Banish The Cold This Winter With These Hearty Dutch Oven Recipes (2024)

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Banish The Cold This Winter With These Hearty Dutch Oven Recipes (1)Camille BerryUpdated: Jun. 06, 2023

    Winter is the perfect time to make hearty recipes in your Dutch oven. These wholesome recipes will keep you and your family toasty and warm even on the chilliest nights.

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    Taste of Home

    Mushrooms, onions and a bottle of Guinness add excellent flavor to my pot roast. This one-dish wonder may taste even better the next day. —Madeleine Bessette, Coeur d Alene, Idaho

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    2/35

    Taste of Home

    Skillet Chicken Stew

    It’s been 20 years now since I adapted this from a classic beef stew recipe. We like it so much that, in all that time, I have never changed any ingredients or amounts – unless it was to double them! Our home’s on a river, and my husband, our three boys and I enjoy camping and boating. — Valerie Jordan, Kingmont, West Virginia

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    Learn how to make a Dutch oven chicken.

    3/35

    Taste of Home

    When I moved to New England, I embraced the local cuisine. My cassoulet with baked beans pays tribute to a French classic and to New England in one hearty, heartwarming dish. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut

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    4/35

    Taste of Home

    Cazuela

    I learned to make this dish while we were living in Chile for a few months. We grow extra butternut squash in our garden just for this recipe. —Louise Schmid, Marshall, Minnesota

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    5/35

    Fire-Roasted Ziti with Sausage

    We punch up our pasta with smoked sausage and fire-roasted tomato sauce. It’s an easy recipe to switch up—use whatever noodles and spaghetti sauce are in your pantry. —Jean Komlos, Plymouth, Michigan

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    6/35

    Garlic and herb cream cheese adds subtle notes of flavor to this creamy, hearty soup. On a chilly day, it’s like having a bowlful of comfort food. —Shelisa Terry, Henderson, Nevada

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    Still hungry? Find more cozy Dutch oven soup recipes.

    7/35

    Spinach-Parm Casserole

    For those who ignore Popeye and won’t eat their spinach, I find that spinach with garlicky butter and Parmesan helps change their minds. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida

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    8/35

    Taste of Home

    Chili for a Crowd

    This chili for a crowd was handed down to me by my aunt, who said she got it from a "grizzled Montana mountain man." I added some zesty ingredients to come up with the final version. Hot food is something that my husband's family isn't accustomed to, so I adjust the spices for them. In fact, with a few simple alterations to the "heat" index, I can serve this chili to anyone. —Lisa Humphreys, Wasilla, Alaska

    9/35

    Chickpea Tortilla Soup

    This vegan tortilla soup recipe is healthy, filling and family-friendly! We love how hearty and flavorful it is. We like to play around with the different toppings we add each time it's served. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland

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    10/35

    Hearty Italian White Bean Soup

    A bowlful of this soup is so satisfying, it's hard to believe it's actually good for you, too. I crave it all the time. With lots of beans and potatoes, it's filling and even hits the spot with meat lovers. —Kristina Krummel, Elkins, Arkansas

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    11/35

    Taste of Home

    Lone Star Pot Roast

    Pot roast becomes especially delicious with the addition of chopped green chilies and taco seasoning. —Helen Carpenter, Albuquerque, New Mexico

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    12/35

    Taste of Home

    Grilled Chorizo and Shrimp Paella

    This shrimp paella recipe is not only healthy but satisfying, too! It has vitamin C from the sweet red pepper, fiber from the rice, and lean protein from the chicken sausage. — Daniel Bartholomay, Fargo, North Dakota

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    13/35

    Taste of Home

    Hearty Vegetarian Chili

    Rich and flavorful, this chili is absolutely packed with fun veggies like mushrooms, beans and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s so filling, you’ll fool any meat lover. —Pam Ivbuls, Omaha, Nebraska

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    14/35

    Land of Enchantment Posole

    My family named this spicy soup after our state moniker, “New Mexico, Land of Enchantment.” We usually make it around Christmas when we have lots of family over…and we never have leftovers. —Suzanne Caldwell Artesia, New Mexico

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    15/35

    Rhubarbecue

    This simmered sauce is a roller-coaster ride for your tongue. It's a wonderful blend of complex flavors that goes with any meat. — Rd Stendel-Freels, Albuquerque, New Mexico

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    16/35

    One-Pot Spaghetti Dinner

    Mamma mia! What’s the secret to this one-pot spaghetti? A homemade jar sauce and a one-pot cooking method makes this family favorite recipe quick and delicious. —Carol Benzel-Schmidt, Stanwood, Washington

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    17/35

    Vegan Jambalaya

    This flavorful entree uses convenient canned beans in place of the meat—and this food never leaves you hungry. —Crystal Jo Bruns, Iliff, Colorado

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    18/35

    Slow-Simmered Burgundy Beef Stew

    My mother-in-law shared this recipe with me many 25 years ago. Ever since then, it’s been a go-to whenever I need good food without a lot of fussing. —Mary Lou Timpson, Colorado City, Arizona

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    19/35

    With chicken, pasta and a bold tomato broth, this hearty and inviting soup is like a big comforting hug in a bowl! —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida

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    20/35

    Taste of Home

    Black Bean 'n' Pumpkin Chili

    My family is crazy about this slow cooker chili because it uses ingredients you don’t usually find in chili. Believe it or not, I discovered that pumpkin is what makes the dish so special. Cook up a big batch and freeze your soup for later; it tastes even better reheated. —Deborah Vliet, Holland, Michigan

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    21/35

    Short Rib Cobbler

    This recipe was inspired by my family’s love of two things—beef stew and biscuits. After years of making the two separately, I put the biscuits on top of the stew like a cobbler. This supper’s as down-home as it gets. —Janine Talley, Orlando, Florida

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    22/35

    Spicy Chicken Stew

    When you’re craving cozy Mexican flavors, try this spicy chicken and chickpea stew. It couldn’t be easier to make—just round out the meal with a fresh tossed salad. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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    23/35

    Empanada Beef Chili

    While I lived in Mexico in the 1960s, a friend’s mother gave me her grandmother’s empanadas recipe. I’ve made it over the years and passed it down to my grandchildren. To shed some carbs, I converted the recipe into a chili. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada. Looking for more recipes? Here’s our collection of low-carb dinner recipes.

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    24/35

    Taste of Home

    Hearty Sausage Minestrone

    As a teacher, I appreciate quick and easy recipes. If I make this for just my husband and me, we have leftovers for easy lunches. But when there are more people at the table, every bit is eaten. —Tami Stoudt, Evans, Colorado

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    25/35

    Taste of Home

    Bavarian Pot Roast

    Since all of my grandparents were German, it’s no wonder that so many Bavarian recipes have been handed down to me. Because the Midwest has such a large German population, I feel this recipe represents the area well. —Susan Robertson, Hamilton, Ohio

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    26/35

    Taste of Home

    Firehouse Chili

    As one of the cooks at the firehouse, I used to prepare meals for 10 men. This firehouse chili recipe was among their favorites. —Richard Clements, San Dimas, California

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    27/35

    Chicken and Dumplings

    Perfect food for chilly winter nights, this main course is speedy, low in fat and a delicious one-dish meal. —Nancy Tuck, Elk Falls, Kansas

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    28/35

    Lamb Stew

    My grandmother used to make this stew as a special Sunday meal. It’s an unforgettable Irish meal. —Vickie Desourdy, Washington, North Carolina

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    29/35

    To give our mac and cheese a Sicilian touch, we mix sausage, basil and fennel with three cheeses for an incredibly comforting casserole. —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California

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    30/35

    Taste of Home

    Turkey White Chili

    Growing up in a Pennsylvania Dutch area, I was surrounded by excellent cooks and wonderful foods. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes like this change-of-pace chili. —Kaye Whiteman, Charleston, West Virginia

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    31/35

    Chicken and Andouille Gumbo

    Gumbo goes back to 1700s Louisiana; today’s version is just as hearty using andouille sausage. Serve with cornbread or crusty French bread. —Billy Hensley, Mount Carmel, Tennessee

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    32/35

    Taste of Home

    Simple Italian Sausage Soup

    “This is definitely a meal on its own. It smells so good while cooking. The men are always glad to walk in the door after work and see this on the stove.” —Joan Oakland, Troy, Montana

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    33/35

    Taste of Home

    Hearty Hunter's Stew

    Moist, tender meat and thick, rich gravy are the hallmarks of this classic, slow-simmered cast-iron pot recipe. —Joyce Worsech, Catawba, Wisconsin

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    34/35

    I created this meal when trying to use up a large head of broccoli. My family requests it at least once a week, which is handy because we always have the ingredients. —Lisa Montgomery, Elmira, Ontario

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    35/35

    Quinoa Turkey Chili

    This heart-healthy turkey quinoa chili is not only tasty, it's a vitamin and protein powerhouse! —Sharon Giljum, San Diego, California

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    Originally Published: October 16, 2019

    Banish The Cold This Winter With These Hearty Dutch Oven Recipes (37)

    Camille Berry

    With nearly a decade of freelancing under her belt (six with Taste of Home), Camille regularly taps into her background to write about about all things food and drink. Part of the third generation in a family of restaurateurs, Camille was born with a passion for cooking and food. She embarked on a career in hospitality where she excelled as a sommelier and wine director. This hospitality experience has given her a wealth of first-hand knowledge about how to pair all manner of drinks with food—plus some serious kitchen skills. These days, she's hung up her wine key in favor of a keyboard and covers all aspects of food and drink.

    Banish The Cold This Winter With These Hearty Dutch Oven Recipes (2024)

    FAQs

    Can you put a cold Dutch oven in the oven? ›

    The cold dutch oven may save some energy as the oven will be on for less time. A cold dutch oven is definitely easier to handle when loading your loaf than a hot one.

    What is the point of a Dutch oven? ›

    A Dutch oven is a heavy-duty pot with lid designed for browning meat and veggies and then simmering on the stovetop or braising in the oven. It can also be used for soup and more simple tasks like boiling pasta. It's often used to make bread as well.

    What delicacy do Idahoans use a Dutch oven to cook? ›

    Dutch-oven potatoes are an Idaho tradition. A common sight at dinner tables, cookouts, camping trips, and holidays, Dutch-oven potatoes are one of those meals that nearly every Idahoan knows how to make.

    Is there anything you shouldn't cook in a Dutch oven? ›

    Be Mindful When Cooking Acidic Foods

    In an enamel-coated Dutch oven, prolonged cooking with acidic ingredients may discolor the interior coating but doesn't erode it.

    Is it okay to put a Dutch oven in the fridge? ›

    An enameled dutch oven is one of the most versatile cooking tools you can own! Use it on the stove and in the oven up to 500˚ F, or safely store it in your fridge to marinate food or refrigerate leftovers.

    What is better than a Dutch oven? ›

    Another versatile alternative to a Dutch oven is the classic pot or stockpot - and the best thing about this substitute is that every kitchen should already have a large pot! Stockpots work particularly well, as they have high sides and a lid that will allow you to simmer your ingredients for an extended time.

    What are 8 reasons to use a Dutch oven? ›

    What Is a Dutch Oven Used For?
    • Bread. One of the easiest (and more surprising) ways to use a Dutch oven is actually for breaking bread. ...
    • Casseroles and Lasagnas. ...
    • Skillet Cookies. ...
    • Chicken Stock. ...
    • Frying. ...
    • Braised Meats. ...
    • Roasting. ...
    • Poaching Chicken.
    Oct 27, 2022

    Why does food taste better in a Dutch oven? ›

    According to OvenSpot, uniform heat circulation means that your food cooks evenly without the need for constant surveillance. Thanks to the tightly sealed lid, instead of losing flavor to evaporation, the condensation settles back onto the food, enhancing the taste.

    Can you put a Dutch oven lid in the oven? ›

    You may need to take the lid off part way through the cooking process. However, some recipes may call for the lid to be off from the beginning, so consult your recipe. If the lid is not oven-safe, you'll need to leave it off no matter what. Tip: Most Dutch ovens come with oven-safe lids, but not all do.

    What is a Dutch oven trick? ›

    In that case, we recommend the infamous Dutch oven prank. For the uninitiated, a Dutch oven involves farting in bed, then quickly pulling up the sheets to trap your significant other with the smell. It's a decades-old trick that has surely ruined countless relationships, yet many dudes still dare to try it.

    Can a slow cooker be used instead of a Dutch oven? ›

    As mentioned, 2–3 hours in a Dutch oven generally equates to 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high in a slow cooker. Additionally, 1–2 hours in a Dutch oven usually translates to 4-6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high in a slow cooker.

    What do Americans call a Dutch oven? ›

    A Dutch oven (US English) or casserole dish (international) is a thick-walled cooking pot with a tight-fitting lid.

    What is a cowboy Dutch oven? ›

    In the world of big wagon cattle outfits, a cook was hired more for his ability to drive a chuck wagon pulled by a team of draft horses than for his cooking skills. Chances are that when he cooked, he used “Dutch ovens.” These are cast-iron pots with lids that come in various sizes and can be used over an open fire.

    Do chefs use Dutch ovens? ›

    While incredibly popular in home kitchens, Dutch ovens really aren't common in restaurant settings, beyond serving dishes.

    Can I put cold cast iron in the oven? ›

    Never place hot cast iron in the fridge and never place a cold cast iron on a hot surface (oven or stovetop) as this will cause the skillet to crack. If you are doing one or the other, make sure the cast iron is at room temperature first to avoid temperature shock.

    Can I put a Dutch oven in a preheated oven? ›

    Yes, I always like to preheat the Dutch oven inside my home oven before baking bread. I find a preheated Dutch oven helps encourage maximum oven spring (the amount the dough rises in the oven) at the start of baking.

    Can you put a Dutch oven into a hot oven? ›

    One of the best things about cast iron is that it can go from stovetop to tabletop to fridge. The trick is to go slowly. Rapidly changing temperatures can cause cracking. Don't put a cold Dutch oven in a hot oven, for example: put it in a cold oven and preheat them together.

    Do you have to preheat your Dutch oven? ›

    A preheated dutch oven will create steam

    In bread baking, hot steam reacts with the dough to quickly expand it, leaving behind those signature air holes inside the bread. It also produces a shiny, crisp crust on the exterior.

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