New Year’s Day is the perfect time for comfort food that’s easy to make and hearty enough to keep you going. After the hustle of the holidays, a simple, satisfying meal like chili or stew feels just right. These recipes are packed with flavor, straightforward to prepare, and exactly what you need to settle into the new year.
Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew
This beef and mushroom stew is a hearty, no-nonsense meal that’s perfect for curling up with after the chaos of the holidays. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy, so you can kick back and enjoy a great dinner without hovering over the stove.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew
Turkey Stew
Shredded turkey, potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms come together in a stew that’s both comforting and loaded with flavor. A touch of balsamic vinegar and tomato paste takes it up a notch, making this a perfect meal for easing into the new year.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stew
Easy One-Pot Lentil Stew
Turmeric and lentils team up for a vegetarian stew that’s hearty, simple, and packed with flavor. Serve it with rice or your favorite grain, and you’ve got a great one-pot meal that’s as satisfying as it is low-maintenance.
Get the Recipe: Easy One-Pot Lentil Stew
Slow Cooker Lamb Stew
Lean lamb, kale, and white beans cook slowly in a flavorful broth with rosemary and tomatoes. This stew practically makes itself while you stay cozy, making it a great pick for a relaxed dinner after the new year’s celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Stew
Moroccan Lamb Lentil Stew
Spiced with Moroccan flavors and loaded with lamb, lentils, and chickpeas, this stew feels both exotic and comforting. Top it with a dollop of yogurt and fresh cilantro for a dinner that’s bold, hearty, and perfect for winter nights.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Lamb Lentil Stew
Red Wine Beef Stew Stuffed Potatoes
Thick and hearty beef stew gets stuffed into baked potatoes for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is clever. A splash of red wine brings extra depth to the stew, making it perfect for dinner when you want something special but easy to put together.
Get the Recipe: Red Wine Beef Stew Stuffed Potatoes
Brisket Chili
Leftover brisket finds a new life in this chunky, flavor-packed chili with beans, peppers, and corn. It’s great for a casual, hearty meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for starting the year off on a relaxed note.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili
Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili
This creamy chili combines chicken, white beans, apples, and cheddar for a mix that’s anything but ordinary. It’s a great dinner for when you want something comforting but with a little more personality.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili
Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
Ground turkey, creamy hummus, and a touch of spice make this one-pot chili a great choice for cold winter evenings. It’s bold, satisfying, and easy enough to whip up when you’re not in the mood for something complicated.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
Short Rib Chili
Slow-cooked short ribs in a spicy porter beer chili create a rich and comforting meal. It freezes well, so it’s perfect for cooking ahead and enjoying whenever you need an easy, hearty dinner to warm up the day.
Get the Recipe: Short Rib Chili
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A classic beef stew made easy in the slow cooker, this version gets a seasonal touch with summer vegetables for a lighter take. It’s great for keeping dinner stress-free while still delivering big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
