As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting meal to cozy up with. The winter season is the perfect excuse to dig out your favorite recipes and try some new ones. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and filling or sweet and indulgent, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 cozy winter recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From creamy soups to rich desserts, we’ll explore the best of the season’s offerings. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and get ready to warm up with these delicious dishes.
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. This rich and velvety soup is made with roasted butternut squash, aromatic spices, and a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
4. Add the roasted squash, cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Blend until smooth.
5. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Rich and flavorful, this slow cooker beef stew is a comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening. With tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and simmer all day.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef stew meat in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes to the slow cooker.
3. Place the browned beef on top of the vegetables.
4. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and dried thyme.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Elevate your mashed potato game with the rich flavor of roasted garlic!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the potato chunks with a pinch of salt and spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Meanwhile, place the garlic cloves on a piece of foil and drizzle with broth. Fold the foil to create a packet and roast alongside the potatoes for 30-35 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
4. Remove both from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Mash the roasted potatoes with butter, salt, and pepper. Add the roasted garlic, mashing until well combined.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Classic Chicken Pot Pie
Classic Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
A comforting and savory classic, this chicken pot pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
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
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add chicken, mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the filling is thickened.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture and top with another pie crust (or a pie crust lid).
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a classic winter warmer that combines the rich flavors of red wine with spices and sweetener to create a cozy drink perfect for cold evenings. This spiced mulled wine recipe adds a few extra twists to elevate the experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it warm for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the sliced orange and brown sugar to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. If using brandy, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a slice of orange if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe combines al dente macaroni with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and a crispy baked topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hearty Lentil Soup
This comforting lentil soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly day or a busy weeknight meal. With its rich flavor and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 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, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, made with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and stir in the noodles.
5. Simmer the soup for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dutch Oven Pot Roast
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering. This slow-cooked pot roast is tender, flavorful, and falls-apart-easy.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lb beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pot roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add garlic, beef broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pot roast to the Dutch oven, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
This savory tart is a perfect combination of sweet caramelized onions, tangy Gruyère cheese, and flaky pastry. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spread caramelized onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the onions.
6. Fold edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush with heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of black beans, making it a perfect comfort food for any season. With its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken
A classic roasted chicken recipe with a flavorful twist, featuring garlic and herbs that will elevate the taste to a whole new level. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
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 minced 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 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. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Warm Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this comforting bowl of warm apple cinnamon oatmeal, perfectly balancing sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is quick, easy, and adaptable to any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 apple, diced (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add oats, honey or maple syrup (if using), cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until oatmeal is creamy and tender.
4. Add diced apple and salt. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until apple is tender.
5. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings (such as chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing like a freshly baked loaf of pumpkin spice bread to evoke the cozy feelings of fall. This moist and flavorful recipe is perfect for snacking or serving as a seasonal gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine
A rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these braised short ribs are slow-cooked to tender perfection in a rich red wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef 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
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, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 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 hours
Cheesy Potato and Leek Gratin
This rich and comforting side dish combines tender potatoes and caramelized leeks with a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a main course. With its golden-brown top and velvety texture, this gratin is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook leeks in butter over medium heat until caramelized and tender, about 15 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, boil potatoes until slightly tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of potatoes, followed by a layer of leeks, and repeat.
5. Top with grated cheese and drizzle with heavy cream.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spiced Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Warm up with this rich and aromatic Spiced Hot Chocolate, topped with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the cocoa powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until smooth and combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the hot chocolate has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and add sugar to taste. Stir until dissolved.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
Beef and Barley Soup Recipe
Hearty and comforting, this classic soup recipe combines tender beef, nutritious barley, and a rich broth to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the beef broth, water, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Continue to simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with these tender and caramelized carrots smothered in a rich maple glaze. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While carrots are roasting, whisk together maple syrup, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
6. After carrots have roasted for 20-22 minutes, brush with the maple glaze and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until glazed.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Start your holiday season with a delicious twist on traditional cookies – these chocolate peppermint treats combine rich, velvety chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint. Perfect for gift-giving or enjoying yourself!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup 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.
4. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these comforting meal ideas! From hearty soups to warm baked goods, our collection of 20 delicious recipes will keep you warm and satisfied. Try creamy butternut squash soup, slow cooker beef stew, or roasted garlic mashed potatoes for a satisfying start to your day. For dessert, indulge in spiced mulled wine, caramelized onion and Gruyère tart, or pumpkin spice bread. Whether you’re looking for a cozy night in or a warm treat on-the-go, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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