Healthy Comfort Food: Cozy Fall Soups, Casseroles & More
- leylew
- Sep 30
- 4 min read
Leaves are falling, sweaters are about to be unpacked, and soup and comfort food season has officially arrived! If you're anything like me, fall means it's time to break out the Dutch oven and fill the kitchen with the smell of something simmering. But comfort food doesn’t have to mean heavy or indulgent—this season is the perfect opportunity to create meals that are both nourishing and satisfying. From wholesome casseroles to nourishing soups and better-for-you spins on cozy classics, this collection of fall recipes will keep you warm—and feeling good—all season long.
This Tuscan chicken recipe is a total crowd-pleaser! Unlike most versions loaded with heavy cream and cheese, this one’s a lighter take that still hits all the cozy, comforting notes. Plus, it’s made easy in my favorite winter kitchen helper—the crock pot.
Thanksgiving might still be a couple of months away, but the fall vibes are definitely setting in—and that means cozy soups are back on the menu. This creamy turkey and farro soup is a great way to use up leftover turkey when the time comes, but it’s just as good with rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken. Simple, healthy, and full of cozy flavor!
This white chicken chili is everything you want in a slow-cooker meal: simple, flavorful, and totally satisfying. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and made with just a few wholesome ingredients. Toss it all in the crock pot and let it do the work—dinner’s handled.
This healthy, maco friendly chili is hands-down one of the most popular recipes I’ve ever made—and for good reason. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, RESET-friendly, and packed with flavor. I’ve recently made a few tweaks to boost the protein and overall nutrition, making it even more macro-friendly and lower in carbs. It also freezes really well, so it’s perfect for batch cooking.
This baked pasta is a lighter take on classic comfort food—high in protein, full of flavor, and super satisfying. Made with lean ground meat, Banza pasta, and a creamy cottage cheese and marinara mix, it’s a weeknight-friendly dish that feels indulgent without going overboard. Bonus: it makes great leftovers!
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is the ultimate comfort combo—but forget the canned stuff. This version is made with tons of real veggies, a splash of broth, a bit of avocado oil, and lots of seasoning for big flavor without the junk. It comes together quickly in the Instant Pot, and each serving is packed with nutrients. Perfect for pairing with your favorite grilled cheese!
This paleo-friendly casserole was born out of a need for something comforting, make-ahead, and freezer-ready—ideal for busy weeks or those times when cooking feels like a lot. After a little tweaking, it quickly became a favorite. It’s great for meal prep, freezes beautifully, and comes together with simple, nourishing ingredients.
If you’re looking for an easy, satisfying meal that comes together with minimal effort, this one’s for you. Loaded with fresh veggies, a bit of ground beef, and protein-packed Banza pasta, everything cooks up quickly in the Instant Pot for a comforting, no-fuss dinner. Save this Instant Pot Veggie Beef Soup for busy nights—you won’t regret it!
A hearty, cheesy soup is one of the best dinners after a cold day—but this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup keeps it light and healthy. Unlike most creamy soups loaded with heavy cream and cheese, this version is lower in calories and packed with protein. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, makes about five servings, and freezes beautifully for later.
If you love pizza but want something paleo-friendly and cozy, this pizza casserole is a total winner. Loaded with all the classic flavors—tomato sauce, cheese, and savory meat—without the crust, it’s a comforting, low-carb twist that’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
This buffalo chicken soup is a fun twist on a classic—with a creamy, veggie-packed broth and just the right kick. It’s easy to make in the crock pot and totally customizable, plus the hidden veggies make it a win for picky eaters too.
This Buffalo Chicken Casserole delivers all the spicy, savory heft you want—without too much fuss. Made with spaghetti squash, shredded chicken, veggies, and just enough buffalo sauce for a satisfying kick, it’s baked all in one dish and easily serves about six. A great meal-prep win too!
Whether you’re batch-cooking for the week, stocking the freezer, or just trying to get a cozy dinner on the table without overthinking it, these recipes have you covered. From slow-cooked soups to hearty casseroles and healthy twists on comfort food favorites, there’s something here for every kind of fall craving.
I help my 1:1 coaching clients with simple, realistic meal planning strategies like this all the time—because nourishing yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re looking for more support with building a routine that works for you, let’s chat or reach out anytime!
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