29 Comfort Food Recipes Your Mom Never Taught You

Let’s be honest, Mom’s cooking is amazing, but sometimes you crave something a little… different.  Something beyond the usual comfort food classics.  Something that’ll make your tastebuds sing a whole new song!  So ditch the recipe box passed down through generations (for now!), and get ready to explore a world of culinary comfort you never knew existed. Buckle up, buttercup, because these 29 recipes are about to blow your mind.

From globally-inspired delights to unexpected twists on old favorites, we’ve got the ultimate comfort food cheat sheet to expand your culinary horizons. Get ready to impress yourself (and maybe even your mom!).

Korean Army Stew (Budae Jjigae) Recipe

A hearty, savory stew packed with sausages, kimchi, ramen, and more!  It’s a flavor explosion in a bowl.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

The ultimate comfort food mashup! Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese gets a spicy buffalo chicken kick.

Nutella-Stuffed French Toast Recipe

Sweet, decadent, and utterly irresistible.  Prepare for a Nutella overload (in the best way possible!).

Japanese Curry Katsu Recipe

Crispy, breaded pork cutlets swimming in a rich, flavorful Japanese curry sauce.  A true taste of Japan.

Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe

Melt-in-your-mouth tender roast beef cooked low and slow with a flavorful broth. So simple, yet so impressive.

Tuscan White Bean Skillet Recipe

A rustic, hearty skillet dish bursting with the flavors of Tuscany.  Perfect for a cozy night in.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy, and garlicky sauce, all served over your favorite pasta.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

All the goodness of a loaded baked potato, transformed into a creamy, comforting soup.

Hawaiian Loco Moco Recipe

A Hawaiian classic: rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and gravy. Simple, yet utterly satisfying.

Birria Tacos Recipe

Tender, slow-cooked goat (or beef) tacos with a rich, flavorful consommé for dipping.  Prepare for a flavor fiesta!

Vietnamese Coffee Bread Pudding Recipe

A unique twist on a classic dessert, infused with the rich, bold flavor of Vietnamese coffee.

Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

The ultimate game-day appetizer (or any-day snack!), this creamy, spicy dip is dangerously addictive.

Kimchi Grilled Cheese Recipe

A spicy, savory, and surprisingly delicious twist on a classic grilled cheese sandwich.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

Tender chicken simmered in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce.  A simple yet elegant weeknight meal.

Poutine Recipe

Fries, cheese curds, and gravy.  Need we say more? This Canadian classic is pure comfort food.

Orange Chicken Recipe

Sweet, savory, and slightly spicy, this classic takeout dish is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mac and cheese gets a smoky, spicy upgrade with bacon and jalapeño poppers.

Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe

Get ready for a fiery flavor explosion! This spicy chicken is not for the faint of heart.

Shakshuka Recipe

Eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for a flavorful and satisfying brunch or dinner.

Pad Thai Recipe

This classic Thai noodle dish is bursting with fresh flavors and textures.  A culinary adventure in every bite.

Honey Garlic Meatballs Recipe

Sweet and savory meatballs glazed in a sticky honey garlic sauce.  Serve them as an appetizer or main course.

Korean Corn Cheese Recipe

Sweet corn and melted cheese – a simple yet addictive Korean street food snack.

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

A creamy, flavorful Indian curry that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Prepare for a taste of paradise!

Ramen Carbonara Recipe

A surprising and delicious fusion dish that combines the best of Italian and Japanese cuisine.

Vietnamese Banh Mi Recipe

A savory Vietnamese sandwich packed with flavorful meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Greek Pastitsio Recipe

A baked pasta dish with a rich meat sauce and creamy béchamel topping.  A taste of Greece on your plate.

Thai Basil Chicken Recipe

Stir-fried chicken with fragrant basil, garlic, and chili.  A quick, easy, and flavorful meal.

Kung Pao Chicken Recipe

A spicy and savory Sichuan dish with crispy chicken, peanuts, and a vibrant sauce.

Coconut Curry Ramen Recipe

A creamy, flavorful ramen dish with a hint of coconut and curry. A truly unique comfort food experience.