Comfort food is food that warms you from the inside and helps you unwind. This could be in the form of a meal, beverage or dessert with an uplifting emotional effect on you.
Unfortunately, these meals may also be unhealthy.
Pizza
Pizza is a go-to dish for when you need an indulgent meal. It can easily be customized into whatever you desire, and it can be enjoyed at almost any time of day.
Additionally, it’s a healthy option. Coconuts are packed with essential fatty acids that promote good health.
According to a recent study, pizza has come out on top as America’s go-to comfort food, surpassing classic favorites like chocolate and ice cream.
Pizza’s global appeal as a food that people from all backgrounds could appreciate was evident with sushi pizza in Japan and Vegemite-stuffed crust pie in Australia. As more cultures blended together, pizza became something everyone could enjoy.
Cheeseburgers
When it comes to comfort foods, few things can compare to a cheeseburger. With soft buns and ground beef, this meal comes together easily for everyone in your group to enjoy.
Cheeseburgers are often associated with summer days and barbeques. They also bring to mind Jimmy Buffett’s song “Cheeseburger in Paradise.”
No matter the variety, the classic cheeseburger remains a fan favorite. It consists of an American hamburger patty and American cheese slice.
Chicken Noodle Soup
When the temperature drops and you’re feeling under the weather, a bowl of chicken noodle soup is one of the most comforting foods to reach for. Not only is it delicious, but it can also help fight colds and flu by providing hydrating fluid, electrolytes and vitamins A and C in abundance.
Make this delicious soup on the stove top or in a slow cooker using pantry essentials like pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, potatoes and aromatic thyme and oregano.
Ravioli
No matter if you make them from scratch or opt for canned ravioli, they are a comforting meal that can be served any night of the week. Plus, this versatile dish can be customized with different fillings and sauces to suit your individual palate.
Ravioli are a type of dumpling filled with meat or cheese and sealed between two layers of pasta dough. Originating in Italy, ravioli have since gained global fame.
Italians often serve vegetarian ravioli on Fridays and during Lent, when red meat is generally forbidden. You can find these filling pastas in either the frozen or fresh section of your grocery store.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic comfort food, perfect with various dishes like pasta or cream soups.
It can also be made ahead and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it a perfect housewarming gift or treat for new babies.
Best enjoyed fresh from the oven, this recipe can also be reheated by wrapping in foil and warming in a 350 deg.F oven for 10 to 15 minutes.