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These 33 Hearty Winter Meals Make Staying In the Best Part of the Season

The best part of winter? Not leaving the house. These 33 hearty winter meals make sure that staying in comes with serious perks, like meals that take their time, dishes that make an extra serving seem mandatory, and flavors that make up for the weather. Whether it’s something bubbling on the stove or roasting in the oven, the hardest part is waiting for dinner to be ready. Well, that and deciding what to eat first.

A slice of layered cabbage roll casserole served on a dark plate.
Cabbage Roll Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Some meals just know how to deliver, and Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy is one of them. The chicken turns out juicy, the gravy is the kind you want on everything, and the oven does most of the work. It’s the definition of simple but satisfying, with flavors that only get better with time. This is the kind of dinner that makes leftovers something to look forward to. Just be ready for requests to make it again soon.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Guinness Beer Cheese Dip

Guinness Cheese Dip on a platter with soft pretzels.
Guinness Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This is the kind of dip that disappears fast, and for good reason. Guinness Beer Cheese Dip brings a bold kick with a smooth, creamy texture that makes everything it touches better. It’s the kind of thing that turns a regular night in into something worth looking forward to, whether it’s paired with pretzels, bread, or just a spoon. A little bitterness, a lot of richness, and just enough bite to keep things interesting. Making extra is the only real way to prevent disappointment.
Get the Recipe: Guinness Beer Cheese Dip

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Top-down shot of Tuna Noodle Casserole on a dish with a small portion on a black plate.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Some dishes stick around for a reason, and Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is one of them. It’s creamy, hearty, and the definition of a comfort meal that never lets you down. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or something to feed a crowd, it’s always a solid choice. The kind of meal that feels familiar in the best way possible, with flavors that just work. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones that last the longest.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

A white bowl of creamy shrimp & corn chowder on a white plate.
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

There’s something about a chowder that just hits different when it’s cold outside. Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle brings the richness you expect with just enough heat to keep things interesting. The sweetness, the spice, and the creamy texture all work together like they were meant to be in the same bowl. This is the kind of meal that warms from the inside out, no extra layers required. One bite in, and there’s no going back to regular soup.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Two bowls of Dutch oven beef stew garnished with parsley.
Dutch Oven Beef Stew. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Some meals do more than just fill you up—they stick with you. Dutch Oven Beef Stew is the kind of dish that makes the house smell incredible and delivers on every bite. It’s rich, hearty, and slow-cooked to the point where every spoonful is packed with flavor. This is a meal that takes its time, and the payoff is worth every minute. If leftovers survive the night, they’re even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Potato Leek Soup

Two bowls of Potato leek soup with two spoons beside.
Potato Leek Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

A cold night’s best friend, Potato Leek Soup is all about rich, smooth comfort in every spoonful. It’s thick without being heavy and full of flavor that somehow tastes even better the next day. The kind of soup that makes you want to grab the biggest bowl in the house and settle in for a while. Whether it’s served solo or with something to dip, it gets the job done. Simple ingredients, big payoff, and zero complaints at the table.
Get the Recipe: Potato Leek Soup

Best Ever Giant Meatballs

A stack of giant meatballs garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs served on a black rectangular slate plate.
Best Ever Giant Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Regular meatballs are fine, but Best Ever Giant Meatballs take things to another level. These are the kind of meatballs that demand a knife and fork, packed with bold flavors and a texture that hits just right. Served with pasta, on their own, or tucked into a sandwich, they make any meal feel a little more special. They’re big, they’re hearty, and they don’t mess around. One bite in, and suddenly, regular-sized meatballs just don’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Giant Meatballs

Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Marry Me chicken soup on a wooden table.
Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

If a meal had a fan club, Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup would have a long waiting list. It’s got everything a good soup should—rich broth, hearty ingredients, and flavors that keep you coming back for more. The kind of dish that makes even an average night feel like something special. Whether it’s the first time or the hundredth, it never disappoints. Just don’t be surprised when it gets requested on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with vintage chicken divan and a fork dishing up one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Classic for a reason, Vintage Chicken Divan brings all the right flavors in one dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and balanced with just enough crunch to keep every bite interesting. Whether it’s served over rice or pasta, it’s the kind of meal that feels familiar in the best way possible. Great for feeding a crowd or just making sure there’s enough for seconds. Some dishes go out of style, but this one never does.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A white plate with Salisbury steak topped with mushroom gravy on mashed potatoes, accompanied by a side of green peas.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes, simple is best, and Diner Style Salisbury Steak proves it. Juicy, flavorful, and covered in a rich sauce that makes every bite better, it’s a throwback meal that still holds up. Whether paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or just straight from the plate, it’s comfort food at its finest. The kind of meal that feels like it came straight from a classic diner—no road trip required.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When leftovers need a serious upgrade, Turkey à la King is the answer. It takes simple ingredients and turns them into something rich, creamy, and completely satisfying. Piled over toast, biscuits, or whatever’s on hand, it’s the kind of meal that makes you forget it started with leftovers. Every bite is packed with familiar, comforting flavors that just work. It’s proof that a little creativity can turn yesterday’s turkey into today’s best meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl with spoon on a round brown plate.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

There’s soup, and then there’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl—a whole different level of cozy. The creamy, cheesy goodness balances perfectly with the fresh bite of broccoli, and the bread bowl takes it from good to unforgettable. Every bite is warm, satisfying, and worth the effort of scraping the bowl clean. Because when your bowl is edible, you know it’s a good night.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

Dutch Oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch Oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow-cooked to perfection, Dutch Oven Carnitas turn any meal into something worth getting excited about. Whether piled into tacos, stuffed in a burrito, or eaten straight from the pan, every bite delivers serious flavor. The texture hits just right—crispy in some spots, melt-in-your-mouth in others. It’s the kind of dish that makes waiting almost impossible but always worth it. Leftovers? Probably not happening.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Carnitas

Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup

Two bowls of Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup topped with crispy bacon bits and chopped chives.
Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

There’s no going wrong with a bowl of Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup when it’s cold outside. It’s thick, rich, and packed with flavors that make every bite better than the last. The bacon adds the right amount of smoky bite, the cheese brings in the perfect melt, and the potatoes hold everything together. Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or just because, it never disappoints. Just don’t expect leftovers—this one disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup

Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili

Two black pots of Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili topped with shredded cheese.
Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

A slow cooker meal that delivers big on flavor, Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili brings just the right balance of heat and heartiness. It’s thick, bold, and the kind of dish that makes the whole house smell incredible while it cooks. Whether topped with cheese, scooped with chips, or eaten straight from the bowl, it gets the job done. Perfect for cold nights, game days, or just because it’s too good not to make.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili

Croissant Breakfast Casserole

A white plate with a slice of Croissant breakfast casserole and orange next to it.
Croissant Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Some breakfasts just know how to steal the show, and Croissant Breakfast Casserole is one of them. Flaky layers soak up all the rich flavors, making every bite soft in the middle and crisp on top. It’s the kind of meal that works for brunch, meal prep, or just because a regular breakfast won’t cut it. Easy to throw together but impossible to forget. One bite in, and breakfast is officially the best meal of the day.
Get the Recipe: Croissant Breakfast Casserole

Italian Wedding Soup

Two bowls of Italian Wedding Soup beside the plate of bread.
Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

A soup that’s light but still filling, Italian Wedding Soup brings together rich broth, hearty bites, and just the right amount of freshness. Every spoonful has the perfect balance of comforting and satisfying flavors that make this a go-to for any season. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this one always delivers. It’s the kind of meal that feels homemade, even when it’s not.
Get the Recipe: Italian Wedding Soup

Italian Pot Roast Pasta

A hand lifting a fork with a bite of Italian Pot Roast Pasta on a bowl.
Italian Pot Roast Pasta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Slow-cooked comfort meets pasta in Italian Pot Roast Pasta, a dish that knows how to bring bold flavors to the table. Tender, rich, and packed with depth, this meal is built for second helpings. The pasta holds onto every bit of flavor, making every forkful worth the wait. Whether it’s a weekend dinner or a special occasion, it turns an ordinary night into something better. One bite in, and the only regret is not making more.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pot Roast Pasta

Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes

A bowl of creamy tortellini soup is topped with grated cheese and herbs, accompanied by a floral napkin and two spoons on the side.
Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

If soup could be a meal on its own, Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes would be leading the charge. The sausage brings a deep, savory bite, the tomatoes add just enough acidity, and the tortellini? That’s the game-changer. Every spoonful delivers a perfect mix of flavors, making this more than just another soup. It’s cozy, filling, and the kind of dish that makes seconds mandatory.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes

Shipwreck Casserole

Shipwreck Casserole in a black dish with a spoon.
Shipwreck Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Some meals are built to feed a crowd, and Shipwreck Casserole is one of them. Layered, baked, and packed with everything needed to make dinner feel complete, it’s the definition of hearty. Every bite brings together familiar, satisfying flavors that just work. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated the next day, it holds up. Simple ingredients, big payoff, and zero complaints at the table.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A white bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, garnished with cheese and green herbs, is placed on a wooden surface. A hand is holding a fork with a piece of pasta.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A restaurant favorite without the restaurant bill, Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka delivers rich, velvety sauce with just the right amount of punch. The pasta holds onto every bit of flavor, making every bite worth savoring. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal that feels a little fancier, this one never disappoints. The kind of dish that makes staying in feel like the better option. No reservations are needed, just a fork.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Tuscan Soup with Sausage and Kale

A bowl of creamy Tuscan Soup with Sausage Kale topped with kale, sausage, pancetta, and drizzles of oil.
Tuscan Soup with Sausage and Kale. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Hearty without being heavy, Tuscan Soup with Sausage and Kale is packed with deep, rich flavors in every bite. The sausage brings the savory kick, the broth ties everything together, and the kale adds just enough freshness. It’s the kind of soup that feels like it came straight from a rustic kitchen, no passport required. One bowl in, and suddenly, regular soup just won’t cut it.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Soup with Sausage and Kale

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Some meals just feel like home, and Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins is one of them. The thick, creamy base and soft, doughy dumplings make every bite satisfying in the best way. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms you up from the inside out. Whether it’s a nostalgic favorite or a new discovery, it’s hard to stop at just one bowl. This is one of those recipes that gets made on repeat—and for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup

Two bowls of soup with ham, sausage, split peas and vegetables in them.
Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A slow-cooked favorite, Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup brings bold flavors with every spoonful. The split peas create a thick, creamy base while the ham and sausage add a smoky, savory bite that keeps things interesting. It’s the kind of soup that sticks with you, making it an easy go-to for cold nights. One bowl in, and suddenly, soup isn’t just a side dish anymore.
Get the Recipe: Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup

Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd's Pie in a cast iron dish.
Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turning leftovers into something worth looking forward to, Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie makes the most out of what’s in the fridge. A rich, flavorful base topped with a golden, creamy layer means every bite is a perfect mix of texture and taste. It’s the kind of meal that makes leftovers feel like a win instead of an afterthought. If there’s ever a time when leftovers are better than the original, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Meaty Cabbage Roll Soup

A bowl of cabbage roll soup garnished with chopped parsley.
Meaty Cabbage Roll Soup. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

All the best parts of a cabbage roll, but in a bowl—Meaty Cabbage Roll Soup makes dinner easy without sacrificing flavor. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with ingredients that work perfectly together. Every spoonful has the right balance of savory broth, tender bites, and bold seasoning. The kind of soup that warms you up and fills you up at the same time. One bowl in, and it’s clear why this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Meaty Cabbage Roll Soup

Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

A casserole dish of Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuit.
Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Some meals are all about the topping, and Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits proves it. The biscuits soak up every bit of rich, savory goodness underneath while still keeping their signature flaky texture. It’s comfort food at its best, bringing together the flavors of a home-cooked meal with the crunch of a perfectly baked biscuit. The hardest part? Not eating straight from the dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

A casserole dish with chicken and vegetables in it.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A classic Southern favorite with a twist, Shrimp and Grits Casserole packs big flavors into every bite. The grits are creamy, the shrimp are perfectly seasoned, and everything bakes together into a dish that delivers on all levels. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this one fits any occasion. It’s rich, satisfying, and impossible to resist once it hits the table. One bite in, and suddenly, grits aren’t just for breakfast anymore.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Skillet Stroganoff Pie

A Skillet Stroganoff Pie with a small missing portion.
Skillet Stroganoff Pie. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A classic comfort dish gets a crispy upgrade in Skillet Stroganoff Pie, where the creamy filling meets a golden, buttery crust. It’s everything loved about stroganoff but with a texture that takes it up a notch. The rich sauce and tender bites stay warm under the crisp topping, making every spoonful a perfect balance. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated the next day, it’s just as good.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Big flavors, bold layers, and just the right amount of kick—Beefy John Wayne Casserole doesn’t mess around. Every bite is packed with rich, satisfying flavors that hold up whether fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day. Each layer brings something different, but together, they make one seriously satisfying dish. If leftovers exist, they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Carrot & Lentil Soup

A bowl of carrot and lentil soup topped with yogurt, cilantro, and almond slices.
Carrot & Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Simple ingredients, big payoff—Carrot & Lentil Soup proves that sometimes less is more. It’s thick, rich, and packed with flavor, making it an easy choice for a cozy meal. The lentils bring heartiness, the carrots add a touch of natural sweetness, and everything blends together perfectly. Bonus: It tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Carrot & Lentil Soup

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A twist on a classic, Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto brings together a rich, cheesy filling with the fresh, bold bite of pesto. The shells hold just the right amount of filling, making each bite packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that works for weeknights, special occasions, or whenever something different is needed. Baked until bubbly, it’s hard to resist straight from the oven. Leftovers? Good luck saving any.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Cabbage Roll Casserole

A slice of layered cabbage roll casserole served on a dark plate.
Cabbage Roll Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

All the flavors of a classic cabbage roll, but without the extra work, Cabbage Roll Casserole keeps things simple without sacrificing taste. Hearty, filling, and packed with familiar flavors, it’s the kind of dish that makes you forget about takeout. It’s low effort, big reward, and guaranteed to leave the table quiet. Because when dinner’s this good, talking can wait.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Roll Casserole

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