As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and stew-like or creamy and soup-based, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 cozy cold weather recipes.
From classic comfort foods like beef stew and chicken pot pie to innovative twists on old favorites like spicy sausage and lentil soup, these recipes are sure to become new staples in your winter repertoire. So grab a blanket, snuggle up by the fireplace, and get ready to warm your belly and your soul with these delicious and easy-to-make dishes.
Stay tuned for our full list of cold weather recipes, featuring a range of options from slow cooker chili to braised short ribs and everything in between.
Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables Recipe
A classic comfort food dish, this beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef and a variety of root vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the beef in batches over medium-high heat.
3. Remove browned beef from pot and set aside. Add chopped onion to pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, flour, and thyme to pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Return browned beef to pot, pour in beef broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup combines the richness of chicken broth with the nutty flavor of wild rice and the creaminess of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the wild rice blend, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Chili with Beans and Cornbread
This hearty, comforting chili recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the rich flavors of ground beef, beans, and cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 cups water
– Cornbread mix for 6-8 servings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker with the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, corn kernels, and water.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot with a slice of warm cornbread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This homemade chicken pot pie is filled with tender chicken, flaky vegetables, and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a buttery, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a large skillet until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add flour, broth, cream, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until the sauce thickens.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the chicken mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with puff pastry, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush top with butter and cut a few slits in the crust for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Lentil Soup
A hearty and warming soup that combines the flavors of spicy sausage, red lentils, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spicy sausage (such as chorizo or pepperoni), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Topping
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Topping Recipe
A comforting classic gets a delicious upgrade with this easy recipe for Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend family meal.
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 butter, melted
– Crispy Topping: 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
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 milk, cheddar, mozzarella, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle Crispy Topping over the macaroni and cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pot Roast with Carrots and Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef pot roast (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– Butter or milk, for mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pot roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add carrots to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Return the pot roast to the pot and cover with a lid.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 hours, or until tender and falling apart.
9. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
10. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter or milk.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours (including resting time)
French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons
A rich and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (for croutons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook onions until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
2. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss baguette cubes with a pinch of salt and spread on a baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. To serve, ladle soup into bowls and top each bowl with toasted croutons and grated Gruyère cheese.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup with Mushrooms
This comforting soup combines the richness of beef, the nuttiness of barley, and the earthiness of mushrooms for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 until browned on all sides.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the onion, garlic, thyme, broth, water, and barley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Cheesy Potato and Ham Chowder
Warm up with a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness! This easy-to-make chowder combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, ham, chicken broth, milk, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce
Tender short ribs slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful red wine sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 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 oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs in batches, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove browned ribs from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, and thyme to pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to pot; cover with lid or foil. Braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Remove pot from oven; let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
A classic Italian dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of sautéed vegetables and a rich, creamy Béchamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Béchamel Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. Sauté eggplant, zucchini, and spinach in olive oil until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce and sautéed vegetables.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading Béchamel sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by noodles, vegetable mixture, and cheese mixture. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt to taste
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
Pumpkin Risotto with Sage and Parmesan
A creamy and aromatic fall-inspired dish that combines the warmth of pumpkin, earthiness of sage, and richness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), roasted and pureed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the roasted pumpkin puree and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the skillet and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Stir in the chopped sage and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Turkey and Dumplings in Creamy Gravy
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add vegetable oil and mix until crumbly.
3. Bring chicken broth to a boil, then gradually add the dumpling mixture, stirring constantly.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
5. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Add turkey to the creamy gravy and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the depth of flavor from black beans, all wrapped up in a rich and smoky broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potato in a baking dish with 1 tablespoon olive oil until tender, about 45 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened.
4. Add the black beans, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add the roasted sweet potato, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including roasting time)
Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken with Herbs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Rub the garlic-butter mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 20-25 minutes during cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb Shanks with Rosemary and Garlic
Lamb Shanks with Rosemary and Garlic: A classic dish that combines the tender flavor of lamb with the aromatic properties of rosemary and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add more oil if necessary, then sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add rosemary, red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Sweet Cornbread with Honey Butter
Sweet Cornbread with Honey Butter Recipe
Summary: This moist and flavorful cornbread recipe is elevated by a drizzle of warm honey butter, making it the perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and honey until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the melted butter and mix until fully incorporated.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
1. Mix together softened butter and honey until smooth.
2. Drizzle warm honey butter over the cornbread immediately after it comes out of the oven.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal with Walnuts
Start your day off right with this delicious and nutritious oatmeal recipe, packed with the flavors of apple, cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 medium apple, diced (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Add the diced apple and cook for an additional minute, until heated through.
5. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot Chocolate with Homemade Marshmallows
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting hot chocolate recipe, topped with fluffy homemade marshmallows.
Ingredients:
For the Hot Chocolate:
– 2 cups milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Marshmallows:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk or heavy cream over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. While the hot chocolate is cooking, prepare the marshmallows. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cream of tartar and vanilla extract. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to cool and set.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 20 comforting recipes that are perfect for cold weather. From hearty stews and soups to slow cooker chili and pot roast, there’s something for everyone. Try classic comfort foods like macaroni and cheese or chicken pot pie, or venture out with unique dishes like lentil soup or roasted lamb shanks. Whatever your craving, these recipes will warm your heart and belly on a chilly day.
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