Creamy Mushroom-Potato Gratin

Cacio e pepe is a social media sensation. Everywhere you look, there are live-action pasta lifts of creamy, pepper-flecked, twirl-worthy mounds of this classic pasta dish. But this "new" foodie fodder is actually rooted in ancient Roman cuisine. To learn how to make this marvel from scratch, Guillermo travels to New York’s Seaport district to meet with world renowned chef Jordan Frosolone, and learn how he makes his “Best of NYC” (an honor bestowed by New York Magazine) dish. Chef Jordan is currently the executive chef at 10 Corso Como, an imported Italian restaurant/gallery concept that has become a celebrity darling since its opening last year. From its kitchen he shows Guillermo how to make pasta from scratch the traditional way, and how to successfully make this incredibly simple dish, that just requires precision and attention to detail.

This easy slow cooker soup blends butternut squash, bell pepper, and carrots for deep natural sweetness. Blended until smooth and creamy, it's garnished with crispy cumin-roasted chickpeas for a nice textural contrast and a little extra heft. Get the recipe.

A humble ham bone is the basis of this hearty, classic soup. Carrots, onions, celery, and thyme add nuance to the savory broth, and white beans add bulk and creamy texture (some beans are mashed to thicken the soup, while some are left whole). Diced ham stirred in at the end makes this a filling, flavorful meal. Read more.

This comforting tomato soup is super easy and super delicious. Canned San Marzano tomatoes marry with soft, sautéed onions and garlic, a pinch of red pepper, and chicken broth to create a soothing, savory bowl. Finished with a bit of cream, this is begging for a grilled cheese sandwich on the side. But really, it tastes great with lots of things, as well as on its own (though a basil and Parmesan garnish doesn't hurt). Read more.

Split pea soup is a comfort food classic, and this version couldn't be easier. Just place dried split peas in your slow cooker, top them with diced mirepoix (carrot, celery, and onion), plus some garlic, parsley, and bay leaf. Add a ham bone or ham hocks for a little smoky meatiness, and cover it all with chicken or vegetable stock, then turn on the crockpot and walk away. The result is creamy, hearty, and freezes well, so you can make a big batch to keep extra on hand for the next time you need a soothing soup, stat. Read more.

A simple and supremely satisfying dessert, rice pudding is pure comfort in a bowl. It's easy to get there too! Just simmer white rice with whole milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the grains are tender, plump, and creamy, then stir in a little vanilla or almond extract while the pudding's still warm. Top however you like (fresh berries in season, dried fruit, toasted nuts for a crunchy contrast, a sprinkle of cinnamon)—you really can't go wrong. Read more.