Dezcourse

Winter’s here for  Comfort Foods. And with it comes the cold, the snow, the inevitable reality that I should have started holiday shopping in July. But also—thank God—it’s comfort food season. I mean, is there anything better than curling up with a warm, hearty meal while the wind howls outside? It’s like the food version of a cozy blanket. Anyway, here’s the kicker: the top 5 comfort foods you NEED to keep in your kitchen this winter. Trust me, you’ll be thankful when that chill sets in.

1. Classic Macaroni and Cheese: A Tried-and-True Favorite

Mac and cheese, y’all. I don’t care who you are—this dish hits all the right notes. You get that creamy, cheesy goodness, and the pasta just… marries the cheese sauce like it was always meant to be.

My First Attempt Was a Disaster
I’ll admit it—my first attempt at making mac and cheese was a mess. The cheese clumped together like a bad breakup. But eventually, I learned that the secret lies in good cheese and a low-and-slow cooking process. It’s a game changer.
Here’s why mac and cheese tops the 5 comfort foods list:

• Rich, Creamy, and Absolutely Addictive: The cheese melts, the butter pools, and the whole thing becomes a glorious, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta. Don’t even get me started on the crispy breadcrumb topping.
• Totally Customizable: Want to add bacon, or maybe a handful of veggies to make yourself feel better about life? Go for it. The dish can take it.
• Kid-Friendly: My niece Lily, who once mistook ketchup for “spaghetti sauce” (don’t ask), devours this like it’s a five-star meal. She’s a tough crowd, trust me.

Fun Spin-offs:

• Bacon Mac: Crispy bacon makes it even better.
• Veggie Mac: Want to pretend you’re eating healthy? Add some broccoli.

2. Hearty Chicken Soup: The Ultimate Soul-Healer

Okay, let’s talk chicken soup. The first time I made it, I got so excited about being all chef-y that I didn’t actually read the recipe properly. Yeah. That didn’t go well. But after many soup mishaps, I figured out how to make it right: just keep it simple.

Chicken soup is the perfect comfort food, and here’s why:

• Soothing: There’s something about a hot bowl of soup that’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Seriously, when my friend Katie was having a rough week, I showed up at her door with a pot of homemade chicken soup. She didn’t even complain about the onions I forgot to chop properly. That’s how powerful chicken soup is.
• Easy to Make: Chicken, veggies, broth—boom. Simmer for a bit. My friend Tom, who once burned cereal in the microwave, made this soup in 30 minutes flat. You can’t mess this one up.
• Versatile: Add noodles. Or rice. Or dumplings. Or, heck, throw in whatever your heart desires.

Pro Tip:

• Broth Matters: Please, don’t use the stuff in a carton that tastes like dishwater. If you can swing it, homemade broth is the holy grail of chicken soup.

3. Chili Con Carne: Warming the Soul, One Spice at a Time

So, I made chili for the first time years ago, and I thought I’d accidentally created a fire hazard. The heat? It was… intense. But with some tweaks, chili con carne became my winter go-to. It’s like a cozy campfire in a bowl, with all the beans, meat, and spices that make you feel invincible.

• Spicy and Hearty: It’s like the weather outside is frightful, but the chili is so delightful. You know what I mean?
• Filling: There’s no way you’re still hungry after a bowl of chili. Between the meat, beans, and tomatoes, this meal sticks with you for hours. I once had a friend, Jess, who ate three bowls in one sitting. No regrets.
• Easy to Make: You just dump stuff into a pot and let it simmer. Honestly, my friend Carla could make this with one hand tied behind her back, and she can barely make toast.

Toppings That Make It Special:

• Cheddar: Shredded, melty cheddar cheese is non-negotiable.
• Sour Cream: Cool and creamy against that spicy kick.
• Jalapeños: For when you’re feeling extra.

Fast forward past three failed attempts and I was hooked on chili. I’m telling you, this is definitely one of the 5 comfort foods you’ll be craving all winter.

4. Beef Stew: Like a Blanket for Your Soul

Beef stew? Oh, man. I can still remember the first time I tried to make this. The meat turned out tough, the broth was thin, and I had to use “beef stew” as a term of endearment for the next few months to make myself feel better. It was… not great. But after some trial and error, beef stew became my ultimate winter meal.

• Tender Meat: The slow-cooking magic of beef stew. After hours of simmering, the beef practically melts in your mouth. My grandmother swears by it. (You’re never too old for comfort food, right?)
• Root Veggies: Carrots, potatoes, parsnips—those earthy flavors just scream winter.
• Slow-Cooked Perfection: I learned that a slow simmer is the key to beef stew success. You can’t rush greatness. Or beef.

Stew Ideas:

• Red Wine Beef Stew: Trust me, adding red wine to the mix takes this dish to the next level.
• Herbed Beef Stew: A little rosemary and thyme? Chef’s kiss.

Beef stew is a legit contender for the 5 comfort foods that never fail to deliver warmth and satisfaction in winter.

5. Baked Potatoes with All the Toppings

I know what you’re thinking—baked potatoes? That’s too simple. But hear me out. Baked potatoes are like the underdog of the comfort food world, and they have the potential to be totally next-level when done right.

• Versatile: Want sour cream and chives? Go ahead. Want chili or pulled pork on top? Absolutely. It’s like a blank canvas for your cravings. And honestly, who doesn’t love customizing their food?
• Filling: Seriously, one of these potatoes will fill you up faster than a bowl of salad. And unlike that one time I tried to eat a salad to “be healthy” (spoiler: I was hungry two hours later), these potatoes stick.
• Easy: No fancy techniques. Bake the potatoes. Add toppings. Eat. It’s the no-fuss, all-flavor comfort food you deserve.

Top Toppings to Try:

• Cheddar Cheese and Bacon: If you’re into that, you’re not alone. Trust me.
• Chili: Yes, chili on a baked potato is a vibe. It’s that good.

Anyway, the baked potato might just be the most underrated of the 5 comfort foods. But don’t let its simplicity fool you—it’s a solid, no-mess option for winter nights when you’re just looking to feel warm and satisfied.

In Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food Showdown

Look, winter can be brutal. The cold, the snow, the random bouts of confusion when you forget your gloves—been there. But you can fight back with these 5 comfort foods that are guaranteed to lift your spirits, warm you up, and maybe even make you forget about the time you tried to make your own sourdough starter (mine never rose, RIP Gary). Whether you’re craving creamy mac and cheese, soothing chicken soup, spicy chili, hearty beef stew, or loaded baked potatoes, these dishes will get you through the toughest days.

So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking, and embrace the magic of the 5 comfort foods. Winter’s cold, but your kitchen? Oh, it’s about to get wicked warm.