27 warming comfort food meals that you need to try this winter

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This winter, you need to try these 27 warming comfort food meals that are perfect for the season. They’re straightforward, hearty, and ideal for cold weather. Each of them is easy to prepare, whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself.

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a wooden spoon.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

A bowl of chicken pot pie soup being scooped with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a one-pot recipe that’s hearty, creamy, and cozy. It’s easy to make with straightforward ingredients and yields a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinner — all ready in 1 hour.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

A pot of creamy Italian sausage soup with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, this creamy soup combines tomatoes, Italian sausage, cream cheese, Parmesan, and other aromatic spices for a comforting bowl that’s perfect for a chilly evening. You’ll appreciate how it caters to your preferences — you can easily adjust the taste, whether you like it spicy or mild. And since everything is done in just one pot, cooking and cleaning up are easy after.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A crock pot of taco soup.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Crock Pot Taco Soup is everything you need on a cold evening. After prepping the ingredients, you put them in the slow cooker, and let your Crock Pot do the rest. This cozy recipe features ground beef, onions, cream cheese, and diced tomatoes into a hearty and comforting soup. Prep it in the morning and enjoy a warm bowl that’s ready by the time you’re winding down.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

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

This casserole features a combination of comfort foods like potatoes, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and bacon, baked together until perfectly golden. Serve this fresh from the oven for a warm meal on a chilly evening or prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat for serving on a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This dish is perfect for those evenings when you want a meal that feels special but still easy to pull off. With just one pan and 30 minutes, you’ll get to enjoy juicy chicken breasts simmered in a smooth, creamy garlic sauce. Serve it solo or pair it with rice or some veggies for a complete dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cabbage and Sausage

A plate of cabbage and sausages with a fork.
Cabbage and sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in just about 25 minutes, Cabbage and Sausage is a straightforward one-pan meal that combines the versatility of cabbage with the smoky and savory flavors of sausage. It’s easy to make and everything comes together in just one skillet, meaning less time spent on cleaning, and more time relaxing.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

A casserole dish filled with broccoli and cheese.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s another recipe perfect for those evenings when you want a warm, comforting meal without the hassle. This casserole features broccoli and cauliflower in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy bacon, and then baked to golden perfection. Not only is it conveniently easy and delicious, but it’s also a great way to enjoy your veggies. Perfect for a stress-free dinner, it’s ready in half an hour and can even be prepared ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice garnished with fresh herbs with a fork.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This hearty skillet dish combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, cheddar cheese, and mushrooms into a protein-rich dish that’s both delicious and comforting. Made in just one skillet and ready in 30 minutes, this is an easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for beginner cooks or for those who particularly don’t enjoy cooking for hours in the kitchen. You’ll appreciate the minimal effort required, and the leftovers taste just as great the next day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

A baking sheet filled with vegetables and sausages.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sheet pan recipes are always a great go-to for warm, comforting dinners. After prepping the ingredients, you’ll spread the sausages and vegetables on a sheet pan, and let the oven do the heavy lifting for you. Ready in 30 minutes and made in just one sheet pan, this dish spares you the hassle of cleaning multiple pots and pans after. It’s a wholesome and comforting meal that’s practically effortless that you’ll want to make over and over again.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This mushroom soup is the epitome of comfort. The recipe is simple: mushrooms are sautéed and then simmered in a creamy, rich broth that includes sour cream, milk, vegetable broth, butter, and aromatic spices. Made in just one pan and ready in less than an hour, it’s a savory and hearty option for busy weeknights. Pair it with bread, salad, or veggies for a complete and effortless meal.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Chicken Corn Soup

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

You’ll love how this Chicken Corn Soup brings warmth to your table in less than an hour. This one-pot dish combines chicken and vegetables in a creamy broth for a meal that’s as easy as it is comforting. You can even toss in any leftover veggies or chicken, making it a versatile choice for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast. This hearty soup is perfect for winding down on a busy day, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In this recipe, bite-sized chicken pieces are cooked in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, bringing together a savory dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. This chicken bites recipe comes together in just 20 minutes and one skillet for convenience, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Enjoy it with your favorite sides or over a fresh salad for a lighter touch for a warming dish that’s great for any dinner menu.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

A bowl of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in just one hour, this recipe combines the creaminess of sweet potatoes with the vibrant flavors of red peppers. It’s easy to prepare, with readily available ingredients — perfect for a cozy homemade meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Customize it to your taste, making it as creamy or as seasoned as you like. Try this comforting soup on days when you’re craving a warm meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This simple yet delicious recipe features juicy chicken thighs in a creamy mushroom sauce, making it a perfect dish for both weeknights and special occasions. Easy to cook in just one pan, this creamy chicken recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want a hearty meal without all the hassle. Serve it over your favorite grain or with a side of veggies for a complete and comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry with rice in a bowl with a fork.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This is another hearty one-pan meal you can whip up in just 45 minutes. You’ll saute the sausages and vegetables and then simmer them in a rich, curry sauce for a meal that’s both simple but so full of flavor. With everything cooked in one pan, you can fully relax knowing there won’t be a ton of dishes to go through after.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This recipe features everything you love in a comfort food. Juicy chicken thighs and fresh spinach simmer together in creamy Dijon sauce and then topped off with crispy bacon for the extra flavor. Made in just one pan and ready in 30 minutes, make this on chilly evenings when you want a meal that’s both warming, filling and easy to clean up.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cauliflower risotto in a pan.
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This dish takes the hassle out of cooking traditional risotto but still features the same great flavors. You’ll sauté cauliflower rice and mushrooms, blend them with a creamy sauce, and voilà — you’ve got a rich, comforting dish that pairs well with a wide variety of mains. Ready in 30 minutes and comes together in just one pan, it’s an easy comfort food you’ll make time and time again.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This easy recipe combines chicken thighs, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella in one pan for a straightforward yet delicious meal. It’s a great pick for those busy nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen cooking. Just mix the ingredients, bake until golden, and serve a meal that’s sure to win all the hearts at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Creamy sun dried tomato chicken served on a plate.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, this one-pan recipe brings together boneless chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for those evenings when you want to enjoy something special without spending hours in the kitchen. So, grab your skillet and prepare to be amazed by how simple yet delicious this dish can be.
Get the Recipe: Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili

Sweet and spicy bacon and turkey chili garnished with avocado slices, sour cream, and cilantro.
Sweet And Spicy Bacon And Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This hearty, one-pot dish brings together a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors to your dinner table. Featuring wholesome ingredients, like ground turkey, tomatoes, celery, carrots, bacon, and more, it’s a great way to add wholesome ingredients to a dish that’s both comforting and easy to make. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. You’ll be amazed how quickly this will be gone from the table once you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Ready in an hour, this one-pot dish features a creamy base with garlic, sausage, radishes, and kale, creating a harmony of comforting flavors. Inspired by the Olive Garden classic, this soup replaces potatoes with radishes, which mimic the flavor and texture of potatoes perfectly. Everything also comes together in just one pot, making it a great recipe for busy weeknights or special date nights.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

You’re just 30 minutes away from enjoying a warm, oven-baked dish that’ll spice up your evening. This fajita chicken recipe combines seasoned chicken with cream cheese, sweet peppers, and mozzarella, baked together until golden. It’s an easy recipe with simple ingredients, perfect for those nights when you need something hearty and flavor-packed without the hassle. Serve it with steamed rice or veggies for a comforting dinner that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Bowls of pumpkin soup with sprigs of rosemary.
Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This pumpkin soup is a great way to enjoy the essence of fall any day of the year. Using canned pumpkin for convenience and a mix of warming spices like rosemary, nutmeg, and cinnamon, this soup is easy to make, deliciously comforting, and table — ready in just 40 minutes. Serve this on a busy weeknight and enjoy the homely feeling it brings to your weeknight routine.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This is an easy one-skillet meal that takes simple ingredients like cabbage, bacon, and onion, and turns it into a warm and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need something quick and comforting, but just don’t have the energy to spend hours cooking. Serve this dish as a side or enjoy it as a light main course, for a complete and filling dinner to enjoy on your busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup

Cauliflower cheddar cheese bacon soup in a pot with a spoon.
Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Made in just one pot and table ready in 30 minutes, this soup combines steamed cauliflower simmered in a creamy cheese sauce, and topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for those busy evenings when you need something warm and hearty, this soup promises comfort with every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

A casserole dish with meat and spinach in it.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In this comforting dish, beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar are baked together for a hearty and flavorful meal you can enjoy in just 30 minutes. It’s super easy to make and requires ingredients you might likely have on hand. Also, everything comes together in just one pan, making this dish a great go-to for those times when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A serving of Philly cheese steak casserole being pulled up from a pan.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

The classic Philly cheese steak is made as a casserole for the ultimate comfort food. This dish combines sirloin steak, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and provolone cheese, creating a hearty and familiar dish that everyone will enjoy. Ready in under an hour, this casserole is perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend. Leftovers also store well, so you can still enjoy the same comforting taste the day after.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

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