As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew, a creamy soup, or a rich and satisfying casserole, these 20 cozy cold weather recipes are sure to hit the spot.
From classic comfort foods to international twists on traditional dishes, this collection of recipes has something for everyone. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, put your feet up by the fire, and get ready to warm your soul with these deliciously cozy eats.
Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of tender beef, flavorful root vegetables, and rich broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes, then remove from pot.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the carrots, potatoes, sweet potato, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add the browned beef, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and rich creamy goodness. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Chili with Beans and Ground Beef
This recipe makes a big pot of comfort food that’s perfect for a crowd or a busy family. With ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker; add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and beef broth.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Classic Homemade Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust Recipe
This comforting dish is a staple of home cooking, featuring tender chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce topped with a flaky pie crust. It’s an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 1 large celery stalk, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken, carrots, celery, and frozen vegetables in a large skillet until tender.
3. Add flour, chicken broth, and milk to the skillet, stirring until smooth.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to fit the skillet’s diameter.
5. Pour filling into the pastry-lined skillet and brush edges with butter.
6. Fold crust over filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Cut a few slits in the top for steam release.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Spicy Lentil and Sausage Soup
This hearty soup combines the warmth of sausage with the comfort of lentils, all wrapped up in a spicy blanket of cumin and chili flakes. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 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 as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and chili flakes.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese
Savor the rich flavors of this iconic soup, elevated by the creamy richness of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– Gruyère cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup per serving)
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 for an additional 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
3. Add beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slice and shredded Gruyère cheese.
6. Place under the broiler and cook until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: About 35-40 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup with Mushrooms
This classic soup recipe combines tender beef, nutty barley, and earthy mushrooms in a rich and flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 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, then set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender.
5. Add the browned beef back into the pot; cook an additional 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Cheesy Potato and Bacon Chowder
Cozy up with this comforting soup that combines the richness of cheese, the smokiness of bacon, and the creaminess of potatoes. This recipe makes a big batch, perfect for sharing (or not!) on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 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 bacon and cook until crispy.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, and cooked bacon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegetable Minestrone with Pasta and Parmesan
This classic Italian soup is a staple of simplicity and flavor, packed with tender vegetables, al dente pasta, and the perfect balance of savory and sweet. A bowl of this minestrone will warm your heart and fill your belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Risotto
This comforting risotto combines the warmth of roasted pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy fall evening. A creamy and savory side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in roasted pumpkin puree and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Gravy
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or 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
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the 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 to pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot and cover with a lid.
7. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 to 3 hours
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
A classic comfort food dish elevated by a crunchy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir over low heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Dumplings in Creamy Broth
Warm Up with a Hearty Turkey and Dumplings Recipe
This classic comfort food dish combines tender turkey with soft, pillowy dumplings in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add turkey to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Sprinkle flour, thyme, salt, and pepper over the turkey. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add broth, whisking constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in milk or heavy cream. Add dumpling mixture (see below) and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until dumplings float to the surface.
Dumpling Mixture:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
Whisk together dry ingredients. Gradually add milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Nutmeg
Warm up with a comforting bowl of roasted butternut squash soup, infused with the sweet and aromatic flavors of nutmeg. This recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the roasted squash into a blender or food processor, along with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
6. Blend until smooth, then add broth and heavy cream (if using). Blend until combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spicy Korean Kimchi Stew with Pork
This hearty stew combines the bold flavors of kimchi with tender pork and a depth of spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. This spicy and sour stew is sure to warm your belly and your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi (homemade or store-bought), chopped
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups water or pork broth
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, kimchi, Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the pork is tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef Bourguignon with Mashed Potatoes
This classic French dish is a rich and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and herbs in a red wine broth. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown the beef in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add mushrooms; cook until tender.
4. Add red wine, broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Meanwhile, prepare mashed potatoes: Boil chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Clam Chowder with Crispy Bacon
A creamy and flavorful chowder that combines the brininess of clams with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon slices on it.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
4. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add clam juice, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked clams and crispy bacon to the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Apricots
This traditional Moroccan dish is a flavorful and aromatic stew made with tender lamb, sweet apricots, and a blend of spices. Serve over couscous for a truly authentic experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large tagine or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add apricots, broth, and honey. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Serve over couscous.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Vegetable and Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and comforting curry that combines the richness of coconut milk with the nutrients of vegetables and chickpeas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Warm Up with a Cozy Cup of Hot Chocolate and Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Rich, creamy hot chocolate is elevated to new heights with the addition of fluffy cinnamon whipped cream. This indulgent treat is perfect for cold winter nights or as a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. Add cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
4. To make whipped cream, beat heavy cream, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form.
5. Top hot chocolate with whipped cream and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Looking to warm up on a chilly day? These 20 cozy cold weather recipes are sure to hit the spot! From hearty stews and soups to comforting casseroles and risottos, there’s something for everyone. Try Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, or Slow Cooker Chili with Beans and Ground Beef. For a twist on classic comfort food, try Spicy Lentil and Sausage Soup or Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Gravy. And don’t forget about sweet treats like Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon Whipped Cream!