As winter's chill sets in, nothing warms the heart like gathering around the table with friends and family. These winter dinner recipes showcase a curated selection of seasonal delights, from fresh salads and soothing soups to hearty main courses and indulgent desserts. And, because we know your days are busy, each one was selected with an eye toward simplicity.
We’ve even included two delicious winter beverages (perfect as a starter or finisher!) to create an unforgettable evening that will leave you and your loved ones feeling cozy and content.
WINTER SALADS
PEAR AND FIELD GREEN SALAD WITH POMEGRANATE VINAIGRETTE
Trade bland hothouse tomatoes for the nuances of winter with this festive salad. Featuring crisp, sweet pears and tart cranberries, the field greens are elevated by a tangy pomegranate vinaigrette, then dusted with toasted walnuts and crumbled blue cheese to add texture and sophistication.
GREEN BEAN SALAD WITH LEMON PEPPER VINAIGRETTE
This winter salad gets its vibrant hue from blanched green beans, which, when combined with halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta cheese, enliven your table with the colors of the holiday. The homemade vinaigrette comes together in a snap—a simple oil-and-vinegar dressing that gets its bite from McCormick Perfect Pinch Lemon Pepper Seasoning.
WINTER SOUPS
SUPER SPICE CHICKEN VEGETABLE SOUP
Like a warm blanket on a chilly winter's night, a soothing bowl of chicken veggie soup envelops you in comfort. This version of the king of soups features all of your favorite winter vegetables infused with a medley of spices: McCormick Oregano Leaves, crushed McCormick Whole Rosemary Leaves, McCormick® Whole Thyme Leaves and sea salt.
SLOW COOKER POTATO SOUP
Looking for a richer option in winter soup recipes? This slow cooker delight takes just 20 minutes to prep in the morning, then will be ready and waiting to invite you in after a long day. Its velvety texture comes from a blend of heavy cream, sour cream and shredded Cheddar cheese. Finish off this savory concoction with crisp, crumbled bacon and chopped green onions for a flavorful flourish.
WINTER DINNER RECIPES
CHICKEN STIR FRY WITH VEGETABLES
No need to order out…instead whip up this chicken stir fry at home to save time and money—and lose the sodium and excess additives that often accompany restaurant dishes. Featuring lean chicken and a cascade of healthy veggies, punctuated by a sweet/savory/spicy Asian-inspired glaze, it comes together in just 30 minutes (including chopping!).
TURKEY POT PIE RECIPE
This winter dinner recipe gives you homemade goodness without the hassle. Shortcuts like leftover meat, frozen mixed veggies and refrigerated pie crust make this classic, crowd-pleasing dish achievable for anyone on the busiest of evenings.
EASY SHEPHERD'S PIE
Who says pie is for dessert? Clearly not us, with this take on another type of “pie” that gets its hearty depth from McCormick Brown Gravy Mix, complemented by McCormick Garlic Powder, McCormick Onion Powder and McCormick Pure Ground Black Pepper. Mashed potatoes make a satisfying sidekick.
INSTANT POT® POT ROAST
Use your Instant Pot to update this beloved dish with modern convenience. You’ll sauté the roast for a mere five minutes, then add nutritious winter vegetables and McCormick Slow Cooker Savory Pot Roast Seasoning Mix to yield a tender, tasty one-pot meal in just one hour.
WINTER DESSERTS
CHOCOLATE FUDGE
Whether you want to offer an indulgent finale or send your guests home with a sweet farewell gift, this chocolate fudge recipe will dazzle. And unlike tricky candy recipes, this one’s surprisingly simple, with semi-sweet baking chocolate, cream cheese, confectioners' sugar and McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract combining for an effortless treat.
SLOW COOKER CHOCOLATE RUM BALL CAKE
Don't let the ease of the cake step of this dessert recipe fool you. The complexity of its crunchy sweet-and-salty pecan topping is what makes it shine. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the crowning touch. And because oven space is at a premium during dinner parties, you’ll appreciate that this uses a slow cooker.
GINGERBREAD CUPCAKES WITH CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
Make any occasion—even a weeknight at home—special with a batch of these kid-ult-pleasing cupcakes. The duo of spicy gingerbread cake and sweet cream cheese icing make an irresistible combination, and if by chance you do have any leftovers, they’ll instantly elevate the next day’s lunch.
WINTER BEVERAGES
VANILLA CINNAMON HOT COCOA
Raise a glass to winter wonder with a seasonal beverage that adds elegance and cheer. This recipe kicks plain hot chocolate up a notch with McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract and a pinch of McCormick Ground Cinnamon.
SLOW COOKER SPICED CIDER
This warm, spiced winter beverage is the perfect complement to a festive dinner, whether served while guests gather or as an après-meal treat. You’ll find that 2 (juices) + 3 (spices) = magic.
Hosting a Big Family Holiday Dinner?
Here are some traditional winter holiday dinner recipes you'll enjoy!
