9 Old-Fashioned Dinner Recipes

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If you’re craving a taste of nostalgia, these 9 old-fashioned dinner recipes have you covered.

They bring back the warmth of home-cooked meals and timeless flavors that have delighted generations.

Whether it’s hearty casseroles or comforting roasts, these recipes are perfect for those evenings when you want to savor something classic and comforting. Let’s dig in!

Classic Beef Stroganoff

Classic Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender strips of beef with a rich and savory mushroom sauce.

It’s served over noodles or rice, making it a hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. This recipe is simple to follow and brings a taste of nostalgia to the dinner table.

The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.

Best of all, it comes together in about 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Veggies: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Finish with Sour Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream. Add the cooked beef back to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve: Serve the beef stroganoff over the egg noodles and garnish with parsley. Enjoy your meal!

Baked Ziti with Mozzarella and Basil

Baked Ziti is a comforting and hearty dish that brings a smile to everyone’s face.

With layers of ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella, it’s a delightful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

The addition of fresh basil elevates the flavors, giving it a refreshing twist that balances the richness of the cheese.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.

It’s one of those dishes that you can pop in the oven while you enjoy time with friends or family, making it a go-to option for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Ground Beef

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that brings a comforting mix of flavors to the table.

These colorful peppers are filled with a savory combination of ground beef, rice, and spices, making them a satisfying meal for families and friends alike.

Not only do they taste delicious, but they’re also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a hearty dinner in no time.

Plus, they can be customized to suit your taste, whether you prefer a little extra spice or some added vegetables. Enjoy the delightful mix of textures and flavors in each bite!

Ingredients

• 4 medium bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
6. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing them tightly.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the stuffed peppers.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Creamy mushroom risotto is a warm and comforting dish that bursts with flavor.

The combination of Arborio rice, earthy mushrooms, and creamy broth creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.

This dish has a rich, velvety texture and a savory taste that makes it perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, risotto is sure to impress with its creamy consistency and fragrant herbs.

Plus, with a little patience, you’ll have a delicious dish that highlights the best of old-fashioned cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the broth in a pot and keep it at a low simmer.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are soft.
3. Add the Arborio rice, stirring for about 2 minutes until the rice is well-coated and slightly toasted.
4. Pour in the white wine and stir until it has mostly evaporated.
5. Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente.
6. Once cooked, stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust

Chicken pot pie is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any dinner table.

With its creamy filling packed full of tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce, it brings a nostalgic warmth to mealtime.

The flaky crust adds an irresistible crunch, making every bite a delightful experience.

This recipe is straightforward, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. It combines pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it easy to whip up a delicious meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook for about 2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Cook until the mixture is thick and bubbly.
4. Add the shredded chicken and mixed vegetables, stirring to combine.
5. Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a pie dish. Pour the chicken mixture into the crust.
6. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges, and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Beef and Barley Soup

Beef and barley soup is a hearty classic that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This dish brings together tender chunks of beef and the nutty flavor of barley, creating a warm and satisfying meal.

The rich broth, combined with a medley of vegetables, makes each spoonful a delight.

Making this soup is quite simple, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal effort.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup barley, rinsed and drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Broth and Barley: Pour in the beef broth and add the barley, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. Finish and Serve: If using, stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your warm bowl of beef and barley soup!

Herb-Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables

Herb-roasted chicken with root vegetables is a timeless comfort dish that brings warmth to any dinner table.

The juicy chicken, seasoned with a blend of fresh herbs, pairs perfectly with the earthy flavors of roasted root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips.

This dish is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The aroma of the roasting chicken fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere while the vegetables caramelize to golden perfection.

This recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to impress family and friends with a hearty, homemade meal.

Serve it up with a side of gravy or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience!

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for extra flavor. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and onion quarters.
4. Place the chicken in a large roasting pan. Arrange the carrots, potatoes, and parsnips around the chicken. Drizzle with additional olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
6. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Old-fashioned meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, bringing back nostalgic memories of family dinners.

This savory dish combines ground beef with breadcrumbs and spices, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf.

Topped with a tangy sauce, it pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, making it a satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare.

Not only does meatloaf offer a hearty taste, but it also allows for flexibility with ingredients. You can add vegetables or different seasonings based on your preference.

This recipe is great for busy nights, as you can easily mix the ingredients and let it bake while you relax or attend to other tasks.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Spread ketchup on top for added flavor.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic meal.

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna noodle casserole is a comforting classic that many remember from their childhood.

This dish combines tender egg noodles, savory canned tuna, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with a crunchy layer of breadcrumbs for added texture.

It’s an easy recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The creamy, savory taste is balanced by the slight crunch of the topping, creating a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples, making it both economical and delicious.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces egg noodles
• 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna, drained
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, milk, and half of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, followed by the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.