35 Summer Comfort Foods So Good, You’ll Forget It’s 100 Degrees Outside

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When the weather is scorching and the mercury is climbing, there’s no greater pleasure than indulging in some classic comfort food to lift your mood and delight your palate. Whether it’s cooling treats or hearty classics, these 35 summer comfort foods will make you completely disregard the heat as you savor each mouthful. So, pick up a plate and prepare to indulge in some delicious summer delights!

Peach Crumble with Oats

A white bowl contains peach cobbler with a crumbly topping and two scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Photo Credit: Two Kooks in the Kitchen.

This peach crumble is a sweet and crunchy comfort food treat that highlights fresh summer peaches. Topped with a buttery oat crumble, it’s an easy dessert that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Peach Crumble with Oats

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

A toasted bun filled with shredded beef and caramelized onions.
Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches. Photo credit: Pumpkin ‘N Spice.

French dip sandwiches are a classic comfort food, and this slow cooker version makes them super easy. Just cook the beef with some onions and seasonings, and then serve on crusty rolls with a side of au jus for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Cheesy Ham and Pea Pasta Bake

A portion of creamy pasta with ham and peas.
Image Credit: Daniela Apostol for My Gorgeous Recipes

A delicious dinner recipe that goes down with everyone, this Cheesy Ham and Pea Pasta Bake is so creamy, rich, ridiculously easy to make. A big hit with kids and grown-ups alike, my ham and pea pasta will make its way on the table again and again. 

GET THE RECIPE: Cheesy Ham and Pea Pasta Bake

Oven Baked Home Fries Recipe with Sausages and Sunny Eggs

A big breakfast plate of home fries, with sausages and eggs.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Start your day with a hearty, one-pan wonder that combines crispy, golden home fries, savory sausages, and perfectly cooked eggs – a breakfast trifecta that’s sure to become a morning favorite!

GET THE RECIPE: Sheet Pan Breakfast

Tacos de Bistec con Chimichurri (Chimichurri Steak Tacos)

A plate with two tacos filled with meat, vegetables, and herbs; a side of grilled corn on the cob topped with a white sauce; and a fresh salad of cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices.
Photo Credit: A Latin Flair.

These steak tacos with chimichurri sauce are perfect for a summer dinner meal. Juicy marinated steak is topped with vibrant chimichurri sauce, wrapped in warm tortillas. A delicious handheld option for outdoor dining.
Get the Recipe: Tacos de Bistec con Chimichurri (Chimichurri Steak Tacos)

Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta

A portion of creamy chicken spaghetti.
Image Credit: Daniela Apostol for My Gorgeous Recipes

Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta, super easy and creamy, and made in one pot only.! The cajun alfredo sauce is deliciously spiced, and works perfectly well with the lean chicken breast and the pasta.

GET THE RECIPE: Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake

A portion of chicken pasta bake.
Image Credit: Daniela Apostol for My Gorgeous Recipes

A delicious Chicken Pasta Bake that is made with a creamy, cheesy white sauce, garlicky chicken, and juicy fresh tomatoes, what a glorious dinner! Even fussy kids will love this casserole that sums up what comfort food is all about.

GET THE RECIPE: Chicken Pasta Bake

Baked Mac and Cheese with Bread Crumbs

A dish with mac and cheese topped with bread crumbs.
Image Credit: Daniela Apostol for My Gorgeous Recipes

This Baked Mac and Cheese with bread crumbs is the ultimate comfort food for every occasion. Delicious macaroni smothered in a rich and creamy white sauce that has 3 types of cheese, then topped with buttery breadcrumbs, and baked in the oven for the final touch.

GET THE RECIPE: Baked Mac and Cheese with Bread Crumbs

Strawberry Oreo Ice Cream

A glass bowl with scoops of strawberry ice cream, a sliced strawberry, and cookie crumbles on top.
Photo Credit: Screaming for Ice Cream.

This strawberry Oreo ice cream is a fun and fruity comfort food treat. With chunks of Oreo cookies and fresh strawberries, it’s a delightful combination perfect for hot days.

Get the Recipe: Strawberry Oreo Ice Cream

Easy Chicken Fajita Foil Packets

Cooked chicken pieces, green and red bell peppers, onions, a lemon wedge, and fresh cilantro.
Photo Credit: Budget Delicious.

These chicken fajita foil packets are perfect for summer grilling or baking. Loaded with seasoned chicken, bell peppers, and onions, they cook together for an easy, mess-free meal. Serve with tortillas for a fun and flavorful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Fajita Foil Packets

Bacon Pasta Carbonara

A portion of bacon carbonara.
Image Credit: Daniela Apostol for My Gorgeous Recipes

This Bacon Pasta Carbonara is loaded with parmesan cheese and bacon lardons and smothered in an eggy mixture. No cream, no tomato sauce, just pure goodness. The creamy carbonara sauce can’t be any simpler.

GET THE RECIPE: Bacon Pasta Carbonara

Pineapple Pork Skewers

Grilled meat and vegetable skewers garnished with chopped herbs are arranged on a white plate with lime wedges.
Photo Credit: On My Kids Plate.

These pineapple pork skewers bring a tropical touch to your summer BBQ dinner. Marinated in a savory soy and ginger sauce, the pork pairs perfectly with sweet, juicy pineapple. Grill until caramelized for a delightful combination of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Pork Skewers

Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak with country gravy.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak brings the South straight to your home kitchen in just 45 minutes! Commonly known as chicken-fried steak in the Southern United States, this dish features seasoned cube steak coated in a golden-brown crust, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy white sawmill gravy that’ll have you craving seconds and thirds!

GET THE RECIPE: Chicken Fried Steak

Tailgater Frito Pie with Cowgirl Chili

overhead photo of Frito Pie Casserole on a tray
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Elevate a classic snack to a whole new level with this game-day twist: crispy Fritos meet hearty chili con carne in a flavorful fusion that’s perfect for tailgating or a cozy night in!

GET THE RECIPE: Frito Pie

School Cafeteria Mac and Cheese (A Lunch Lady Throwback)

A rectangular baking dish filled with macaroni and cheese topped with a golden breadcrumb crust.
School Cafeteria Mac and Cheese (A Lunch Lady Throwback). Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

This mac and cheese is a nostalgic comfort food, bringing back school cafeteria memories with its creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a side dish or a main course on a lazy summer day.
Get the Recipe: School Cafeteria Mac and Cheese (A Lunch Lady Throwback)

Best Southern Ham Gravy with Cheesy Biscuits and Eggs

A plate of cheesy eggs and biscuits smothered in southern ham gravy.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Southern breakfast is a delightful affair, with the rich flavors of smoky ham gravy drizzled over cheesy biscuits, perfectly complemented by velvety soft scrambled eggs. The best part? These mouthwatering dishes are a breeze to make from scratch.

GET THE RECIPE: Ham Gravy

Slow Cooker Kalua Pork

Pulled pork sandwich with shredded pork, purple cabbage, and lettuce in a bun.
Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud.

Kalua pork is a Hawaiian favorite that’s easy to make in the slow cooker. The pork is cooked with just a few simple ingredients until it’s tender and juicy. Serve it with rice and cabbage for a taste of the islands.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Kalua Pork

Healthy Ground Chicken Feta Burgers with Spinach

A chicken burger with spinach, arugula, tomato slices, and crumbled feta cheese in a whole wheat bun.
Photo Credit: Haute & Healthy Living.

These chicken burgers are a healthier summer option without sacrificing flavor. Ground chicken mixed with spinach and feta is grilled to perfection. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings for a light, satisfying dinner meal.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Ground Chicken Feta Burgers with Spinach

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Glazed chicken legs garnished with fresh herbs on a white plate.
Photo Credit: Pumpkin ‘N Spice.

These BBQ chicken legs are perfect for a crowd. Just coat them in your favorite BBQ sauce and let the slow cooker do the work. They come out tender and flavorful, with a sticky glaze that’s irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Easy Vegan Maine Lobster Rolls (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)

A sandwich roll filled with diced apples and celery in a creamy dressing, with potato chips partially visible in the background.
Photo Credit: Strength and Sunshine.

These vegan lobster rolls redefine comfort food with a refreshing, plant-based twist. Made with hearts of palm and a creamy, tangy dressing, they deliver a sea-inspired flavor without any actual seafood.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Maine Lobster Rolls (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)

Chicken on the Ritz Casserole

A spoonful of a cheesy, creamy dish with a crispy golden topping, garnished with small fresh herbs. In the background, the rest of the dish is visible in a bowl.
Chicken on the Ritz Casserole. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

This Chicken on the Ritz Casserole is a creamy comfort food delight with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping. It’s an easy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Chicken on the Ritz Casserole

Blue Raspberry Cheesecake (No-Bake)

A slice of blue cheesecake topped with a raspberry and a sprig of mint sits on a white plate.
Photo Credit: Eat Cook Bake.

This no-bake blue raspberry cheesecake offers a cool and creamy comfort food experience. Its vibrant color and tangy raspberry flavor make it a refreshing dessert ideal for hot summer days.
Get the Recipe: Blue Raspberry Cheesecake (No-Bake)

Italian Creamy Beef Ragu Recipe

A plate of penne pasta with creamy tomato sauce, ground meat, and basil leaves. A fork is beside the plate.
Photo Credit: The Pasta Project.

This creamy beef ragu is the epitome of Italian comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in. Simmered with tomatoes, herbs, and tender beef, it pairs beautifully with pasta for a hearty summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Italian Creamy Beef Ragu Recipe

Copycat Bob Evans Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Casserole Recipe

A white plate with scrambled eggs and a piece of egg casserole topped with minced vegetables and cheese.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

This casserole brings the comfort food flavors of Bob Evans’ sausage gravy and biscuits into your home. Layers of fluffy biscuits topped with savory sausage gravy make it a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Bob Evans Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Casserole Recipe

Korean Strawberry Milk

A glass mug filled with a strawberry milkshake topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Photo Credit: Oh My Food Recipes.

This Korean strawberry milk is a sweet and refreshing comfort food treat. Made with fresh strawberries and a touch of sweetness, it’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
Get the Recipe: Korean Strawberry Milk

Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs

Sizzling, grilled meat with a golden-brown, crispy exterior garnished with chopped herbs.
Photo Credit: Happy Foods Tube.

These grilled boneless chicken thighs are a juicy, flavorful comfort food option for summer barbecues. Marinated in a blend of spices and herbs, they cook up quickly and pair well with various sides.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Boneless Chicken Thighs

Easy Four Cheese Stuffed Shells

Iron roasting pan with stuffed pasta shells covered in a white sauce with herbs.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

These four cheese stuffed shells are a cheesy comfort food favorite. Filled with ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and asiago, they’re baked to bubbly perfection, making them a hit at any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Four Cheese Stuffed Shells

Cilantro Lime Chicken

Grilled chicken thighs garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Photo Credit: Spend with Pennies.

This cilantro lime chicken is a bright and fresh choice for summer dinners. Marinated in a blend of lime juice, cilantro, and garlic, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection. Serve over rice or with a salad for a light, flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken

Chipotle Potato Salad

A plate of creamy potato salad with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of paprika.
Photo Credit: M.A. Kitchen.

This chipotle potato salad is a smoky, spicy comfort food twist on the classic dish. With a creamy dressing and a hint of chipotle pepper, it’s a flavorful side perfect for summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Potato Salad

Easy Vegetarian Carbonara with Peas

A yellow bowl of spaghetti mixed with green peas, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes, with a fork resting on the side.
Photo Credit: Cinnamon & Kale.

This vegetarian carbonara is a creamy comfort food dish made with peas and a rich sauce. It’s a lighter take on the classic, perfect for a meatless summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegetarian Carbonara with Peas

Strawberry Biscuits

Freshly baked strawberry scones on a parchment-lined tray, surrounded by whole strawberries.
Photo Credit: Live to Sweet.

These strawberry biscuits are a sweet comfort food twist on the classic biscuit, with fresh strawberries baked right in. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dessert.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Biscuits

The Best Open-Faced Tomato Sandwich

A slice of bread topped with a creamy spread, tomato slice, and chopped chives.
Photo Credit: Two Healthy Kitchens.

This open-faced tomato sandwich is a simple yet flavorful summer comfort food. Fresh tomatoes, a sprinkle of salt, and a slice of crusty bread make it a perfect light meal or snack.
Get the Recipe: The Best Open-Faced Tomato Sandwich

Easy Summer Bolognese with Fresh Tomatoes

A plate of spaghetti with meat sauce, fresh basil leaves, grated cheese, edible flowers, and a fork to the side.
Photo Credit: Salted Mint.

This summer Bolognese is a light yet flavorful comfort food dish made with fresh tomatoes. Combined with ground meat and aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Summer Bolognese with Fresh Tomatoes

Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops

Two pork chops covered in a creamy herb sauce on a rectangular white plate, garnished with dried herbs. A wooden spoon and a small wooden bowl with herbs are on the side.
Photo Credit: The Feathered Nester.

These ranch pork chops are a comforting and easy meal. Just coat the pork chops in ranch seasoning and let the slow cooker do the rest. They come out tender and full of flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops

Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Casserole

A baked pasta casserole with melted cheese, ground meat, and seasonings.
Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

This beef and sour cream noodle casserole is a savory comfort food dish full of flavor. Layers of noodles, seasoned beef, and creamy sour cream make it a perfect family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Casserole

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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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