Winter Comfort Foods: 5 Hearty Meals for Cold Nights
By Rossi Voss | September 5, 2025 | Prep: 10–15 mins | Cook: 25–45 mins | Servings: 4 | Cost: $2.60–$3.80/serving
When the wind howls and the nights grow long, only true comfort food will do. As someone who’s written Stockpot Cookbook: 139 Simple and Hearty Recipes (only $0.99!), I’ve perfected these 5 winter warmers to nourish your body and soul—without hours in the kitchen.
Each recipe uses your Instant Pot, Air Fryer, or stockpot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. They’re all freezer-friendly, high-protein, and ready in under 45 minutes.
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I’ve created a free printable 5-Day Winter Meal Plan PDF with full menus, shopping list, and prep tips.
👉 Download Free 5-Day Winter Meal Plan PDF Here
1. Instant Pot Beefless Chili (Freezer-Friendly)
Servings: 4 | Protein: 18g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Cost: $3.00/serving
- 1 lb plant-based ground (soy or pea-based)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
Sauté onion and pepper 3 mins. Add plant-based ground and cook 5 mins. Add remaining ingredients. Seal → Manual 10 mins → Quick release. Stir and serve with avocado or Greek yogurt.
2. Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon
Servings: 4 | Protein: 32g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Cost: $3.80/serving
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Brush salmon with butter, garlic, and lemon. Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes. Serve with rice or veggies.
3. Stockpot Chicken & Rice
Servings: 4 | Protein: 28g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Cost: $3.20/serving
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté chicken, carrot, and celery 5 mins. Add rice, broth, and thyme. Simmer 25–30 mins until rice is tender. Fluff and serve.
4. Instant Pot Butter Chickpeas
Servings: 4 | Protein: 16g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Cost: $2.80/serving
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger 5 mins. Add remaining ingredients except cream. Seal → Manual 10 mins → Quick release. Stir in cream and serve over fluffy rice.
5. Stockpot Turkey & Barley Stew
Servings: 4 | Protein: 26g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Cost: $3.40/serving
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- ½ cup pearl barley
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Brown turkey with onion. Add veggies, barley, broth, and herbs. Simmer 35–40 mins until barley is tender. Serve with crusty bread.
Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips
- Chili and stew freeze beautifully for 2–3 months.
- Butter chickpeas reheat perfectly from frozen—add a splash of broth.
- Chicken & rice stores well in the fridge for 4–5 days.
- Salmon is best fresh but can be reheated gently in the air fryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prep these ahead?
Yes! All five recipes are meal prep-friendly. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for 4–5 days.
Are these freezer-safe?
Absolutely. Chili, stew, and butter chickpeas freeze exceptionally well. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot.
Can I use canned beans instead of plant-based ground?
Yes! For the chili, swap plant-based ground for 1 can black beans or lentils. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Final Thoughts
These winter comfort foods prove that warmth, flavor, and nourishment don’t require all-day cooking. With your favorite appliances and a few simple ingredients, you can bring cozy, satisfying meals to your table—night after night.
Want more winter warmth? Try my 3-Ingredient Instant Pot Black Garlic series and Back-to-School Meal Prep Guide for more time-saving hacks.
Which winter meal will you try first? Share your creations on social media with #RossiVossWinter.
Stay Warm!
Rossi Voss