7 Comforting Recipes

By Kelly Visser, Iowa Food & Family Project

We’ve pulled together some of our favorite comfort food recipes to help your family cozy up around the kitchen table or tailgate this fall!

As the sun sets earlier, leaves fall and winds begin to chill, there’s something comforting about a warm meal surrounded by family. To help you gather with loved ones and celebrate the changing seasons, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite fall recipes. Each dish features fresh and delicious ingredients grown and raised by Iowa farmers.

Iowa’s farmers put great care into responsibly producing products, including soybeans, pork, corn, beef, dairy, eggs and turkey. The high-quality, delicious and nutritious products raised on Iowa farms help fuel families in our communities, state, nation and world. And that’s something we all can find comforting.

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Slow Cooker Edamame & Calico Beans | The Soyfoods Council

Fire up the slow cooker, this super simple Slow Cooker Edamame & Calico Beans recipe is sure to warm your soul on a chilly day. The edamame, soybeans and baked beans provide both protein and fiber; and the maple syrup and bacon bits add a pop of flavor! We recommend serving the dish with a side of warm cornbread or corn muffins. Find the recipe here.

Cheesy Italian Grinder Dip | Iowa Pork Producers Association

Whether you’re planning a tailgate or family gathering, this crowd-pleasing Cheesy Italian Grinder Dip will be a new favorite. The sweet Italian sausage shines in the savory combination of cheese, sour cream and bell pepper. Serve it warm with sturdy crackers for optimal dipping! Find the recipe here.  

Pumpkin Spice Latte | DairyGood & Midwest Dairy

A Pumpkin Spice Latte is a tasty treat to accompany fall fun. Instead of making a trip to the coffee shop, try this make-at-home recipe! The warm combination of pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, pumpkin puree and milk and whipped cream is sure to delight. Find the recipe here.

Eggs & Pasta – Why Not! | Iowa Egg Council

Even picky eaters are sure to love this simple twist on classic, comforting lasagna! The easy recipe adds a layer of scrambled eggs, which pack 13 essential vitamins and minerals, antioxidants and high-quality protein into the family dinnertime staple. Find the Eggs & Pasta – Why Not! recipe here.

Turkey Enchilada Soup | Iowa Turkey Federation

Turn up the heat with flavorful Turkey Enchilada Soup! The turkey – either cubed turkey breast or cooked ground turkey – is low in fat and provides immune-boosting nutrients like iron, zinc and potassium. We recommend topping with shredded cheese, avocado and tortilla strips. Find the recipe here.

Slow-Cooked Whiskey Molasses Shredded Beef | Iowa Beef Industry Council

This isn’t your grandma’s shredded beef recipe! The beef bottom round roast is slow-cooked in sweetness and pairs perfectly with a refreshing carrot-apple slaw. Best of all, one serving provides 36 grams of protein – about 62% of the recommended daily value – in just 360 calories! Find the Slow-Cooked Whiskey Molasses Shredded Beef recipe here.

Southwestern Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole | Wine and Glue & Iowa Corn

Inspired by the Iowa Corn-Fed Tour, this easy-to-make casserole is a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner menu. Packed with a flavorful combination of corn, chicken, rice and beans it’s tasty and family-friendly. Plus, it heats up perfectly for leftovers! Find the recipe here.