The Roaring Twenties may have been all about jazz and flappers, but it was the Great Depression that truly put America’s culinary creativity to the test. With rationing and scarcity the norm, home cooks had to get inventive with the ingredients they had on hand. And yet, despite the challenges, some of the most beloved recipes from this era still manage to delight our taste buds today.
From classic comfort foods like meatloaf and mac ‘n cheese, to sweet treats that rely on pantry staples like oatmeal and Ritz crackers, these vintage 1930s recipes are a fascinating window into the culinary psyche of a bygone era. So if you’re feeling adventurous (or just plain nostalgic), grab your apron and get ready to dig in – we’ve got 18 retro recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings for nostalgia.
Depression-Era Meatloaf with Oatmeal
This classic recipe harkens back to the resourceful cooking of the Great Depression era, when simplicity and thriftiness were key. This meatloaf uses rolled oats as a binding agent instead of breadcrumbs, making it an affordable and satisfying option for families during a time of economic hardship.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Waldorf Salad with Apples and Walnuts
A classic salad gets a crunchy twist with the addition of fresh apples and toasted walnuts. This refreshing mix of greens, fruit, and nuts is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/2 cup toasted walnut halves
– 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, apple, walnuts, and grapes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tomato Soup Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A moist and flavorful cake infused with the warmth of tomato soup, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
For the frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add butter, eggs, diced tomatoes, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
6. For the frosting, beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Gradually add powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
8. Assemble and frost cake as desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mock Apple Pie Made with Ritz Crackers
This classic American dessert may not contain any actual apples, but it’s a delicious treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a mock apple pie that’s surprisingly reminiscent of the real thing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Ritz crackers, finely crushed
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed Ritz crackers, sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Pour in sweetened condensed milk and beaten egg; stir until smooth.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Corned Beef Hash with Fried Eggs
A comforting breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup corned beef hash (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the corned beef hash and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns.
3. Make 4 wells in the hash and crack an egg into each well.
4. Cook the eggs to desired doneness (sunny-side up or over easy).
5. Serve the fried eggs on top of the corned beef hash.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Peanut Butter Bread with Honey Drizzle
Peanut Butter Bread with Honey Drizzle: A deliciously moist loaf infused with the rich flavor of peanut butter, perfectly balanced by a sweet and sticky honey drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, butter, egg, and honey until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. While still warm, drizzle with additional honey.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jell-O Mold with Fruit Cocktail
Create a colorful and refreshing dessert with this easy-to-make Jell-O mold recipe. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup fruit cocktail, drained and chopped
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Fresh fruit slices or whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the boiling water. Let it soften for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the pineapple juice into a large bowl. Add the softened gelatin mixture and stir until combined.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until set.
5. To assemble, pour the chilled Jell-O mixture into individual molds or a large mold.
6. Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh fruit slices.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake dessert.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your mac and cheese game by adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping to this creamy, comforting dish. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
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 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add melted butter and cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spam and Pineapple Skewers
Add a tropical twist to your outdoor gatherings with these easy-to-make Spam and Pineapple Skewers. This sweet and savory combination is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup of pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and soy sauce.
3. Thread a piece of Spam, followed by a pineapple chunk, onto each skewer.
4. Brush the sugar-soy mixture evenly over the Spam and pineapple.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the Spam is caramelized and the pineapple is tender.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Paprika Garnish
Add a burst of smokiness and visual appeal to your classic deviled eggs by topping them with a sprinkle of paprika. This simple yet impressive appetizer or snack is perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for garnish)
– Chopped chives or parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on top of each deviled egg for added depth and visual appeal.
6. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Potato Pancakes with Sour Cream
Savor the taste of tender potato pancakes topped with a tangy dollop of sour cream. This comforting treat is perfect for a cozy brunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the beaten egg and melted butter; mix until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Stew with Dumplings
A comforting and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or a cold winter’s day. This recipe combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dumpling ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add flour, beef broth, and thyme; stir to combine.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven; braise for 2 hours.
6. Prepare dumplings: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add milk, stirring until a dough forms.
7. Roll out dough and cut into small pieces. Add dumplings to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Tuna Noodle Casserole with Potato Chips
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the taste of tuna, noodles, and potato chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as egg noodles or macaroni)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed potato chips
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked noodles to the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the noodle-tuna mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
7. Crush potato chips in a plastic bag or place them on a cutting board and crush with a rolling pin.
8. Sprinkle crushed potato chips evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Beans with Molasses and Bacon
This classic recipe gets a boost from the richness of molasses and the smokiness of bacon, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine the soaked and drained beans, onion, garlic, molasses, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Transfer the bean mixture to a baking dish and top with crumbled bacon.
5. Bake for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Servings: 6-8
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins
This classic dessert is a perfect treat on a chilly evening, with the sweetness of raisins and warmth of cinnamon. A simple recipe to delight your senses!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened.
4. Stir in the raisins and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon Sponge Pie with Meringue Topping
Brighten up your dessert table with this classic lemon sponge pie, topped with a fluffy meringue that adds a sweet and tangy contrast. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Meringue topping ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, lemon zest, and juice; mix until smooth.
4. Beat in egg whites until stiff peaks form.
5. Pour into a pie dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. To make meringue topping: Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Spread over warm pie and return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Moist, decadent, and utterly chocolatey, this cake is a classic dessert that’s sure to please any crowd. With the added richness of mayonnaise, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves a good chocolate fix.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and milk until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in mayonnaise and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This classic dessert is a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its caramelized pineapple rings and golden brown cake, it’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) pineapple juice
– 1 cup (240g) crushed pineapple
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add pineapple juice and crushed pineapple; mix well.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top. Arrange pineapple rings on top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
18 Vintage 1930s Recipes Delightfully Retro
Step back in time and indulge in these delightful retro recipes that were popular during the Great Depression era. From classic comfort foods like meatloaf with oatmeal and tomato soup cake with cream cheese frosting, to innovative uses of Ritz crackers and Spam, these vintage dishes are sure to transport you back to a bygone era. Try your hand at making mock apple pie, peanut butter bread, or even Jell-O mold with fruit cocktail – there’s something for every taste bud in this collection of 18 mouthwatering recipes from the 1930s.