There’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of homemade goodness to lift your spirits and fill your belly. For many of us, the kitchen is where memories are made, traditions are passed down, and love is shared. In this special collection of 17 easy recipes, we’re taking you back to Grandma’s kitchen, where the aromas of slow-cooked comfort foods and freshly baked treats will transport you to a simpler time.
From classic beef pot roast to creamy mac and cheese, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new family favorites. And who better to guide you through the cooking process than Grandma herself? With her expert tips and tricks, you’ll be whipping up hearty stews, golden corn fritters, and decadent chocolate chip cookies in no time.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food, this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is a simple and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions until tender.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Beef Pot Roast
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, this classic beef pot roast recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With tender beef, rich flavors, and a flavorful sauce, it’s an easy and satisfying meal to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the roast from the pot and add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Return the roast to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours or until tender and falling apart.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes
Start your day off right with these Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, light and airy with a subtle tang from the buttermilk. They’re perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet or griddle to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
6. Drop by 1/4 cupfuls onto the prepared skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (5-6 minutes per side)
Traditional Meatloaf with Glaze
Classic Meatloaf with Glaze Recipe
This traditional meatloaf recipe is a comforting twist on a classic comfort food dish. With its rich flavor and sticky glaze, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. While meatloaf is cooking, prepare glaze by whisking together brown sugar and soy sauce in a small bowl.
6. After meatloaf has baked for 30 minutes, brush with glaze and return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until caramelized.
Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Creamy Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters, this creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is a staple for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; transfer to baking dish.
9. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Southern Fried Chicken
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good time with this classic Southern-style fried chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the chicken in batches for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Drain fried chicken on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total (including frying time).
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Southern-style fried chicken!
Fresh Apple Pie with Cinnamon
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any time of year, this fresh apple pie with cinnamon is a delicious and easy-to-make treat.
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 cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place apple mixture in the pie crust.
4. Dot top of apple mixture with butter pieces.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit top of pie. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over crust and cut a few slits for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hearty Beef Stew
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Hearty Beef Stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors. Serve it with some crusty bread and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef, potatoes, carrot, peas, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Old-Fashioned Cornbread
Warm up with a slice of old-fashioned cornbread, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 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, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple recipe that yields creamy, fluffy, and utterly delicious mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, grated cheddar cheese, or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
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 softened butter, whole milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency as needed.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if desired. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rich Chocolate Chip Cookies
Treat your taste buds to the ultimate indulgence with these rich and chewy chocolate chip cookies, packed with dark chocolate chips for a deep, velvety flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Beef and Cabbage Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Savory Beef and Cabbage Soup is packed with tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups chopped cabbage
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 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 chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the cabbage, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Buttery Biscuits from Scratch
These flaky, buttery biscuits are a staple of Southern cooking and perfect for serving alongside your favorite soups, stews, or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of tender, golden-brown treats that will impress anyone.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until dough forms a ball.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently 2-3 times.
6. Roll out dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork
Experience tender, fall-apart pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a main dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and add 1/4 cup of water.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight (minimum 6 hours).
6. Once cooked, use two forks to pull the pork apart into shreds.
7. If desired, stir in barbecue sauce until well combined.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low heat), minimum 6 hours
Homestyle Green Bean Casserole
A timeless Thanksgiving staple, this green bean casserole recipe is a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s sure to please. With its creamy sauce, crispy fried onions, and tender green beans, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, black pepper, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
4. Add cooked green beans to the saucepan and stir to coat with the sauce.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Pour green bean mixture into the prepared dish and top with French-fried onions.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until onions are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Golden Corn Fritters
Start your day with a crispy and sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. These Golden Corn Fritters are made with fresh corn, eggs, and spices, then deep-fried to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Add corn kernels and beaten egg to the bowl; stir until just combined.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon; drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Simple Vanilla Layer Cake
This classic recipe yields a moist and fluffy vanilla cake with a tender crumb, perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade layer cake in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Step into Grandma’s kitchen and discover the joy of cooking with these 17 easy recipes. From classic comfort foods like Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup and Creamy Mac and Cheese to indulgent treats like Rich Chocolate Chip Cookies and Fresh Apple Pie with Cinnamon, there’s something for everyone. Also included are homestyle favorites like Southern Fried Chicken, Old-Fashioned Cornbread, and Hearty Beef Stew. These tried-and-true recipes are sure to become family staples, passed down through generations of cooks.
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