As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of goodness to brighten up your cold winter nights. In February, we’re especially fond of hearty, slow-cooked dishes that simmer all day long, filling our homes with savory aromas and warming our bellies from the inside out. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got 20 cozy recipes to keep you company on those chilly February nights.
From creamy soups to rich casseroles, and from slow-cooked stews to decadent desserts, these 20 recipes are sure to become new favorites. And with ingredients like beef, chicken, pork, and lamb making the rounds in our kitchens this month, we’re excited to share some of our most beloved cold-weather recipes that’ll keep you cozy until spring arrives.
Stay tuned for more!
Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables: A comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender beef with a variety of root vegetables, resulting in a rich and satisfying stew.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes, then remove from pot.
3. Add more oil if necessary, then sauté the onions, carrots, potatoes, and sweet potato until tender.
4. Add garlic and flour; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to oven.
6. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, perfect for chilly fall and winter days. This recipe is easy to make and packed with the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
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 chopped onion and minced garlic in butter until softened.
5. Add roasted squash, heavy cream, and broth to the pot. Blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Cozy up with this comforting classic! This slow cooker recipe is a staple for any busy day, providing a warm and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, flour, and thyme. Pour mixture over ingredients in slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare dumplings according to package instructions (or use homemade recipe).
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Classic French Onion Soup
Classic French Onion Soup Recipe
A rich and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for special occasions. This recipe is a traditional take on the iconic French dish, featuring caramelized onions and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook onions until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add garlic, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in beef broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère cheese.
5. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this easy recipe that combines the classic comfort food with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the macaroni.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the spicy kick of Italian sausage with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in kale and cook until wilted.
4. Add chicken broth and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine, then stir in reserved pasta water.
5. Combine cooked pasta with sausage and kale mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Guinness Pie
This classic pie combines tender beef, savory vegetables, and the rich flavors of Guinness stout for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook beef in oil until browned; set aside.
3. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in same pot until tender.
4. Add Guinness, broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir well.
5. Return beef to pot; simmer 10 minutes or until flavors meld.
6. Roll out pie crust; fill with beef mixture.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A savory twist on a classic comfort food!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Boil potatoes in large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and return to pot.
4. Add roasted garlic, butter, heavy cream or half-and-half, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes (including roasting time)
Warm Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Warm Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
Get cozy with this creamy and flavorful dip, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the garlic until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and slightly golden brown.
6. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Satisfy your cravings with this classic recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Our homemade chicken pot pie is made with tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the vegetables, chicken, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add flour, melted butter, chicken broth, milk, and beaten egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture.
5. Top with another pie crust or a crumbly topping (optional). Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil and Smoked Sausage Stew
This classic stew is a perfect blend of comforting lentils, savory smoked sausage, and aromatic spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 smoked sausages (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cheesy Potato and Ham Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the comfort of mashed potatoes, crispy ham, and melted cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate pot, combine diced ham and 1/4 cup milk. Heat over medium heat until the milk is absorbed and the ham is coated in a creamy sauce.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, ham mixture, and shredded cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce: A rich and flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion or a 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 or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
8. Remove from oven and serve with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking time: 2-3 hours
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
This creamy tomato soup is elevated by the addition of crispy grilled cheese croutons, adding a satisfying crunch to each spoonful. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the best of summer’s fresh flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and basil to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Grill or cook the bread slices until golden brown, flipping once. Cut into crouton-sized pieces.
5. Serve the soup hot, topped with grilled cheese croutons and additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Risotto with Sage
As the leaves fall and the air grows crisp, this comforting pumpkin risotto with sage is the perfect way to cozy up. With the sweetness of roasted pumpkin and the earthy flavor of fresh sage, this dish is a true celebration of autumn’s bounty.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Arborio rice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in roasted pumpkin, sage, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chocolate Chili with Cinnamon
This unique chili recipe combines the richness of chocolate with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a comforting and savory dish perfect for chilly days. With its bold flavors and aromas, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the cocoa powder, cinnamon, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and water to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts
Elevate your entertaining game with this elegant and easy-to-make appetizer, perfect for gatherings of all sizes. A creamy brie cheese is baked to perfection, drizzled with warm honey, and topped with crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the cheese, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the honey.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the honey is warm.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
8. Serve warm with crackers, bread, or fruit.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines roasted sweet potatoes with black beans, onions, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes and onions for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a pan, sauté black beans, bell pepper, and garlic until the vegetables are soft.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning sweet potato mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Cover with enchilada sauce and shredded cheese.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
This savory tart combines sweet caramelized onions with creamy Gruyère cheese, perfect for a satisfying snack or appetizer. The flaky pastry crust and gooey filling make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Spread cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the onions. If using white wine, drizzle it over the top.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling to create a crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Warm Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a cozy and comforting bowl of Warm Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal, perfect for crisp autumn mornings or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 apple, diced (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
4. Add the butter and stir until melted.
5. Fold in the diced apple.
6. Serve warm, topped with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on cold February nights with these 20 delicious recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Hearty dishes like Beef Stew with Root Vegetables and Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce will warm your belly, while comforting classics like Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs and Chicken Pot Pie will bring back memories of childhood comfort food. For a taste of something new, try the Spicy Sausage and Kale Pasta or Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas. And don’t forget to indulge in sweet treats like Warm Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal and Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this collection has something for everyone.
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