Best Comfort Foods for Winter Gatherings
Minnesotans know how to make the most of long, cold winters—and nothing brings people together like a good potluck. A warm, comforting dish can instantly brighten any gathering and leave a lasting impression. Below are a few easy, crowd-pleasing recipes that are perfect for sharing and guaranteed to get people talking.
Warm and Comforting Main Dishes:
- Crockpot Chili (meat or vegetarian) – as a bonus, they stay warm throughout the event!
- Macaroni and Cheese – easy to transport, warm and filling, a sure bet crowd-pleaser.
- Hearty Soups (chicken noodle, tomato basil, potato chowder) – the ultimate winter warmer, easy to serve.
- Baked Pasta Casserole (lasagna, stuffed shells) – anything with noodles, sauce, and cheese is sure to be a big hit! Stuffed shells make individual portions quick and easy.
- Sliders or Mini-sandwiches (pulled chicken/pork, ham & cheese, hummus and veg) – get creative with these and use mini croissants, pretzel buns, or make pinwheel sandwiches using wraps.
Shareable Sides:
- Winter Salads – incorporate seasonal flavours like cranberries, pomegranate, apples, nuts, and orange segments on a bed of mixed greens.
- Bread and Dips – slices of crusty bread or warm pita cut into sections and served with spinach artichoke or queso dip, tzatziki, or hummus.
- Simple Charcuterie Board – assemble a quick selection with a few cheese options, some grapes, nuts, crackers, breadsticks, and prepared chutney, jam, or honey.
Easy Appetizers:
- Meatballs (meat or a vegetarian version) – choose sweet or savoury sauces, or a mix of both.
- Mini Quiches – use store-bought mini pastry shells for quick and easy preparation.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – get creative with the fillings, opt for a holiday theme and use stuffing, or stick with the classic blue cheese filling.
Quick and Festive Desserts:
- Cookies or Bars – a classic, easy to grab and eat while standing and chatting with guests.
- Mini- Cupcakes – a crowd-pleasing favourite, decorate with sprinkles in holiday colours.
- Rice Krispie Treats – easy to prepare with only 3 ingredients, cut them into winter shapes and drizzle with chocolate for a festive touch.
- Seasonal Fruit Crisp or Cobbler – prepare ahead of time and reheat for the party, a warm and satisfying dessert.
- Peppermint Bark or Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels – easy to prepare ahead and pleasing to the eye when decorated with candies and displayed on a tray.
Drinks on the Go, because most guests will bring food, bringing beverages is a great option!
- Crockpot Hot Chocolate – keep it warm throughout the party and make it fun with a selection of toppings such as marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, flavoured syrups and powders, and chocolate curls.
- Warm Apple Cider – can also be served in a crock pot, keep it plain or add mulling spices for a festive touch.
- Flavoured Water – serve it in pitchers and seasonal bruits like citrus, crandberry, and pomegranate.
- Coffee or Tea Carafes – a safe bet that will please everyone, brew your own or stop by a local coffee shop. Bring creamer and sugar so guests can make their drink to their taste, include flavoured syrups and toppings to put it over the top!
Tips for a successful potluck:
- Clearly label dishes and containers
- Make notes of any allergens in your dishes
- Keep warm dishes at temperature using a slow cooker or insulated carriers
- Provide serving utensils where needed
- Try to divide food into portions to keep things tidy and easy to serve
- Use eco-friendly disposable dishes and utensils for easy cleanup
- Encourage guests to use a shared sign-up sheet to avoid duplicates and balance mains dishes, sides, and desserts
