7 Perfect Winter Comfort Foods

I have been doing a lot of cooking at home lately. It’s been easier mostly because I haven’t been traveling as much so I can actually stock my refrigerator and meal plan for the week. Instead of doing it only on Sundays, it’s been making more sense for me to at the beginning of the week and then again mid-week. That way I don’t get bored or overshop! Loving how these recipes sound, especially the chili!

7 Perfect Winter Comfort Foods

Guest post by Louisa from Living Lou

We had a bit of a warm spell in Toronto this weekend, but I know that it’s going to get cold again. It’s that taste of spring in the middle of winter that makes you think, “Wait, could this be it?” Having spent my entire life living in Toronto, I can guarantee you that it’s not over.

Another cold snap is on the way, and with these comfort foods, you’ll be well on your way to success. Even if it’s not really cold where you are, this time of year just screams baked pastas, soups, and stews, don’t you think?

1. Italian Sausage and Pepper Baked Pasta

This is one of my newest obsessions. I’ve always loved the combination of sausage and peppers, but throw in some pasta, a healthy dose of melted cheese and basil and you’ve got yourself a new favorite dish.

2. Scallion Caper Cream Cheese Bagels with Lox

Bagels are by far my favorite comfort food. In university I used to eat a bagel at least once a week, my favorite was scallion caper cream cheese with cucumber, so I started to make my own at home.

3. Beef and Beer Chili

If you’ve never added beer to chili before, you haven’t lived. It gives the chili such a depth of flavor that you can’t get from anything else. I highly recommend making a big batch of this chili on a Sunday and eating it throughout the week—it’s better on the second day.

4. Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Honestly, is there a better dinner than pancakes? When I was a kid, this was always one of my favorite things, and even now, it still makes me smile to have pancakes for dinner. This recipe is totally diner-worthy with three types of chocolate and lemon zest.

5. Tomato Tortellini Soup with Kale

I know, this one sounds kind of healthy, but I find tortellini to be such a childhood comfort food. It’s not something I typically pick up in the grocery store, but it reminds me of my Mom’s cooking.

6. Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

The best Indian restaurant is pretty close to my childhood home, so butter chicken always reminds me of cold winter evenings when we’d order in takeout. This recipe is delicious and perfect for a cold day—and your kitchen will smell amazing.

7. World’s Best Meatballs

Mix turkey with Italian sausage and we’re in business! I used to make these all the time when I was in high school—such a favorite!.