• Macaroni and cheesemacaroni and cheese image by JJAVA from Fotolia.com
  
  Comfort food is food that's considered soothing during times of fatigue, illness or stress and is often something that was served during a person's childhood, which brings back fond memories. It is usually high in calories and carbohydrates. Favorite comfort foods vary according to culture and taste preference.
  
  

Macaroni and Cheese

• Whether it is the boxed kind or homemade with pasta noodles and different kinds of cheese, macaroni and cheese is a favorite comfort food. It is warm, filling, has a mild taste and is high in calories and carbohydrates. It's also a food many people remember eating during childhood.
  
  

Fried Chicken

• Fried chicken is a popular food for many, especially in the South. Many people like the crispy fried breading, and it can be served warm or cold. It is a common picnic item and is served at summer holidays, such as the Fourth of July.
  
  

Apple Pie

• Apple pie is considered an American tradition. It typically has apple filling with cinnamon or other spices. It can be served warm or cold and is often topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  
  

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches

• Many people remember having peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in childhood. They can be made with a variety of jelly flavors--though grape is the one most commonly used--crunchy or smooth peanut butter and a wide variety of breads. Cut the crusts off the sides to achieve the full effect.
  
  

Mashed Potatoes

• Mashed potatoes are commonly served on holidays, which creates a positive association. They typically are made with milk, butter and even cheese, making them warm, soft, rich and filling.
  
  

Pizza

• Pizza can have many different toppings--the most common of which include mozzarella and pepperoni--so it can please a wide variety of people. Many people began eating pizza in childhood, and it can be a fast, filling, warm food option.
  
  

Pasta

• There are many different kinds of pasta and even more ways to serve them, including with pasta sauce or as part of a baked dish. Pasta is a warm, soft food that can be bland or spicy, depending on how it is prepared.
  
  

Hamburgers

• A hamburger is considered an American staple. Hamburgers generally offer a combination of grease, salt, cheese, bread and accompanying condiments, such as mustard and ketchup, or toppings, such as cheese or lettuce and tomatoes.
  
  

Chicken Soup

• Chicken soup often is served during times of illness, and recipes frequently are passed down through generations. It includes warm broth, chicken, soft noodles, and vegetables, creating what a soothing combination.
  
  

Cake

• Cake is soft, warm, moist and sweet and comes in many different varieties. If you have a sweet tooth, chocolate might be your favorite, while if you prefer rich and smooth, a red velvet cake might do the trick.