Carb up for the cold: 15 comfort foods you need this week

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As the temperature drops, there’s no better time to get into some seriously comforting meals that’ll make you forget how cold it is outside. This week’s lineup is all about those hearty dishes that keep you fueled and cozy when the chill hits. Forget about light bites and salads—this is the season for meals that bring the heat and leave you satisfied.

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

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 creamy mushroom risotto is the perfect comfort dish when you want something rich without the dairy. Loaded with mushrooms and peas, it’s hearty and cozy, making it great for fall nights when you need something substantial.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Mashed Yuca

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

Looking for something different than mashed potatoes? Mashed yuca has you covered. It’s smooth, creamy, and feels just as comforting. Perfect for adding something fresh to the table without a ton of effort.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Yuca

Loaded Cheddar Bacon Bread

Loaded cheddar bacon bread sliced on a cutting board.
Loaded Cheddar Bacon Bread. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cheddar, bacon, scallions, and peppers—all baked into a beer-based bread that needs no yeast or rise time. This no-nonsense bread is great for those days when you need a quick, comforting side without all the waiting around.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cheddar Bacon Bread

Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Creamy pumpkin pasta with garlic and tuscan kale in a bowl with a spoon.
Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy pumpkin pasta with a hint of garlic and fall spices—this is your go-to for when the cool air hits and you need a quick, cozy meal. It’s a perfect fit for anyone craving that fall flavor without getting complicated.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Red Wine Beef Stew Stuffed Potatoes

Red Wine Beef Stew Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This red wine beef stew, packed with hearty flavors and a touch of chocolate, is served inside baked potatoes for a perfect, cozy meal. When it’s cold outside, this is exactly what you need to fuel up.
Get the Recipe: Red Wine Beef Stew Stuffed Potatoes

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.

Think of this as the grown-up version of your childhood favorite. Loaded with spinach, peppers, turkey, and cheddar, this one-pot mac and cheese comes together in 30 minutes. Perfect for when you need comfort without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

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 butternut squash noodles are packed with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and pine nuts for a one-pan dinner that’s as cozy as it is clever. You’ll feel good about getting your veggies in while still getting that fall comfort vibe.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles

Cheesy Quinoa

Cheesy quinoa in a white bowl.
Cheesy Quinoa. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Zucchini, quinoa, and a whole lot of cheese—this is the kind of dish that’s great for sneaking in some veggies while still keeping it comforting. It’s a fast, cheesy, feel-good meal that everyone will want seconds of.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Quinoa

Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

Mashed purple sweet potatoes in a bowl with a serving spoon.
Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These mashed purple sweet potatoes bring some color to your plate while giving you that comfort food feel. With herb butter on top, this side is easy to make but definitely packs a punch in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

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.

Ground beef, sausage, mushrooms, and escarole come together in this tomato pasta soup that’s perfect for cold evenings. It’s hearty, filling, and feels like a big hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Italian Tomato Pasta Soup

Sweet Potato Noodles

Sweet Potato Noodles. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet potato noodles are a great way to get that pasta vibe with a fall twist. Tossed with Alfredo sauce, they’re a fun alternative that still gives you that cozy, comforting feeling without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Noodles

Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Pumpkin stuffed shells in a white dish with a spoon.
Pumpkin Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Loaded with pumpkin, sage, cinnamon, and nutmeg, these stuffed shells are a great way to bring fall flavors to the dinner table. This dish is easy, comforting, and packs everything you love about the season into every bite.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Instant Pot Bolognese

Instant Pot bolognese recipe on a plate with a fork.
Instant Pot Bolognese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This bolognese is quick, easy, and straight to the point thanks to the Instant Pot. You get that deep, hearty flavor without hanging around the stove for hours. Great over pasta with a sprinkle of parmesan for a carb-loaded dinner that’s perfect when it’s chilly outside.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Bolognese

Apple Cinnamon Sugar Cake

Apple cinnamon sugar cake with a fork on a teal plate.
Apple Cinnamon Sugar Cake. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Apple and cinnamon are a classic fall duo, and this sugar cake makes the most of it. Simple, quick, and great for when you want something sweet that’s not overloaded with sugar. Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Sugar Cake

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This sweet potato mac and cheese mixes pureed sweet potatoes, almond milk, and two kinds of cheese to create a creamy dish that sneaks in some extra nutrients. A great comfort meal when you want a bit of balance but still want to feel full.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

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