Our Culinary Producer Is Welcoming Comfort Food Season with These 5 Groceries — and They’re All from Target
The end of summer can be bittersweet, but it only takes the thought of cozy suppers to get us excited for fall. As soon as there’s a little chill in the air, we’re eager for earthy veggies, rich flavors, and warm-belly recipes. That goes double for The Kitchn Culinary Producer James Park.
“Fall is truly my favorite season,” says The Kitchn Culinary Producer James Park. “This might be basic to say, but nothing gets me excited like fall-flavored items! Something about the warm, cozy spices brings me so much comfort. It’s the season to wind down after a busy summer, cook at home more, and just relax and enjoy as the season changes.” To make the most of this moment, he fills his cart with Target Good & Gather groceries: high-quality and affordable ingredients that make any comfort dish just a little bit cozier. Here’s what he’s stocking up on right now.
“Fall means sweet potatoes,” James says, and we couldn’t agree more. They are a delicious mix of savory and sweet, plus they’re already wearing the season’s signature color. James roasts them for easy side dishes and hearty midday snacks, and this three-pound bag means his pantry stays well-stocked.
How do you make fresh, crunchy Brussels sprouts even better? Take out the prep work. “Since they’re already shaved, all you need is a simple dressing and some freshly chopped apples to have a perfect fall salad,” James says. If cooking is on the menu, you can also steam these right in the bag.
“Does it get more comforting than mac and cheese bites? And, it has lobster? That I can just air fry? Yes please.” James’ enthusiasm is understandable: These bites are a crispy, creamy, treat-yourself combo of macaroni, lobster, mozzarella, and cheddar. The snack-sized format makes them great for sharing, but you have our permission not to.
No pantry is complete without a tastes-homemade pasta sauce for quick suppers. This small-batch creation has seasonal flavor in spades, with hearty squash and hand-picked sage. “Butternut squash has that pleasantly earthy, naturally sweet taste,” James says. “Serve this over pasta or use it as a simmer sauce for chicken for easy weeknight dinner.”
Well well well, if it isn’t our favorite weeknight dinner hack — and pre-shredded for even easier prep! “I love that it’s ready to go,” James says. “I make my favorite chicken soup with it or use it to make comforting chicken quesadillas.”