When winter arrives, there is often nothing better for dinner than a hearty soup or stew. We asked our readers for their favorites to help beat the winter blues, and here are the top ten recipes that make cold-weather dinnertime planning a breeze.
Jennifer Causey; Food Stylist: Loren Wood; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
Readers rave about the robust flavor in this recipe, but it’s the homemade croutons and make-ahead convenience that typically wow the crowd: “This has become one of our favorite recipes. I usually substitute Italian seasoning for the oregano per my personal preference. I’ve found that this stew freezes well for a great make-ahead meal!”
While this seems like a great dish for special occasions and company (and we can confirm that it is), this five-star recipe only requires 35 minutes of prep so it’s easier than you think. Readers rave: “We made this Christmas Eve and it was a hit with my family. I will definitely make this recipe again.”
Alison Miksch; Food Stylist: Karen Rankin; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
Is there anything better than a warm and hearty recipe that greets you when you get home after a long day? This beef stew comes together thanks to our go-to slow-cooker. Readers have loved this recipe for years for its ease and robust flavor: “Excellent! I’ve made this several times and omitted the butter. I’ve added celery and green peas at times. Easy recipe!”
There is nothing quite like Venison Stew for beating the winter chill. Readers say this isn’t only easy (thanks to the slow-cooker), but its flavor is out-of-this-world: “Great recipe turned out spectacular! A rich stew that satisfies. Have a nice glass of red and some crusty bread handy!”
Morgan Hunt Glaze; Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey; Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
This regional recipe is one that every Southerner needs to make at least once–and winter is prime time for it. This hearty stew is packed with meat, vegetables, and an incredible tomato-based sauce that everyone will be talking about.
Robby Lozano; Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
Since the casserole version was so popular, our Test Kitchen decided to develop a warm and comforting stew that was even easier to make. Readers shared that this recipe was “Easy to put together, inexpensive to make, very satisfying flavors, and delicious.”
Tender beef and hearty squash are the stars of this extra flavorful and satisfying recipe. Readers raved: “Oh my gosh so good!! Definitely worth the effort and time. Mine thickened up nicely without adding anything to the recipe. Will definitely be making again.”
Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Prissy Lee Montiel
This five-star recipe won much praise with our readers because it was hearty, extra flavorful, and an easy stew to turn to for weeknight dinners. Readers commented: “Love the quick cook time for weeknights, plus it tastes so comforting. The ideal winter dinner!”
Greg DuPree; Prop Styling: Mindi Shapiro Levine; Food Styling: Torie Cox
A delicious and reliable beef stew is essential for winter, and this one is a tried-and-true classic. Readers tell us all the time how often they turn to this recipe when winter arrives: “When i crave beef stew once a year, this is easily a go-to!”
While we often turn to beef when planning a warm winter stew, this recipe stars chicken and is just as hearty and delicious. Readers have told us how much they love the “ultra light dumplings” that really makes this recipe a must-make every winter.
