The dead of winter calls for meals that are hearty and comforting. In an ideal world, you would have all day to simmer a stew or braise some beef, but we all know that in reality, it’s a mad dash to put something edible on the table after a long day.
These recipes for all your favorite comfort foods use minimal ingredients and take even less time. They’ll keep you warm without breaking an arm, leg, or the bank on those cold winter nights.
Simple Macaroni and Cheese
Gooey, buttery, melted cheese and noodles — is anything better when craving something comforting? You could cook up some boxed mac and cheese, or make your own in nearly the same length of time. This recipe takes just 15 minutes and requires only a couple of ingredients.
Recipe: All recipes
Best Tuna Casserole
Go back to your childhood with a simple yet satisfying tuna noodle casserole. This version is elevated with a crispy, crunchy, potato chip topping. No need to worry about it being complicated — this whole thing will take you only 20 minutes to throw together.
Recipe: All recipes
Easy Chili
Cold days just call out for a steaming bowl of chili, and this recipe features that classic ski lodge flavor. The simple ingredients – including ground beef, kidney beans, and a dose of chili pepper – make it easy to cook up in half an hour.
Recipe: Salt and Lavender
Beer Cheese Soup
Throw together this rich and creamy soup for cozy family gatherings. Beer and cheddar cheese are the stars of this easy recipe, which cooks up in about 15 minutes on the stove. Serve in warm and crusty bread bowls for the full flavor experience.
Recipe: Taste of Home
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Dark winter nights are much better when you can sip this hearty, comforting soup. You can whip up this loaded baked potato soup in under half an hour, making it great for the workweek.
Recipe: I Wash You Dry
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Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Chicken pot pie is the classic comfort food, but it’s not quick to make. When you’re short on time, this creamy soup has all the taste without all the work. It cooks up in less than half an hour. Just fry up flour-coated chicken, then toss in the rest of the ingredients and boil. Serve with ready-made rolls.
Recipe: The Spruce Eats
Instant Pot Pot Roast
Is a fast pot roast possible? The answer is a resounding yes. This version is on the table in a little over half an hour. The secret is cutting up the meat into smaller pieces before cooking in a pressure cooker.
Recipe: Two Sleevers
Pepperoni Grilled Cheese
Grilled cheese is the ultimate easy comfort food. This version takes it up a notch with layered pepperoni inside and a crispy golden garlic bread exterior. It’s still easy, though — you’ll have it on the table in about 15 minutes.
Recipe: Food Network
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Quick Beef Stew
You’re cold, tired, and starving, but making a stew seems like an awful lot of effort. Think again, because you can cook up this beef stew in 20 minutes. Sirloin, carrots, and potatoes make it just as hearty as recipes that take more time.
Recipe: Simple Sweet Savory
20-Minute Lasagna
Lasagna is always a satisfying choice for a comfort meal. This filling recipe can be on the table in about 40 minutes. If you brown the meat in advance it will be ready to go even faster.
Recipe: All recipes
Fast and Friendly Meatballs
Meatballs are a comfort food for all ages. This recipe is ready in mere minutes, making it great for the weekday rush. Meatballs are also super versatile — throw them together with spaghetti or put them in a sub sandwich bun.
Recipe: All recipes
Quick and Easy Meatloaf
Can anyone make meatloaf like Mom? You can with this version, which bakes up in about 20 minutes. It’s so good, mom may actually wonder why she spent so much time on it before when it can be ready this fast.
Recipe: The Foodie Affair
Microwave Bread Pudding
Sometimes, you really need a warm, comforting dessert on a bone-chilling day. This bread pudding recipe needs only five ingredients and is ready in five minutes. It’s simple and satisfyingly sweet; feel free to add chocolate chips, cinnamon, or maple syrup to your liking.
Recipe: King Arthur
Easy Apple Cobbler
This apple cobbler tastes decadent, yet requires just a handful of ingredients and is ready in under an hour. The secret is using either frozen fruit or your favorite pie filling. Either way, you’ve got a warm, crumbly dessert that’s super simple to toss together.
Recipe: Mix and Match Mama
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