These 20 Comfort Food Recipes Are Like A Warm Hug When You Need It
As a self-proclaimed food enthusiast, comfort food holds a special place in my heart. It's like a warm hug from a loved one, a culinary sanctuary that never fails to provide solace and satisfaction. Whether it's a steaming bowl of mac and cheese, a hearty serving of chicken pot pie, or a slice of rich chocolate cake, comfort food has the uncanny ability to transport me to a place of pure contentment. So, grab a cozy blanket, prepare toand let's dive into the world of comfort food – where every bite is a reminder that, sometimes, a little taste of nostalgia is all we need to find comfort in the chaos of life.
Image via Most Hungry
Baked Rigatoni with Ricotta and Meat Sauce
I absolutely adore this recipe for baked rigatoni with ricotta and meat sauce! It combines the hearty flavors of meat sauce, the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, and the comforting texture of perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. The aroma of the simmering meat sauce fills the air, making it impossible to resist taking a sneak taste before it even reaches the oven. (via Most Hungry)
Image via Barley and Sage
Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes With Roasted Garlic
These brown butter mashed potatoes are simply divine! This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cherished family gatherings around the dinner table. (via Barley and Sage)
Image via Culinary Hill
Baked Mac and Cheese
Be prepared to have the irresistible scent of bubbling cheese and golden garlic breadcrumbs fill the air. The velvety, cheesy sauce generously coats each tender macaroni noodle, and when you take your first bite, you're sure to love that added breadcrumb crunch. (via Culinary Hill)
Image via Pink Owl Kitchen
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
If there's any food that I automatically associate with comfort, it's absolutely mac and cheese. It was my faithful support during University days, so you can imagine how nostalgic this dish is. If a crunchy, crusty top isn't your preferred bite of mac, be sure to try out this recipe instead, and you'll get a taste of indulgent comfort food at its best! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)
Image via Veggie Society
Garlic Rosemary Roasted Baked Potatoes
As far as I'm concerned, everyone should have a good, staple potato recipe. This effortless comfort food recipe is suitable for any day of the week, yet it possesses a remarkable elegance that makes it a fitting addition to even the most extravagant holiday feasts. (via Veggie Society)
Image via The Girl on Bloor
Classic Shepherd's Pie
You really can't go wrong with Shepherd's Pie if you're in need of traditional comfort food. Check out this easy, healthy take on the once-regular feature on everyone's family dinner table. (via The Girl on Bloor)
Image via Gastro Plant
Lentil and Sweet Chili
Whenever my friends need a pick-me-up, this is the dish I turn to. Even though I am not the biggest enthusiast of spicy food, lentil and sweet potato chili just does wonders. The recipe is pretty straightforward, but contains all the warming comfort you need. (via Gastro Plant)
Image via Half Baked Harvest
Souper Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rice
This dish combines some of my all-time favorite ingredients! The tender chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and creamy cheddar cheese mingle perfectly with the fluffy rice, creating a burst of flavors and textures (via Half Baked Harvest)
Image via Give Recipe
Turkish Lamb Stew (Kuzu Guvec)
My mum is a firm believer that you need to have some sort of stew incorporated into your meals at least once per week. And as I got older, I discovered that I actually agree, and Kuzu Guvec is a prime example of a classic comforting stew with just a few ingredients. (via Give Recipe)
Image via Give Recipe
Simple Roasted Chicken Pieces
Roasted chicken totally embodies the essence of home-cooked meals. The best thing is that it's almost an effortless recipe, with a 5-minute prep and 50-minute oven baking without worries. (via Give Recipe)
Image via A Spicy Perspective
Southern Comfort Dogs
When I was a child, my father used to take me to see tennis matches on a court near our apartment. Whenever we went, he would always buy hot dogs and a can of soda for the both of us. You might assume that hot dogs don't exactly scream homemade; however, they bring such a sense of familiarity and a feeling of nostalgia for simpler times for me. This recipe, in particular, is a testament to the joy of indulging in comfort food and has become a go-to treat for any casual gatherings with my friends and family. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Image via Takes Two Eggs
Korean Spicy Soft Tofu Soup
The delicate tofu, simmered in the fiery red soup, creates a perfect balance between soothing and spicy flavors. With each spoonful, I'm reminded of the moments I spent exploring Korean culture and immersing myself in its vibrant cuisine. Give it a try whether you're looking to try something new or just craving a good, comforting dish. (via Takes Two Eggs)
Image via Feel Good Foodie
Beef Barley Soup
If you've had a tough day and need a comforting bowl of goodness, beef barley soup is the recipe for you! The tender chunks of beef, paired with the earthy flavors of vegetables and the nutty richness of barley, create a symphony of flavors that warms both body and soul. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Image via This Wife Cooks
Baked Potato Soup
Yummy! That's what I have to say about this baked potato soup. Whether enjoyed on a quiet evening at home or shared with loved ones, this baked potato soup is a personal favorite that never fails to bring a smile to my face. (via This Wife Cooks)
Image via The Girl on Bloor
The Best Ever Healing Chicken Soup
This nourishing soup isn't just a comforting meal — it's a source of solace and rejuvenation. With each spoonful, I can feel the healing power of this soup, providing comfort during times of illness or simply when I need a soothing pick-me-up. (via The Girl on Bloor)
Image via Forks and Foliage
Lebanese Rice Pudding
Try out this floral version of rice pudding — it's got no eggs and is totally gluten-free! The process of making Lebanese rice pudding begins by simmering rice in milk, which is then infused with delightful essences such as mastic, rose water, and orange blossom water to add a distinct flavor profile. (via Forks and Foliage)
Image via A Spicy Perspective
Best Sugar Cookie Recipe
We're finishing the list with a good one! If there was ever a nostalgic, comforting dessert, then it must be cookies. They just bring back memories of festive seasons and joyful baking sessions with loved ones. It's a guaranteed comfort session in the form of food! (via A Spicy Perspective)
Image via The Original Dish
Spicy Maple Mustard Chicken with Creamy Polenta
Comfort food recipes should be soothing to your taste buds and your soul so it makes sense to think about this spicy maple mustard chicken dish. You'll need bone-in chicken thighs, butternut squash, swiss chard, fresno chili pepper, maple syrup, and more yummy ingredients to make this hearty meal. (via The Original Dish)
Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Want comfort food that takes less than 30 minutes to make? Turn your attention to this healthy chicken tortilla soup! You'll enjoy the chicken and veggie flavors as they transport you to a time when your grandparents made you something similar whenever you were feeling down. (via Kathryn's Kitchen Blog)
Chicken Pot Pie
Comfort food recipes should make you feel good after a tough day and we've got a meal you'll enjoy making — chicken pot pie. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to make the homemade crust and scrumptious filling! (via Completely Delicious)
What's your favorite comfort food to eat? Let us know in the comments, and follow our food + recipes Pinterest board for more delicious meals to cook!
This post has been updated.
Header Image by Takes Two Eggs
