23 of grandma’s go-to comfort food classics

Photo of author

| Published:

When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like the tried-and-true recipes passed down from our grandmothers. These 23 dishes are the ones that our grandmas have been perfecting for generations, each one filled with the warmth and love of home cooking. They’re straightforward, no-nonsense meals that have stood the test of time, offering a taste of nostalgia and simplicity.

Salisbury Steak on a bed of mashed potatoes.
Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Buckwheat Kasha With Camarelized Mushrooms and Onions

Three bowls of buckwheat kasha with mushrooms and greens.
Buckwheat Kasha With Camarelized Mushrooms and Onions. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Buckwheat kasha with caramelized mushrooms and onions is a dish that takes us back to Grandma’s kitchen, ready in 45 minutes. It pairs the robust flavor of buckwheat with the natural sweetness of mushrooms and onions. The combination creates a comforting taste with a homey, chewy texture. It’s a classic that stands the test of time, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Buckwheat Kasha With Camarelized Mushrooms and Onions

Paprika Potatoes and Mushrooms

Overhead view of plate of potatoes and mushrooms.
Paprika Potatoes and Mushrooms. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Bringing a taste of Grandma’s home cooking to your table, paprika potatoes and mushrooms is a dish that’s both straightforward and satisfying, taking less than an hour to prepare. The smoky paprika pairs wonderfully with the earthy taste of potatoes and mushrooms. It’s a rustic, no-fuss classic that’s as hearty as it is delicious. This dish is a testament to the simple, yet rich flavors of Grandma’s go-to comfort foods.
Get the Recipe: Paprika Potatoes and Mushrooms

Pumpkin Chiffon Pie

Whole pumpkin chiffon pie surrounded by fall greenery.
Pumpkin Chiffon Pie. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Grandma’s Pumpkin Chiffon Pie is a lighter alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, requiring about 3 hours including chill time. With a blend of pumpkin puree and whipped cream, it offers a smooth, mousse-like filling with a taste of fall spices. This pie is a cherished recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia to every bite. It’s a sweet end to any meal, just like Grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Chiffon Pie

Vegetarian Ukrainian Borscht

Two bowls of beet soup on a wooden table.
Vegetarian Ukrainian Borscht. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Vegetarian Ukrainian borscht, a beloved recipe from Grandma’s collection, takes about 2 hours to simmer to perfection. This vibrant soup marries the earthy sweetness of beets with a variety of vegetables for a hearty bowl. Its complex layers of flavor make it a comforting classic, with a taste that warms from the inside out. It’s a time-honored dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Ukrainian Borscht

Homemade Matzo Ball Soup

Close up on 3 matzo balls in soup.
Homemade Matzo Ball Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Homemade matzo ball soup is a staple in Grandma’s recipe book, ready in about 1 hour. This soup brings together light, fluffy matzo balls in a savory broth with vegetables. Its comforting taste and homestyle appeal make it a favorite for family occasions. This classic soup is a warm hug in a bowl, just like Grandma used to serve.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Matzo Ball Soup

Chicken And Corn Noodle Soup

Chicken corn noodle soup in bowl with spoon.
Chicken And Corn Noodle Soup. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Chicken and Corn Noodle Soup, a 30-minute recipe, echoes the comfort of Grandma’s kitchen. It combines the simplicity of chicken, corn, and noodles in a savory broth for a taste that feels like home. This soup is a timeless comfort food classic that’s both nourishing and satisfying. It’s a dish that brings back memories of cozy afternoons spent at Grandma’s table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken And Corn Noodle Soup

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Hands holding paprika chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies, a dish that can be ready in 45 minutes, is a nod to Grandma’s efficient and flavorful cooking. The combination of paprika-seasoned chicken and roasted vegetables offers a taste that’s both smoky and slightly sweet. It’s a one-pan meal that embodies the practicality and heartiness of Grandma’s go-to classics. This recipe is perfect for a fuss-free family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Air Fryer Apple Crisp

Forkfull of Air Fryer Apple Crisp.
Air Fryer Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Grandma’s Air Fryer Apple Crisp brings a traditional favorite into the modern kitchen, ready in just 25 minutes. The tart apples and cinnamon-spiced crumble deliver a classic taste with a crispy texture. It’s a dessert that encapsulates the warmth of Grandma’s cooking in a quick and easy format. This apple crisp is a testament to timeless flavors made accessible for today’s home cooks.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Salisbury Steak on a bed of mashed potatoes.
Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms, a 35-minute recipe, is a savory classic straight from Grandma’s repertoire. The ground beef steak and mushroom gravy create a rich, umami-packed taste. It’s a dish that offers the heartiness of a home-cooked meal, reminiscent of family dinners at Grandma’s house. This comfort food staple is both satisfying and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings

A bowl of chicken and dumplings with a spoon and parsley.
Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings, a 30-minute recipe, captures the essence of Grandma’s comforting home cooking. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft dumplings combine for a buttery and savory flavor. This dish is a tribute to the cherished comfort classics that Grandma would serve. It’s a taste of nostalgia that’s as comforting as it is familiar.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings

Argentinian Empanadas

Empanadas on a plate.
Argentinian Empanadas. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Argentinian Empanadas, which take about 1 hour to make, are a versatile classic from Grandma’s kitchen. Filled with a savory mix of vegetables and spices, they offer a range of flavors encased in a flaky pastry. The taste is a delightful fusion of tradition and comfort, perfect for any family gathering. These empanadas are a testament to Grandma’s love for sharing hearty, hand-held treats.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanadas

Ukha Russian Fish Soup

Overhead view of blue bowl of soup.
Ukha Russian Fish Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Ukha Russian Fish Soup, a classic recipe that takes about 1 hour, is a staple from Grandma’s collection. The clear broth, made with fresh fish and vegetables, has a delicate taste that’s both comforting and light. This soup is a cherished dish that brings the simplicity and purity of Grandma’s cooking to the table. It’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for seafood enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Ukha Russian Fish Soup

Lemon rosemary shortbread cookies

A tray of cookies with rosemary sprigs on it.
Lemon rosemary shortbread cookies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Lemon rosemary shortbread cookies, ready in 45 minutes, are a refreshing twist on Grandma’s traditional shortbread. The zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary create a taste that’s both buttery and bright. These cookies are a classic treat with a modern twist, reflecting Grandma’s ability to innovate while maintaining the essence of comfort. They’re perfect for sharing over a cup of tea, just like in Grandma’s day.
Get the Recipe: Lemon rosemary shortbread cookies

My grandmother’s peach Swiss roll (gluten-free)

A cake topped with peaches and flowers.
My grandmother’s peach Swiss roll (gluten-free). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

My grandmother’s peach Swiss roll, a gluten-free dessert that takes about 1 hour, is a cherished family recipe. The combination of juicy peaches and a light sponge cake offers a taste of summer in every slice. This Swiss roll is a comforting classic that brings back sweet memories of Grandma’s baking. It’s a testament to her knack for creating delicious treats that cater to everyone’s needs.
Get the Recipe: My grandmother’s peach Swiss roll (gluten-free)

Grandma’s Cornbread

Overhead shot of cornbread in a cast iron skillet with a single slice cut out.
Grandma’s Cornbread. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grandma’s Cornbread, ready in 25 minutes, is a down-to-earth side dish that has graced family tables for generations. Made with cornmeal and a hint of sweetness, it offers a taste that’s both comforting and familiar. This cornbread is a versatile classic that pairs well with a variety of meals, just like Grandma used to make. It’s a simple yet satisfying bread that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Cornbread

Mujadara

White casserole dish with middle eastern mujadara.
Mujadara. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Mujadara, a humble yet hearty dish that takes about 1 hour to prepare, is a staple from Grandma’s kitchen. The earthy lentils and sweet caramelized onions create a comforting taste that’s both nutritious and filling. This Middle Eastern classic is a testament to Grandma’s love for simple, wholesome cooking. Mujadara is a comforting bowl of home that’s perfect for any family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara

Chocolate Gluten-Free Rugelach

Chocolate croissants on a plate with a cup of coffee.
Chocolate Gluten-Free Rugelach Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chocolate gluten-free rugelach, which take about 2 hours to make, are a sweet nod to Grandma’s inclusive baking. The chocolate dough and cinnamon filling offer a rich and warm taste that’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities. These pastries are a classic treat from Grandma’s kitchen, ensuring everyone can enjoy her comforting baked goods. Rugelach is a testament to her belief that delicious treats should be shared by all.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Gluten-Free Rugelach

Lemon Cake Pie

A slice of lemon pie with raspberries on top.
Lemon Cake Pie. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Lemon Cake Pie, a one-hour recipe, is a delightful hybrid from Grandma’s dessert collection. The tangy lemon filling and fluffy cake layer combine for a taste that’s both zesty and sweet. This pie is a unique twist on traditional lemon desserts, showcasing Grandma’s creativity in the kitchen. It’s a comforting classic that’s sure to brighten any meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pie

Black Sesame Sourdough Buns

Sesame buns with sesame seeds on a wooden cutting board.
Black Sesame Sourdough Buns. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Black sesame sourdough buns, a gourmet classic taking about 24 hours to craft, reflect Grandma’s dedication to artisanal baking. The nutty black sesame seeds and sourdough tang offer a distinctive taste that elevates any meal. These buns are a labor of love, much like the ones Grandma used to bake, perfect for special occasions or to simply enjoy the pleasure of good bread. They’re a comforting reminder of the timeless art of baking.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Sourdough Buns

Classic French Toast

Slice of French toast on white plate topped with blueberries, powdered sugar, and syrup.
Classic French Toast. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Classic French Toast, a quick 20-minute recipe, is a breakfast staple that brings back the cozy mornings at Grandma’s house. Soaked in a rich custard and cooked to golden perfection, it has a comforting taste of cinnamon and vanilla. This dish is versatile and can be topped with anything from fresh fruit to maple syrup, just like Grandma used to serve. French toast is a beloved classic that starts any day on a sweet note.
Get the Recipe: Classic French Toast

Quick-Pickled Russian Sauerkraut

Red cabbage on a white plate.
Quick-Pickled Russian Sauerkraut. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Quick-pickled Russian sauerkraut, ready in a day, is a tangy accompaniment that Grandma would have loved for its simplicity and zest. Made with cabbage and carrots, it has a sharp, flavorful taste that brightens up any meal. This sauerkraut is a quick and easy way to add a punch of flavor to your dishes, embodying the essence of Grandma’s practical yet delicious side dishes. It’s a classic that adds a crunchy, pickled twist to the table.
Get the Recipe: Quick-Pickled Russian Sauerkraut

Spicy Citrus Salad with Pistachios

Overhead view of citrus salad with citrus.
Spicy Citrus Salad with Pistachios. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Spicy Citrus Salad with Pistachios, a refreshing 15-minute dish, is reminiscent of Grandma’s knack for combining fresh ingredients in surprising ways. The mix of citrus fruits with a hint of chili and the crunch of pistachios creates a taste that’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy. This salad is a lively and colorful addition to any meal, showcasing Grandma’s flair for bright and bold flavors. It’s a comforting yet exciting classic that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Citrus Salad with Pistachios

Tomato Tart

A pie with tomatoes and thyme on top.
Tomato Tart. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Tomato Tart, a savory classic that takes about 1 hour to make, captures the essence of Grandma’s garden-fresh cooking. The ripe tomatoes, creamy cheese, and herbs on a buttery crust create a rich umami taste. This tart is a celebration of the simple, wholesome ingredients Grandma would use, baked into a delicious and comforting dish. It’s a timeless classic that’s perfect for a light lunch or a warm evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Tart

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.