Old Fashioned Dinners That Deserve a Spot Back on the Table

Some dinner favorites from the past have quietly slipped off our weekly menus , but they’re worth bringing back. These old-fashioned meals were once staples for a reason: they’re simple, filling, and packed with comfort.

From pot roasts that slow-cook all afternoon to casseroles that feed a crowd, these dishes offer warmth and familiarity that’s hard to beat. They bring people together in a way that takeout and trendy meals often don’t.

Whether you remember them from your childhood or you’re discovering them for the first time, these classics deserve another look. They’re hearty, practical, and built to please no frills, just good food.

Homemade Beef and Noodles

This is the kind of meal that warms up a chilly evening. With tender beef slow-cooked to perfection and thick egg noodles soaking up all the flavor, it’s hearty, familiar, and super filling. Perfect for when you want something simple that really hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Beef and Noodles

Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

Think crusty bread, perfectly cooked roast beef, and a side of rich au jus for dipping. This homemade version nails that classic sandwich shop flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially for lunch or an easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

Sausage Curry

A comforting mix of bold spices and savory sausage, this dish comes together quickly and fills the kitchen with great smells. It pairs nicely with rice or bread and makes weeknights feel just a bit more interesting. A good one to keep on rotation.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles

Fast, hearty, and no fuss. The chicken stays juicy and the noodles soak up all the flavor from the broth. If you’re short on time but want something cozy, this checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

This version sticks close to the original—beans, pasta, ground meat, and plenty of veggies in a tomato-based broth. It’s a solid pick for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Just add a side of bread and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Easy Homemade Dumplings

Soft, fluffy, and perfect with a hearty stew or soup, these dumplings are surprisingly simple to make. No need for fancy ingredients—just a few pantry staples and a little time. They’re especially great for cold days when you want something warm and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Dumplings

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cabbage gets a major upgrade here with smoky bacon and a bit of seasoning. It’s the kind of side dish that goes with almost anything. Bonus: it’s quick, budget-friendly, and doesn’t require much cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Crispy outside, juicy inside—this one hits the classic fried chicken mark. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and gives it that nice golden crunch. It’s a solid go-to for picnics, family dinners, or weekend cravings.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Easy Pasta Puttanesca

A little salty, a little spicy, and full of bold flavors from olives, capers, and garlic. This pasta doesn’t take much time to pull together, but it tastes like you planned ahead. Great for when you want something simple but not boring.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pasta Puttanesca

Pasty Dough

This dough is sturdy enough to hold hearty fillings, but still bakes up with a nice, tender bite. It’s perfect for traditional meat pasties or even a veggie version. Freezer-friendly too, so you can make a batch and keep extras on hand.
Get the Recipe: Pasty Dough

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Crispy coating, juicy meat, and barely any effort. This method is a throwback for a reason—it works. Great for a weeknight dinner when you want something homemade but hands-off.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

This version keeps it straightforward but delivers all the comfort you’d expect. Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy broth that brings it all together. Ideal for when you want a filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Set it, forget it, and come back to a pot full of thick, hearty soup. The peas break down beautifully and mix with ham for a rich, savory flavor. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm blanket on a cold day.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Chicken and Noodles

Classic and cozy. The chicken is tender, the noodles are thick, and everything soaks in a rich, savory broth. It’s one of those dependable meals that makes everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Noodles

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

A slow-cooker favorite that comes together with minimal effort. The chicken stays super tender, and the dumplings puff up in the creamy broth. Great for feeding a group or just enjoying leftovers the next day.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Instant Pot Bean with Bacon

This recipe brings smoky, rich flavor together with tender beans—quickly, thanks to the Instant Pot. It’s hearty enough to stand alone or work as a side. Great for making ahead and reheating throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Bean with Bacon

Cabbage and Sausage

Simple ingredients, big flavor. The cabbage softens while the sausage brings a savory kick, and it all cooks up fast in one pan. A budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Pork Pies

A sturdy, golden crust surrounds flavorful pork filling—perfect for lunchboxes, potlucks, or a cozy dinner. They can be eaten warm or cold and freeze well too. Feels like a little taste of tradition in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Pork Pies

Easy Chinese Seaweed Egg Drop Soup Recipe (紫菜蛋花汤)

This light, savory soup comes together fast with just a few ingredients—perfect for a quick lunch or starter. The seaweed adds a subtle briny note, while the egg ribbons give it a silky texture. A comforting, nourishing option when you want something warm but not heavy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chinese Seaweed Egg Drop Soup Recipe (紫菜蛋花汤)

Instant Pot Beef Stew

Tender beef, soft veggies, and a rich broth all come together in less time than usual thanks to the pressure cooker. It’s everything you want from stew—warm, filling, and packed with flavor. Ideal for busy nights or weekend meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef Stew