There is a specific magic to Sunday evening. The frenetic energy of the weekend begins to settle, the sun dips lower in the sky, and the thought of the week ahead starts to creep in. This is the perfect time to reclaim the day with a ritual as old as time: the Sunday Supper.

It doesn’t have to be fancy. In fact, it shouldn’t be. Sunday Supper is about comfort, abundance, and the ease of passing a heavy bowl of something warm across a table.

Here are three of our favorite recipes designed to feed a crowd and soothe the soul.

1. The "Welcome Home" Pot Roast

This dish does all the work while you sit on the porch. It fills the house with a savory, deep aroma that says "someone is taking care of you."

• The Secret: Sear the meat hard before braising. That dark crust is where all the flavor lives.
• The Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes that have more butter than you think is reasonable, and simple roasted carrots.
• The Vibe: Put the whole pot in the center of the table and let everyone dig in.

2. Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter

If you have a cast-iron skillet, this is its moment to shine. This cornbread is crispy on the edges, tender in the middle, and just sweet enough to make you close your eyes when you take a bite.

• The Trick: Pre-heat the skillet in the oven with a tablespoon of bacon grease or butter before pouring in the batter. Listen for the sizzle.
• The Topping: Whip room-temperature butter with local honey and a pinch of sea salt. Don't skip this.

3. Late Summer Tomato Pie

When the garden is overflowing, this savory pie is the answer. It’s rich, bright, and tastes like August sunshine.

• The Prep: Slice your tomatoes and salt them heavily. Let them sit on paper towels for 20 minutes to draw out the moisture. This prevents a soggy crust.
• The Filling: A mixture of sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and fresh basil binds the tomatoes together.
• The Finish: Let it cool for at least an hour before slicing, or it will fall apart. It’s actually better at room temperature.

The food is important, but remember: the goal isn't a perfect meal. The goal is a full table. Invite the neighbors. Open a bottle of wine. Let the conversation linger long after the plates are cleared.