Rediscover your love for cooking with 17 classic recipes

Photo of author

| Published:

Sometimes it’s refreshing to take a step back and rediscover the simple joys of old-fashioned cooking. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 17 timeless recipes that are sure to reignite your passion for the kitchen.

Top view of a big pot of mushroom stew with cheese and basil on a cutting board next to the pot.
Italian Mushroom Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Pork Chops on a plate covered with a creamy mushroom gravy and served on mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Enjoy the comforting flavors of creamy mushroom soup-smothered pork chops, a traditional dish enjoyed for generations. This recipe is perfect for a comforting, classic meal with minimal prep work.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Old English Sausage Muffins

A white plate holds multiple small, round meat-topped pastries on a checkered cloth with an orange juice and bowl in the background.
Old English Sausage Muffins. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Old English Sausage Muffins are a delicious and satisfying way to start your day. Packed with protein and easy to make ahead, these muffins celebrate the enduring appeal of classic, hearty breakfast dishes.
Get the Recipe: Old English Sausage Muffins

Blueberry Upside Down Cake

Blueberry upside down cake on a white plate before slicing.
Blueberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This old-school Blueberry Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert showcasing sweet, juicy blueberries. Enjoy a slice of this classic upside-down cake, beloved for generations.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Upside Down Cake

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Two slices of meatloaf on a plate with mashed potatoes and carrots.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Bring the comforting flavors of this beloved meatloaf to your kitchen. This perfectly seasoned, timeless family favorite has stood the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Pea Salad

Pea salad in a blue bowl.
Pea Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This vintage pea salad has graced family tables for generations. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of this perfect make-ahead salad for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad

Oven Roasted Pork Loin

Oven roasted pork loin with potatoes, carrots and cabbage on a plate.
Oven Roasted Pork Loin. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This oven roasted pork loin with cabbage, potatoes, and carrots is a classic family dinner staple. Perfect for everyday meals and special occasions, celebrating the enduring appeal of traditional, comforting dishes.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Pork Loin

Cherry Salad

Cherry fluff salad in blue bowls with whipped cream.
Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This timeless Cherry Salad has been a potluck and holiday staple for decades. With just six ingredients and five minutes of prep, this refreshing dessert showcases the simplicity of long-standing favorites.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

Italian Mushroom Stew

Top view of a big pot of mushroom stew with cheese and basil on a cutting board next to the pot.
Italian Mushroom Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This rustic Italian mushroom stew, traditional to Utica, NY, is a hearty and comforting dish enjoyed for generations. Wholesome ingredients create a satisfying meal that pays homage to classic cooking methods.
Get the Recipe: Italian Mushroom Stew

Amish Potato Salad

Creamy potato salad with eggs and mayonnaise.
Amish Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish potato salad is a creamy and tangy dish that has been a mainstay at parties for decades. This time-honored recipe, featuring mustard, sugar, and celery seed, celebrates the enduring appeal of classic Amish cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad

Slow Cooker Smothered Steak

A plate with a serving of mashed potatoes topped with two pieces of meat in brown gravy, garnished with herbs and accompanied by Brussels sprouts.
Slow Cooker Smothered Steak. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Turn a humble steak into a tender, flavorful masterpiece with this easy slow cooker recipe. Enjoy a rich, thick gravy and melt-in-your-mouth meat, celebrating the time-honored tradition of slow-cooked meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Smothered Steak

Utica Greens

Top view of Utica Greens in a skillet with breadcrumbs and cherry peppers.
Utica Greens. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Utica Greens is a time-honored way to serve greens, passed down through generations. This old-fashioned recipe is a delicious tribute to the hearty, flavorful dishes of New York’s culinary landscape.
Get the Recipe: Utica Greens

Peanut Brittle

Red plate with peanut brittle on a red and white checked table cloth.
Peanut Brittle. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This old-fashioned peanut brittle recipe is a timeless favorite enjoyed for generations. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this classic treat makes a delightful homemade gift.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Brittle

Baked Manicotti

Baked manicotti in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Manicotti. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This hearty Baked Manicotti is a classic Italian-American family favorite. Enjoy the delicious, cheesy flavor and comforting texture of this time-honored casserole.
Get the Recipe: Baked Manicotti

Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and Potato soup in a gray and white bowl with a spoon.
Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow cooker ham and potato soup is a hearty, comforting family favorite for generations. Let the potatoes and ham simmer in the crock pot for a rich, creamy soup that embodies old-fashioned cooking.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup

Watergate Salad

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This vintage dessert has been a beloved part of holiday spreads for generations. With just five ingredients and minimal effort, Watergate salad is a simple, make-ahead dish that has stood the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Crock Pot Beef and Noodles

Closeup of Slow Cooker beef with egg noodles.
Crock Pot Beef and Noodles. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This tried-and-true slow cooker beef and noodles recipe is a classic comfort dish. Enjoy tender, slow-cooked beef and perfectly cooked noodles that bring back memories of hearty, home-cooked dinners.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Beef and Noodles

Amish Macaroni Salad

Bowl of Amish macaroni salad with some on a spoon.
Amish Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Amish macaroni salad, with its creamy dressing and perfect balance of flavors, is a time-honored crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this classic, comforting side dish that has stood the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

Leave a Comment

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