20 Cozy November Recipes for Comforting Meals

Posted on April 10, 2025

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As the weather cools down and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the dinner table with a warm, comforting meal. November brings a sense of coziness and nostalgia, making it the perfect time to get cooking! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From hearty soups and savory main courses to sweet treats and cozy breakfast options, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table or just a comforting meal to warm up with after a long day, these November recipes have got you covered. With a mix of classic comfort foods and creative twists, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a cup of hot cider (or your favorite fall beverage), get cozy, and let’s dive in!

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash taking center stage. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a fall favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs, such as parsley or sage (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add roasted squash, broth, and cream (if using). Blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast

Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful herb-crusted recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the turkey breast.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham

Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic glazed ham, this recipe combines the flavors of cranberries and orange to create a delicious centerpiece for your holiday table.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Bake for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
This sweet and savory casserole is a staple of American comfort food, perfect for holidays or everyday meals. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the crunch of the pecans and the richness of the marshmallows.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups marshmallows
– 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, and nutmeg.
3. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with heavy cream and marshmallows.
6. Sprinkle pecans over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until casserole is set and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Pumpkin Spice Bread

Pumpkin Spice Bread
Pumpkin Spice Bread Recipe

Warm up with a slice of this deliciously aromatic bread, infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, egg, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Enjoy your warm and inviting Pumpkin Spice Bread!

Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops

Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops
Savor the flavors of fall with this tender and juicy pork chop recipe, slow-cooked in a rich apple cider sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove pork from pot and set aside. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add garlic, apple cider, chicken broth, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork chops to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender and easily shredded.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (includes braising time)

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or base for your favorite comfort food.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with grated cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Sweeten up your meal with this easy recipe that brings out the best in Brussels sprouts.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the sprouts in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, shaking the pan halfway through.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Wild Mushroom Risotto

Wild Mushroom Risotto
Wild Mushroom Risotto: A Hearty and Earthy Delight

This creamy risotto recipe celebrates the rich flavors of wild mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add white wine; stir until absorbed.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they release their liquid and start to brown.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

Spiced Pear and Walnut Salad

Spiced Pear and Walnut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pears with the crunch of walnuts and a hint of warm spices, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Add the sliced pears and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Stir in chopped walnuts.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart Recipe

Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions and nutty gruyère cheese in this savory tart, perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and dark golden brown.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Sprinkle with grated gruyère cheese.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over the pastry and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A comforting and flavorful slow cooker beef stew recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner. With tender chunks of beef, soft vegetables, and rich broth, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef chuck or round, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef cubes in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes to the slow cooker.
3. Place the browned beef on top of the vegetables.
4. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
This Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust is a perfect blend of creamy pumpkin cheesecake and crunchy gingersnap crust, making it a unique dessert for the fall season.

Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before serving.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Baked Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar

Baked Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
Sweet and savory, this recipe is perfect for a cozy fall evening.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium acorn squash (about 1 lb each)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and melted butter until well combined.
4. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
5. Divide the sugar-butter mixture evenly among the squash halves, spooning it into the cavities.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these bite-sized Cranberry Brie Bites, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. The combination of creamy brie cheese, sweet cranberries, and flaky pastry is a match made in heaven.

Ingredients:

– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place the softened brie cheese in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Spoon cranberries over the brie, followed by a drizzle of honey.
5. Fold the pastry up and over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Roasted Root Vegetable Medley

Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley: A Delicious and Nutritious Side Dish!

This recipe brings together a colorful medley of root vegetables, roasted to perfection with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The result is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients:

– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 large turnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, sweet potato, parsnip, and turnip.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Chai-Spiced Pumpkin Pancakes

Chai-Spiced Pumpkin Pancakes
Start your day with a flavorful twist on classic pancakes, infused with the comforting spices of chai and the sweetness of pumpkin.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Chai spice blend (or individual spices: cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg) for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom.
3. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, egg, milk, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with a sprinkle of chai spice blend (or individual spices) on top.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch, depending on the number of pancakes you make at once.

Savory Sage and Sausage Stuffing

Savory Sage and Sausage Stuffing
Elevate your Thanksgiving table with this savory stuffing recipe that combines the earthy flavor of sage with the richness of sausage. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a stress-free holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine the bread, cooked sausage mixture, melted butter, dried sage, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and toss until the bread is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Carrot and Parsnip Puree

Carrot and Parsnip Puree
This vibrant puree is a delightful side dish or base for various recipes. The natural sweetness of carrots and parsnips balances beautifully with the subtle earthiness of herbs, making it a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, vegetables, or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Ingredients:

– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots and parsnips with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or food processor with chicken broth or water, parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth, adding more liquid if needed.
7. Serve hot or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Hot Mulled Apple Cider

Hot Mulled Apple Cider
As the leaves start to fall and the air grows crisp, there’s no better way to cozy up than with a steaming mug of hot mulled apple cider. This autumnal treat is perfect for chilly nights or as a warm welcome home from the great outdoors.

Ingredients:

– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add brown sugar and water to the pot, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cider reaches your desired level of sweetness and spiciness.
5. Strain the cider into mugs and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Summary

Get cozy this November with these 20 delicious recipes that are perfect for comforting meals. From hearty soups to savory mains and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try roasted butternut squash soup, herb-crusted turkey breast, or cranberry orange glazed ham for a taste of the season. Or, indulge in sweet potato casserole with pecan topping, pumpkin spice bread, or caramelized onion and Gruyère tart. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want to warm up on a chilly fall day, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.

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