As the rain pours down outside, there’s nothing like curling up with a warm and comforting meal to lift your spirits. Whether you’re looking for a hearty soup to soothe your soul or a satisfying baked dish to fill your belly, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 cozy rainy day recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic comfort foods like creamy tomato basil soup and homemade chicken pot pie, to international flavors like spicy Thai coconut curry and savory mushroom risotto, there’s something for everyone on this list. And let’s not forget the sweet treats – warm cinnamon apple crisp and rich hot chocolate with marshmallows are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and get ready to cozy up with these delicious recipes…
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Savor the flavors of summer with this creamy and delicious tomato basil soup. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with fresh herbs and juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup 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 tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Stir in olive oil and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Savor a classic comfort food with this homemade chicken pot pie recipe. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
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
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons 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 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in flour, then gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking until smooth.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with chicken mixture and top with additional pie crust or strips of pie crust for a lattice-top design.
7. Brush crust with beaten egg and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy and aromatic mashed potato recipe, infused with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream or whole milk, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This comforting slow cooker beef stew recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a warm, satisfying meal. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, potatoes, carrot, and peas and carrots to the slow cooker.
2. Place the beef stew meat on top of the vegetables.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the beef.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese
This classic recipe is a comforting blend of al dente pasta, rich cheese sauce, and a crispy baked top. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warm Cinnamon Apple Crisp
Warm Cinnamon Apple Crisp Recipe
Get cozy with this comforting warm apple crisp recipe, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick breakfast treat. This delicious dessert is easy to make and packed with the flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and tender apples.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish and set aside.
4. In another bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Curry
This creamy and spicy curry is a flavorful twist on traditional Thai cuisine. With the bold flavors of coconut, chilies, and aromatics, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, chopped (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– 1 can (14 oz) red curry paste
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and chilies; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 15-20 minutes or until desired thickness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
A simple yet satisfying recipe that brings together the perfect combination of melted cheese and toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread (or your preferred bread type)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese blend)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the bread.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy your perfectly grilled cheese sandwich!
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting recipe is a staple for any occasion, providing a soothing and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and nourishing soup that’s perfect for cold winter nights or anytime you need a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add egg noodles and thyme to the pot. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until noodles are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rich Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows
Warm up on a chilly day with this decadent hot chocolate recipe, topped with fluffy marshmallows. Perfect for snuggling up by the fire or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
– Optional: whipped cream and chocolate shavings 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 cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually add the dry mixture to the hot milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream until fully incorporated.
6. Remove from heat and pour into mugs. Top with mini marshmallows.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Mushroom Risotto
A classic Italian dish that combines earthy mushrooms with creamy risotto, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it; cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
5. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth; stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments and waiting for absorption, until rice is cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Remove from heat; stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy buttermilk pancakes, perfectly sweet and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. This classic recipe yields a batch of 8-10 pancakes that are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Grease the pan with vegetable oil or cooking spray.
6. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the pan.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Guinness Stew
This classic Irish stew recipe combines tender beef, rich Guinness stout, and aromatic vegetables to create a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then set aside.
3. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the Guinness stout, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Baked Ziti with Sausage
Baked Ziti with Sausage: A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese with al dente ziti pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, sausage mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Warm Banana Bread
Cozy up with a slice (or two) of this moist and delicious Warm Banana Bread, perfect for snacking or serving as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
French Onion Soup with Gruyère
A classic French onion soup recipe elevated by the rich flavor of Gruyère cheese. This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 4 slices of baguette
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Add broth and wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with a slice of baguette and Gruyère cheese.
7. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Mug Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent treat that’s ready in just minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 chocolate chips (depending on your preference)
– 1-2 tablespoons milk (adjust to desired consistency)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in chocolate chips and milk.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Let stand for 30 seconds before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of vegetable lentil soup, packed with fiber-rich lentils and an array of colorful vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Latte Oatmeal
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Pumpkin Spice Latte Oatmeal, perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat. This recipe combines the flavors of fall with creamy oatmeal and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of ground ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cook for 5 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the oats and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the oats have cooked to your liking.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and ground ginger (if using).
6. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your meal with these crispy and aromatic roasted potatoes, infused with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with garlic, olive oil, butter, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Summary
Get cozy on a rainy day with these 20 comforting recipes! From creamy soups like Tomato Basil Soup and Beef Stew, to warm comfort foods like Chicken Pot Pie and Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes, there’s something for everyone. Also included are sweet treats like Cinnamon Apple Crisp and Banana Bread, as well as indulgent desserts like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Mug Cake and Rich Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a comforting snack, these recipes will help you weather the storm.