19 comfort foods so good, you’ll swear they’re grandma’s

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Comfort foods have a way of making you feel like you’re back in grandma’s kitchen, where every dish tastes like a warm hug. These recipes are so good, you’ll swear they’ve been passed down through generations. From hearty stews to classic casseroles, each one is packed with that homemade goodness we all crave.

Broccoli casserole in a white dish with a wooden spoon.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

German Potato Salad

Close-up of a spoon lifting a serving of German potato salad garnished with chopped parsley. The salad contains sliced potatoes, bacon bits, onions, and a light dressing.
German Potato Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This German Potato Salad is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, ready in under an hour. Boil the potatoes, cook up some crispy bacon, and toss everything with apple cider vinegar, mustard, and bacon drippings. Serve it warm, and it’s sure to be a hit, bringing back the comforting flavors of classic family meals.
Get the Recipe: German Potato Salad

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is ready in under an hour and perfect for any day of the week. It’s budget-friendly, can be prepped in advance, and leftovers freeze well. Easy to make and a hit with both kids and adults, this casserole brings back the cozy feeling of the classic tater tot casseroles many of us enjoyed growing up.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Tuna Egg Salad

A close-up of a bowl of tuna egg salad mixed with celery, onions, and dill, topped with freshly ground black pepper, with a spoon placed on the side.
Tuna Egg Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Tuna Egg Salad is ready in just 25 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal for dinner or a make-ahead lunch. Hard-boil some eggs, mash them, and mix with canned albacore tuna, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, pickles, and seasonings. So many of us grew up eating tuna salad and egg salad, and this creamy, protein-packed version brings those comforting flavors together in one great dish.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Egg Salad

Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Hash brown breakfast casserole with a wooden spoon in it.
Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is perfect for slow mornings, holidays, or weekend brunches. It mixes hash browns, bacon, eggs, cheese, and cottage cheese for a hearty meal. You can tweak it to fit your taste. The combination of ingredients makes it a comforting and hearty start to the day.
Get the Recipe: Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Close-up of a creamy pasta salad sprinkled with paprika and garnished with chopped herbs in a white bowl.
Tuna Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Tuna Macaroni Salad is a budget-friendly meal ready in just 40 minutes. With easy-to-find ingredients, it’s perfect for beginner cooks. Great for meal prepping workday lunches, weeknight dinners, or bringing to a potluck. Cook some elbow macaroni and mix it with canned tuna, hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, sweet relish, and mustard. Try using different types of mustard or swapping some of the mayo for Greek yogurt or sour cream. This dish brings back memories of classic tuna salads that were a staple for many.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is great comfort food for any occasion. Using bacon, potatoes, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, it’s easy to whip up and can be prepped ahead of time. Just bake the potatoes, mix everything together, and bake again until bubbly. It’s the kind of hearty dish that reminds you of those home-cooked meals from back in the day.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Shake and Bake Pork Chops are a great way to get crispy, flavorful pork chops without frying, all in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a family favorite and super easy to make. It’s great for beginner cooks or anyone who wants a good meal on the table fast, reminiscent of those classic shake and bake dinners many of us enjoyed growing up.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Broccoli Casserole is a great pick for family dinners and is ready in just 50 minutes. The simple steps make it perfect for beginner cooks or anyone wanting to spend less time in the kitchen. The flavors will take you back to those family gatherings. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow cooker split pea soup in a slow cooker with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is simple for anyone to make, even if you’re new to cooking. Just prep your ingredients, toss them into your slow cooker, and let it do the work. Cook it on low to let it simmer all day, or set it to high if you need it ready sooner. The rich, thick soup brings to mind those hearty, home-cooked meals that always hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

7-Layer Dip

A hand holds a chip topped with a layer of sour cream, tomatoes, black olives, green onions, and shredded cheese above a platter of loaded nachos.
7-Layer Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This 7-Layer Dip is great for any gathering, from game day parties to potlucks. It’s meat-free and takes just 25 minutes to make. Start with refried beans mixed with taco seasoning and milk, then add layers of guacamole, sour cream mixed with cream cheese, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and black olives. Assemble in a 9×13 dish and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy the classic flavors.
Get the Recipe: 7-Layer Dip

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Corn Soup is a quick and easy meal that comes together in one pot. Ready in less than an hour, it combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth. The mix of ingredients creates a comforting bowl that’s perfect for any day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are an easy-to-make appetizer perfect for any gathering. Marinate mushroom caps in vinegar and oil, then fill them with a mix of cooked Italian sausage, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, and parsley. Bake until tender and golden brown. The combination of savory sausage and tender mushrooms brings a sense of warmth and familiarity, making it a crowd-pleaser that feels like a cherished family recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli is a great choice for any night of the week. Just layer ravioli with marinara sauce and plenty of cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden. The cheesy layers and easy preparation make it perfect for busy evenings, giving you a comforting meal without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

A bowl of chocolate-covered peanut butter balls with one cut in half.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are super easy to make with just four ingredients and can be made peanut-free. Mix peanut butter and melted butter, add powdered sweetener, and chill. Form into balls, freeze, then dip in melted chocolate. Perfect for the holidays, these treats have that homemade charm that brings a smile to everyone’s face.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

Beer Cheese Dip

A piece of pretzel being dipped into a bowl of cheese sauce garnished with chopped chives.
Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Beer Cheese Dip comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for game days or casual hangouts. Start by melting some butter and making a roux with flour. Add milk and beer, season it up, and melt in a trio of cheeses for a smooth finish. This dip will bring back memories of those cheesy party snacks you loved.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This White Bean Soup is a one-pot wonder that’s ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s an easy way to get some extra fiber and veggies in your diet. The hearty ingredients make it a comforting choice that feels like it’s been in the family for years. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Sausage breakfast casserole on a plate with a fork.
Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a mix of ground Italian sausage, eggs, and shredded cheese, all ready in 50 minutes. It stores well, making it great for meal-prepping breakfasts on busy weekdays. Packed with protein, it’s perfect for family breakfasts and pairs really well with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is perfect for those busy weeknights, ready in under an hour. It’s simple to make and reheats like a charm, making leftovers a breeze. The comforting flavors will take you back to those childhood casseroles, making it feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts on a plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts are ready in just an hour and bring together crisp bacon, tender water chestnuts, and a flavorful sauce. It’s a classic recipe that’s great for holiday parties, family gatherings, and game-day events. Partially bake the bacon, wrap it around the water chestnuts, and brush with a mix of ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Finish baking until the bacon is crisp and the sauce is caramelized. Perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

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