No matter the comforting soup, tantalizing casserole or delectable grilled cheese sandwich that you make at home – the best comfort foods are those made in your own kitchen.
Simple, comforting recipes that will surely put a smile on everyone’s face. So if you’re searching for some inspiration when it comes to planning your next comfort meal, look no further than this collection of our top picks!
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken soup is one of those classic comfort foods that never fails to bring a smile to your face. Packed full of flavor, packed with nutritious vegetables and egg noodles for extra nutrition – not only does it warm your soul but it’s also beneficial for your health!
This recipe, adapted from America’s Test Kitchen’s “One-Hour Comfort,” offers a fast and effortless way to make an irresistible bowl of chicken soup. By using store-bought chicken broth as its base, this weeknight dinner can be completed quickly and easily.
Homemade chicken broth is ideal, though you can use a high quality commercial broth as well. For an even richer soup, start by bone-in chicken thighs or breasts.
Ravioli
Ravioli are pasta dumplings filled with cheese, meat or vegetables. They often accompany soups but can also be enjoyed as a stand-in meal.
Most commonly, cheese filling is used for the dough; however, you can also experiment with different flavors by adding roasted root vegetable fillings or even ground beef.
To assemble ravioli, spoon a generous dollop of filling (in rounded teaspoons) down the center of one sheet of pasta, spaced two finger widths apart; top with another sheet. Lightly cup your hands around the filling and press down firmly to seal it together, pressing out any air that might have formed between the sheets of pasta.
Cut the ravioli into desired shapes using either a fluted pastry wheel or special ravioli cutter. Finally, transfer the filled and cut ravioli onto a lightly dusted baking sheet for baking.
Spaghetti
Spaghetti is one of the simplest pasta dishes to make, whether from scratch or pre-packaged. All that you need to do is mix together flour, eggs and water for an effortless meal!
The shape and sauce you serve with pasta affect its taste and texture. Sturdier varieties, such as rigatoni, can handle heavier sauces; delicate pasta like angel hair should have a lighter one to prevent overcooking.
To cook spaghetti, bring a pot of water to boil and add generous amounts of salt. Then, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; don’t overcooked! When taking out from the water, test to ensure your noodles are tender but still firm.
Beef Stew
Beef stew is a hearty meal that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Plus, it can be frozen for later – just reheat when ready!
This beef stew recipe utilizes a slow-cooking method to ensure the meat is tender and flavorful. It uses inexpensive cuts of beef like chuck roast that are ideal for simmering in liquid for an extended period.
Stew can be cooked on the stovetop or in the oven. For best results, use a Dutch oven or covered pot with an appropriate lid that’s suitable for baking.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread makes the ideal snack, especially when served alongside a hearty soup or stew. It also pairs nicely with pasta dishes or tossed salads.
For the ideal garlic bread, use a crusty baguette or French loaf that can hold plenty of butter and cheese. If you don’t have access to these, regular bread (such as leftover hot dog buns) can work just as well in a pinch.
To make the garlic spread, combine softened butter with minced garlic, Italian seasoning and shredded cheese. Spread on both cut sides of a loaf and bake until the edges are golden brown and toasty.
