Rainy days are made for snuggling up with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. As the rain pours down outside, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a delicious meal that warms your heart and soul. Whether you’re looking to soothe a cold or simply need a pick-me-up, these 20 cozy rainy day recipes are sure to hit the spot.
From creamy soups to hearty stews and comforting casseroles, our list has something for everyone. So why not grab a blanket, put on your comfiest PJs, and get ready to cozy up with some of our favorite comfort foods? Let’s start with…
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil. This creamy delight is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in olive oil and dried basil.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Chicken Noodle Stew
This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, soft noodles, and a flavorful broth to create a satisfying meal perfect for any time of the year. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious stew in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and mixed vegetables in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and add it back to the pot.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the stew and stir to combine.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Add a touch of comfort food to your meal with these savory breadsticks infused with the perfect blend of melted cheese and aromatic garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) loaf of Italian-style bread, cubed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together bread cubes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the breadstick mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Savor the flavors of this classic Russian dish, where tender beef and sautéed mushrooms come together in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked egg noodles, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove beef; set aside. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in broth, tomato paste, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return beef to the skillet; stir to coat with sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles, topped with sour cream.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Pumpkin Curry
Warm up with a flavorful and spicy pumpkin curry that’s perfect for the fall season. This recipe combines the comforting taste of pumpkin with the heat of red pepper flakes, making it a unique twist on traditional curries.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add pumpkin cubes and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until pumpkin is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne
Hearty and flavorful, this slow cooker chili con carne is a perfect meal for a chilly day. With tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of spices, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: jalapeños, shredded cheese, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker; add diced tomatoes, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
4. Stir in beef broth; season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetable Lentil Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this flavorful and nutritious vegetable lentil soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onion, bell peppers)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional recipes, packed with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the savory flavor of black beans. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potato in the oven for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium heat until softened.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and chili powder to the pot. Stir well.
5. Once the sweet potato is cooked, add it to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 20-30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and creamy recipe, infused with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish or topped with roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot with the butter, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mash until smooth.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and milk, stirring until well combined and creamy.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Beef Pot Roast
A hearty and comforting classic dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the beef to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender broccoli, rich cheddar cheese, and velvety cream, all in one delicious pot. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli, garlic, chicken broth, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree until smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
Warm Up with Classic Chicken and Dumplings
This comforting dish is a staple of home cooking, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day or serving at a family gathering. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and savory broth, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Bring chicken broth, carrots, celery, thyme, salt, and pepper to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add chicken and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and milk to make dumpling mixture.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the broth and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are fluffy and tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food dish gets a veggie-friendly twist! This Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the frozen mixed vegetables, cooked lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly to cover the filling.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this creamy mushroom risotto is a perfect weeknight dinner option. With Arborio rice, sautéed mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese, you’ll be enjoying a comforting bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with mushroom mixture.
4. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to rice mixture, stirring until mostly absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Remove from heat; stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
French Onion Soup
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese in this classic French soup.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add the olive oil, beef broth, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spaghetti Carbonara
This classic Italian dish is a staple of comfort food, made with just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time. With its creamy sauce and tender pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 slices pancetta or bacon, diced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, butter, and a pinch of salt.
3. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Add cooked pancetta or bacon to the spaghetti and toss until combined.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn Chowder with Bacon
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet corn, savory bacon, and creamy potatoes. With its rich flavor profile, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup of diced potatoes (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1/2 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon, leaving the grease behind.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the corn kernels, potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
A creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired soup that combines the warmth of coconut milk with the bold flavors of red curry paste, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Warm Apple Cinnamon Bread
Warm Apple Cinnamon Bread: A Cozy Fall Treat
This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for a crisp fall morning or as a comforting snack any time of the year. The combination of tender apples, sweet cinnamon, and warm spices will fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1-2 medium-sized)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on a rainy day with these comforting recipes! From creamy soups to hearty stews and baked goods, this collection has something for everyone. Savor the flavors of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup or Homemade Chicken Noodle Stew, or indulge in Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks or Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff. There are also vegetarian options like Vegetable Lentil Soup and Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili. Whatever your craving, these 20 recipes will keep you warm and satisfied on a drizzly day.
