As the temperatures drop and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness to soothe the soul. Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy mac ‘n cheese or a hearty beef stew, these 20 cozy comfort food recipes are sure to hit the spot. From classic chicken and dumplings to sweet and sticky honey glazed ham, our collection of mouthwatering dishes will keep you cozy and satisfied all season long.
From slow-cooked stews to loaded baked potato soup, we’ve got a recipe for every cold night craving. And with a mix of old-fashioned favorites and modern twists, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a blanket, get cozy, and let the comforting aromas wafting from your kitchen transport you to a place of warmth and happiness.
Creamy Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate the classic comfort food with this indulgent recipe, featuring a creamy macaroni and cheese sauce topped with crispy breadcrumbs for added crunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
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.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Add cooked macaroni, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a perfect winter comfort food, simmering tender beef and root vegetables to perfection in a rich broth. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, this recipe is ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a bowl, mix together beef cubes, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with the rich flavors of butter and garlic! This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and mash with a fork or potato masher.
3. Add softened butter, minced garlic, milk/cream, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Chicken and Dumplings
Classic Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
This comforting recipe is a staple of American comfort food, made with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft, pillowy dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings: In a small bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth.
4. Stir the dumpling mixture into the pot with the chicken and broth.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy and mouthwatering homemade meatloaf recipe topped with a sweet and sticky brown sugar glaze.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix brown sugar, olive oil, and 1 tbsp water in a small bowl. Brush glaze over meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
This hearty recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese with al dente ziti pasta for a comforting casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 ounces ziti pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Let sauce thicken while pasta cooks.
5. Cook ziti pasta al dente; drain and combine with sausage mixture.
6. Transfer pasta mixture to 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Southern-Style Buttermilk Biscuits and Gravy
A classic comfort food combination that’s sure to become a family favorite. These flaky, buttery biscuits are served with a rich, meaty gravy that’s perfect for drizzling over eggs, sausage, or bacon.
Ingredients:
For the biscuits:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
For the gravy:
– 4 tablespoons pan drippings (from cooking sausage or bacon)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. Cut cold butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until dough comes together.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1 inch thickness.
6. Cut into squares or use biscuit cutter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
For the gravy:
1. Whisk together pan drippings, flour, and chicken broth in a saucepan.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm over biscuits.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Bacon
This creamy soup combines the comforting flavors of baked potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and crumbled bacon.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and flaky crust to create a satisfying pot pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef, mushrooms, onion, and garlic until browned.
3. Add flour, broth, cream, and thyme. Simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface. Spoon beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold other half over filling to form a triangle or rectangle. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush with butter and cut slits for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Chili with Cornbread Topping
This hearty chili recipe packs a punch with its bold flavors and spicy kick, while the cornbread topping adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a cozy night in or a party with friends.
Ingredients:
For the chili:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
For the cornbread topping:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add water and diced tomatoes.
5. Simmer for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread topping by whisking together flour, cornmeal, cheese, milk, egg, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour chili into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with cornbread mixture.
8. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie
This classic comfort food recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. With tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky pastry, this homestyle chicken pot pie is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, green beans)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add flour, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Stir in frozen mixed vegetables and melted butter.
5. Roll out pie crust and place it in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Pour chicken mixture into the pie crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Warm Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a deliciously warm and comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 apple, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Stir in the butter until melted.
5. Add the diced apple and stir until heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Combo
Satisfy your cravings with a match made in heaven – crispy grilled cheese sandwich paired with creamy tomato soup. This comforting combo is perfect for a cozy afternoon or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1 medium tomato, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato soup (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese and tomato slices.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve immediately with a bowl of warm tomato soup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ultimate Tuna Casserole with Peas
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of tuna, peas, and pasta in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as macaroni or elbow macaroni)
– 1 cup of frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add peas and cook until thawed.
4. Stir in tuna, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and parsley. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tuna mixture. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sticky Honey Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and sticky honey glazed ham recipe, perfect for a stress-free centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get some in each diamond-shaped score (if using).
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20-30 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Transform a weeknight dinner into a rich and satisfying meal with this one-pot wonder. This comforting pasta dish combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce, all cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– 1/2 tsp. salt
– 1/4 tsp. black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pasta, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Deep-Dish Pizza with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty deep-dish pizza is filled with flavorful sausage and sweet bell peppers, perfect for a satisfying dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Place in a deep-dish pie plate or a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
4. Add sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender.
5. Spread cooked sausage and pepper mixture evenly over dough.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Lamb
Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Lamb: A hearty, comforting dish that combines tender lamb with a rich vegetable topping and creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. While the lamb mixture is cooking, boil the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk or heavy cream.
5. Transfer the lamb mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
A classic casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this creamy, cheesy dish is a crowd-pleaser. With the added bonus of steamed broccoli, it’s a nutritious and satisfying option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and grated cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and thyme. Pour over the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
This creamy dessert combines the comfort of banana pudding with the crunch of vanilla wafers. A perfect treat for any occasion, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 package (6-8 cookies) vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together whole milk and a pinch of salt.
4. Add sliced bananas to the cooled cream mixture and stir gently.
5. Pour the banana-cream mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Top with crushed vanilla wafers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with additional whipped cream and vanilla wafers if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake dessert.
Summary
Cozy up on cold nights with these 20 comforting recipes! From classic comfort food like mac and cheese, chicken pot pie, and beef stew to sweet treats like banana pudding and apple cinnamon oatmeal, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy pasta dishes, gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, or hearty soups and stews. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, these recipes will keep you warm and satisfied all season long.
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