17 Comfort Food Staples You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner

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We all crave those soul-warming dishes that bring back happy memories and melt away stress. You know, the kind of food that makes you sigh contentedly after the first bite. This list is your guide to 17 comfort food staples that deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops on a plate covered with a creamy mushroom gravy and served on mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Air fryer fried chicken legs and thighs in a pile on a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Air Fryer Fried Chicken brings a new twist to a beloved classic, delivering all the crunch without the mess. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a comforting meal that leaves your kitchen spotless and your family content.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Asian Spare Ribs

Two ribs on a tray with sesame seeds and sesame seeds.
Asian Spare Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Asian Spare Ribs, effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker, are a savory escape to comfort food heaven. They’re so tender and flavorful, they’ll become the highlight of your dinner table and a go-to for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Asian Spare Ribs

Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Pulled pork on a bun with sauce and cabbage.
Instant Pot Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Transform your dinner routine with Instant Pot Pulled Pork that’s quick to make and a joy to eat. This dish promises a comforting, saucy bite that’s perfect for any day that ends in “y.”
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Beef tips with mashed potatoes and brussels sprouts.
Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Revel in the ease of these Slow Cooker Beef Tips, a dish synonymous with comfort. Let your slow cooker do the work and serve up a meal that’s as heartwarming as it is hearty.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Plate of spaghetti and meatballs topped with parmesan.
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Enjoy the simplicity of Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs, a one-pot wonder that brings a comforting Italian dinner to your table with minimal effort. It’s a family-pleasing feast that makes weeknight cooking a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Chili Cornbread Casserole Recipe

Chili cornbread casserole on a white plate.
Chili Cornbread Casserole Recipe. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Chili Cornbread Casserole melds spicy and savory in a dish that defines comfort food. It’s a straightforward recipe that promises a filling and flavorful meal for any family gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chili Cornbread Casserole Recipe

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Two slices of meatloaf on a plate with mashed potatoes and carrots.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Recreate the homestyle taste of Cracker Barrel with this perfectly seasoned meatloaf. It’s a comforting classic that brings warmth to any family meal and leaves everyone satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Baked Manicotti

Baked manicotti in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Manicotti. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Baked Manicotti fills each bite with cheesy goodness, making it a comforting staple for dinner. It’s a dish that turns dinner into a celebration, layered with flavors that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Baked Manicotti

Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Pork Chops on a plate covered with a creamy mushroom gravy and served on mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops offer a creamy, savory experience with every bite. This easy recipe requires minimal preparation, making it a comforting and practical choice for a no-hassle family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Chicken Stroganoff

A bowl of chicken stroganoff with bread and parsley.
Chicken Stroganoff. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Chicken Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food, bringing a creamy, mushroom-infused dish to your Sunday table. It’s a heartwarming meal that’s nourishing and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stroganoff

Slow Cooker Chuck Roast

A plate of pot roast with carrots and mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Chuck Roast. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Ease into the weekend with this Slow Cooker Chuck Roast, a dish that cooks itself to tender perfection. It’s a comforting meal that makes Sunday dinner feel special without any extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chuck Roast

Oven Roasted Pork Loin

Oven roasted pork loin with potatoes, carrots and cabbage on a plate.
Oven Roasted Pork Loin. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Oven Roasted Pork Loin is an effortless yet impressive dish that pairs well with your favorite sides. It’s a meal that allows you to enjoy your downtime while it roasts to perfection.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Pork Loin

Beef Stew

Top view of a bowl of Guinness beef stew with a black checked napkin and a spoon.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for any occasion, it promises a deeply flavorful and satisfying dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Roast Chicken

Whole chicken cooked in the air fryer with lemon and herbs.
Roast Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air Fryer Roast Chicken delivers a quick, juicy meal with perfectly crisped skin. It’s a comforting, no-fuss dish that’s sure to gather everyone around the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Roast Chicken

Instant Pot Gumbo

Bowl of gumbo with sausage and okra.
Instant Pot Gumbo. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Gumbo brings a taste of Cajun comfort to your kitchen. With sausage, shrimp, and okra, this stew is a hearty and flavorful delight that’s both easy and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Gumbo

Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Slow cooker country style ribs on a tray on top of mashed potatoes with corn.
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs are a sweet and tangy treat that effortlessly come together in your slow cooker. They’re a comforting and mouthwatering meal perfect for a relaxed Sunday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Air fryer pork tenderloin on a plate with potatoes on a cutting board.
Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin is a quick yet elegant dish that promises a delicious dinner with minimal time spent in the kitchen. It’s a dish that’s bound to impress and provide a satisfying end to your weekend.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

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