collection of delicious, easy-to-make recipes. And the best part? They’re all perfect for a relaxing day in, whether you’re entertaining guests or just want to treat yourself to a little R&R.
So grab your favorite mug, get cozy, and let’s dive into the ultimate list of cold-day comfort foods…
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Savor the flavors of Italy with this rich and creamy soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes). Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the soup over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Transform tender beef into a hearty stew with this simple and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, and red wine (if using) to the slow cooker.
3. Place the seasoned beef on top of the vegetables.
4. Sprinkle thyme over the beef.
5. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (Low) or 4-6 hours (High)
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for any occasion. With tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft noodles, this homemade chicken noodle soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 cup of egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Potato and Bacon Chowder
Warm up with this comforting and creamy chowder that combines the richness of cheese, potatoes, and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Chili with Cornbread
A hearty and spicy chili recipe perfect for a cold winter’s day, paired with a warm and crumbly cornbread to soak up all the flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cornbread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Onion Soup with Gruyère
A classic French recipe that combines caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and melted Gruyère cheese for a warm and comforting soup.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
2. Add the butter and olive oil to the skillet and stir until melted.
3. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Preheat your broiler.
5. Ladle the soup into oven-proof bowls and top each bowl with toasted baguette slices and grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Place the bowls under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto
This creamy risotto is a perfect blend of roasted butternut squash, fragrant sage, and Arborio rice. The comforting dish is ideal for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic, Arborio rice, and white wine (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Stir in roasted squash, butter, and chopped sage.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This creamy, comforting soup is a twist on the classic loaded baked potato, with the added bonus of being easy to make and perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and crumbled bacon for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and crumbled bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Sausage Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the comforting warmth of lentils with the savory goodness of sausage. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the lentils, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
This comforting dish is a staple of home cooking, with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the broth and cream, whisking until smooth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the beaten eggs and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin and Coconut Curry
Pumpkin and Coconut Curry Recipe: A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the warm spices of India with the comforting sweetness of pumpkin.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and diced
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the ground cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the diced pumpkin and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let the curry simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Beef Bourguignon
Beef Bourguignon Recipe
A classic French dish, Beef Bourguignon is a rich and flavorful stew made with tender beef, mushrooms, and red wine. This hearty recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot over egg noodles or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Clam Chowder with Fresh Herbs
Savor the flavors of the ocean with this creamy and aromatic clam chowder recipe, infused with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add clams, flour, clam juice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chowder has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and dill.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Vegetable and Bean Minestrone
A flavorful and nutritious Italian-inspired soup, perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, spinach)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked kidney beans, vegetable broth, and pasta shapes.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Classic Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs Recipe
Summary: A comforting twist on the classic comfort food, this recipe adds a satisfying crunch from crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting, flavorful soup that combines the richness of turkey with the nutty goodness of wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup uncooked wild rice
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the turkey, chicken broth, wild rice, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
This hearty stew is a staple in Korean cuisine, made with a variety of ingredients to create a spicy and savory broth. It’s often referred to as “army food” due to its popularity among Korean soldiers.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi (spicy fermented Korean cabbage)
– 1 cup diced potatoes
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup diced zucchini
– 1 cup diced corn
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add kimchi, potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and corn; stir well.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and gochujang; add to the stew.
5. Pour in water and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter and earthy mushrooms in this easy-to-make pasta dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom mixture in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hot Chocolate with Homemade Marshmallows
Warm up on a chilly day with this classic hot chocolate recipe, elevated by the addition of fluffy homemade marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Marshmallow ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
+ 1/4 cup corn syrup
+ 1/2 cup water
+ 1 tablespoon gelatin
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, water, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. For marshmallows:
– Combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan. Place over low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
– In a separate bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
– Add bloomed gelatin to the sugar mixture and stir until dissolved.
– Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let set at room temperature for 4 hours or overnight.
4. Serve hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (hot chocolate); 4 hours or overnight (marshmallows)
Summary
Stay cozy on a cold day with these 20 comforting recipes! From classic soups like Creamy Tomato Basil and Homemade Chicken Noodle, to hearty stews like Slow Cooker Beef and Lentil and Sausage Stew, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Spicy Chili with Cornbread, Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto, and Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting bowl of soup or a rich and satisfying casserole, this collection has got you covered.
Leave a Reply