Old-fashioned meals have a way of bringing people together, no matter how long they’ve been apart. These 17 recipes are hearty, comforting, and made to be shared around the table. With simple ingredients and timeless flavors, they’re dishes that everyone can agree on. Sometimes, a good meal is all it takes to end a disagreement.
Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew With Coconut Milk
Moqueca is a vibrant Brazilian fish stew ready in 40 minutes, made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and tomatoes. The rich, creamy broth is infused with garlic, onions, and cilantro, creating a balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. Bell peppers and lime add a refreshing brightness to the dish. It’s a hearty and flavorful option for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew With Coconut Milk
Chicken And Rice Casserole
Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal ready in about an hour. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices come together in a rich broth. The ingredients meld beautifully, creating a savory, satisfying dish. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken And Rice Casserole
Blueberry Crisp
Blueberry Crisp is a simple, fruity dessert ready in 40 minutes. Juicy blueberries are baked with cinnamon and sugar beneath a buttery oat topping. The combination of warm berries and crisp topping makes every bite satisfying. It’s a family favorite that works as a dessert or snack.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Crisp
My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
My Grandma’s Carrot Tzimmes is a sweet and hearty side dish ready in about an hour. Tender carrots, dried fruits, and honey simmer together for a caramelized finish. The balance of sweetness and earthy flavors makes it versatile for holidays or everyday meals. It’s a timeless family recipe that brings warmth to the table.
Get the Recipe: My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes
Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie
Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie is a classic dessert ready in 90 minutes. Fresh apples are baked with cinnamon and sugar under a flaky, golden lattice crust. The buttery pastry perfectly balances the sweet and spiced filling. It’s a traditional treat for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie
Stuffed Potato Patties With A Mushroom Filling
Stuffed potato patties with mushroom filling are a hearty dish that is ready in about 45 minutes. Creamy mashed potatoes are filled with a savory mix of mushrooms and onions. Each patty is pan-fried to a crisp golden crust. It’s a comforting vegetarian option that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Potato Patties With A Mushroom Filling
Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe
Jewish Chicken Soup is a nourishing and comforting dish ready in about two hours. Made with chicken, vegetables, and herbs, it delivers a rich and flavorful broth. Often served with matzo balls or noodles, it’s perfect for cold days or family meals. This soup is a timeless staple of traditional cooking.
Get the Recipe: Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe
Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)
Russian Potato Salad, also known as Olivier Salad, is a creamy, hearty dish ready in 30 minutes. Boiled potatoes, carrots, peas, and pickles are mixed with mayonnaise for a satisfying flavor. The slight tang from the pickles adds depth to the creamy texture. It’s a versatile side dish for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Russian Potato Salad (Olivier Salad)
Roasted Cauliflower Casserole With Tomatoes And Capers
Roasted Cauliflower Casserole combines tender cauliflower with tangy tomatoes and briny capers in about 40 minutes. The vegetables are roasted for a deep, caramelized flavor and finished with a light herb seasoning. Each bite is a mix of savory and zesty notes. It’s a great low-carb option for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Casserole With Tomatoes And Capers
Traditional Rum Balls
Traditional Rum Balls are a rich, no-bake treat ready in 20 minutes. Made with crushed cookies, cocoa, and a hint of rum, they’re rolled into bite-sized pieces. The flavor is a balance of chocolatey sweetness and a slight kick from the rum. They’re perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Traditional Rum Balls
Homemade Matzo Ball Soup
Matzo Ball Soup is a comforting classic that is ready in about two hours. Fluffy matzo balls float in a rich chicken broth with simple herbs and vegetables. Each spoonful offers warmth and satisfying flavors. It’s a cherished recipe for holidays or when someone needs a little extra care.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Matzo Ball Soup
Classic Matzo Brei Recipe (Eggy Fried Matzah)
Matzo Brei is a simple breakfast dish ready in 20 minutes, made with matzo and eggs. The matzo softens and crisps in the pan, creating a satisfying texture. Lightly seasoned or sweetened, it’s a versatile meal. It’s a nostalgic favorite for Passover or any time of the year.
Get the Recipe: Classic Matzo Brei Recipe (Eggy Fried Matzah)
Sautéed Chicken Breast with Shallot and Cider
Sautéed Chicken Breast with Shallot and Cider is a flavorful dish ready in 30 minutes. Tender chicken is cooked with sweet shallots and cider for a balanced, tangy flavor. The sauce adds richness to the dish without being heavy. It’s a quick and elegant option for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Chicken Breast with Shallot and Cider
Lamb Shepherd’s Pie
Lamb Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, savory dish ready in about an hour. Ground lamb is simmered with vegetables and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. The golden crust locks in the rich flavors of the filling. It’s a comforting meal that satisfies the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shepherd’s Pie
My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole
My Grandmother’s Carrot Casserole is a nostalgic side dish ready in about an hour. Tender carrots are baked with a creamy, slightly sweet topping for a comforting texture. A crunchy breadcrumb layer adds contrast to the soft filling. It’s a timeless recipe that pairs well with any main course.
Get the Recipe: My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole
Pecan Tassies
Pecan Tassies are bite-sized treats ready in about an hour. These mini tarts feature a buttery crust filled with a sweet, nutty pecan filling. The balance of crisp crust and gooey center makes them irresistible. They’re perfect for holidays or as a simple dessert for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Tassies
Slow Cooker German Pot Roast
Slow Cooker German Pot Roast is a rich, savory dish ready in about eight hours. Beef is slow-cooked with onions, carrots, and a tangy vinegar-based sauce. The result is tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth. It’s a comforting option for a hands-off, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker German Pot Roast
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