
If you’re craving comfort foods, we’ve found nutritious dishes that serve up warm feelings while helping with side effects.
When cold weather rolls in, we often think of comfort foods. Traditionally, these recipes are packed with plenty of calories but lack nutrient-rich ingredients.
Before making drastic changes to your diet, be sure to talk with your care team or nutritionist. While these recipes may relieve common symptoms, your treatment plan may include following a specific diet. If you have questions about what’s safe to eat or drink, your care team is ready to help.
9 Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Your favorite comfort foods get fresh takes with ingredients that also help soothe treatment side effects without sacrificing flavor in these recipes from the American Cancer Society.
- Spiced Hot Apple Cider. If you’re looking for an alternative to smoothies for increased liquid calories, grab your favorite mug and cozy up with the festive flavors in this cider.
- Cinnamon Sugar French Toast. Pair your favorite bread with cinnamon and sugar for a seasonal take on this breakfast staple. Prep tip: Let the bread sit out overnight to soak up more of the egg mixture.
- Chicken Noodle Soup. When you want classic soup but don’t want to make it from scratch, try this recipe. Use store-prepared rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time while still serving this soup’s timeless flavors.
- Hearty Turkey Minestrone Soup. A steaming-hot bowl of hearty soup is an ideal match for cold weather. While minestrone soup is traditionally meatless, this recipe calls for ground turkey. You can opt for a vegetarian dish by skipping the turkey.
- Twice-Baked Potatoes. What happens when you mix the recipes for potato skins and mashed potatoes? You get twice-baked potatoes. This delicious recipe is perfect as a side dish or can be a meal on its own.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese. Rich and gooey, this recipe embodies home cooking. Tailor this recipe to your preference by adding your choice of cheeses.
- Mini Shepherd's Pies. These single-serving pies pack vegetables, potatoes and beef in one bite. If you find yourself with extra pies, freeze them for future meals.
- Mini Chicken Pot Pies. A savory blend of chicken and vegetables in gravy, encased with a flaky crust make for a delicious meal. Like the mini shepherd’s pie recipe, these pot pies freeze well.
- Banana Pudding. This sweet, layered, no-bake dessert is filled with southern flavor. The recipe can be altered for those looking to gain weight by using full-fat ingredients and those looking to control their weight by choosing reduced-fat or fat-free ingredients.