Get ready to rev up your taste buds, because we’re taking a road trip down memory lane to revisit some of the most mouthwatering diner drive-ins and dives recipes from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. For those who are new to the show, it’s a culinary journey that takes us across America, highlighting local eateries and their signature dishes. And for fans of the show, you know how it is – there’s nothing quite like a warm, gooey cheeseburger or a plate of crispy, golden fried chicken to hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From classic Philly cheesesteak sandwiches to loaded bacon-wrapped meatloaf and everything in between, these dishes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. So buckle up, folks – it’s time to take a culinary road trip!
Classic Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
This iconic sandwich is a staple of Philadelphia’s culinary scene. Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions are the perfect combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
– 4 hoagie rolls (preferably Amoroso)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 8 ounces Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each hoagie roll.
3. Place the beef slices on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, sauté the onions in butter until caramelized.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the beef and onions onto the prepared hoagie rolls.
6. Top with sliced cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Southern Fried Chicken with Honey Butter
Savor the sweet and crispy combination of Southern-style fried chicken smothered in a rich honey butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove fried chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
6. In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Stir in honey until smooth.
7. Toss fried chicken in the honey butter sauce until coated.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
Elevate your comfort food game with this show-stopping recipe! A savory meatloaf wrapped in crispy bacon, smothered in a rich brown gravy and loaded with melted cheddar cheese and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/4 cup brown gravy mix
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and wrap with bacon slices, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the brown gravy by mixing brown gravy mix with water in a small bowl.
6. Remove from oven and top with caramelized onions and shredded cheddar cheese. Serve hot.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1/2 cup of thinly sliced onions in 2 tbsp butter over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
Homemade Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make macaroni and cheese recipe, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Optional: paprika or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, juicy pulled pork sliders smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 slider buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in BBQ sauce.
6. Split the slider buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble the sliders by spooning the pulled pork onto the buns, topping with coleslaw if desired.
Cook Time: 8-10 hours (or 4-5 hours on high pressure cook)
Double Cheeseburger with Special Sauce
Elevate your burger game with this classic combination of juicy beef patties, melted cheese, and a tangy special sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 hamburger buns
– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 slices American cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form ground beef into two patties and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading special sauce (see below) on the bottom bun, followed by a beef patty, cheese slice, and any desired toppings.
6. Top with the top bun.
Special Sauce:
– Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup
This Southern-inspired comfort food gets a sweet upgrade with the addition of pure Canadian maple syrup. Crispy fried chicken pairs perfectly with fluffy, buttery waffles and a drizzle of golden maple goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups waffle mix
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured chicken in buttermilk, then coat with a second layer of flour.
5. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes).
6. While chicken is cooking, prepare waffles according to package instructions.
7. Drizzle maple syrup over warm waffles and top with fried chicken.
Cooking Time:
– Waffles: about 3-4 minutes per batch
– Chicken: about 5-6 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy with Remoulade
A classic New Orleans sandwich gets a seafood twist with this recipe, featuring succulent shrimp, crispy bread, and tangy remoulade.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 Po’ Boy rolls
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce and tomato, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge the cooked shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Assemble the Po’ Boys by placing the floured shrimp on toasted bread, topped with lettuce and tomato.
6. Serve immediately with remoulade sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Brisket Tacos with Pickled Onions
Take your taco game to the next level with tender, slow-cooked beef brisket and tangy pickled onions. This recipe combines bold flavors and textures for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled onions (see below for recipe)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine brisket, lime juice, beer (if using), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 4-5 hours or until the beef is tender.
4. Shred the brisket with two forks and season with additional lime juice if needed.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with shredded brisket, pickled onions, and desired toppings.
Pickled Onions Recipe:
– 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt, to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (braising) + 20-30 seconds (warming tortillas)
Buffalo Chicken Wings with Blue Cheese Dip
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this classic combination of spicy buffalo chicken wings and tangy blue cheese dip!
Ingredients:
For the wings:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
For the blue cheese dip:
– 8 ounces blue cheese crumbles
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken wings, Frank’s RedHot sauce, butter, vinegar, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings in a single layer and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine blue cheese crumbles, sour cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
5. Serve the buffalo chicken wings with the creamy blue cheese dip and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes (wings) + 5 minutes (dip preparation)
Reuben Sandwich with Thousand Island Dressing
A nostalgic twist on the classic sandwich, this recipe combines the savory flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese with the tangy zip of Thousand Island dressing.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of rye bread
- 8 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
- Thousand Island dressing, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
- Slice the corned beef thinly and place two slices on each bread half.
- Top with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and butter.
- Assemble the sandwiches and cook in the panini press or grill for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
- Serve immediately with Thousand Island dressing on the side.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chili Cheese Fries with Jalapeños
Spice up your snack game with this mouth-watering Chili Cheese Fries recipe featuring the added kick of jalapeños!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of French fries (frozen or fresh)
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of diced green jalapeño peppers
– 1 tablespoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the French fries according to package instructions until crispy.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy.
4. Add diced jalapeño peppers and paprika to the cheese mixture. Stir well.
5. Pour the chili cheese mixture over the baked French fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Monte Cristo Sandwich with Raspberry Jam
Elevate your sandwich game with this sweet and savory twist on the classic Monte Cristo. The addition of raspberry jam adds a fruity and tangy touch to the ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of cooked ham
– 2 slices of cooked turkey breast
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup of raspberry jam
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a slice of ham, a slice of turkey, and a slice of Swiss cheese.
5. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of raspberry jam on top of the cheese.
6. Place another bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
9. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Pork Belly Burnt Ends with BBQ Glaze
Pork Belly Burnt Ends with BBQ Glaze Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, caramelized Pork Belly Burnt Ends smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. This recipe is perfect for outdoor gatherings or a cozy night in with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork belly pieces, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork belly pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 2 hours or until tender.
5. While the pork is roasting, heat the BBQ glaze in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. After the pork has roasted for 2 hours, brush the BBQ glaze all over the pieces.
7. Return the pork to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Fish and Chips with Tartar Sauce
This timeless British favorite combines crispy battered fish, golden fries, and a tangy tartar sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod or haddock fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beer batter mix
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chips (fries)
– Salt, to taste
– Tartar sauce:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the batter by mixing flour, beer batter mix, and salt.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Fry the battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Cook potatoes in boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
6. Drain potatoes and fry in hot oil for 2-3 minutes, or until crispy.
7. Mix tartar sauce ingredients together.
8. Serve fish with chips and a dollop of tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Loaded Nachos with Guacamole and Sour Cream
Loaded Nachos with Guacamole and Sour Cream Recipe
Get ready to devour a deliciously loaded nacho platter, topped with creamy guacamole and a dollop of sour cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken or beef (optional)
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Guacamole recipe (see below)
– Sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together black beans, cheese, chicken or beef (if using), red bell pepper, and jalapeño.
4. Spread the bean mixture evenly over the tortilla chips.
5. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle garlic over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of guacamole and sour cream.
Guacamole Recipe:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
Breakfast Burrito with Sausage and Eggs
Start your day off right with a flavorful breakfast burrito packed with juicy sausage, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 flour tortillas (8-10 inches)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, onions, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and scramble them with a fork. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the scrambled eggs and stir to combine with the sausage. Cook until the eggs are almost set, about 3-4 minutes more.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by spooning the egg and sausage mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then top with shredded cheese. Fold the bottom half up, then fold in the sides and roll into a tight cylinder.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
A classic comfort dessert, this Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers is a simple and indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy wafers come together in a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 12-16 Vanilla Wafers
– Whipped cream and additional wafers for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix, milk, and salt until smooth.
2. Stir in the sliced bananas and heavy cream.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, arrange Vanilla Wafers in individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Pour the chilled pudding over the wafers.
6. Top with whipped cream and additional wafers, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some mouthwatering diner-inspired recipes! Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives has shared its most popular recipes, featuring classic comfort food with a twist. From Philly cheesesteaks to loaded meatloaf, BBQ pulled pork sliders to breakfast burritos, these 18 recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With dishes ranging from familiar favorites to innovative twists, this collection is perfect for anyone looking to spice up their cooking routine or impress friends and family with a delicious meal. So, grab a fork and dig in!
