There’s something special about cooking up a pot of old-fashioned goodness. Maybe it’s the comforting aromas that fill your home, or the sense of nostalgia that comes with serving up a dish that’s been passed down through generations. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying the appeal of classic recipes that never go out of style.
In this article, we’re going back to our roots and revisiting some of the most beloved old-fashioned recipes from grandma’s kitchen. From hearty stews and comforting casseroles to sweet treats and savory snacks, we’ve got you covered with 21 classic recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Old Fashioned Beef Stew
This comforting stew is a staple of traditional cooking, perfect for a cold winter’s night. With tender chunks of beef and a rich broth, it’s a meal that will warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes, then set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add the carrots and potatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add the browned beef, broth, wine, and thyme.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Southern Buttermilk Biscuits
Get ready to sink your teeth into the fluffiest, most tender biscuits you’ve ever tasted! This classic Southern recipe is a staple for any breakfast or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and beaten egg. Stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times, just until the dough holds together.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch thickness. Cut into squares or use a biscuit cutter for a more rustic look.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Apple Pie
Experience the warmth and comfort of a homemade apple pie with this simple recipe that yields a deliciously flaky crust and tender, flavorful filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out one pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with butter pieces.
4. Roll out second pie crust to fit top of pie. Place on top and crimp edges to seal.
5. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Grandma’s Chicken and Dumplings
Grandma’s Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
A classic comfort food recipe that warms the heart and fills the belly! This recipe is a staple of many family gatherings, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken in butter until cooked through.
2. Add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Gradually add the flour, whisking constantly, then gradually add the broth, whisking until smooth.
4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. To make dumplings, combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water, stirring until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into small squares or strips.
7. Add dumplings to the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Traditional Cornbread
Warm up with a slice of traditional cornbread, perfect for accompanying your favorite soups, stews, or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Meatloaf with Glaze
A hearty and flavorful meatloaf recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This classic dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Glaze: 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, brown sugar, egg, onion, and cheese. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Brush the glaze over the meatloaf during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vintage Tomato Soup
Step back into the past with this rich and comforting tomato soup recipe, reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen. Perfect for a cozy evening or a family gathering, this classic soup is sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes), broth, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pot Roast
Savor a tender and flavorful pot roast with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef pot roast (such as chuck or rump)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onion over medium heat until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Place the pot roast in the slow cooker, followed by the cooked onion mixture and beef broth.
6. If using red wine, pour it in last.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Buttery Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the softened butter, heavy cream or milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Old Fashioned Pancakes
Start your day with a warm and comforting breakfast that’s sure to become a family favorite! These classic pancakes are made with simple ingredients and require minimal effort, making them a perfect choice for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes to make a batch of 8 pancakes.
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a sweet treat by making these soft and fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll be enjoying a warm, gooey roll in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Spread with your favorite filling (e.g., butter, brown sugar, or cinnamon).
6. Roll up tightly, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Southern Fried Chicken
Classic Southern Fried Chicken Recipe
Get ready for a taste of the South with this crispy and juicy fried chicken recipe!
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
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Pour the buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grandma’s Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies are a timeless favorite, perfect for snacking or sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Country-Style Green Beans
This classic Southern-style green bean recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy the season’s freshest beans. Pan-fried with crispy onions, garlic, and a hint of smokiness from bacon, these green beans are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the green beans, garlic, and cooked bacon to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
6. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Classic Beef Pot Pie
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this classic beef pot pie is a staple of British cuisine. With tender beef, flaky pastry, and rich gravy, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and potatoes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with the beef mixture and dot with butter.
6. Roll out remaining pie crust and use to cover the filling. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Perfect Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Get ready to taste the crispiest, juiciest fried chicken of your life with this simple recipe. With a tender buttermilk marinade and crunchy coating, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Traditional Bread Pudding
Traditional Bread Pudding Recipe
A classic dessert that combines stale bread with sweet ingredients, this traditional bread pudding recipe is a comforting treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
This traditional bread pudding recipe is perfect for using up stale bread and making a delicious dessert that’s sure to please any crowd.
Slow-Cooked Baked Beans
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for BBQs or family gatherings, these slow-cooked baked beans are sweet and smoky, with a rich depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (130°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine soaked beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add apple cider vinegar and stir until well combined.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 8-10 hours or overnight (9 pm to 6 am).
5. Remove from oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Vintage Peach Cobbler
Transport yourself back to a simpler time with this classic peach cobbler recipe, featuring tender peaches and a buttery, crumbly crust. This dessert is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 1/2 cups biscuit or cobbler topping mix (see below)
Biscuit Topping:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour peach mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Prepare biscuit topping by combining dry ingredients in a bowl. Cut in cold butter with a pastry blender or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Sprinkle biscuit topping evenly over peach mixture.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Nostalgic and moist, this classic banana bread recipe is a staple for any occasion. Fresh bananas, warm spices, and a hint of vanilla come together to create a deliciously comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Classic Deviled Eggs
Classic Deviled Eggs Recipe
Elevate your party or gathering with these creamy, savory deviled eggs that never go out of style.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
2. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth, then stir in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
4. Sprinkle the tops with chives or paprika, if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just prepare and chill.
Summary
Get ready to bring back the good ol’ days with these 21 classic recipes that your grandma would love. From hearty comfort foods like Old Fashioned Beef Stew and Slow-Cooked Pot Roast, to sweet treats like Homemade Apple Pie and Grandma’s Sugar Cookies, this collection has something for everyone. Also featured are traditional favorites like Southern Buttermilk Biscuits, Classic Meatloaf with Glaze, and Vintage Tomato Soup. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or just want to cook up some good old-fashioned comfort, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.