My 33 Favorite Comfort Foods When I Need a Pick Me Up

Comfort food has a way of making even the longest days feel shorter. A lineup of 33 favorites can cover everything from quick bites to hearty meals that practically insist you sit down for a while. These aren’t fancy or complicated, just the kind of picks that quietly steal the spotlight when stress creeps in. They prove that sometimes a good mood can be served on a plate.

A shredded chicken salad sandwich with lettuce, raisins, and a creamy dressing served in a brioche bun.
Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs.
French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

It’s hard to beat the cheesy, gooey goodness of French Onion Casserole when you’re craving something hearty. This dish is all about layers of rich, filling textures. It has a depth of flavor that feels familiar yet special at the same time. Perfect for any time you need a comforting bite.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Chocolate Cream Pie

A slice of chocolate cream pie with a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, served on a black plate.
Chocolate Cream Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s something timeless about Chocolate Cream Pie when you want a dessert that feels like a hug. It’s creamy, sweet, and hits that chocolate craving dead on. You get a light, silky texture that balances richness without overwhelming you. This is one of those desserts you’ll go back to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cream Pie

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

A plate of golden-brown, cheesy sausage balls stacked on top of each other, with one ball partially broken to show the inside texture.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

A bite of Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls brings together bold, cheesy goodness in a snack that fits any occasion. They’re comforting and super easy to grab on the go. Made to be shared, these are the kind of finger foods that disappear fast. Great for parties or just treating yourself on a random day.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Baked Ziti

A spoon scoops baked ziti pasta covered in melted cheese and tomato sauce from a casserole dish.
Baked Ziti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Few things are as comforting as a hot dish of Baked Ziti on a long day. It’s cheesy, hearty, and has that stick-to-your-ribs factor that leaves you content. The layers of pasta are perfectly balanced with savory, saucy goodness. When nothing else hits the spot, this is always a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ziti

Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread muffins topped with sliced jalapeños in white paper liners, arranged on a wooden surface.
Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

There’s a nice balance of sweetness and heat packed into Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins. They bring a little kick right before that sweetness smooths it out. Whether it’s paired with a meal or just enjoyed solo, they always stand out. Ideal for when you want something small that brings a lot of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Sausage Casserole

A baked dish containing sliced sausages, potatoes, and green beans in a white casserole dish with a serving spoon.
Sausage Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Comfort meets heartiness in a dish like Sausage Casserole, which works any time of day. It’s wholesome, warm, and guaranteed to fill you up after just one serving. Simple, yet never boring, it’s a meal you can rely on when you don’t know what to make. Pair it with your favorite sides for an easy, balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Casserole

Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

A square piece of pumpkin dessert bar topped with a swirl of white frosting and pecans sits on a cooling rack.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

If you’re after a dessert that’s rich and warm, Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars check all the boxes. They give you that perfect mix of spiced pumpkin and nutty pecan textures. Sweet, crunchy, and just the right amount of cozy in every square bite. No special occasion is needed to make these feel worth it.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

Mississippi Pot Roast

A bowl of shredded beef garnished with cilantro and peppers.
Mississippi Pot Roast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you want something tender and foolproof, Mississippi Pot Roast is a solid option. It practically melts and pairs perfectly with so many sides. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or feeding a crowd, you know it’s going to satisfy. This is no-fail comfort food at its finest.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Pot Roast

Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible.
Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Comfort food takes on a whole new meaning with Cabbage Casserole. This dish knows how to keep it simple yet packed with heartiness. It’s easy to dig into and feels like something homemade through and through. For anyone who loves cabbage, this is one to try.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Some days, you just need a bowl of Beef Chili to make everything better. It’s hearty and packed with rich, comforting depth that warms you up from the inside. A bowl of this is like a hug in food form, perfect anytime you need it most. You’ll always want to go back for that next spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Amish Breakfast Casserole

A close-up of a serving of savory bread pudding with bacon and herbs being lifted from a white baking dish.
Amish Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Nothing feels more like home than an Amish Breakfast Casserole. This dish combines everything you love about breakfast into one filling bite. It’s ideal for mornings when you want something filling without too much fuss. Make it your go-to for a quick weekend family meal.
Get the Recipe: Amish Breakfast Casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few meals are as rich and well-loved as Million Dollar Spaghetti. It’s a dish that layers a combination of cheesy and meaty goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You’ll always leave the table feeling full and happy.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Pancake Casserole

A baked French toast casserole topped with powdered sugar, sliced strawberries, and blueberries in a white dish.
Pancake Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re into breakfast foods that double as dessert, Pancake Casserole might be calling your name. It’s a warm, indulgent favorite that combines comforting textures with just the right amount of sweetness. Great for mornings with family or brunch with friends, it’s easy to love. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become a repeat request.
Get the Recipe: Pancake Casserole

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

A bowl of egg noodles topped with creamy beef and mushroom stroganoff, garnished with chopped herbs.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When it comes to hands-off meals, Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a winner. It’s creamy, tender, and perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without standing over the stove. This dish feels classic and satisfying every time. Pair it with noodles or rice for an easy, complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Ham and Potato Casserole

A wooden spoon lifts a serving of cheesy casserole with chunks of ham and potatoes from a baking dish.
Ham and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re craving something baked and cozy, Ham and Potato Casserole is the way to go. It’s cheesy, creamy, and downright filling when you need some old-school comfort. The combination of ingredients comes together perfectly for a dish that’s hard not to love. You’ll definitely find yourself scooping seconds.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Casserole

Beef Stew

A close-up of a beef stew with green peas and chopped parsley, showing a spoon partially submerged in the rich, red sauce.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A classic slow-cooked Beef Stew always hits the spot for those tougher, colder-feeling days. The tenderness and richness of the dish just seem to fix everything. It’s a hearty meal that sticks with you and feels warm and familiar. You can’t go wrong if you’re looking for filling comfort and full-on goodness.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

A close-up of several oatmeal cookies stacked and scattered on parchment paper, with one cookie broken in half to show the inside texture.
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For anyone with a sweet tooth, Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are an easy favorite. They balance sweetness and spice in every bite, making them perfect for a snack or dessert. These cookies are especially comforting when you need something small but fulfilling. Make them once, and they’ll become your new favorite cookie.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

On days when you want something creamy and comforting, Cheeseburger Soup is a perfect pick. It’s like digging into a warm bowl of everything you love about a cheeseburger. This dish is cozy and filling without being too heavy. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or just when you need some extra comfort.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Pumpkin Muffins

A stack of pumpkin muffins in paper liners is arranged on a light surface, with small decorative pumpkins in the background.
Pumpkin Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A snack or breakfast staple, Pumpkin Muffins are small but packed with warm, spiced goodness. They’re moist, soft, and have just the right balance of flavors. These muffins pair beautifully with coffee or tea and are perfect for mornings on the go. You’ll want to make extra because they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Muffins

Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Close-up of cinnamon swirl bread slices, showcasing a spiral pattern in the texture.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For something sweet and nostalgic, there’s nothing quite like Cinnamon Swirl Bread. That mix of sugar and spice wrapped into soft baked bread is pure comfort in every bite. It’s great at any time of day, whether you’re starting off your morning or just need an afternoon treat. A slice instantly feels like you’re wrapped in a warm memory.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Potato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy soup topped with grilled bacon pieces and chopped parsley.
Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Anytime you want something creamy and simple, Potato Soup is the answer. It’s thick, warm, and just what you need to feel like you’re cared for in every bite. This dish is mellow yet filling, the kind that makes you want to curl up close. You really just can’t go wrong with a big bowl of this classic.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup

Apple Pie

A slice of apple pie on a plate with a scoop of ice cream.
Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing can bring a feeling of nostalgia faster than Apple Pie. It’s sweet, comforting, and always a crowd favorite when shared at the table. The contrast of warm spices mixed with soft, cooked fruit is everything you need after a long day. There’s something completely timeless and soothing about a slice of this.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie

Lamb Stew

Close-up of beef stew with tomatoes and herbs served over mashed potatoes, garnished with parsley. A fork and spoon rest on the plate.
Lamb Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes you need a different kind of stew, and Lamb Stew might surprise you as a favorite. It’s deeply rich and feels special, but still hits all those cozy notes. This one is hearty, warm, and satisfying when you need something filling and comforting. It’s definitely one to come back to when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Stew

Sweet Potato Pie

A slice of sweet potato pie with a swirl of cream on it.
Sweet Potato Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a comforting dessert that feels like home, you can’t forget Sweet Potato Pie. It’s smooth and sweet, yet not overpowering, making it an easy favorite to finish a meal. This dish feels easygoing, simple, and exactly what dessert should feel like on slower days. A slice of it always seems to hit the right note.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Three slices of glazed meatloaf are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of brown sauce.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

On days you need comfort food, Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe does not disappoint. It’s packed with classic, homestyle flavors that remind you of family dinners. The texture and taste come together in that perfect homemade way we all know. It’s seriously hard to resist whenever it’s served on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Pumpkin Pie

A slice of pumpkin pie on a plate with cranberries.
Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A dessert with warm spices and a smooth texture instantly feels nostalgic. Pumpkin Pie is that classic treat that feels like a big hug from the inside out. Its smooth, sweet filling pairs perfectly with its flaky crust. It’s one of those timeless desserts that never feels out of place on the table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie

Chicken Fried Steak

Breaded and fried steak pieces topped with creamy white gravy and chopped parsley on a white plate.
Chicken Fried Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few things are more comforting than a crispy, homey meal. Chicken Fried Steak is a hearty favorite that’s perfect for those moments when you want something filling. Its crispy outside and juicy inside just hit the spot. A side of gravy rounds out the meal beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Steak

Coconut Cream Pie

A slice of coconut cream pie on a plate.
Coconut Cream Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Craving something sweet with a tropical twist? Coconut Cream Pie delivers that burst of creamy goodness with every bite. Its creamy filling and buttery crust create the perfect balance every time. Topped with a smooth finish, it’s both indulgent and simple.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cream Pie

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Golden, crispy bites of pure comfort make every meal better. Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a go-to favorite bringing people together over plates of juicy goodness. It’s crispy, flavorful, and perfect for just about any occasion. Paired with a homestyle side, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese.
Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something about a warm, velvety bowl of soup that instantly hits the spot. Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup is all about comfort in every spoonful. This soup blends richness and creaminess with the earthy touch of vegetables. It’s one of those go-to options for anyone looking to wind down.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Carrot Cake

Close-up of sliced carrot cake loaf with visible nuts and raisins on a parchment paper, topped with a light icing drizzle.
Carrot Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A hint of sweetness in a soft, moist bite makes for a memorable dessert. Carrot Cake is that perfect balance with its moist layers and a touch of spice. Creamy frosting adds the finishing touch that makes it unforgettable. It’s a dessert that feels classic every time you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

Mushroom Soup

Mushroom soup that's delightfully creamy, adorned with sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of cream, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of parsley.
Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Earthy, rich, and comforting, this is what every cozy meal needs. Mushroom Soup brings warmth and a depth of flavor that feels both hearty and wholesome. Smooth and filling, it’s like a simple escape in a bowl. It’s perfect for a quiet moment or pairing with your favorite sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Chicken Salad Sandwich

A shredded chicken salad sandwich with lettuce, raisins, and a creamy dressing served in a brioche bun.
Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Quick, easy, and perfect for any time of the day, this is the one to go to. A Chicken Salad Sandwich does exactly that with its creamy, savory filling. Light yet filling, it’s perfect for lunch or a casual snack. It’s a simple staple that always hits the spot when hunger calls.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad Sandwich

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