With winter approaching and the days getting shorter, it is only natural to start craving hearty, comfort food. As a parent, you always want to be on the ball when it comes to meal planning, so this post will suggest five after-school meals that the kids will love at this time of the year. 

Macaroni & Cheese

It is hard to go wrong with Mac and cheese as a meal loved by both kids and adults! Rich, creamy, and cheesy, this is the ultimate comfort food that is ideal for the colder months of the year. Part of the beauty of Mac and cheese is that it is a dish that is easy to master, and there are endless variations and twists to keep it fresh and exciting, whether this is baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping or made on the stove with extra cheese – the possibilities are endless!

Beef Stew

There are few dishes heartier than a good beef stew, making it the perfect choice for those cold days when you want something filling and flavourful. Additionally, this is also a great chance to pack vegetables into the stew to ensure that everyone is getting enough nutrients. You can use a slow cooker to create a tantalising stew with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and celery in a savoury broth.

Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is another wintery dish that can feel like a warm hug on a cold day. With its buttery, flaky crust and creamy chicken filling packed with veg, this is a dish loved by both kids and adults. You can easily buy pie crust in the store, but it can also be a fun activity to do at home and will always make the dish that little bit more special.

Shepherd’s Pie

Shepard’s pie is a British classic that is hard to go wrong with and is always enjoyed around this time of year. It is also another dish that can be relatively easy to master—it simply involves seasoned ground lamb (or beef if you want cottage pie) and vegetables with a mashed potato topping that is baked until golden brown or bubbling away. There are some healthier mash alternatives if you prefer.

Chili Con Carne

A bowl of hearty and spicy chili topped with cheese is just what you need after escaping the cold. Made from ground beef, beans, onions, tomatoes, and spices, this dish has endless variations, and the spice level can easily be adjusted. It is most commonly served with rice, but it could also be served with baked potatoes, salad, or chips. To make the dish that little bit more special, consider growing your own tomatoes for a homemade touch. 

These are some of the most comforting dishes at this time of the year that are sure to keep your kids happy at dinner time.