Stay in and savor these 9 home-cooked delights

Photo of author

| Published:

Staying in doesn’t mean compromising on food. When you’re at home, there’s a unique kind of joy in making your own meal. It’s the freedom to choose, to adjust, and to put on that favorite playlist while you’re at it. Sure, ordering in is easy, but cooking? That’s rewarding.

In the world of home-cooking, simplicity can be a game-changer. It’s not always about complicated techniques or exotic ingredients. Often, it’s about those straightforward, foolproof dishes that warm you up from the inside and make you feel right at home. So, the next time you think of dining in, remember, there’s a whole universe of uncomplicated, delicious meals just waiting for you to explore. Grab an apron, and let’s turn that kitchen into the best spot in the house.

A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Oh, those stay-in nights when all you’re craving is something home-cooked and hearty. This casserole might just be your new favorite. Chicken, bacon, and ranch – sounds like a dream team in a dish, right? Dive into layers of savory goodness, with a comforting mix that’s hard to resist. Perfect for cozying up and forgetting about the world for a bit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Remember those nostalgic sloppy joes from your childhood? Now, give that memory a twist and think casserole. When staying in beckons, this dish brings the comfort of old-school flavors combined in a new delightful way. Meaty, tangy, and utterly satisfying, it might even have you questioning your loyalty to the classic sandwich version.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Golumpki Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stay-in dinners are the perfect opportunity to explore a bit, don’t you think? If you haven’t dipped your toes into Eastern European cuisine yet, let Golumpki be your introduction. Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a savory blend of meat and rice, it’s a home-cooked gem that’s bound to impress. And hey, they might just become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Golumpki Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Individual Shepherd's Pie.
Individual Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Individual Shepherd’s Pie

Imagine the scene: a chilly evening, a favorite show, and your very own shepherd’s pie. No sharing, just pure, unadulterated comfort. These individual servings are perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty and warming. Meat, veggies, and that irresistible mashed potato layer — it’s like the universe’s way of saying, “You deserve this.”
Get the Recipe: Individual Shepherd’s Pie

Personal Pizza

What’s more synonymous with a chill stay-in night than pizza? But here’s the kicker: making your own personal pizza, tailored to your exact taste. Whether it’s cheesy, peppered with pepperoni, or loaded with veggies – the ball’s in your court. Fresh out of the oven, it’s a taste of perfection you crafted yourself.
Get the Recipe: Personal Pizza

Ratatouille

Let’s take a little culinary trip, shall we? Ratatouille is like a passport to France, right from your kitchen. Vibrant veggies stewed to perfection, it’s the kind of dish that makes staying in feel like a treat. Healthy, colorful, and bursting with flavor, it’s the ideal companion for a wine and movie night.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Shrimp and Corn Bisque in a serving bowl.
Shrimp and Corn Bisque. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp and Corn Bisque

If you’re aiming to add a dash of elegance to your stay-in dinner repertoire, this bisque is your answer. A luscious blend of creamy goodness, it perfectly marries the sweetness of corn with the succulence of shrimp. It’s a bit upscale, sure, but without losing that comforting, home-cooked vibe we all love.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Small-Batch Cornbread

Cornbread and chill? Sounds like a plan. Stay-in nights need a touch of golden, fluffy goodness. This small-batch recipe ensures every bite is as fresh as can be. Whether you’re pairing it with a stew or just savoring it with some melted butter, it’s a side that always feels just right.
Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Cornbread

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

We can all agree, mac and cheese is a universal love language. But this crock pot version? It’s a game changer for stay-in delights. As flavors meld over time, what you get is an irresistibly creamy and cheesy dish that’s soul-satisfying. And the beauty of it? You get to enjoy that warmth without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.