Throwback tastes: 17 vintage recipes to rediscover

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Take a step back in time with these 17 vintage recipes that remind us why classics never go out of style. Each one brings a bit of nostalgia to the table, making family meals feel like a blast from the past. These dishes aren’t just old-school—they’re proof that good food only gets better with time. Get ready to rediscover some forgotten favorites that deserve a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re hungry for a throwback treat, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts brings a refreshing twist to the table without making a big fuss about it. This recipe combines the sweet and nutty for a quick lunch fix or a light dinner option. It’s got that ‘prepared in no time’ appeal but with a ‘sit down and enjoy’ kind of meal vibe. Not to mention, it’s perfect for those days when you’re really not trying to turn your kitchen upside down.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Baked Scotch Eggs

Scotch Eggs on a black plate.
Baked Scotch Eggs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Remember Baked Scotch Eggs? They’re like the original grab ‘n go meal before fast food was even a thing. These little gems wrap up all the cozy feels in a neat, edible package, proving that some classics never lose their charm. They’re the answer when you’re scratching your head thinking of what to pack for a picnic or a road trip snack. And yes, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat, bringing a bit of vintage craftiness back to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Baked Scotch Eggs

Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

A plate of German pot roast beef with a sauce being poured over it.
Slow Cooker German Pot Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker German Pot Roast somehow makes waiting for food an actual treat. All it asks of you is to throw everything in and let time do its thing, filling your home with smells that remind you of grandma’s kitchen. It’s the cooking equivalent of a warm hug from someone you haven’t seen in ages but have never stopped thinking about. By dinner, you get a comforting dish full of nostalgia and simple times.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

Egg Salad

The Best Egg Salad on the Planet.
Egg Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Nothing screams classic comfort like a good old Egg Salad. It’s the unassuming hero of picnics and family gatherings, ready to spread its joy on a slice of toast or nestle neatly in a lettuce cup. This is your go-to when you’re after something that’s straightforward yet somehow always hits the spot. Plus, it’s a friendly reminder that sometimes, the most basic dishes have the power to bring the most pleasure.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

A bowl of red pepper and tomato soup next to a plate of bread and a spoon.
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

In a world full of complicated recipes, Red Pepper & Tomato Soup stands out for its simplicity and warmth. It’s like a liquid hug, promising comfort after a long day or a gentle start to your meal. Easy to whip up yet rich in taste, it’s a testament to the beauty of combining just a few ingredients for maximum impact. Not to mention, it’s the perfect excuse to pull out the fancy bowls and make a meal feel special without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Yellow plum crumble bars on a black slate plate.
Yellow Plum Crumble Bars. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Yellow Plum Crumble Bars hit the sweet spot between fruity freshness and crumbly goodness. They’re a blast from the past that deserve a comeback, perfect for turning any day into a celebration. Careful though, their addictive nature means they won’t last long once they’re out of the oven. And really, they’re the perfect excuse to pretend you’re a pastry chef without actually having to be one.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Sausage Rolls

Sausage Rolls on a white plate.
Sausage Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These rolls are proof that some things never go out of style. They’re the life of the party or the perfect partner to a steaming cup of tea or coffee, all rolled into one. Sausage Rolls has a way of making everyone feel welcome and satisfied, showing that sometimes, the best things come in small, flaky packages. Plus, they offer a hands-on kitchen experience that’s as rewarding as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Rolls

Back Bacon

A plate with back bacon, eggs and toast.
Back Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Back Bacon takes the everyday bacon experience and flips it on its head. It’s that special weekend breakfast treat that you didn’t know you were missing out on until now. This recipe is about bringing a bit of that old-school diner magic right into your kitchen without needing the retro outfit to go with it. Plus, it makes any morning feel a bit more like a holiday, and who doesn’t want that?
Get the Recipe: Back Bacon

Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits

A plate of mini flaky cheese biscuits and a cup of coffee.
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Want a little crunch without the fuss? Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits have got you covered. They’re the epitome of what happens when you want a bite-sized snack that packs a cheesy punch. Ideal for gatherings, quick breakfasts, or just because, these biscuits are a breeze to make and even easier to devour. Honestly, they’re like a warm welcome anytime they hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits

Rhubarb Bread

A loaf of Rhubarb Bread with a few slices on a white plate.
Rhubarb Bread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Rhubarb Bread is that sweet and tangy surprise your coffee has been waiting for. It’s a nod to the garden treats of yesteryears, turning a somewhat overlooked vegetable into the star of your morning or tea time snack. This bread promises to convert even the staunchest rhubarb skeptics into avid fans, all while making the kitchen smell like a baker’s dream. It’s a slice of nostalgia that’s equally at home in a modern kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Bread

Classic Meatballs

A plate of spaghetti topped with two meatballs, marinara sauce, grated cheese, and basil garnish.
Classic Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

These meatballs are about bringing everyone together, evoking memories of family dinners or first attempts at cooking something hearty. Classic Meatballs are versatile, unfussy, and just what you need when you’re looking to feed a crowd or just making a meal for one but want leftovers. It’s a recipe passed down, with each generation adding their twist while staying true to tradition. And honestly, they always make spaghetti better.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatballs

Shipwreck Casserole

Shipwreck Casserole in a black dish with a spoon.
Shipwreck Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Shipwreck Casserole is like the treasure chest of comfort foods, where every spoonful uncovers something delicious. It’s layered, hearty, and full of those ‘I just need a good meal’ vibes. No need for fancy techniques or ingredients here, just a straightforward path to a satisfied stomach. And it’s got a bit of a story behind its name, adding an element of mystery to your dinner conversation.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Dig back into yesteryear’s elegance with Vintage Chicken Divan. It’s all about bringing a touch of class to your dinner table without the need for a time machine. This dish has a way of making an ordinary night feel a bit more extraordinary. Plus, it’s a gentle reminder that some recipes have stood the test of time for a reason, offering comfort and a touch of sophistication in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Blueberry Shortcake

Blueberry Cheesecake on a plate.
Blueberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Blueberry Shortcake is your ticket to a simple yet profoundly fulfilling dessert. It combines freshness with sweetness in a way that doesn’t overwhelm but invites you to have just one more piece. This dessert is ideal for those moments when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a celebration of seasonal fruit and easy living, making any day feel like a sunny afternoon in the backyard.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Shortcake

Classic Pork Souvlaki

Three pieces of Pork Souvlaki with a bowl of white sauce and pieces of flatbread on a black slate serving board.
Classic Pork Souvlaki. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Bring the Mediterranean to your table with Classic Pork Souvlaki. It’s about as close as you can get to a Greek island without actually hopping on a plane. This recipe is great for shaking up your grilling routine or when you just need something that screams ‘summer is here.’ It’s straightforward, full of personality, and a surefire way to make dinner feel like a mini-vacation.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore on a serving platter.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chicken Cacciatore is that rustic, heartwarming dish that makes you want to open a bottle of good wine and settle in for the evening. It’s all about making the most of simple ingredients to create a meal that feels indulgent without being pretentious. This is the dish you turn to when you need a reminder of the good things in life: family, friends, and good food. So, grab your skillet – it’s time to make something that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This casserole is the side dish that steals the show. It takes the humble potato to new heights, proving that a little extra effort can turn the everyday into the extraordinary. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is the comfort food champion, ready to make any meal feel like a festive occasion. It’s a nod to the past but with enough charm to make it a hit in any modern meal.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

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