22 Soul-Soothing Comfort Recipes for Real Cravings

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Nothing satisfies the soul quite like comfort food, and these 22 comfort food recipes are here to prove it. From rich, hearty potato dishes to savory pastas and fabulous steaks, these dishes bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Comfort food has long been a staple at family tables, offering a sense of home and happiness through familiar flavors. Whether you’re looking to recreate a beloved family recipe or explore new comfort food classics, this collection has something for everyone. Indulge in the ultimate feel-good meals that are sure to bring joy and coziness to your table.

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

This tomato spinach shrimp pasta recipe is effortlessly delicious and bursting with flavors! In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a light and sophisticated meal that rivals restaurant quality.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

A close up photo taken from above of a bowl of Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes with melted butter and chives with a serving spoon.
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Elevate your mashed potatoes with this recipe! Buttery potatoes become even richer with a splash of sour cream, which adds a hint of tang and a velvety smooth texture. This easy enhancement creates a flavor boost that everyone will enjoy.

Get The Recipe: Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

Amatriciana Pasta

Amatriciana Pasta
Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Staying authentic to its origins, it showcases a zesty tomato sauce infused with the rich flavors of pancetta, onions, and white wine. Simply toss it with your preferred pasta for a swift and delectable weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Amatriciana Pasta

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole (In The Slow Cooker!)

A fork holding a bite of cheesy hash brown casserole with ham, with a plate of the same dish in the background.
Photo credit: On My Kids Plate.

Wake up to this cheesy hashbrown casserole that’s cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s loaded with hashbrowns and cheese, making it the ultimate comfort food for breakfast casseroles. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare the night before, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without the morning rush. With minimal effort, you get a dish that’s creamy and full of flavor. Perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole (In The Slow Cooker!)

40 Clove Garlic Chicken and Potatoes with Cream Sauce

Scrumptious 40 Clove Garlic Chicken and Potatoes with Cream Sauce photo
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

40 Clove Garlic Chicken and Potatoes with Cream Sauce has totally and completely rocked my world. Garlic Chicken and Potatoes.
Get the Recipe: 40 Clove Garlic Chicken and Potatoes with Cream Sauce

Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes is topped with melted butter and chopped chives, with a spoon inside. A checkered cloth is draped over the wooden surface.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

These aren’t your average mashed potatoes! Brown butter and fresh chives add a touch of gourmet to this creamy and comforting dish. With just 6 ingredients, it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to grace your holiday table.

Get the recipe: Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Spaghetti Alla Carbonara

Spaghetti Alla Carbonara
Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe isn’t just spaghetti! it’s an experience! Silky egg and cheese sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky counterpoint. It’s a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Alla Carbonara

Spaghetti and Meatballs

a close up of Spaghetti and Meatballs on a plate with a fork
Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Forget the jarred stuff! These homemade Italian meatballs simmer in a hearty spaghetti sauce, offering a taste of true Italian comfort food.

Get The Recipe: Spaghetti and Meatballs

Best Southern Corn Pudding

A crock of steamed corn pudding with herbs.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Bring a touch of Southern comfort to your BBQ with this corn pudding recipe, adding warmth and homely flavors to your grilled corn options. Its ease of preparation and comforting taste make it a fitting choice for transforming your summer BBQ spread.
Get the Recipe: Best Southern Corn Pudding

Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe

Yummy Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe picture
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

This is the BEST Twice Baked Potato recipe! It’s the perfect side dish for any meal. Loaded with all the flavor to make it a showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe

Cajun Chicken Pasta

Cajun Chicken Pasta
Photo credit: Cheerful Cook

Make One-Pan Cajun Chicken Pasta in just 30 minutes. It’s a quick, creamy, spicy dish with easy cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Chicken Pasta

Easy Air Fryer Roasted Bacon Potatoes

Close-up of crispy baked potato halves topped with melted cheese, bacon pieces, and garnished with chopped green onions. The potatoes have a golden brown exterior, and the toppings add a colorful and savory touch to the dish.
Easy Air Fryer Roasted Bacon Potatoes. Photo credit: Munchy Goddess.

These air fryer roasted bacon potatoes are a crunchy, savory treat that pairs crispy potatoes with the rich flavor of bacon. The air fryer does a fantastic job of cooking the bacon to perfection while making sure the potatoes are tender inside. This dish is a great choice for those who want a flavorful, hassle-free side. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Roasted Bacon Potatoes

Chicken Pomodoro

A skillet with cooked chicken breasts, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, grated cheese, and herbs.
Photo Credit: A Full Living.

Chicken Pomodoro is a vibrant dish featuring juicy chicken in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for wowing your guests. Its fresh, flavorful profile makes it a standout choice. Easy to prepare, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve with pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal. Your guests will be impressed by this delightful dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pomodoro

Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes)

Tasty Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) on display
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

These delicious colcannon potatoes are made with kale, green onions, and bacon. These Irish mashed potatoes are an easy to make side dish.
Get the Recipe: Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes)

Parmesan Creamed Potatoes

A delightful Parmesan Creamed Potatoes
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

Rich, creamy and so easy to make, these baked parmesan creamed potatoes are a delicious side perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Creamed Potatoes

One Pan Chicken Drumsticks and Potatoes

Seasoned chicken drumsticks, sliced potatoes, carrots, onions, and lemon slices.
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average.

One Pan Chicken Drumsticks and Potatoes is a convenient, flavorful dish ideal for impressing guests. The chicken and potatoes cook together, absorbing each other’s delicious flavors. Simple to prepare and bake, it’s perfect for a busy evening. This hearty meal is sure to please everyone at the table. A practical choice for a stress-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Chicken Drumsticks and Potatoes

Mushroom Ragu

Pasta with a mushroom ragu in a Dutch oven.
Photo credit: xoxoBella

Upgrade your pasta with this savory mushroom ragu vegan sauce, crafted with garlic, wine, herbs, and fresh vegetables. Ideal for vegans and anyone seeking a satisfying, wholesome meal.
Grab the Recipe: Mushroom Ragu

Orange Jalapeno Flat Iron Steak

Marinated grilled meat, sliced and on a platter.
Photo credit: call Me PMc

Orange Jalapeno Flat Iron Steak features tender juicy steak that’s been marinated and basted with a naturally sweet, spicy, and sticky sauce.
Get the Recipe: Orange Jalapeno Flat Iron Steak

Golden Roasted Potatoes

Golden Roasted Potatoes
Photo credit: Namely Marly

Enjoy perfectly golden and crispy roasted potatoes with fluffy centers, thanks to the air fryer. These potatoes are seasoned to perfection, making them a comforting and versatile side dish.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Potatoes

Creamy Cajun Salmon Alfredo

A fork with a bite of pasta topped with shredded cheese and pieces of salmon, over a bowl filled with the same pasta mix.
Photo Credit: Bless This Meal.

This Creamy Cajun Salmon Alfredo combines rich Alfredo sauce with perfectly seasoned seafood salmon for an indulgent meal. The Cajun spices give it a kick, while the creamy sauce keeps it comforting. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s both impressive and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cajun Salmon Alfredo

Peppercorn Steak with Brandy Cream Sauce

Yummy Peppercorn Steak with Brandy Cream Sauce picture
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

This Peppercorn Steak with Brandy Cream Sauce is fit for a king! It’s the ultimate decadent date-night dinner!
Get the Recipe: Peppercorn Steak with Brandy Cream Sauce

Easy Saffron Potato Bake

Easy Saffron Potato Bake
Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe proves that comfort food can be beautiful too! Golden brown and bursting with flavor, this Easy Saffron Potato Casserole is a visual and culinary treat. It’s sure to leave your guests wanting more!
Get the Recipe: Easy Saffron Potato Bake

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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