4 min readWhile I personally may be craving all things spring right now (we had a taste of it here in the South before temperatures dipped back down into sweater-weather category), there’s still snow covering many areas of the country. Those warm and hearty winter dinners are still very much in season, and we’ve got just the comfort food you and your family need. From slow cookers to cast-iron skillets, the house will be warm, cozy, and full of delicious aromas all evening.
Some of these recipes are perfect options for busy weeknights—because why should cozy nights be reserved for the weekends—and some require a little more time and effort, but are seriously worth the results when it’s finally time to serve. From an easy twist on lasagna to a bubbling Dutch oven full of coq au vin, these dinners guarantee you’ll have the coziest night in with the best and most comforting meals on the table.
Sausage and Cheese Lasagna
We love this shortcut version of lasagna for busy weeknights. Instead of layering everything in the skillet, broken lasagna noodles are nestled into the filling, then ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are dolloped and sprinkled over the top. Something about cooking in cast iron adds to the coziness, too.
Get the recipe for Sausage and Cheese Lasagna.
Slow-Cooker Chicken-Tortilla Soup
Soup is, of course, a perfect cozy dinner in the colder months, but we also love this Chicken-Tortilla Soup because of its warm and flavorful ingredients. Bonus: It all comes together in a slow cooker. Onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, chiles, and spices add savory spice, while squash and green beans add some healthy veggies to the mix. Feel free to swap these out for your favorite veggies or whatever you happen to have on hand. Serve with plenty of cilantro, sour cream, and jalapeños!
Get the recipe for Slow-Cooker Chicken-Tortilla Soup.
Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd's pie is made with ground lamb, so this recipe is technically a cottage pie, but one thing’s for certain: this dish is hearty and comforting no matter how you make it. Use whatever you prefer: ground beef, turkey, or whatever you happen to already have on hand. With a pile of mashed potatoes on top, how could it not be delicious? This dish comes together by cooking the meat and veggies on the stovetop, and then letting it all get extra warm and golden brown in the oven.
Get the recipe for Shepherd's Pie.
Ina Garten’s Easy Homemade Tomato Soup
What could be cozier and more comforting on a wintry day than the classic combination of tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich? From Ina Garten's twelfth cookbook, Modern Comfort Food, this rich and creamy soup simmers for a little while on the stovetop but doesn’t require much actual work. Serve it with Ina's Cheddar & Chutney Grilled Cheese Sandwiches for the ultimate cozy, comfort food dinner.
Get the recipe for Ina Garten’s Easy Homemade Tomato Soup.
Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie
Another cold-weather favorite is chicken pot pie. When we say “best-ever,” we mean it! The filling is easy to make, and the recipe is super weeknight-friendly, meaning it can be made in less than an hour! Puff pastry makes for the perfect golden brown and flaky top that is quick and delicious. And you end up with a warm, delicious casserole of comforting veggies and chicken that the whole family is sure to love.
Get the recipe for Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie.
Spinach and Zucchini Baked Ziti
A hot and bubbly pan of baked ziti coming out of the oven is a wonderful experience any time of the year, but especially when it’s a cold night. This is one of those recipes the whole family will love, and you can even sneak in some veggies. Here we used zucchini and spinach, but feel free to use whatever your family likes. Serve with a green salad and garlic bread for a cozy meal.
Get the recipe for Spinach and Zucchini Baked Ziti.
White Wine Coq Au Vin
Once you’ve had coq au vin ("chicken in wine"), it’s hard to imagine a time before you tasted it. The dish is a staple all over the French countryside, where there are dozens of regional variations. (Thanks to Julia Child for popularizing it here in the states.) What makes it a great option for a cozy night in? It’s one of those recipes that can simmer away on the stove and in the oven, filling your kitchen with the most delicious smells, before coming to the table for a Sunday supper. Serve over buttered noodles or mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal.
Get the recipe for White Wine Coq Au Vin.
Tater Tot Casserole
Known in the Midwest as “hot dish,” this tater-tot-covered casserole is pure comfort food. It’s also one of our favorite ways to get picky eaters to clean their plates. It's made from pantry staples and packed with good-for-you veggies. It can be made in about an hour, but can also be assembled ahead and simply pulled out of the fridge and baked. And like all comfort foods, you may want to double the recipe so you have leftovers!
