17 vintage side dish favorites from grandma’s kitchen

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Step back in time and rediscover the comforting flavors that adorned family dinners with our collection of 17 vintage side dish favorites straight from grandma’s cherished recipe box. These timeless dishes bring a sense of nostalgia to the modern table, each one a delightful reminder of the simplicity and heartiness of bygone culinary eras. From the classic Cornbread Stuffing to the luscious Potatoes Au Gratin, each recipe encapsulates the essence of grandma’s kitchen, where love and tradition were the secret ingredients.

Dive into the culinary heritage passed down through generations as we unveil the secrets behind beloved side dishes like Sweet Potato Puffs, Grape Salad, and Cabbage Apple Salad. These recipes, etched in the annals of family traditions, offer a taste of the past with every bite. Let the aroma of green bean casserole wafting through your kitchen transport you to a time when every meal was a celebration of flavors carefully crafted to bring joy to the dinner table.

Join us on a culinary journey back to the heart of home-cooked meals, where the simplicity of ingredients blended seamlessly to create extraordinary side dish experiences. From the crispy Sweet Potato Puffs to the creamy delight of Potatoes Au Gratin, these vintage treasures carry the warmth and familiarity of grandma’s kitchen, promising to make your meals memorable and your heart full.

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

Cornbread Stuffing

Delight in the timeless flavors of Grandma’s Homemade Cornbread Stuffing (Dressing), a cherished 1970s recipe featuring the perfect blend of bacon, onions, and celery for a flavorful and crunchy family favorite. Enjoy the comforting taste that will surely become a staple on your table.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Stuffing

Three baked potatoes on a blue and white plate.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Revel in the comforting flavors of Grandma’s classic Stuffed Baked Potatoes – russet potatoes baked to golden perfection, hollowed and filled with a rich mash of butter, cheddar cheese, and minced onions. Baked to a delightful crisp, these nostalgic spuds are a heartfelt reminder of home-cooked warmth and the joy found in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Sweet Potato Puffs

Experience the charm of Grandma’s sweet potato puffs, showcasing a delightful blend of textures with a crunchy Corn Flake coating enveloping a creamy, sweet interior. Indulge in a unique twist on a timeless favorite that brings joy to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Puffs

Mexican Macaroni Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Mexican Macaroni Salad

Delight in the classic flavors of an old-fashioned Mexican Macaroni Salad, a tasty pasta dish adorned with chopped vegetables and a zesty taco seasoning dressing—perfect for potlucks and large gatherings alike. Enjoy the timeless appeal of this flavorful salad that never fails to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Macaroni Salad

Grape Salad

Bring a touch of nostalgia to your gathering with this classic Grape Salad recipe, a refreshing side that effortlessly stands out. As your guests enjoy its sweet goodness, anticipate the delightful chorus of compliments and requests for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Green beans with bacon and almonds on a red plate.
Green Beans Almondine with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Transport your taste buds to the past with this vintage Green Beans Almondine with Bacon recipe, offering a delightful blend of savory goodness and a buttery, lemony finish. This classic side dish is perfect for complementing any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Cabbage Apple Salad

Experience the timeless appeal of this vintage Cabbage Apple Salad, bringing together the vibrant hues of red cabbage and the crisp sweetness of Golden Delicious apples, all enhanced by a zesty dressing. Perfect for enjoying the delightful flavors of every season!
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad

A casserole dish with shredded cheese and a wooden spoon.
Surprise Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Surprise Potatoes

Discover the charm of Grandma’s Surprise Potatoes, a simple yet impressive dish blending frozen hashbrowns, cheese, and other delightful ingredients. Perfect for sharing at potlucks, these potatoes are sure to win over the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Surprise Potatoes

Amish Macaroni Salad

Experience the charm of a traditional Amish macaroni salad, a delightful old-fashioned recipe that serves as the ideal creamy and sweet side dish for your gatherings. The crowd-pleasing nature of this salad lies in its straightforward yet delicious combination of ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

Overhead shot of potatoes au gratin cooked in an oval baking dish.
Potatoes au Gratin. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Potatoes au Gratin

Crafted from an old-fashioned French recipe, this side dish layers thinly sliced potatoes and cheese, achieving a delightful blend of flavors and textures when baked to a golden perfection. Its rich qualities make it a classic complement to the robust flavors of a steak dinner, seamlessly bridging European culinary tradition with the timeless appeal of this savory pairing.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes au Gratin

BBQ Green Beans

A vintage favorite, this BBQ Green Beans recipe effortlessly combines tender beans, smoky ham, sweet onions, and a tangy sauce, resulting in a delicious side dish that is easy to prepare. The flavorful blend of ingredients adds a tasty touch to any meal.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Green Beans

Piece of lime jello salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Lime Jello Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Lime Jello Salad

A cherished vintage recipe, Lime Jello Salad brings a delightful touch of nostalgia with its fun green dessert appeal, remaining an old-fashioned favorite. This refreshing treat serves as the perfect addition to enhance the joy of holidays or picnics.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad

Green Bean Casserole

Grandma’s special touch is evident in this easy green bean casserole recipe, crafted with fresh green beans and perfectly sized for just two people. Indulge in a taste of tradition by trying it today, ensuring a delightful meal without any lingering leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

A spoonful of sweet potato slices with apples and cranberries in a white dish.
Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries

Take your side dish to the next level with these baked sweet potato slices, infused with the wisdom of Grandma’s kitchen and complemented by the delightful combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries. This simple, tasty, and healthy addition is sure to enhance your festive fare with a touch of cherished tradition.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries

Pea Salad

An old-fashioned favorite, the vintage pea salad boasts a delightful blend of creaminess, tanginess, and sweetness. Ideal for any occasion, this make-ahead salad brings a timeless charm to your table.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad

Cabbage and bacon in white serving bowl.
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Indulge in the savory delight of a classic Southern fried cabbage with bacon, a truly satisfying old-fashioned recipe. This easy-to-follow method ensures an incredibly flavorful side dish that will enhance any meal.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Pommes Duchesse

Explore the vintage charm of Pommes Duchesse, a French-inspired potato dish that adds an elegant touch to your culinary repertoire. Learn the art of crafting this timeless recipe with our comprehensive guide, and elevate your potato game with a dash of sophistication.
Get the Recipe: Pommes Duchesse

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