14 Winter Feasts With Dishes Everyone Will Love

Winter is the perfect time to gather around the table and share a hearty meal. With the cold weather outside, there is nothing better than a feast that warms the soul. These dishes are designed to satisfy every craving and bring everyone together. Whether you are hosting family or enjoying a quiet night, these recipes are sure to please. 

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Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

Beef stew is the ultimate winter comfort food, filling and satisfying after a long day. The rich, savory flavors of slow-cooked beef and tender vegetables make it a perfect dish for colder months. This dish is not only hearty but also versatile, as it can be made with a variety of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. It is sure to keep everyone at the table warm and content.

To make beef stew, you will need beef chuck, carrots, potatoes, parsnips, onions, garlic, beef broth, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves. A bit of flour will help thicken the stew, and a splash of red wine adds depth to the flavor. Salt and pepper will season the stew, giving it that perfect savory taste.

Begin by browning the beef in a large pot to develop a rich flavor. Once browned, add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the root vegetables, broth, wine, and herbs, then let the stew simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together. Serve the stew hot with a slice of crusty bread.

Roast Chicken with Herb Butter

Roast chicken is a classic winter feast that never goes out of style. The golden, crispy skin and juicy meat make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. This dish is simple to prepare, but the addition of herb butter takes it to another level. The comforting aroma that fills your home while it roasts is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

To make this dish, you will need a whole chicken, butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon, salt, and pepper. The butter should be mixed with minced garlic and fresh herbs to create a flavorful stuffing for the chicken. A lemon can be stuffed inside the chicken to infuse it with a refreshing citrus flavor as it cooks.

Rub the chicken with the herb butter, making sure to get it under the skin for maximum flavor. Stuff the chicken with the lemon, then roast in the oven at 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the meat reaches 165 degrees F. Let it rest before carving and serving with your favorite side dishes.

Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a comforting winter dish that is loved by all ages. This dish features a creamy, flavorful filling made with chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce, all encased in a flaky, buttery pie crust. It is a great way to use up leftover chicken and is perfect for a cozy family meal. The combination of flavors and textures in each bite is truly irresistible.

To make chicken pot pie, you will need cooked chicken, carrots, peas, onions, butter, flour, chicken broth, milk, and a pie crust. The filling is thickened with a roux made from butter and flour, then combined with the broth and milk. You can use a store-bought pie crust or make your own for added richness.

Begin by sautéing the vegetables in butter until softened. Add the flour and cook for a minute to form a roux, then slowly add the chicken broth and milk, stirring to create a thick sauce. Stir in the cooked chicken and peas, then pour the filling into a pie dish. Cover with the pie crust and bake at 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Vegetable Lasagna

Vegetable lasagna is a hearty, satisfying dish that is perfect for winter nights. This vegetarian version of the classic lasagna uses layers of pasta, cheese, and a rich tomato sauce packed with vegetables. The combination of spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms makes it both nutritious and delicious. It is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a comforting meatless meal.

For vegetable lasagna, you will need lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. The spinach should be cooked down before adding it to the layers, while the zucchini and mushrooms are sautéed to release their moisture. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano will add extra flavor to the sauce.

Start by cooking the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. In a baking dish, layer the noodles, ricotta cheese, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, topping the final layer with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C for 40 minutes, then let it rest before cutting into squares and serving.

Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington is a show-stopping dish that is perfect for any winter celebration. The tender beef tenderloin is wrapped in a layer of mushroom duxelles and prosciutto, then encased in a golden, flaky puff pastry. It is a dish that requires some effort, but the result is well worth it. This dish will impress your guests and provide a luxurious addition to your winter feast.

To make Beef Wellington, you will need beef tenderloin, prosciutto, mushrooms, puff pastry, Dijon mustard, and egg yolk. The mushrooms are cooked down into a duxelles, which is spread over the seared beef before wrapping it in prosciutto and pastry. A bit of Dijon mustard is brushed on the beef to add flavor and help the pastry adhere.

Sear the beef tenderloin in a hot pan until browned on all sides, then let it cool. Spread the mushroom duxelles over the beef, followed by the prosciutto. Wrap the beef in puff pastry, brushing it with egg yolk for a golden finish. Bake at 400 degrees F or 200 degrees C for about 35 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the beef is cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Let it rest before slicing and serving.

Beef and Barley Soup

Beef and barley soup is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for chilly winter nights. This comforting dish combines tender beef, chewy barley, and flavorful vegetables in a rich broth. It is simple to make and can be simmered slowly to allow the flavors to develop. The barley adds a satisfying texture, making it a great choice for a warming meal that will keep everyone satisfied.

To make beef and barley soup, you will need beef stew meat, barley, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, beef broth, and herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. The beef should be browned first to build flavor, and the barley adds a great texture to the soup. Salt and pepper will enhance the taste, while beef broth adds depth.

Start by browning the beef stew meat in a large pot, then add the onions, garlic, and vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the barley and herbs, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the barley is tender and the beef is cooked through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve warm.

Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Sauce

Pork tenderloin is an excellent choice for a winter feast, as it is both tender and flavorful. This version is served with a rich apple cider sauce that adds a hint of sweetness and tang, making it the perfect pairing for the savory pork. The combination of flavors creates a satisfying meal that is ideal for cozy gatherings. It is easy to prepare and looks impressive on the dinner table.

For this dish, you will need pork tenderloin, apple cider, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, butter, and olive oil. The apple cider will form the base of the sauce, while the mustard adds depth and a bit of heat. Fresh thyme enhances the sauce with its earthy flavor.

Begin by searing the pork tenderloin in a hot pan with olive oil until browned on all sides. Transfer the tenderloin to the oven and roast at 400 degrees F or 200 degrees C for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F or 63 degrees C. In the same pan, add the garlic, apple cider, mustard, and thyme, simmering until the sauce thickens. Slice the pork and serve with the apple cider sauce drizzled on top.

Stuffed Acorn Squash

Stuffed acorn squash is a perfect vegetarian option for a winter feast. The sweetness of the squash complements a savory stuffing made with grains, vegetables, and nuts, creating a delicious and filling dish. This dish is simple to prepare and can be customized to suit different tastes. It is a colorful addition to any holiday meal and brings both flavor and nutrition to the table.

To make stuffed acorn squash, you will need acorn squash, quinoa or rice, onions, garlic, cranberries, pecans or walnuts, and vegetable broth. You can add herbs like sage and thyme for extra flavor, and a little bit of olive oil will help to roast the squash. Salt and pepper will season the filling and enhance its natural sweetness.

Start by cutting the acorn squash in half and removing the seeds. Roast the squash halves in the oven at 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender. Meanwhile, prepare the stuffing by cooking the quinoa or rice and sautéing the onions and garlic. Mix the cooked grains with cranberries, nuts, and seasonings, then stuff the squash halves. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that combines pasta, marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family meals or potlucks. The rich, cheesy filling and savory marinara sauce come together perfectly, making it a satisfying winter dish. This baked pasta dish is a comforting meal that everyone will love.

For baked ziti, you will need ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and herbs like basil and oregano. You can add ground beef or sausage for extra protein, or keep it meatless for a vegetarian version. Salt and pepper will season the sauce and cheese.

Begin by boiling the ziti pasta until al dente, then mix it with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that makes an elegant winter meal. The earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with the rich, velvety texture of the risotto, making it a warm and satisfying option. This dish can be served as a side or a main course and is perfect for any occasion. The slow-cooked rice allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious and rich flavor profile.

For mushroom risotto, you will need Arborio rice, mushrooms, vegetable broth, Parmesan cheese, butter, garlic, and onions. A splash of white wine adds brightness to the dish, while a bit of cream will make the risotto extra creamy. Fresh parsley can be added for garnish.

Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in butter until soft. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, then stir in the Arborio rice. Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly until the rice is cooked through and creamy. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and a bit of cream for extra richness, then serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a comforting and filling dish that combines seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes. It is a great way to use up leftover meat or make a satisfying meal with simple ingredients. The mashed potatoes on top create a rich, creamy layer that pairs beautifully with the savory filling. This dish is perfect for cold winter nights when you want something warm and hearty.

To make shepherd’s pie, you will need ground lamb or beef, onions, carrots, peas, garlic, beef broth, and mashed potatoes. A bit of flour will thicken the filling, while butter and cream will make the mashed potatoes extra creamy. Salt and pepper will season the filling and mashed potatoes.

Start by browning the meat in a pan, then add the onions, carrots, peas, and garlic. Stir in the flour and beef broth to create a thick, savory filling. Transfer the filling to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes on top. Bake at 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Serve warm with a side salad.

Chili Con Carne

Chili con carne is a classic winter dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. The spicy, savory flavors of the chili come together in a rich, hearty stew that is full of ground beef, beans, and tomatoes. This dish can be customized to suit your spice preferences, and it’s easy to make in large batches. It is perfect for cold winter days and can be made ahead of time for even more flavor.

For chili con carne, you will need ground beef, kidney beans, black beans, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and beef broth. A bit of olive oil will help sauté the vegetables, and you can adjust the chili powder to your desired level of heat. Salt and pepper will enhance the flavors of the chili.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot, then add the onions, garlic, and spices. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, and beef broth, then simmer the chili for 1-2 hours. Adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve the chili with toppings like sour cream, cheese, and chopped cilantro.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and delicious dish that is perfect for winter. The peppers are filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and vegetables, then baked to perfection. This dish is hearty and can be easily customized with different fillings and seasonings. It is ideal for a family dinner or meal prep, as the peppers can be made in advance and reheated.

To make stuffed bell peppers, you will need bell peppers, rice, ground beef or turkey, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and cheese. A bit of tomato sauce will help keep the filling moist and add flavor. You can also use herbs like basil or oregano for extra seasoning.

Begin by cutting the tops off the peppers and removing the seeds. Cook the rice and brown the meat with the onions and garlic. Mix the rice and meat with the tomato sauce, then stuff the peppers with the filling. Bake at 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C for about 30 minutes, then top with cheese and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Serve hot.

Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked mac and cheese is the ultimate winter comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta and a crunchy topping. It is a dish that everyone loves, whether as a main course or a side dish. The golden, crispy top adds a satisfying texture to the creamy, cheesy inside. This dish is a perfect winter comfort meal for any occasion.

For baked mac and cheese, you will need elbow macaroni, milk, butter, flour, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and breadcrumbs. A bit of mustard powder and garlic powder will add depth to the cheese sauce, while butter and flour are used to make a roux to thicken the sauce.

Start by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions, then make the cheese sauce by melting butter and mixing it with flour. Gradually add the milk, stirring until thickened. Stir in the cheese, then pour the sauce over the cooked pasta. Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C for 20 minutes.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.