The crisp cool air and shorter days means it’s time for cozy nights in. There’s nothing quite like a delicious home-cooked meal to warm you up on a chilly evening. Here are some of my favorite flavorful recipes for a cozy night in.

A hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Cubed beef, potatoes, carrots and onions simmered in a rich broth, filled with thyme, bay leaves and red wine. Serve with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For extra decadence, top with parsley, shredded cheese and sour cream.

Mac and cheese is comfort food at its finest. Elbow pasta tossed in a creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Gruyere, Parmesan and Gouda cheese. Mix in cooked bacon, caramelized onions and bread crumbs for extra flavor and crunch.

A bowl of chili is ideal for a cozy night in. Ground beef or turkey, beans, corn and tomatoes simmered with chili spices like cumin, oregano, garlic and chipotle peppers. Serve your chili with cornbread, avocado, scallions, cheese and sour cream.

For a vegetarian option, a creamy risotto is perfect. Arborio rice simmered in vegetable stock with parmesan cheese, butter, peas and lemon zest. The starchy rice becomes deliciously creamy as it cooks, enveloping the peas and parmesan.

A pot of seafood chowder or lobster bisque is a delicious, luxurious choice for a cozy night in. Shrimp, fish, clams and potatoes in a creamy broth infused with Old Bay seasoning and sherry. For extra decadence, top the chowder with bacon, chives and croutons.

For a sweet ending to your cozy night in, make molten chocolate lava cakes, bread pudding or crème brûlée. A scoop of ice cream or drizzle of bourbon caramel sauce is the perfect accompaniment.