Are you looking for hearty, comforting meals that remind you of grandma’s kitchen? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 classic, old-fashioned dinner recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From beef pot roast with carrots and potatoes to baked ham with pineapple and brown sugar glaze, these timeless dishes are perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Whether you’re a fan of comforting casseroles, savory stews, or good old-fashioned comfort food, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your apron, put on some classic tunes, and get ready to cook up some nostalgia with these 18 hearty old-fashioned dinner recipes that are sure to become new classics.
Beef Pot Roast with Carrots and Potatoes
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef pot roast (such as chuck or round)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Homemade Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This homemade meatloaf recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup tomato glaze (see below for recipe)
– Optional: chopped onion, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, brown sugar, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the tomato glaze by combining 1 cup of ketchup with 2 tbsp of brown sugar and 1 tsp of dried oregano.
6. During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the tomato glaze over the meatloaf.
7. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
Slow-Cooked Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Recipe
Tender pork chops slow-cooked in a rich apple cider and onion sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1/2 inch thick)
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 3-4 apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety), peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and cook until browned on both sides (about 5 minutes).
3. Transfer pork chops to the slow cooker. Top with sliced onions and apples.
4. Sprinkle cinnamon, salt, and pepper evenly over the top.
5. Pour in apple cider and add brown sugar. Mix well.
6. Cook for 8 hours or until pork chops are tender and falling apart.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Serve hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Chicken and Dumplings from Scratch
This classic comfort food recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté chicken, carrots, and celery in butter until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add flour, salt, and pepper to the pot; stir for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the soup is hot and bubbly.
6. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the pot; cover with a lid.
8. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Glaze
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory baked ham recipe, featuring a sticky pineapple and brown sugar glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pineapple rings, fresh or canned
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, pineapple juice, mustard, honey, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on top of the ham.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef
Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a classic recipe that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes or until the liquid has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture, making sure to cover it evenly.
7. Dot the top of the potatoes with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Fried Chicken with Cream Gravy
Experience the classic comfort of Southern-style fried chicken paired with a rich and creamy gravy.
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 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cream Gravy:
+ 2 tablespoons butter
+ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
+ 1 cup heavy cream
+ Salt and pepper to taste
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 excess oil.
6. For the Cream Gravy, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total cooking time. Serve hot and enjoy!
Beef Stew with Red Wine and Herbs
Beef Stew with Red Wine and Herbs: A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Corned Beef and Cabbage with Mustard Sauce
Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage with Mustard Sauce Recipe
Classic comfort food at its finest, this recipe combines tender corned beef, crisp cabbage, and a tangy mustard sauce for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb corned beef brisket
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Place the corned beef in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, fat side up.
3. Add the shredded cabbage, butter, flour, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until the cabbage is evenly coated.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until the corned beef is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with the juices spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Old-Fashioned Chicken Pot Pie
Classic Old-Fashioned Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
This comforting dish brings back memories of homey warmth and satisfying flavors. Our recipe for Old-Fashioned Chicken Pot Pie combines tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky pastry crust to create a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture thickens.
4. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Crimp the edges of the crust and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
A comforting classic gets a crunchy twist! This recipe combines al dente macaroni, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Roast Turkey with Sage Stuffing
This classic Thanksgiving recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted turkey with a savory sage stuffing, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bread, cubed (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub all over the turkey.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven. Roast for about 4-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the stuffing by sautéing the chopped sage in butter until fragrant. Add bread, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. After the turkey has roasted for about 3-1/2 hours, remove it from the oven and spoon the sage stuffing into the turkey’s cavity.
7. Return the turkey to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 30 minutes or until the stuffing is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours total
Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy
Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of pork chops paired with a savory mushroom gravy, all in one delicious dish!
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Pan-fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté onions and mushrooms until tender.
4. Add garlic, chicken broth, butter, mustard, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until smooth.
5. Simmer gravy for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve pork chops with warm mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy!
Braised Short Ribs with Mashed Potatoes
Tender short ribs slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce and served with creamy mashed potatoes – a comforting classic.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot; cover and transfer to oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
7. About 45 minutes before serving, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (including braising time)
Tuna Noodle Casserole with Peas and Cheese
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with protein, noodles, and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 8 oz. egg noodles
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, peas, and shredded cheese.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the tuna mixture. Pour in the cheese sauce and mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Liver and Onions with Bacon Gravy
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this liver and onions recipe is a hearty meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef liver, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Add the onions and garlic to the same skillet and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the liver to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth and flour. Pour into the skillet with the liver mixture and stir to combine.
5. Simmer the gravy for 2-3 minutes or until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the liver and onions hot, topped with crispy bacon and spoon over with the rich bacon gravy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Beans with Molasses and Salt Pork
This recipe combines the richness of molasses with the smoky flavor of salt pork to create a unique twist on classic baked beans. Perfect for a comforting side dish or a hearty main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound salt pork, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or bean pot, combine soaked and drained navy beans, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chopped onion and salt pork pieces on top of the bean mixture.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened into a rich sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Summary
Get ready to warm up your taste buds with these 18 hearty, old-fashioned dinner recipes that are sure to become classics! From comforting pot roasts and meatloaves to decadent baked hams and casseroles, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich beef stew or a satisfying shepherd’s pie, these tried-and-true recipes are guaranteed to hit the spot. So go ahead, get cozy, and let the comforting aromas of these classic dinners fill your home.
