As the snowflakes gently fall outside, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm and comforting meal to beat the winter blues. Whether you’re looking for a hearty soup to warm your belly or a sweet treat to brighten your mood, we’ve got you covered with these 18 delicious recipes perfect for a snow day.
From classic comfort foods like creamy chicken and wild rice soup and slow cooker beef stew, to decadent desserts like homemade hot chocolate with marshmallows and cheesy baked mac and cheese, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your favorite mug, put your feet up, and get ready to indulge in a culinary winter wonderland.
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups wild rice blend (contains brown rice, black rice, and wild rice)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the wild rice blend and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Warm up with a hearty and comforting slow cooker beef stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chopped onion and minced garlic.
2. Add the beef stew meat, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the meat is coated evenly.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. If using red wine, add it now.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Homemade Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows
Warm Up with Homemade Hot Chocolate and Marshmallows!
Make a rich and creamy hot chocolate at home with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Marshmallows for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
5. If using heavy cream, stir it in just before serving.
6. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic with a gooey twist! This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add milk and melted butter to the cheese mixture; stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy mixture; season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Start your day with a warm and cozy bowl of fluffy pancakes infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and chopped walnuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Pancakes!
Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potato wedges and softened butter. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Add minced garlic and toss again to distribute evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato mixture in a single layer.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken in butter until browned. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Sprinkle flour, paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture and cover with another piece of pie crust or a pie crust lid.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Chili with Cornbread
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines tender ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a kick of heat from jalapenos, served alongside a warm and crumbly cornbread.
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 jalapeno pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cornbread:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in tomatoes, beef broth, and jalapeno; bring to a simmer.
5. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread by whisking together dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combining and mixing until just combined.
6. Pour cornbread batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish; bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time:
– Chili: 30 minutes
– Cornbread: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake
Start your day with a deliciously sweet and savory breakfast casserole that combines the warmth of cinnamon, crunch of apples, and softness of French toast.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly, then roll in the sugar mixture to coat.
4. Place coated bread slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the bread, followed by diced apples.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic pasta dish with a rich and creamy tomato sauce, all cooked in one pot for an easy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, add olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add cooked pasta to the pot, tossing to coat with the creamy tomato sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Start your day with a sweet treat that’s sure to impress – these soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls smothered in a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Roll the dough into a tight log, cut into 12-15 equal pieces.
7. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space for expansion.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Spread over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of Italy and America. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked ziti pasta, tomato sauce mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
Elevate your vegetable game with this easy and flavorful recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. While carrots are roasting, whisk together maple syrup and cumin (if using) in a small bowl.
6. After carrots have roasted for 20-22 minutes, brush the maple glaze all over them.
7. Return to oven and roast for an additional 3-5 minutes or until glazed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty, comforting dish that combines tender ground meat with sautéed vegetables and topped with a crispy mashed potato crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookies
A classic favorite, these chewy cookies combine the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugars; beat until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup with Crusty Bread
Warm up with a hearty and comforting Vegetable Lentil Soup paired with crusty bread!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously cheesy and garlicky pull-apart bread that’s perfect for snacking or as a side dish for your favorite meals. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the ooey-gooey goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) package of pizza dough
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and olive oil.
4. Brush the garlic-olive oil mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough.
6. Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the long edges.
7. Place the log onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warm Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm Spiced Mulled Wine Recipe
As the cold winter nights approach, warm up with a cup of spiced mulled wine that will fill your senses with the aroma of cinnamon and cloves.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Add the brown sugar and honey to the pot, stirring until they dissolve.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain the mulled wine into a warm mug or serving vessel.
6. Garnish with a slice of lemon and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on a snow day with these 18 delicious recipes! From hearty soups and stews to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Warm up with Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup or Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Treat yourself to Homemade Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows or indulge in Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese. Start your day with Pumpkin Spice Pancakes or Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots. And don’t forget the cookies – Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookies are sure to satisfy! Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a sweet treat, these recipes are perfect for a snow day.
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