Over the past few decades, we’ve amassed many exceptionally delicious comfort food recipes. You’ve generously shared your preferred methods for crafting the richest mac and cheese, and the most heavenly pancakes, not to mention your beloved Mom’s perfected pot pie. Our community has embraced these recipes wholeheartedly, making them beloved staples in countless households worldwide. These comforting dishes epitomize the essence of home-cooked meals. The top 20 recipes that have solidified their status as community favorites are presented here. We trust you’ll savor every bite!
1 – Classic Goulash
First on the list is a timeless one-pot dish: American goulash. Unlike its Hungarian counterpart, American goulash is crafted from readily available, budget-friendly ingredients such as pasta, ground beef, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Reviewer Leanie A. reminisces, “I grew up on this in Iowa…”
2 – Slow-Cooker Barbecue Ribs
The wonderful thing about these ribs is that you don’t even need to use the grill: Simply start by roasting them to remove excess fat, then slow cook them until they’re tender enough to fall off the bone. Reviewer PEACHESNCREAM2 notes, “The brilliance of this recipe lies in the initial step of roasting the ribs in the oven. This eliminates excess fat and liquid that could result in a watery outcome in the slow cooker.”
3 – Jenn’s Out of This World Spaghetti and Meatballs
We’re advocates for using shortcut ingredients here, but once you give this highly-rated recipe for spaghetti and meatballs a try, you’ll never want to return to using frozen, store-bought meatballs and jarred sauce again.
4 – Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Here’s a dish that truly embodies comfort food: “I grew up on this recipe; my Grandmother received it from a lady from church at a potluck a long time ago!” shares recipe creator katiefbenham. “She passed it down to my mom, and it’s always been a family favorite. It’s quick and easy for school nights, and the leftovers are just as satisfying!”
5 – Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Have you ever noticed that the majority of dishes from the slow cooker are comfort foods? Just toss in a variety of ingredients, and the appliance gradually tenderizes them while blending flavors until you’re left with a comforting bowlful. Case in point: this beef stew.
6 – Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
It would be incomplete if we didn’t feature this beloved recipe for chicken and dumplings. This simple yet delicious dish calls for just five ingredients: chicken breasts, butter, cream of chicken soup, onion, and refrigerated biscuit dough.
7 – Taco Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Classic American comfort food gets a Latin twist: “Poblano peppers are filled with ground meat and Spanish rice, then baked in a tomato-based sauce with a sprinkle of cheese,” explains recipe creator IBETRAVLIN.
8 – Brown Sugar Meatloaf
Reviewer JENNIROO1015 shares, “My husband is a meatloaf enthusiast, while I can’t stand it. However, his return home from the war in Iraq inspired me to prepare this as his welcome meal: a classic, comforting American dish. Meatloaf and mashed potatoes… Despite my aversion, I chose this recipe above all others and gave it a try. It was my very first time making meatloaf! The recipe was straightforward to follow, and my husband was thrilled when he discovered what awaited him for dinner! He absolutely loved it, and to my surprise, even I (someone who usually dislikes meatloaf) enjoyed it.”
9 – Six Can Chicken and Tortilla Soup Recipe
Indeed, you can whip up some classic comfort food by simply opening six cans. You can also enhance it with a touch of cumin, chili powder, cilantro, and garlic powder, as recommended by reviewer SSCHULTE14. Serve it alongside avocado, cheese, lime, or crushed tortilla chips.
10 – Ultimate Twice Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are consistently comforting, but bake them twice, and you elevate them to the ultimate comfort food. “I’ve made these countless times over the years,” shares reviewer naples34102.
11 – Chuck’s Favorite Mac and Cheese
What gives this mac and cheese its irresistibly creamy texture? The inclusion of cottage cheese and sour cream. And to take it to the next level, the buttery bread crumb topping adds the perfect finishing touch.
12 – Linda’s Lasagna
Everyone believes their lasagna recipe is top-notch, but RBLAIR‘s has the backing of over 1,200 five-star ratings. Consider doubling the recipe and freezing the extra portions to share with a friend or family member!
13 – Hibatchi Style Fried Rice
Discover how to recreate hibachi-style dishes at home with this simple and adaptable recipe: “I love incorporating leftover teriyaki chicken into my fried rice, but feel free to use any type of meat you prefer, or omit it altogether!” suggests recipe creator Amber62006.
14 – Jambalaya
You must have this quintessential Cajun dish in your culinary repertoire. It’s a simple, one-pot meal loaded with protein and flavor — what more could you desire from comfort food?
15 – Rich and Simple French Onion Soup
You don’t need to dine out to enjoy delicious French onion soup. This dish is surprisingly straightforward — a rich beef broth and caramelized onions are topped with a slice of crusty French bread and melted cheese. Reviewer STEVERAMSEY attests, “After trying this soup at various restaurants, this recipe replicates exactly what French onion soup should taste like.”
16 – White Pizza Grilled Cheese
This upgraded grilled cheese will surely get people talking. Serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
17 – Baked Ziti
With over 6,500 home cooks awarding this recipe five stars, it’s undoubtedly earned a spot in our comfort food hall of fame. Consider covering the dish as it cooks to prevent it from drying out.
18 – Mom’s Chicken Pot Pie
Avoid the frozen food aisle and opt for this homemade pot pie instead. “I will absolutely make this again and invite people over to try,” shares reviewer emmabambi.
19 – Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
“The creamy cheese sauce and tender potatoes in this traditional French dish come together to create a wonderfully addictive experience,” explains recipe creator CathyM. “It’s an excellent side dish alongside roast pork loin or beef tenderloin. Pair it with a green salad and French bread, and you’ve discovered the secret to a man’s heart.”
20 – Poppy Seed Chicken
When it comes to chicken casseroles, poppy seed chicken ranks among the best. It features a creamy chicken filling topped with crushed crackers and poppy seeds. Reviewer Melissa DeVall attests, “This is one of my favorite comfort foods. It’s easy to make and still tastes great as leftovers.”