Old-school recipes are like that comfy old sweater you can’t bring yourself to toss — timeless, reliable, and just plain great. These dishes are the ones you should still be making, not just for the nostalgia, but because they’re quick, easy, and hit the spot every time. Plus, who doesn’t need a break from the latest food trends? Let’s get back to basics with these classic recipes that never go out of style.
German Potato Salad
German Potato Salad is a hearty dish, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. With tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a tangy dressing, it’s ready in under an hour. Boil the potatoes, cook the bacon, and toss with apple cider vinegar, mustard, and bacon drippings. Serve it warm for a comforting side dish.
Get the Recipe: German Potato Salad
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a go-to for weeknight family dinners, taking less than an hour to make. It’s straightforward to prepare and reheats well, so leftovers are super convenient. A comforting dish that’s perfect for any busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Broccoli Casserole
Broccoli Casserole is a solid family dinner option that’s ready in just 50 minutes. Easy to make, it’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking to spend less time in the kitchen. A comforting dish that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts are ready in just an hour and feature crisp bacon, tender water chestnuts, and a tasty sauce. Perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, and game-day events. These bites are always a hit at any get-together.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. With bacon, potatoes, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, it’s easy to make and great for prepping ahead. Perfect for when you want something hearty and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Tuna Macaroni Salad
Tuna Macaroni Salad is a budget-friendly meal you can whip up in just 40 minutes. With ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, it’s perfect for beginner cooks. Great for meal prepping workday lunches, weeknight dinners, or taking to a potluck. Just cook some elbow macaroni and mix it with canned tuna, hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, sweet relish, and mustard. Want to mix things up? Try different types of mustard or swap some mayo for Greek yogurt or sour cream. This dish will totally remind you of those tuna salads from when you were a kid.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
These Shake and Bake Pork Chops are an easy way to get crispy pork chops without frying, all in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a family favorite and super simple to whip up. Pair them with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad. You could even throw in some applesauce or roasted veggies to round it out.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Beer Cheese Dip
Beer Cheese Dip is a quick and easy appetizer, ready in just 25 minutes. It’s creamy and flavorful, perfect for game days or casual hangouts. Melt some butter, make a roux with flour, then add milk and beer. Season it and melt in a trio of cheeses for a smooth finish. Great for dipping pretzels or veggies!
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip
Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are a breeze to make and require only four ingredients. Mix peanut butter (or a peanut-free alternative), melted butter, and powdered sweetener, then chill the mixture. Roll into balls, freeze, and dip in melted chocolate. With minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of these sweet treats ready in no time. Perfect for the holiday season or whenever you need a quick, nostalgic dessert.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is ready in under an hour, making it perfect for any day of the week. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prep in advance, and the leftovers freeze well. Super simple to make and a hit with both kids and adults, this casserole brings back the cozy vibes of the tater tot casseroles you grew up with.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is just right for slow mornings, holidays, or weekend brunches. It mixes hash browns, bacon, eggs, cheese, and cottage cheese for a hearty meal. Feel free to tweak it to fit your taste. A great way to start the day with a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are a great appetizer that stands out. Made with simple ingredients, they can be prepped ahead for easy hosting. These mushrooms are always a hit and add a nostalgic touch to any gathering. Pair them with a cheese platter, some crackers, or a veggie tray for a perfect spread.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Chicken Corn Soup
This Chicken Corn Soup is a classic that comes together in one pot. Ready in under an hour, it’s got tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy night in, it’s just like the comforting soups you grew up with. Pair it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a breeze to make, even if you’re new to cooking. Just prep your ingredients, toss them into your slow cooker, and let it do the work. Cook it on low to simmer all day, or set it to high if you need it ready sooner. Great for a comforting, no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
7-Layer Dip
7-Layer Dip is perfect for any gathering, from game day parties to potlucks. It’s meat-free and takes just 25 minutes to make. Start with refried beans mixed with taco seasoning and milk, then add layers of guacamole, sour cream mixed with cream cheese, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and black olives. Assemble in a 9×13 dish and refrigerate until ready to serve. Grab some tortilla chips and dig in!
Get the Recipe: 7-Layer Dip
Tuna Egg Salad
Tuna Egg Salad is a quick and easy meal you can whip up in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a fast dinner or a make-ahead lunch. Just hard-boil some eggs, mash them, and mix with canned albacore tuna, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, pickles, and seasonings. A creamy, protein-packed salad that’s a nice throwback to those classic tuna salads.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Egg Salad
White Bean Soup
This White Bean Soup is a great one-pot recipe that’s ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s an old-school dinner option that brings back the comfort of home-cooked meals. Blend half the beans, sauté onion, carrots, and celery, then add garlic and herbs. Pour in broth, pureed beans, and whole beans, then simmer. Stir in spinach until wilted, add Parmesan and lemon juice. Serve with croutons and extra cheese. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup
Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a mix of ground Italian sausage, eggs, and shredded cheese, all ready in 50 minutes. It stores well, making it great for meal-prepping breakfasts on busy weekdays. Packed with protein, it’s perfect for family breakfasts and has that hearty morning vibe.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Baked Ravioli
Baked Ravioli is perfect for busy weeknights, giving you the taste of lasagna with way less effort. Using frozen cheese ravioli cuts down on prep time. Just layer marinara sauce and melted cheeses, and you’ve got a great meal in an hour. A super easy way to enjoy those classic Italian flavors.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli