As the cold winter days roll in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and comforting bowl of goodness to brighten up your day. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these 17 cozy recipes are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort foods to creative twists on old standards, we’ve got you covered.
From creamy tomato basil soup to hearty beef stew with root vegetables, and from slow cooker chicken and dumplings to rich and cheesy potato leek soup, each of these recipes is designed to warm your soul and fill your belly. So grab a blanket, get cozy, and let’s dive into the ultimate list of cold-weather comfort foods.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A classic summer soup that’s perfect for warm weather. This creamy blend of fresh tomatoes and basil is a refreshing twist on traditional tomato soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender; puree until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. This stew is packed with tender beef, flavorful root vegetables, and rich broth that’s sure to warm your heart.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or round, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, broth, wine (if using), and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Cozy up with this comforting classic that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a chilly day. This slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and pillowy dumplings for a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix (see notes)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, broth, flour, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in melted butter and dumpling mix (follow package instructions to prepare).
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the egg noodles and continue to simmer for another 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rich and Cheesy Potato Leek Soup
Rich and Cheesy Potato Leek Soup Recipe
A creamy and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of leeks with the richness of potatoes and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sliced leeks and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add diced potatoes, flour, broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Lentil and Sausage Stew
This hearty stew combines the flavors of spicy sausage and tender lentils, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, browning on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and bring the stew to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup
This iconic soup is a staple of French cuisine, featuring caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and melted Comté cheese on toasted bread. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, it’s the perfect winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Comté cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. If using wine, add it to the pan and cook until reduced by half.
3. Add beef broth and garlic; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls, topping each with toasted bread and grated cheese.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
Hearty Mushroom Barley Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, nutty barley, and savory flavors, making it a great option for a chilly day or a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 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 heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the barley, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch Oven Beef Bourguignon
This classic French dish is a perfect fit for the Dutch oven’s slow-cooking capabilities, resulting in tender beef and rich flavors. With this recipe, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Brown the beef in batches, then set aside.
3. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot and cover with a lid.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup with Crispy Sage
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the earthiness of crispy sage leaves. This recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh sage leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. Scoop out the cooked squash and puree it with butter, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Just before serving, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a few fresh sage leaves. Cook for 30 seconds or until crispy.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy sage leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Chili
This hearty, flavorful chili is perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering. With the combination of creamy black beans, sweet corn, and spices, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon
Elevate the classic macaroni and cheese dish by adding crispy bacon for a smoky, savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 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 crumbled bacon, milk, and butter to the cheese mixture. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture 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
Warm Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Elevate your gatherings with this creamy, cheesy dip that combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and a hint of garlic. Serve it warm with crudités or crackers for an unforgettable snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlicky White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy beans, tangy kale, and pungent garlic, all simmered together to create a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add soaked beans, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Stir in chopped kale and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Gravy
Tender, fall-apart pot roast cooked to perfection in a rich, savory gravy. This classic comfort food recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pot roast until browned on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the pot roast to a slow cooker. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, and flour.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve the pot roast with the rich, flavorful gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Savor a warm and comforting homemade chicken pot pie, perfect for a cozy night in with family and friends.
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 frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cool slightly.
5. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with the cooled chicken mixture and top with additional pie crust or pastry, crimping edges to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and filling is hot and bubbly.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk
As the weather cools down, a comforting bowl of spiced pumpkin soup is just what you need to brighten up your day. This creamy and aromatic soup combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the richness of coconut milk, warming spices, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pumpkin and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get cozy on a cold day with these 17 delicious and warming recipes! From creamy soups to hearty stews, and from comforting casseroles to rich and cheesy dishes, there’s something for everyone. Classics like French Onion Soup and Chicken Noodle Soup are joined by flavorful twists like Spicy Lentil and Sausage Stew and Creamy Butternut Squash Soup with Crispy Sage. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of soup or a satisfying casserole, these recipes will warm your soul.
