The 18 Comfort Food Stars I Keep Coming Back To

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When the craving for something cozy and satisfying strikes, nothing hits the spot like comfort food. This collection of 18 hearty recipes is packed with the flavors and warmth that make you feel right at home. From creamy Mustard Chicken and cheesy Chicken Pot Pie to rich Braised Short Ribs and classic Beef Stew, these dishes are designed to bring smiles to the table. Whether you’re relishing a quiet night in or sharing a meal with loved ones, these recipes will wrap you in delicious, heartwarming goodness with every bite. Grab your fork and dig into the ultimate comfort feast!

Smothered Chicken

This smothered chicken recipe couldn’t be easier—whether you’re whipping it up on the stove or letting the slow cooker do the work. It’s all about those juicy chicken thighs soaking in a delicious, cozy gravy that’s perfect for anyone who loves a good comfort food fix!

Get The Recipe: Smothered Chicken

Traditional Cottage Pie

Close-up of a shepherd's pie featuring a golden-brown mashed potato topping. Below, there's a mixture of cooked ground meat, peas, carrots, and other vegetables, all in a brown gravy, served on a white plate. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This cottage pie is everything you need for the ultimate cozy meal. Think savory ground beef, carrots, onions, and peas all simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy, then topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. It’s hearty, delicious, and guaranteed to hit the spot!

Get The Recipe: Traditional Cottage Pie

Classic Chicken Parmesan

Close-up of chicken parmesan topped with melted cheese and sauce, accompanied by a side of spaghetti. The dish is garnished with herbs, and a fork rests nearby on a white plate. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Chicken Parmesan is a mouthwatering masterpiece! Picture juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken with a golden, crispy crust, topped with rich, flavorful marinara and gooey, melted mozzarella. Every bite is an irresistible mix of crunch, cheese, and savory goodness that will leave you craving more!

Get The Recipe: Classic Chicken Parmesan

Dutch Oven Beef Stew

a spoonful of beef stew over a pot — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Warm up with a hearty and comforting Dutch Oven Beef Stew! This classic recipe features tender beef, savory vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, perfect for a cozy night in. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Lemon Orzo Soup

This Lemon Orzo Soup recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick family dinner. Packed with tender chicken, fresh lemon, and hearty vegetables, this one-pot soup is both zesty and satisfying. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Orzo Soup

Pasta Fagioli alla Veneta

Warm up with a bowl of Pasta Fagioli alla Veneta, a comforting and hearty Italian soup. This recipe features pancetta, cannellini beans, and pasta in a flavorful tomato and herb broth, perfect for a cozy family meal. Top with grated parmesan cheese for the ultimate comforting dish!
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fagioli alla Veneta

KFC Fried Chicken Recipe

Fried Chicken on a plate with mashed potatoes — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Craving that classic, crispy fried chicken? This KFC-style recipe uses the famous leaked spice blend to create a flavorful and golden-brown coating. Get ready for a finger-licking good meal that rivals the real deal!
Get the Recipe: KFC Fried Chicken Recipe

Creamy Mustard Chicken

a spoon adding mustard sauce to chicken — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Creamy Mustard Chicken recipe is a quick and easy way to impress your guests. Ready in just 35 minutes, the decadent flavors of dijon mustard, white wine, and creme fraiche create a comforting, yet elegant dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mustard Chicken

Smothered Pork Chops

A plate with a pork chop crowned with sliced mushrooms and gravy, garnished with herbs. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and broccoli, this family favorite is sure to be one of those incredible recipes you'll want to make again. A fork and knife are placed beside the steak. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

These pork chops, smothered in cheese and simmered in a delicious onion and mushroom gravy, are the perfect cozy and easy weeknight dinner!

Get The Recipe: Smothered Pork Chops

Braised Boneless Short Ribs

These Braised Boneless Short Ribs are fall-apart tender and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal or a special occasion. You can make it in the oven or slow cooker for an easy and delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Braised Boneless Short Ribs

Lemon Chicken Rice Bake

Chicken and rice in a pan — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Lemon Chicken and Rice Bake is a comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Chicken thighs are baked with rice, lemon, and herbs for a simple and flavorful dish the whole family will love. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Rice Bake

Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas

A Chicken and Cheese Quesadilla being picked up by a hand — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that can be customized to your liking! Filled with seasoned chicken, cheese, and your favorite veggies, they’re perfect for a fast lunch or dinner. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a complete and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas

Italian Meatloaf

This Italian Meatloaf recipe takes the classic comfort food to a new level! Packed with ground beef, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and a touch of marinara, it’s a flavorful twist on a family favorite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit!
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatloaf

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken recipe is a quick and easy dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Featuring boneless chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy parmesan sauce, this dish is a guaranteed family favorite. Serve with fresh basil for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken

Salisbury Steak

Delight your family with this amazing Salisbury Steak recipe, ready in just 30 minutes! Transform your weeknights into a delicious culinary experience that everyone will love!

Get The Recipe: Salisbury Steak

Coq Au Vin

This Coq Au Vin recipe is a French classic! Chicken is braised in a rich red wine sauce with mushrooms, bacon, and shallots for a comforting and flavorful dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Coq Au Vin

Cheesy Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry

A spoon serving chicken pot pie with gooey cheese — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Cheesy Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and topped with golden puff pastry, this easy-to-make dish is sure to be a family favorite. Perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry

Best Ever Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes in a bowl topped with butter — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These mashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! The recipe focuses on achieving a fluffy and creamy texture, making them the perfect side dish for any occasion. Get ready to elevate your mashed potato game!
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Mashed Potatoes