43 Comfort Foods We Updated That You’ve Probably Never Made Before

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43 Comfort Foods We Updated That You’ve Probably Never Made Before

Comfort foods are about to get a serious upgrade. We’ve revamped 43 traditional favorites, and chances are, you haven’t tried these versions before. We’re keeping it simple but interesting — because who says familiar can’t also be exciting? Get ready to impress at your next dinner without any of the stress. Let’s dive into these recipes and give your comfort food lineup a breath of fresh air.

Creamy chicken dish garnished with bacon and herbs in a skillet with a spatula.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow cooker split pea soup in a slow cooker with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you’re all for setting it and forgetting it, then Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is your friend. Just prep your ingredients, throw them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Whether you let it cook slow and steady all day or crank it up to get it done faster, you’ll end up with a great meal that asks very little from you.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

And for when you’re racing against the clock but still want something that hits the spot, Shake and Bake Pork Chops are the way to go. You’ll get crispy, seasoned pork chops in about 25 minutes, no frying needed. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to quickly get a great meal on the table with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Let’s talk about a serious game-changer: Baked Ravioli. It’s what you reach for when you want something like lasagna but don’t have the time to layer noodles and ricotta all night. Grab some frozen ravioli, throw in marinara sauce, cheese, and pop it in the oven. An hour later, you’ve got a great meal with way less work.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is where it’s at for a comfort food mashup you might not have tried yet. It’s quick, easy on the wallet, and you can prep it in advance. Leftovers? They freeze without any trouble. It’s a solid meal that’s sure to be a hit, no matter who’s at the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Have half an hour? That’s plenty of time to get this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup going. It’s all made in one pot with a few key ingredients, like Italian sausage and cream cheese. It’s the kind of soup that’s both easy to make and a great pick-me-up on those chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a great combo you might not have whipped up before: a Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Picture your favorite veggies, broccoli and cauliflower, mixed with a smooth cheese sauce and bits of bacon, then baked until they’re just right. It’s a solid pick for a quick dinner or as a side when you’ve got company. Plus, it’s ready in 30 minutes, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen all night.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Next up, we’ve got a Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. This one’s a great combination of flavors. It’s packed with ground beef, swapped in cauliflower rice, and some spinach for good measure, all topped off with melted cheddar. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for when you’re short on time, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan filled with a creamy sauce with chicken, bacon, and spinach.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a dish with a little flair: Creamy Dijon Chicken. It’s a single-pan meal that’s quick to make, coming together in 30 minutes. The chicken is seasoned and cooked just right, then smothered in a creamy Dijon mustard sauce with fresh spinach and crumbled bacon on top. It’s a great way to shake up your regular meal routine with something new and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

In FDL library.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

And for something a little different, try these Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. They mix up the comforting taste of turkey meatballs with a kick of Thai curry flavor. It’s a perfect dish for when you’re in the mood for something new on a weeknight, and it’s all done in 30 minutes. You’ve got your turkey, a dash of coconut, and those curry spices that’ll make your kitchen smell amazing.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Check this out: Twice Baked Potato Casserole. It’s like your favorite baked potato, but way better because it’s a casserole. You’ve got your bacon, your potatoes, sour cream, and a whole lot of cheddar cheese. It’s easy to throw together, and you can even get it prepped ahead of time. Perfect for when you need something solid to bring to the table.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup with peas and carrots in a bowl.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Imagine all the goodness of a chicken pot pie, but in a soup. This Chicken Pot Pie Soup is just that. It’s a one-pot deal, creamy, and full of all those comforting flavors. You can have it ready in an hour, making it a great pick for dinner any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Check out this Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice for a new take on comfort food. It’s a one-pan meal that you can have on the table in 30 minutes flat. You’ve got juicy ground beef, creamy cheddar, some cauliflower rice, and mushrooms all cooked up together. It’s a great choice when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend all night cooking.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you’re looking to mix things up, give the Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach a go. It’s a single-pan dish that’s both easy and quick, ready in half an hour. You’ll toss together some shrimp, tomatoes, and spinach with a splash of coconut milk for a comforting meal that’s not your everyday fare.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

A bowl of wild rice mushroom soup with a spoon.
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

And if you’re into soups with a bit more to them, this Wild Rice Mushroom Soup is right up your alley. It’s hearty, has that nutty wild rice flavor, and you cook everything at the same time, so it’s ready before you know it. It’s a great way to mix up your soup routine with something different.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Do you like stuffed bell peppers but don’t feel like doing the whole stuffing routine? This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is your answer. It’s a one-pot wonder, super easy, and you don’t have to stuff a single vegetable. In 45 minutes, you’ve got a filling dish that’s a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a throwback with a twist: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you of home, and it’s done in less than an hour. It’s simple to make, and the best part? The leftovers taste just as good the next day. A great pick for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Need something green but want to keep it hearty? This Broccoli Casserole has got you covered. It’s another easy-to-make dish that’s ready in 50 minutes. Perfect for anyone, especially if you’re just getting your feet wet in the kitchen or you’re not looking to spend all night cooking.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Let’s dive into something a bit different: Chicken Tortellini Soup. It’s a one-pot wonder you can have ready in just 40 minutes. This dish is all about bringing a new spin to your soup game with tortellini swimming in a hearty broth. It’s a solid option for those nights when you want a meal that’s both easy and filling.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a straightforward dish to shake up your dinner routine: White Bean Soup. You can have it done in 40 minutes with just one pot. This soup is a great way to pack in those veggies and fiber without a ton of effort. Perfect for a no-stress weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon

In FDL library.
Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ever thought about turning asparagus into noodles? Well, here’s your chance with Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon. It’s a playful dish that’s perfect for when you’re feeling a bit adventurous in the kitchen. You’ll have a creamy Alfredo sauce and crispy bacon to top off your veggie noodles, all ready in about 30 minutes. It’s a great way to shake up your routine with something new and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Scallops with parsley and garlic in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a quick and impressive meal, try whipping up some Lemon Garlic Scallops. This dish is a breeze to make in a single pan and can be served up in less than 30 minutes. It’s a great choice for when you want a special dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a no-muss, no-fuss kind of meal that’s packed with flavor. You can get this hearty dish on the table in 30 minutes, with everything roasted together on one pan. It’s perfect for a laid-back family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted sweet potatoes and spinach with sour cream.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a comforting combo that’s sure to be a hit: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. This dish is a hearty mix of veggies and bacon, all seasoned and roasted until they’re just right. Topped with a homemade dressing and a bit of sour cream, it’s a great pick for a filling dinner or a robust side dish. Plus, it’s all done in the oven, so you can relax while it cooks.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Roasted whole cauliflower on a baking sheet.
Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a side dish that’s a bit out of the ordinary, try this Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower. It’s roasted until it’s got the perfect contrast of tender inside and a crispy outside. You’ll only need a handful of ingredients, and it’s done in 30 minutes, making it a great addition to your dinner spread.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Cheesy spinach and chicken casserole.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re looking for something hearty for dinner, this Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is a solid choice. It’s a simple mix of chicken thighs, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella, all baked together. Ready in 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan with bacon and cabbage in it.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Looking for a quick dish with a comfort food vibe? This Fried Cabbage with Bacon is just the ticket. It’s got cabbage, bacon, and onion all fried up together, and it’s ready in 25 minutes. It’s a great new combo to try when you want something hearty but easy.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Chicken in a skillet with cheese and tomatoes.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you need a meal that’s both quick and filling, this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken won’t let you down. You cook everything in one pan, which means less cleanup later. Chicken thighs simmer in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan. It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight when you’re short on time but still want something good.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Keto Zuppa Toscana

Two bowls of soup with bacon and kale.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Shake up your soup game with this Keto Zuppa Toscana. It’s inspired by a popular restaurant soup but made with radishes instead of potatoes to keep it low-carb. Don’t worry about the keto part if that’s not your thing — this soup’s got enough flavor to win over anyone. It’s ready in an hour and is a great way to try something new.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken dish with herbs and spices in a pot, ready to be served.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a dish that’s both easy and packed with flavor, try these Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. You’ve got tender chicken in a creamy artichoke and lemon sauce. It’s a great pick for when you want something a little fancy without a lot of work, and it’s ready in 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white dish with chicken breasts in a creamy garlic sauce.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit: Creamy Garlic Chicken. You make it all in one pan, which means you’re not stuck with a lot of cleanup. Chicken breasts simmer in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a great choice for a regular weeknight that tastes like it took way more effort. Plus, it’s on the table in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

A bowl of butter chicken with cauliflower rice on a white plate.
Instant Pot Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re craving something with bold flavors but don’t want to spend all day cooking, this Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a perfect choice. It’s an Indian-inspired dish with chicken thighs that you can marinate ahead of time. Then, it all goes into the Instant Pot and is done in under 40 minutes. It’s a great way to bring some variety to your meals without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re in the mood for something rich and hearty, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken hits the spot. It’s a one-pan meal that’s ready in 40 minutes and features chicken thighs with crispy skin, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. It’s a great dish for when you want to make dinner feel a bit more special without too much extra work.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish with jalapeño popper chicken and a spoon.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Spice up your dinner routine with this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. It’s got all the goodness of the classic appetizer (plus more) — shredded chicken thighs, crispy bacon, cream cheese, a kick of hot sauce, and jalapeños—topped with melted cheese and baked until golden. It’s a perfect pick for when you want something filling with a bit of heat.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

A pan with chicken in a creamy sauce.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a delicious, low-carb, and 30-minute meal that can be whipped together in just one pan! It’s very straightforward to prepare and you’ll be so impressed with how flavorful the resulting dish is!
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A fork is being used to take a piece of Philly cheese steak casserole out of a dish.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

So, you’ve got a craving for a Philly cheese steak but want something a little different? Check out this Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. It’s got all the good stuff: sirloin steak, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and a layer of provolone cheese. It’s a casserole that brings a new twist to a classic, and it’s ready in under an hour. Great for those evenings when you want a solid meal without too much work.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Now, for something creamy without being too heavy, this Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is spot on. You throw everything in one pot and let it do its thing for about an hour. It’s a breeze to make, and you end up with a soup that’s got a great mix of flavors. Perfect for when you need to warm up after a long day or just want to chill out with something good to eat.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Chicken bites with garlic butter sauce and herbs on a plate.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

And if you’re in a rush but still want something that’s going to hit the spot, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the way to go. You cook them up quickly on the stove, and in 20 minutes, you’ve got these little chicken pieces that are just bursting with a buttery garlic flavor. It’s an easy dish that’s perfect for those times when you’re hungry and don’t want to wait around.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Now, for a bit of a mashup, how about some Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken? It’s pretty simple: seasoned chicken breasts in the oven, topped with cream cheese, sweet peppers, and a bunch of melted mozzarella. It’s like the fajitas you know, baked into a cheesy chicken dish. It’s a casual yet smart way to switch up your chicken game.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

And if you’re looking for something super straightforward and satisfying, this Cabbage and Sausage dish has got you covered. It’s a one-pan deal, less than 30 minutes, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s filling and hits the spot. Perfect for those days when you’re short on time but still want something great to eat.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A crock pot full of taco soup.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Crock Pot Taco Soup is made without beans, includes straightforward ingredients and pantry staples, requires just 20 minutes of prep time, and is low-carb and gluten-free. To make it, all you’ll have to do is brown some ground beef on the stovetop, add all of the remaining ingredients to your slow cooker, set it to cook, then garnish and serve!
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

A bowl of rice and sausage curry on a table.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sausage Curry is a one-pan recipe that is perfect for weeknight dinners with the family. It features sausages and vegetables cooked in a rich and creamy curry sauce.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A spoon is serving Hungarian mushroom soup into a bowl.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup, ever heard of it? It’s this cozy, hearty bowl of goodness that you can whip up in one pot in about 45 minutes. It’s straightforward, no complicated steps, and it’s a hit whether you’re new to the kitchen or you’ve been cooking for years. Great for a weeknight fix or when you’ve got time to kick back and relax.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Corn Soup is a go-to option for a quick and flavorful meal that can be prepared in one pot. Ready in less than an hour, this soup combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

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