21 comfort foods cozier than your favorite pair of sweatpants

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Enjoy this collection of 21 comfort food recipes, each one crafted to bring warmth and contentment to your dining table. From hearty stews to creamy pastas, these dishes are designed to wrap you in the same level of comfort as your favorite pair of sweatpants. Dive into these easy-to-follow recipes that promise both simplicity in preparation and richness in flavor, perfect for cozy nights in.

A bowl of turkey stew with carrots and potatoes.
Turkey Stew. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Turkey Chili Pie

Turkey chili pie in a skillet and serving bowls.
Turkey Chili Pie. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Combine a delicious turkey chili recipe with a hearty cornbread topping, and you get this delicious chili pie. Baked together in one skillet, it’s a perfect meal for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili Pie

Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Stuffed chicken marsala in a cast iron skillet.
Stuffed Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This stuffed chicken marsala is a delicious take on the classic dish. Filled with melted mozzarella, tomato butter, and fresh basil, it’s an irresistible option for a comforting and hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles

Butternut squash noodles with spinach, ricotta and garlic in a cast iron skillet.
Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These garlicky butternut squash noodles offer a comforting vegetarian option. Tossed with wilted spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and fresh ricotta and parmesan, it’s a one-pan meal that’s as warm and inviting as your favorite sweatpants.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles

Italian Tomato Pasta Soup

Italian tomato soup with pasta in a mug with a spoon.
Italian Tomato Pasta Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This Italian tomato pasta soup is filled with hearty ingredients like ground beef, sausage, mushrooms, and escarole. It’s a perfect bowl of comfort for those craving a cozy, satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Italian Tomato Pasta Soup

Chicken Sorrentino

Chicken sorrentino on a serving spoon.
Chicken Sorrentino. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chicken sorrentino is a classic dish that combines breaded chicken with prosciutto, eggplant, and cheese, all baked in a hearty tomato sauce. It’s a flavorful and comforting meal that’s easy to make at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sorrentino

Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Buffalo chicken soup with orzo served in a bowl with blue cheese crumbles and green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For fans of buffalo wings, this buffalo chicken orzo soup is a must-try. Cheesy, spicy, and easy to make, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Brisket Chili

Brisket chili in a bowl topede with green onions and avocado.
Brisket Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Brisket chili is a heartwarming dish, great for using up leftover beef brisket. Filled with beans, peppers, and corn in a thick tomato base, it’s a chunky, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy nights. Enjoy the rich flavors that come together in this comforting chili.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Spinach artichoke dip in a white baking dish.
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This classic creamy spinach artichoke dip is perfect for any gathering. Serve it warm or at room temperature with your favorite crackers, chips, or veggies for a comforting and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Bomb Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate cut into slices with fresh parsley garnish.
Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This standout meatloaf recipe brings a blend of tenderness and juiciness to your dinner table. It’s easy to assemble and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that enriches each slice. Perfect for a comforting meal on a relaxed evening, it’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Creamy tomato tortellini soup made in the Instant Pot in a bowl.
Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Made quickly in the Instant Pot, this creamy tomato tortellini soup is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy flavors with a hint of fresh basil. It’s a great choice for a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Cauliflower Bacon Gratin

Cauliflower bacon gratin in a white baking dish with serving spoon.
Cauliflower Bacon Gratin. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cauliflower and bacon come together in this gratin to create an ultimate comfort dish. Baked until tender with creamy sauce and salty bacon pieces, it’s a mouth-watering meal that’s perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and warm.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Bacon Gratin

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto with peas and mushrooms in a pot with wooden spoon.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dairy-free mushroom risotto with peas is a rich and comforting dish. It’s packed with umami flavors, offering a decadent experience without the use of dairy. Ideal for a cozy, satisfying dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Creamy tomato farfalle with peas and prosciutto in a white bowl.
Creamy Tomato Farfalle. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This 20-minute creamy tomato farfalle is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. Featuring an easy take on cream sauce, peas, and crispy prosciutto, it’s an easy, fulfilling meal. Ideal for those seeking a quick yet comforting dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Short Rib Chili

A bowl of chili with noodles and sour cream.
Short Rib Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This spicy short rib chili is a comforting choice for cold days. With the option to make it in advance and freeze for later, it’s a practical and satisfying meal that’s sure to warm you up.
Get the Recipe: Short Rib Chili

Turkey Stew

A bowl of turkey stew with carrots and potatoes.
Turkey Stew. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This turkey stew is a comforting mix of shredded turkey meat, baby red potatoes, mushrooms, carrots, celery, and onions, simmered with garlic and fresh herbs. The addition of tomato paste and balsamic vinegar adds depth to this cozy meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stew

Lamb Bolognese

Lamb bolognese with tagliatelle noodles.
Lamb Bolognese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lamb bolognese offers a flavorful twist on a classic recipe. Simmered with carrots, onions, garlic, tomatoes, red wine, and fresh herbs, it’s a cozy dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Bolognese

Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip

Fundido dip with chips.
Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Dive into this baked cheesy chipotle fundido dip, perfect with chips or roasted vegetables. It’s a spicy, comforting appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip

Venison Meatballs

Venison meatballs in tomato sauce on a plate with pasta.
Venison Meatballs. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These baked venison meatballs are an easy and hearty option for a comforting meal. Tender and flavorful, they pair perfectly with your favorite sauce and pasta. They’re a great way to enjoy ground venison in a crowd-pleasing manner.
Get the Recipe: Venison Meatballs

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese with ground turkey in a pot.
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one-pot turkey mac and cheese is a grownup twist on a classic comfort food. Filled with spinach, peppers, and real cheddar cheese, it’s a lighter option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor and is ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew

Instant Pot beef and mushroom stew served in a bowl over polenta.
Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This beef and mushroom stew, made in the Instant Pot, is a hearty and comforting meal. Perfect for cozy nights in, it’s a ‘stick to your ribs’ kind of dish that combines ease of preparation with satisfying flavors. Enjoy a warm, fulfilling stew with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew

Creamy Mashed Yuca

Creamy mashed yuca with melted ghee.
Creamy Mashed Yuca. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For a comforting alternative to potatoes, try this creamy mashed yuca. Its smooth, ultra-creamy texture is sure to win you over. A great choice for a warm, homely side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Yuca

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