Old Man Winter has been moving through much of the nation with a vengeance lately. With more snow to come, it is time to start thinking about how you are going to feed the family when stuck at home. A blanket of white snow and cold temperatures practically beg for comfort food. Here are 10 of the best recipes to whip up for your next snow day.
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese: You will make your kids’ day by serving up this
homemade macaroni and cheese for lunch after a morning playing in the snow. This dish comes together in about 20 minutes using just one pot, making it a great lunch option. The two types of cheese make this dish extra creamy and delicious. However, feel free to substitute the cheese of your choice to suit your personal tastes. Serve this vegetarian-friendly meal with a side of fresh fruit and some baby carrots or celery sticks for a complete lunch that your kids will devour.
Classic Chili: There is no shortage of chili recipes out there, however, this version from The Wholesome Dish consistently receives great reviews. This recipe is also forgivable, allowing you to make substitutions to satisfy your needs. For example, for a leaner version, try using ground turkey instead of beef. Or swap out the kidney beans with black beans. A big bowl of chili along with a side of cornbread is a classic meal to serve on a snow day. This recipe deserves a spot on your winter cooking rotation.
Cast-Iron Roast Chicken with Crispy Potatoes: For when you are feeling a little fancy, this roast chicken with crispy potatoes recipe fits the bill. This recipe could not be easier, cooking up in one cast-iron skillet. The thin and crispy potatoes are an excellent complement to the juicy chicken. Feel free to throw in some baby carrots for more color and an additional vegetable option. Be sure to serve this dish along with some crusty French bread and a fresh green salad for the ultimate indulgence in homemade cooking.
Homemade Tomato Soup: Do not fall back on tomato soup out of a can when you can make this homemade version yourself. The key to this homemade tomato soup is choosing the more premium San Marzano tomatoes for your base. You will regret it if you choose the less expensive type of canned tomatoes. You can also easily make this recipe vegetarian by skipping the bacon and swapping out the chicken broth with a vegetable version. For a real blast of nostalgia, pair this soup with some toasty grilled cheese sandwiches.
Shrimp Scampi with Linguini: This mouth-watering shrimp scampi with linguine recipe is light enough to feel as if you are giving your arteries a break but comforting enough to eat on a chilly day. This recipe comes together in less than 45 minutes, however, it will look like you spent far more time on it because of the fancy presentation. While fresh shrimp is best, you can also use frozen shrimp that have been adequately thawed overnight in the fridge. A loaf of garlic bread and a Ceasar salad will round out this pasta feast.
Cheesy Pork Enchiladas: Spice up your snow day with some cheesy pork enchiladas with a smoky sauce. This is recipe is an excellent use of leftover pulled pork. Or you can purchase the pork already prepared at your grocery store deli. The key to creating this Mexican delight is the homemade smoky enchilada sauce. While you can cheat on the prep of the pulled pork, do not skimp on making this homemade sauce.
Lasagna Bolognese: If you have time on your hands, you are going to want to dive into this intensive lasagna bolognese recipe. The sauce alone takes four hours to come to fruition, making it important that you pack along your patience. Although you can cheat and buy prepared pasta, what else do you have to do on this snowy day instead of make homemade noodles? Because you are putting so much effort into this dish, you might as well double the recipe and make a lasagna to throw in the freezer for later consumption. While it takes a lot of time and effort to pull off this Italian decadence, it will be worth it when you see the happy smiles around your dining table.
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate: You cannot have a snow day without a steaming mug of hot chocolate to warm you up when you get back inside. Rather than settling for instant hot cocoa, try this easy yet delicious slow cooker recipe instead. This hot chocolate recipe takes two hours to simmer to perfection, so be sure to plan ahead. You will never go back to the powdered versions after you try this decadent masterpiece.
Monkey Bread: Surprise your kids in the morning of your snow day with this ooey gooey homemade monkey bread. This bread will smell delicious baking in the oven as you welcome the snow. Get your day off to a fun start with this kid-friendly breakfast.
Be sure to head to the grocery store to purchase all of these ingredients prior to the winter weather moving in. You will be glad that you did when you are warm and cozy in your home with a full fridge and pantry when the first flakes begin to fly.
