As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting meal. Winter is the perfect time to break out your favorite cookbooks and try some new recipes that will keep you cozy all season long.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite winter recipes that are sure to become new staples in your kitchen. From hearty soups and stews to rich casseroles and decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
So grab a cup of hot cocoa and let’s get started with our top 20 cozy winter recipes…
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, perfect for a chilly day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add squash, broth, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until squash is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to blender in batches) to puree soup until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream; adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a meal that’s easy to prepare and requires minimal supervision.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, cubed potatoes, frozen carrots, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
3. Add the seasoned beef to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with the deep, rich flavor of roasted garlic. This creamy side dish is perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a comforting main course.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, place the garlic cloves on a separate baking sheet and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until caramelized and soft.
4. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. Mash the roasted potatoes with the heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Stir in the roasted garlic cloves until well combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in grated cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 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, melted butter, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix until smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hearty Chicken Pot Pie
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky pastry to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Roll out the pie crust and place it over the filling.
6. Crimp the edges to seal the pie and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm up with a glass of spiced mulled wine, perfect for the holiday season!
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole allspice berries
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the wine, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon stick, and allspice berries.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Stir in the brown sugar and water until dissolved.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a cold day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles (egg noodles or rice noodles work well)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, chicken broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the noodles and thyme to the pot. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
This classic Southern side dish gets a nutty twist with the addition of crunchy pecans and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Stir in heavy cream and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are set and the pecans are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Lamb Shanks
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or special occasion. This recipe yields tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks with a rich and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup lamb broth (or beef broth)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in the preheated Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, red wine, lamb broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Classic French Onion Soup
A rich and flavorful soup that’s a staple of French cuisine, made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add olive oil, onions, garlic, thyme, and paprika.
2. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Add beef broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Place toasted baguette slices on top and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal, infused with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and the crunch of chopped apples.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1-2 diced apples (depending on size and desired texture)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached desired texture.
4. Stir in the diced apples. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This recipe yields a rich and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory taste of basil. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil 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. Add the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the butter and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce
Tender short ribs slow-cooked in a rich red wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
7. Serve with the rich red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots
Simplify your meal prep with this sweet and savory recipe! Roasting carrots brings out their natural sweetness, while a honey glaze adds an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. While carrots are roasting, mix honey and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
6. After carrots have roasted for 15 minutes, brush them with the honey glaze.
7. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until carrots are glazed and tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warm Chocolate Lava Cake
Warm Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe
Satisfy your chocolate cravings with this rich and decadent warm lava cake. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour in milk and mix until smooth.
7. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler; let cool slightly.
8. Fold melted chocolate into the batter until well combined.
9. Pour batter into 4 (1-cup) ramekins or small cups.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Garlic Rosemary Roast Chicken
This classic roast chicken recipe is elevated by the aromatic flavors of garlic and rosemary, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken.
6. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread
Cozy up with a loaf of moist and flavorful Pumpkin Spice Bread, perfect for snacking or serving as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your vegetable game with this sweet and savory recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl.
6. After the sprouts have roasted for 15-18 minutes, remove from oven and brush with the maple glaze.
7. Return to oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows
Warm up with a rich and creamy Hot Cocoa topped with fluffy marshmallows!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add in the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until hot and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour into mugs and top with mini marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your warm and cozy Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows!
Beef and Barley Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day, filled with tender beef, creamy barley, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the beef broth, barley, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 20 comforting recipes. From hearty stews to warm baked goods, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try creamy butternut squash soup or slow cooker beef stew for a cold-weather pick-me-up. Or, indulge in sweet treats like baked macaroni and cheese or warm chocolate lava cake. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
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