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Home » Recipe Collections

40 Cozy Holiday Meals to Make You Feel Right at Home

Published: Nov 20, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Cozy holiday meals have a way of bringing people together and making everything feel a little more special. There’s just something about gathering around the table with comforting dishes that makes the season feel brighter and more connected. It’s not about being fancy or over-the-top—it’s about creating moments that feel like home, no matter where you are. These recipes are all about simple, heartfelt cooking that’s just right for sharing with the people who matter most.

A picture of beef stew with mushrooms carrots and thyme.

Beef Stew. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Broccoli cheddar soup, packed with cheesy richness and vegetables, is ready in 35 minutes, making it a go-to for cozy evenings. It’s an easy way to bring comfort to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This creamy broccoli cheddar mac and cheese combines favorite flavors in just 20 minutes for a satisfying meal. Its quick prep makes it a great choice for relaxed home dinners.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Stuffed Pepper Soup

Overhead image of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
Stuffed Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Stuffed pepper soup transforms familiar ingredients into a hearty tomato-based dish that’s perfect for chilly nights. It’s a simple way to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Soup

Trenette al Pesto

An overhead image of trenette al pesto in a round serving plate.
Trenette al Pesto. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Trenette al Pesto brings pasta, potatoes, and green beans together in a dish inspired by Liguria, offering hearty comfort in under an hour. It’s an excellent option for an easy, flavorful dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Trenette al Pesto

Vegetable Pot Pie

An image of vegetable pot pie in a baking dish, with a portion missing.
Vegetable Pot Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetable pot pie, with its rich filling and flaky crust, makes every meal feel special. It’s perfect for cozy holiday gatherings or quiet nights in.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Pot Pie

Mushroom Stroganoff

An image of mushroom stroganoff and white rice on a plate, with a fork on the side.
Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mushroom stroganoff delivers creamy goodness in just 30 minutes, pairing well with rice or noodles. It’s a quick way to bring comfort to your table.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Stroganoff

Baingan Bharta

An image of baingan bharta in a serving bowl, ready to be served.
Baingan Bharta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baingan Bharta, a roasted eggplant dish, combines bold flavors with ease of preparation. Serve it with flatbread or rice for a cozy, flavorful meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Baingan Bharta

Mushroom Barley Soup

An image of mushroom barley soup in a bowl.
Mushroom Barley Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mushroom barley soup, ready in under an hour, is both hearty and simple to prepare. It’s a nourishing option for cooler evenings spent indoors.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Barley Soup

Creamy Sweet Potato Noodles

Creamy Sweet Potato Noodles. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet potato noodles in creamy Alfredo sauce bring seasonal comfort to the table. This dish is an inviting way to enjoy a holiday-inspired meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sweet Potato Noodles

Beef Stew

A picture of beef stew with mushrooms carrots and thyme.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Beef stew with tender meat and vegetables is a classic meal made easy with slow cooking. It’s a reliable choice for fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Lamb Ragu

a plate of slow cooker lamb ragu over pappardelle pasta surrounded by a block of parmesan, a white linen, and torn baguette.
Lamb Ragu. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Slow-cooked lamb ragu, rich and tender, pairs perfectly with pasta for a meal that feels both indulgent and effortless. It’s a comforting option for fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Ragu

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Easy Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Chicken and dumplings offer a classic meal that’s easily personalized with your favorite ingredients. It’s a perfect way to bring everyone together for a cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Penne and chicken in a casserole dish with pesto and cheese.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole delivers cheesy goodness with minimal effort. It’s a quick, comforting dish for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Slow Cooker Chili

Close-up of slow-cooker vegetarian chili.
Slow Cooker Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili uses wholesome ingredients to create a filling fall meal with little hands-on time. It’s a practical way to enjoy a hearty dish on cooler days.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chili

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Hungarian Goulash brings tender beef in a savory sauce to your table, perfect for a cozy evening meal. Slow-cooking makes it both flavorful and simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

A plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta cooks easily in the crockpot, making it a great choice for a hearty dinner. Its creamy sauce is perfect for comforting family meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Kabocha Squash Chili

A bowl of kabocha squash chili.
Kabocha Squash Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Kabocha squash chili highlights seasonal flavors in a vegetarian dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s a slow-cooked option for relaxing fall dinners.
Get the Recipe: Kabocha Squash Chili

Slow Cooker Cheesy Penne

Slow Cooker Cheesy Penne with meat sauce and parmesan cheese.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Penne. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Cheesy penne with ground beef and tomato sauce is an easy dinner that comes together effortlessly in the slow cooker. It’s a family-friendly option for cozy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesy Penne

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken paprikash in skillet.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Chicken Paprikash features a creamy paprika sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. This comforting meal is perfect for chilly nights at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Zuppa Toscana

A Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana with potatoes and kale.
Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana combines sausage, potatoes, and kale for a stress-free fall dinner. The rich flavors make it a comforting addition to your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana

Chicken Stew

Chicken Stew. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Chicken stew in a creamy sauce, served with crusty bread, makes an easy dinner full of comforting flavors. It’s a great option for simple, cozy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew

Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and Potato soup in a gray and white bowl with a spoon.
Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Ham and potato soup simmers into a creamy dish that’s perfect for family dinners. The slow cooker makes it a no-fuss way to enjoy a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup

Chicken Marsala

Roasted chicken with mushrooms and potatoes in a cast iron skillet.
Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Chicken Marsala brings mushrooms and a rich wine sauce together in a quick, satisfying dish. It’s an excellent choice for creating a cozy dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala

Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Beef stroganoff with its creamy sauce and tender beef is a hearty dinner option for cool evenings. This dish comes together with ease and classic flavors.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Crockpot Chili

Close-up imag of crockpot vehan chili in a bowl.
Crockpot Chili. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Crockpot Vegan Chili combines beans and spices for a wholesome meal that’s ready when you are. It’s a comforting option for budget-friendly fall dinners.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili

London Broil

London Broil. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

London broil with potatoes and carrots in a flavorful broth creates an effortless slow-cooked meal. This dish is perfect for gathering family or friends.
Get the Recipe: London Broil

Italian Pork Roast

A white bowl with slow cooker Italian pork roast, potatoes and carrots.
Italian Pork Roast. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Italian pork roast, infused with herbs and cooked with vegetables, is a comforting slow cooker option. It’s a great way to enjoy an easy fall dinner.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pork Roast

Beef and Noodles with Mushrooms

Beef and Noodles with Mushrooms. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Beef and noodles with mushrooms in a creamy sauce make a filling dinner with little prep. This slow-cooked meal is perfect for busy autumn evenings.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Noodles with Mushrooms

Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Pork tenderloin on a cutting board next to a slow cooker.
Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pork Loin offers tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort. It’s a hearty choice for relaxed fall meals.
Get the Recipe: Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Tuscan chicken orzo pairs juicy chicken with a creamy sauce for a hearty dinner. This dish makes any evening feel special.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Short Rib Ragu

Short Rib Ragu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Short rib ragu, slow-cooked to perfection, pairs beautifully with pasta or mashed potatoes. It’s a rich and comforting meal for cozy nights in.
Get the Recipe: Short Rib Ragu

Vegetable Beef Stew

Close up image of vegetable beef stew in a bowl.
Vegetable Beef Stew. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Beef stew with vegetables makes a simple and satisfying dinner for colder days. Its classic flavors are easy to prepare and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Beef Stew

Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

Bowl of copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup in a bowl with breadsticks in the background.
Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup brings creamy broth, tender chicken, and vegetables together for a comforting fall meal. It’s a delicious way to warm up on cooler nights.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

Roast Chicken with Orange Butter

Christmas Roast Chicken on a white platter with halved oranges and fresh herbs.
Roast Chicken with Orange Butter. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Roast chicken with crispy skin and warm spices makes an effortless meal. It’s perfect for relaxed fall evenings or holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Roast Chicken with Orange Butter

Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew

Bowl of Instant Pot beef stew with carrots and potatoes.
Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Beef Stew with apple cider gravy combines classic flavors with a touch of sweetness. This dish is great for colder days when comfort is key.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Instant Pot Beef Stew

Chicken Pot Pie

Small serving of chicken pot pie casserole on plate with fork.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken pot pie casserole combines a rich filling with a golden topping for a cozy dinner. It’s a simple way to enjoy comfort food at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Lasagna al Forno

Lasagna al Forno. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Lasagna al forno layers pasta, béchamel, and a hearty meat sauce for a filling meal. This dish is great for quiet evenings or holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna al Forno

Birria de Res

Top view of 2 bowls of slow cooker birria de res on a wooden table.
Birria de Res. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mexican beef stew, simmered with chili spices, makes a warming meal for fall nights. Its ease of preparation is perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Street corn soup with potatoes, corn and red pepper in the crock pot with a spoon on the side.
Mexican Street Corn Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Mexican Street Corn Soup brings the flavors of elote into a creamy, slow-cooked dish. It’s a comforting way to enjoy fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup

Poor Man’s Stew

Poor Man’s Stew. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Poor man’s stew combines ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables into a slow-cooked dish. It’s a simple and hearty dinner ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: Poor Man’s Stew

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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