As the winter nights draw in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. Whether you’re looking for a hearty soup to warm your bones or a rich casserole to satisfy your cravings, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 22 cozy winter recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic comfort foods like beef stew and chicken pot pie, to innovative twists on old favorites like roasted garlic mashed potatoes and maple glazed Brussels sprouts with bacon, there’s something for everyone in our list of must-try winter recipes. So go ahead, get cozy, and let the warmth of these delicious dishes bring some much-needed cheer to your winter nights.
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy soup made with roasted butternut squash, aromatic spices, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until softened.
5. Add roasted squash, cumin, smoked paprika, and nutmeg to the pot. Stir well.
6. Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer soup for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Warm up with a hearty, comforting beef stew that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a chilly day. This slow cooker recipe simmers tender chunks of beef and vegetables in a rich broth, ready to serve when you need it.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, beef stew meat, potatoes, carrot, peas, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in beef broth, making sure that all ingredients are covered.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the deep, savory flavor of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the potato cubes with a drizzle of oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, place the garlic cloves on a piece of foil, drizzle with oil, and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large pot, combine the roasted potatoes, roasted garlic, butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
A classic comfort food, this soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, nutty barley, and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the barley, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Return the beef to the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 2 hours or until the barley is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for a reason – a rich, creamy sauce coats al dente pasta, all wrapped up in a golden brown crust. Perfect as a main dish or side, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons 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 continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
Warm up with this classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Mix flour with dumpling mix according to package instructions.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the pot, covering the surface.
5. Simmer an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings float to the top.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots
Elevate your roasted carrots with a hint of honey and a touch of spice, perfect for a delicious side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized sticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, braised short ribs fall-off-the-bone tender and are smothered in a rich, red wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 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 and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add diced onion to pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to pot and cover with lid.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or overnight (8-10 hours).
8. Serve sauce spooned over short ribs.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
This sweet potato casserole is a staple of Southern comfort food, elevated by the crunch and nutty flavor of a pecan topping. It’s perfect for holidays and gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and eggs; mix until smooth.
4. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with chopped pecans and brown sugar mixture (1 tablespoon brown sugar + 1 tablespoon chopped pecans).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and flaky pastry crust to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas and carrots)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in butter until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Gradually add broth and cream; bring to a boil.
5. Add frozen vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Roll out pie crust and fill with the chicken mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful spiced mulled wine perfect for chilly winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the wine, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it mulled for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add brown sugar and water. Stir until dissolved.
5. Serve hot in mugs or glasses.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup
This iconic soup is a staple of French cuisine, featuring sweet caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and topped with melted Comté cheese and crusty bread. With this recipe, you’ll create a warm, comforting bowl that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Comté cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Add olive oil, garlic, and thyme to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Pour in beef broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with toasted baguette slice and grated cheese.
5. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef Bourguignon
This classic French dish is a hearty stew that combines tender beef, mushrooms, and vegetables in a rich red wine broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 thyme sprig
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot, season with salt and pepper, then cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A Rich and Savory Treat
This classic soup recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the pungency of basil, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, tomato paste, and dried basil. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky flavor of bacon, all tied together with a rich maple glaze. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook diced bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup until well combined.
7. Toss cooked Brussels sprouts with the maple-glazed bacon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread
Cozy up with the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin spice bread, perfect for snuggling up on a crisp fall morning or serving at your next harvest-themed gathering. This moist and flavorful loaf is packed with the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, complemented by the sweetness of pure pumpkin.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Lentil and Sausage Stew
Warm up with this comforting, flavorful stew that combines the richness of sausage with the nutritional boost of lentils. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Root Vegetables with Herbs
Roasted Root Vegetables with Herbs Recipe
Bringing out the natural sweetness of root vegetables, this recipe is a perfect side dish or light meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnip.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Potato Chowder
Cozy up with a warm bowl of cheesy potato chowder, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cinnamon Apple Crisp
This classic dessert combines tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening.
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 chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using). Mix until well combined.
5. Add melted butter to the oat mixture and stir until crumbly.
6. Top the apple mixture with the oat topping.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Herb Roast Chicken
Elevate your roast chicken game with this simple yet aromatic recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of garlic, herbs, and lemon creates a rich, savory flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 lemon, quartered
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the lemon quarters inside the cavity of the chicken.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Combine the comforting warmth of hot chocolate with the indulgent sweetness of whipped cream for a treat that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
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, whisking constantly, until the hot chocolate is smooth and hot.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 22 comforting recipes. From creamy soups to hearty stews, and from roasted vegetables to warm breads, there’s something for everyone. Try our Creamy Butternut Squash Soup or Slow Cooker Beef Stew for a satisfying start to the evening. Indulge in classic comfort foods like Baked Macaroni and Cheese or Homemade Chicken Pot Pie. And don’t forget to treat yourself with sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Bread or Cinnamon Apple Crisp. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to warm your heart and belly.