Want a little comfort food? Here are 8 recipes that fit the bill.
Every once in awhile I crave foods that bring me comfort, that make me feel better. Now, I understand that healthy eating doesn’t rely on feelings, but sometimes, you just gotta go with it. There’s a reason we bring folks a favorite casserole or dessert when tragedy strikes. It brings them comfort. And that’s not a bad thing.
When I think of the foods that make a bad day turn around, these are the ones that come to mind. They are hearty and filling, and made a little healthier when made from scratch, as they are in these recipes for foods to end the day on a good note.
Sandwiches:
Croque Monsieur
A Croque-Monsieur is the French answer to the grilled cheese sandwich. And it’s pretty darn awesome.
Tuna Melt
A tuna salad sandwich and a grilled cheese sandwich get married, making this easy tuna melt, a perfect meal for busy nights or when you want some comfort food.
Casseroles, Skillets, & Sides:
Alfredo Mac and Cheese
Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food. Try this version that has a garlicky, Alfredo twist.
Eggs and Sweet Potato Hash with Brussels Sprouts and Mushrooms
This is a quick 30-minute meal that you can serve any time of the day. It doesn’t have to be for breakfast, though it will give you a boost of nutrient-rich food at the start of the day, if you do break the fast with this eggs and sweet potato hash.
Rebel with a Cause Smashed Potatoes
Smashed Potatoes can make a great meal. Prepare these simple, non-fussy potatoes to go with your favorite gravy and roast meats.
Soups:
Vegetable, Beef, and Barley Soup
Mix up a pot of this delicious homemade soup, chocked full of vegetables, beef, and barley. It’ll do your body good.
Guinness Beef Stew
Homemade beef stew is homey and comforting. It’s also so easy to make, you’ll wonder why anyone would think to ruin it in a can.
Sweets:
Jessika’s Chocolate Chip Cookies
I think these just might be the best chocolate chip cookies in the whole wide world. They’re a crunchy yet chewy decadence that I have a tendency to overindulge in.
Janet says
Our family favorite comfort foods are meatloaf and mashed potatoes; mac & cheese; and spaghetti and meatballs. When I asked my family, my youngest said STEAK! I guess rarity is also part of special comfort food.
Jessica Fisher says
Sounds yummy!
Stephanie M. says
Hi Jessica:
I know this has nothing to do with the topic today but since you’ve been talking about freezer meals lately, I thought that I would tell you that even though I’ve said in the past that I don’t really do freezer meals except for breakfast, I got in the mood today and here’s what I did:
1. Hamburger patties
2. Beef and noodle casserole
3. Mac and cheese casserole with hot dogs and peas
4. Stuffed potatoes with bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and scallions
5. Mini pizza bagels for lunch on the weekends
6. Lawn Mower Tacos (have not tasted it yet, but it smells incredible thanks to you)
7. Pancakes
8. Waffles
So that’s what I did all day today. At the end, I poured myself a few glasses of wine and was very happy for all of today’s accomplishments. My freezer is loaded and we look forward to eating all of the things I made today and I’m pooped now so goodnight! 🙂
Jessica Fisher says
I knew you had it in you. 😉
Everything going okay at your house? You’ve been quiet. Hope all is well.
Stephanie M. says
Hi Jessica:
I’m glad you noticed. Everything is going well, thanks for asking. Unfortunately, I have been commenting on several of your blog topics and when I hit the “post comment” nothing happens. I posted a comment twice yesterday, (Friday, March 27) and never saw anything so I checked it today and it’s still not there. I literally check your blog each day without fail because it’s of such a great interest to me and most of the time, I comment but sometimes I don’t see it in the comment section. Sometimes, I try a few times but I’m always worried that it will finally come up and then you will see things written twice or three times. I’ll go back to yesterday’s topic and try again. Let me know if you know why this is happening.
Jessica Fisher says
I found you in spam! Hopefully you are freed now.
Belinda says
I love this list – these are all winners, but for me mac and cheese remains the ULTIMATE comfort food!!
And I still love your smashed potatoes post – one of your best blogs ever! Made me smile again when I read it today 🙂
Jessica Fisher says
Ha! Thanks. Glad to know I’ve got company in the Lumpy Potato Camp. 🙂