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13 Timeless Comfort Foods You’ll Regret Not Trying

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These 13 comfort foods are so sinfully good, you’ll wonder how you’ve been surviving without them. These aren’t just any recipes; they’re the culinary old-timers, the OGs of the comfort world, here to show those trendy “avocado everything” dishes how it’s really done.

Copycat Cracker Barrel meatloaf sliced and on a plate.

So, whether you’re a foodie looking to explore the roots of comfort cuisine or simply in need of some soul-warming eats, these recipes will satisfy those cravings and maybe even take you back to simpler times.

Asian Spare Ribs

Two ribs on a tray with sesame seeds and sesame seeds.
Asian Spare Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Imagine the slow cooker as your culinary passport, transforming ribs into a fall-off-the-bone feast. The fight for the last drop of sauce will be fierce, but hey, you’re the hero who made it happen (with a little help from your slow cooker).
Get the Recipe: Asian Spare Ribs

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Who knew elegance could be so easy? This Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin crisps up the outside while keeping the inside succulently tender. Impress guests or indulge solo; either way, you’re in for a treat without the whole-day kitchen commitment.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Crock Pot Spiral Ham

plate of ham and asparagus with slow cooker spiral ham in background.
Crock Pot Spiral Ham. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This dish is your low-effort, high-flavor ticket to a festive feast, with a sweet and spicy spiral ham that’s practically self-cooking. It’s about bringing holiday cheer any day of the week, without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Spiral Ham

Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Pulled pork on a bun with sauce and cabbage.
Instant Pot Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Shortcut to flavor, anyone? The Instant Pot makes pulled pork an easy, breezy affair, freeing up your schedule without skimping on the saucy, shreddy goodness.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Two slices of meatloaf on a plate with mashed potatoes and carrots.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

If the walls of Cracker Barrel could talk, they’d definitely rave about this perfectly seasoned meatloaf. It’s the ultimate in comfort, inviting the family to the table for some quality time. Break out the checkerboard tablecloth and create some cozy dining room vibes.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Baked Manicotti

Baked manicotti in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Manicotti. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Dive into a cheesy delight with Baked Manicotti, where every shell delivers a gooey message of love to your stomach. Transform any Sunday into a festive pasta gathering, complete with cheers for your marinara masterpiece.
Get the Recipe: Baked Manicotti

Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Slow cooker country style ribs on a tray on top of mashed potatoes with corn.
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Let the slow cooker work its magic, melding peach preserves and honey into a dish that defines delicious laziness. It’s the no-fuss dinner that dreams are made of.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Roast Chicken

Whole chicken cooked in the air fryer with lemon and herbs.
Roast Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Transform your dinner into a juicy, crispy affair with Roast Chicken from the air fryer. It’s the simple, scrumptious answer to “what’s for dinner?” that’ll have everyone gathering around the table.
Get the Recipe: Roast Chicken

Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Air fryer fried chicken legs and thighs in a pile on a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Air Fryer Fried Chicken might just outshine grandma’s classic, offering all the crunch without the kitchen chaos. It’s the guilt-free, grease-free comfort food that makes any day feel special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Brown Sugar Pork Chops

Pork chops on a plate with broccoli and mashed potatoes.
Brown Sugar Pork Chops. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Sweet meets savory in these effortlessly delicious brown sugar pork chops, slow-cooked to perfection. Every bite is a testament to the wonders of a crock pot dinner, making your evening meal a stress-free affair.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pork Chops

No Peek Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish with chicken and rice in it.
No Peek Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This No Peek Chicken Casserole is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dish, promising a delectable combo of tender chicken and flavorful rice. Just pop it in the oven and let the magic happen.
Get the Recipe: No Peek Chicken Casserole

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

A plate of pot roast with carrots and mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The Slow Cooker Pot Roast is all about maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for lazy dinners. It’s the dish that justifies every inch of counter space your slow cooker takes up.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Oven Roasted Pork Loin

Oven roasted pork loin with potatoes, carrots and cabbage on a plate.
Oven Roasted Pork Loin. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Presenting the Oven Roasted Pork Loin: the effortless, show-stopping centerpiece of any Sunday dinner. As it roasts, unwind and soak in the aromas of a job well done.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Pork Loin

Beef Stew

Top view of a bowl of Guinness beef stew with a black checked napkin and a spoon.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Envision a bowl of this Guinness Beef Stew, with its tender beef and comforting veggies, as the ultimate comfort food. Celebrate the essence of St. Patrick’s Day with a bowl of this deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

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13 comfort food favorites.
anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

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