Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill

If you're a fan of hearty, flavorful meals that are perfect for cold weather, the Midwest is the place to be. From classic casseroles to rich and creamy soups, the cuisine of the Midwest is all about comfort and tradition. Here are some of our favorite Midwest recipes and other tasty comfort foods that will warm your belly and your heart.

Hotdish

Hotdish is a classic Midwestern casserole that typically includes a base of ground beef, tater tots, and cream of mushroom soup, although there are many variations. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck with friends. If you're looking for a simple and satisfying hotdish recipe, try this one from AllRecipes.

Beer Cheese Soup

Beer cheese soup is a rich and creamy soup that's popular throughout the Midwest. It's made with a base of beer, chicken broth, and cheese, and often includes bacon and other flavorful ingredients. This recipe from Culinary Hill is easy to make and perfect for a cold winter night.

Jambalaya

Jambalaya may not be a traditional Midwest dish, but it's a popular comfort food that's found its way into many Midwestern kitchens. This recipe from Taste of Home is packed with flavor, with spicy sausage, tender chicken, and a mix of vegetables and spices.

Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits and gravy is a breakfast classic that's popular throughout the Midwest. It's a simple dish that consists of fluffy biscuits smothered in a rich and savory sausage gravy. This recipe from The Spruce Eats is easy to make and perfect for a lazy Sunday morning.

Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a classic comfort food that's perfect for cold weather. It's made with tender strips of beef, mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sour cream sauce. This recipe from Midwest Living is a traditional take on the dish, with all the rich and savory flavors you love.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a staple of Midwestern cuisine, and for good reason. It's crispy, juicy, and oh-so-delicious. This recipe from Delish is a classic take on the dish, with a simple but flavorful breading and a crispy golden exterior.

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and the Midwest has some of the best recipes around. This recipe from Bon Appetit is a classic take on the dish, with a rich and creamy cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping.

Pot Roast

Pot roast is a classic comfort food that's perfect for a cozy dinner at home. This recipe from Betty Crocker is easy to make and full of flavor, with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich and savory sauce.

These are just a few of our favorite Midwest recipes and other tasty comfort foods. Whether you're a lifelong Midwesterner or just looking to try something new, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious.

Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill - Hotdish

If you grew up in the Midwest, chances are you're familiar with hotdish. It's a classic casserole that's perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and cozy nights in. Hotdish is a staple of Midwestern cuisine, and every family has their own recipe. Here are some of our favorite Midwest hotdish recipes that are sure to warm your belly and your heart.

Tater Tot Hotdish

Tater tot hotdish is a classic Midwestern comfort food that's made with ground beef, vegetables, and tater tots. It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe from The Pioneer Woman is a simple and delicious take on the dish, with all the flavors you love.

Green Bean Hotdish

Green bean hotdish is another classic Midwestern recipe that's perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. It's made with canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. This recipe from Betty Crocker is a traditional take on the dish, with all the creamy and savory flavors you love.

Wild Rice Hotdish

Wild rice hotdish is a hearty and flavorful casserole that's perfect for cold weather. It's made with wild rice, chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. This recipe from Midwest Living is a tasty and satisfying take on the dish, with all the rich and savory flavors you love.

Chili Hotdish

Chili hotdish is a spicy and satisfying casserole that's perfect for a cozy night in. It's made with ground beef, chili beans, and cornbread, and topped with cheese and sour cream. This recipe from AllRecipes is a simple and delicious take on the dish, with all the bold and spicy flavors you love.

Breakfast Hotdish

Breakfast hotdish is a hearty and satisfying casserole that's perfect for a lazy weekend morning. It's made with eggs, sausage, cheese, and bread, and baked to perfection. This recipe from Taste of Home is a delicious and easy take on the dish, with all the flavors of a classic breakfast in one dish.

Chicken and Rice Hotdish

Chicken and rice hotdish is a comforting and flavorful casserole that's perfect for a family dinner. It's made with chicken, rice, and vegetables, and topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. This recipe from Delish is a simple and delicious take on the dish, with all the savory and creamy flavors you love.

These are just a few of our favorite Midwest hotdish recipes. Whether you're a lifelong Midwesterner or just looking to try something new, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious.

Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill - Beer Cheese Soup

Beer Cheese Soup is a classic Midwestern comfort food that's perfect for chilly evenings. It's a creamy, cheesy soup with a hint of beer flavor that's sure to warm you up from the inside out. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. Here's a recipe for a classic Midwest Beer Cheese Soup that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup beer (lager or ale works best)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. 
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Add the beer and all of the spices. Whisk to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve immediately.

This Midwest Beer Cheese Soup is perfect on its own or paired with a crusty bread or pretzel. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warmth and richness of this classic Midwestern dish.

Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill - Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a classic dish from the South, but did you know that the Midwest has its own version too? Midwest Jambalaya is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of the South with the ingredients of the Midwest. It's perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for something spicy and satisfying. Here's a recipe for Midwest Jambalaya that's sure to be a hit in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the pot and cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and oregano to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Add the chicken and sausage back to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

This Midwest Jambalaya recipe is a delicious and unique twist on the classic Southern dish. The combination of chicken, sausage, and vegetables with rice and black beans makes for a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the spicy and flavorful taste of the Midwest.

Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill - Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits and Gravy is a classic Midwestern breakfast dish that's loved by many. This dish is easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for weekend brunches or lazy mornings. It consists of fluffy, buttery biscuits smothered in a rich and creamy gravy made with breakfast sausage. Here's a recipe for Midwest Biscuits and Gravy that's sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

For the biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

For the gravy:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add the chilled butter to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix it into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about 1-2 minutes.
6. Use a biscuit cutter or a drinking glass to cut the dough into biscuits.
7. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. While the biscuits are baking, cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
9. Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
10. Gradually add the milk to the skillet, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
11. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
12. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
13. To serve, split the biscuits in half and ladle the gravy over the top.

This Midwest Biscuits and Gravy recipe is a classic and delicious breakfast dish that's perfect for a lazy weekend morning. The fluffy biscuits and rich, creamy gravy made with breakfast sausage are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you full until lunchtime. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Midwest.

Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill - Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by many generations. This dish originated in Russia but has become a staple in many households across the world, including the Midwest. The Midwest version of Beef Stroganoff is a simple, yet delicious dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Here's a recipe for Midwest Beef Stroganoff that's sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 8 oz sliced mushrooms
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Egg noodles, cooked according to package directions
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add the beef strips back to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.
6. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
7. Serve the Beef Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

This Midwest Beef Stroganoff recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make comfort food that's perfect for any occasion. The tender beef strips and creamy mushroom sauce pair perfectly with egg noodles to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Midwest.

Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill - Fried Chicken recipe

Fried chicken is a classic dish that has been a favorite of Midwesterners for generations. This dish is loved for its crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat. The Midwest Fried Chicken recipe is a simple and delicious version that's perfect for a family dinner or a backyard barbecue. Here's a recipe for Midwest Fried Chicken that's sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
3. Dip each chicken piece in the buttermilk mixture, then coat in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken pieces in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes for the larger pieces and 10-15 minutes for the smaller ones. Turn the chicken pieces occasionally to ensure even browning.
6. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.

This Midwest Fried Chicken recipe is a classic and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. The blend of herbs and spices in the flour coating creates a flavorful and crispy crust that's sure to satisfy your cravings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Midwest.

Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill - Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food that's loved by people of all ages. The Midwest Mac and Cheese recipe is a simple and delicious version that's perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Here's a recipe for Midwest Mac and Cheese that's sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Breadcrumbs, for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Pour the mac and cheese into a large baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Midwest Mac and Cheese recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese creates a creamy and flavorful sauce that's sure to satisfy your cravings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Midwest.

Midwest Recipes and Other Tasty Comfort Foods Culinary Hill - Pot Roast

Pot Roast is a classic Midwestern dish that's perfect for a cozy family dinner. This dish is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. The Midwest Pot Roast recipe is a simple version that's easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Here's a recipe for Midwest Pot Roast that's sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pound chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chuck roast on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the roast from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the onions, carrots, potatoes, and garlic to the Dutch oven. Cook until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the beef broth, red wine, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the roast to the Dutch oven and spoon the vegetable mixture over the top.
7. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and bake for 3-4 hours, or until the roast is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Remove the roast from the Dutch oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
9. Serve the pot roast with the vegetables and juices from the Dutch oven.

This Midwest Pot Roast recipe is a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. The slow-cooked chuck roast is tender and flavorful, and the vegetables are cooked to perfection. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Midwest.