Gather ’round the table and get ready to feast! There’s nothing like a family gathering to bring everyone together, and what better way to do that than with a delicious meal? In this collection of cozy feasting at home recipes, we’ve got you covered. From classic comfort foods to international flavors and decadent desserts, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking for a special treat, our recipe roundup has something for everyone.
First up, let’s talk about the main event: the protein. We’ve got recipes for everything from tender chicken to flavorful beef, pork, and lamb. And don’t even get us started on seafood – our paella and shrimp and grits will make your taste buds do the happy dance. But it’s not just about the meat; we’re also sharing some amazing sides, from creamy risotto to crispy roasted potatoes.
Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this aromatic recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, parsley, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
This slow-cooked beef stew is a twist on the classic French dish, perfect for a cold winter’s night. With tender chunks of beef, rich mushrooms, and a flavorful broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with remaining ingredients.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A classic Italian dish, this creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. With the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the richness of Parmesan cheese, you’ll be sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. If using wine, add it and cook until absorbed.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more.
7. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Sweet and Savory Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
A classic combination of flavors, this honey glazed ham with pineapple is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
• 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
• 1 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, mustard, and garlic until well combined.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the surface with a sharp knife if desired.
4. Brush the honey mixture evenly over the entire ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines (if using).
5. Top the ham with pineapple chunks and drizzle with pineapple juice.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 4-6 pound ham.
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Elevate your dinner party with this flavorful and visually stunning dish. The perfect combination of tender lamb and aromatic herbs is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 rack of lamb (6-8 bones)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Season the lamb rack with salt and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes for a 1-pound rack.
Classic Beef Wellington
Classic Beef Wellington Recipe
Summary:
Experience a timeless culinary delight with this classic recipe for Beef Wellington. Tenderloin beef is wrapped in puff pastry, mushrooms, and herbs to create an impressive centerpiece perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef tenderloin with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Spread mushroom duxelles evenly over the beef, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a large rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Place the beef in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Brush the pastry edges with softened butter.
7. Fold the pastry over the beef, pressing gently to seal.
8. Place Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: Mushroom duxelles is a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and herbs. You can use store-bought or homemade duxelles for this recipe.
Cooking Time:
Total cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying macaroni and cheese recipe, featuring a crispy topping that adds a delightful textural element.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Whisk over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni, melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Sauce
This roasted turkey recipe is a staple of the holiday season, paired perfectly with a tangy and sweet cranberry sauce. With a simple seasoning blend and a low-and-slow roasting method, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously moist and flavorful bird in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Rub all over the turkey.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 4-4 1/2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. About 30 minutes before the turkey is done, brush with cranberry sauce and place orange segments on top.
6. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Braised Short Ribs in Red Wine Sauce
Rich and flavorful, this classic dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A creamy and savory Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese with jumbo pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with marinara sauce and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce
Elevate your summer cooking with this refreshing recipe that combines the richness of grilled salmon with the brightness of lemon and dill. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and garlic in a small bowl.
5. Serve grilled salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Chutney
This recipe pairs the tender and juicy pork tenderloin with a sweet and tangy apple chutney, making it a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or other tart variety)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the pork to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, cook the sliced onion and minced garlic in the same skillet over medium-low heat until caramelized.
7. Add diced apple to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
8. Serve the pork tenderloin with the apple chutney spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
A classic Italian dish that combines tender vegetables and creamy pasta sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed sautéed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, mushrooms)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup Béchamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mixed vegetables until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread a layer of Béchamel sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange 4 cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
6. Add half of the sautéed vegetables, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat layers: Béchamel sauce, noodles, vegetables, and mozzarella cheese.
8. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil (if using).
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Seafood Paella with Saffron
This traditional paella dish from Spain is a flavorful and aromatic combination of seafood, rice, and saffron. With its rich, golden color and savory taste, it’s perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add seafood and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Add rice, saffron mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Add water; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herb-Roasted Potatoes with Garlic
Elevate your meal with this flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the pungency of garlic and herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these roasted potatoes are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the deep flavors of caramelized onions with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium heat with olive oil until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Place the cooked onions in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
5. Top the onions with crumbled goat cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Brush the pastry with honey and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This comforting dish is a staple of warm, cozy meals. A rich and creamy chicken filling is perfectly balanced by a flaky, buttery crust, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, corn)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and butter until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Gradually stir in flour, then whisk in broth and cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in frozen vegetables and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out pie crust and place into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with chicken mixture and top with another piece of pie crust or a crumbly topping.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Grits
A classic Lowcountry dish gets a spicy kick in this recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch. This creamy, spicy concoction is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the shrimp and hot sauce to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Serve the shrimp mixture over the grits. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ratatouille with Fresh Herbs
This classic Provençal dish is elevated by the freshness of summer herbs, creating a flavorful and aromatic vegetable stew perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Fresh thyme and rosemary leaves (about 1 tablespoon each)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread eggplant on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and onion to the bowl, tossing to combine with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread vegetables on a separate baking sheet and roast for an additional 25-30 minutes.
6. In a large saucepan, combine roasted vegetables, garlic, crushed tomatoes, thyme, and rosemary.
7. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tiramisu for Dessert
A timeless Italian dessert, Tiramisu is a creamy, coffee-infused masterpiece that’s sure to impress any crowd.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the coffee and sugar; stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. To assemble the Tiramisu, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
6. Repeat the layers: ladyfingers, mascarpone mixture, and finally dust with cocoa powder.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including assembly)
Summary
Get ready to delight your family and friends with these 20 mouthwatering recipes perfect for cozy feasting at home. From classic comfort dishes like Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Chicken and Creamy Mushroom Risotto, to show-stopping main courses like Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb and Classic Beef Wellington, there’s something for everyone. Impress your loved ones with Braised Short Ribs in Red Wine Sauce or Seafood Paella with Saffron. And don’t forget dessert! Try Tiramisu for a sweet ending to the meal. With these recipes, you’ll be sure to create lasting memories and satisfy even the biggest appetites.
