As we gather around the dinner table, sharing stories and making memories, it’s hard to imagine a more comforting setting. For many of us, that sense of warmth and coziness is directly tied to the love and care that goes into cooking up a storm in the kitchen. And what better way to tap into that feeling than by whipping up some old-time recipes that Grandma would be proud to serve?
From classic comfort foods like homemade buttermilk biscuits and slow-cooked pork and beans, to nostalgic treats like vintage tomato soup with grilled cheese croutons and old-fashioned molasses cookies, these 18 heartwarming recipes are sure to bring a smile to your face. So grab a cup of coffee, pull up a chair, and let’s get cooking!
Grandma’s Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
There’s nothing like a warm, flaky biscuit straight from the oven to complement your favorite breakfast or brunch dishes. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll the dough into a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick circle. Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out the biscuits.
7. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Beef Pot Roast with Root Vegetables
This hearty pot roast recipe is a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic dish. Tender beef and colorful root vegetables slow-cooked in a rich gravy make for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 lb beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven, brown the pot roast over medium-high heat on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pot roast to the pot and cover with a lid.
7. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and cook for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Old-Fashioned Apple Pie with Lattice Crust
This classic recipe yields a tender and flavorful pie filled with tender apples, surrounded by a beautiful lattice crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. Stir in sugar, beaten eggs, and sliced apples.
5. Roll out half of the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. Place apple mixture onto one half of the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Roll out remaining dough to same thickness as before; use to create lattice crust by weaving strips over filling.
8. Brush top with water and sprinkle with sugar.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern-Style Cornbread Dressing
This classic recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of cornbread with savory herbs and spices to create a side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any other special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion, celery, and garlic until tender.
3. Add the melted butter, crumbled cornbread, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Traditional Chicken and Dumplings
This classic American dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a warm hug in a bowl. This recipe yields a deliciously simple and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. To make dumplings, combine flour, salt, and pepper on a plate. Pour in water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Cut the dough into small pieces and add to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Vintage Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
This classic comfort soup gets a delightful twist with the addition of crispy grilled cheese croutons, adding a satisfying crunch to every spoonful. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter, for grilling cheese
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place buttered side down on the grill and top with cheese. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Use croutons as garnish for the soup. Serve warm, enjoying the creamy tomato goodness with a satisfying crunch.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Start your day off right with these soft, gooey cinnamon rolls smothered in a tangy cream cheese frosting. This recipe yields 8-10 generous rolls perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Spread over warm rolls.
Slow-Cooked Pork and Beans
Slow-Cooked Pork and Beans Recipe
This hearty slow-cooked pork and beans recipe is a comforting classic that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. With tender chunks of pork, creamy beans, and a hint of smoky flavor, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1 can (15 ounces) pork and beans
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In a large slow cooker, combine the pork, onion, garlic, chicken broth, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Stir in the can of pork and beans during the last hour of cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Depression-Era Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
This moist and rich cake is a beloved relic of the Great Depression era, when resourcefulness and creativity were key to culinary survival. With its unusual use of mayonnaise as a substitute for butter or oil, this cake is a testament to the innovative spirit of home cooks during that time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mayonnaise (yes, you read that right!)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze
A hearty, comforting classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. This meatloaf recipe features a rich tomato glaze that adds a tangy and sweet twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup tomato glaze (see below)
Tomato Glaze:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While meatloaf is baking, prepare tomato glaze by combining crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and basil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove meatloaf from oven and brush with tomato glaze.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Old-Timey Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
A classic dessert that brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen, this old-timey banana pudding is a simple and satisfying treat. A creamy pudding base, sliced bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers come together to create a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
• 4 large ripe bananas
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 package (12-16 wafers) Vanilla Wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. Slice bananas into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
5. Pour pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Arrange banana slices on top.
6. Sprinkle crushed Vanilla Wafers over the bananas.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the wafers are lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hand-Cranked Vanilla Ice Cream
Elevate your ice cream game with this unique hand-cranked recipe that yields a creamy and delicious treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be churning out homemade vanilla goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker with a hand-cranked attachment (or use a traditional electric ice cream maker).
4. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions or crank for approximately 20-25 minutes, until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and store in the freezer.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (churning time)
Grandma’s Yeast Dinner Rolls
These soft, fluffy dinner rolls are a classic family recipe that’s sure to become a staple at your holiday table. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll be rewarded with a batch of warm, golden-brown rolls that are perfect for sopping up your favorite sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into rolls. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vintage Tuna Noodle Casserole
This beloved casserole is a nostalgic trip back to the good old days, when simplicity and warmth were the hallmarks of home cooking. With its satisfying combination of tuna, noodles, and creamy sauce, it’s no wonder this dish has been a family favorite for generations.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup of uncooked egg noodles
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tsp of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add tuna, peas and carrots, and paprika; stir well.
4. Combine cooked noodles, tuna mixture, milk, cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this classic recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and a flaky crust. This homemade chicken pot pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups pie crust dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Mix in flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Roll out pie crust dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture.
5. Roll out remaining dough for a top crust. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Classic Beef Stew with Red Wine
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion, this classic beef stew is made with tender chunks of beef, rich red wine, and an array of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Old-Fashioned Molasses Cookies
These classic cookies are a staple of traditional baking, with their rich molasses flavor and soft, chewy texture. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together molasses and butter until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in the egg until well incorporated.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. If using nuts, fold them into the dough.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Traditional Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potato Topping
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night, this traditional shepherd’s pie is a simple and satisfying meal that’s easy to make. With its rich meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. In a separate pot, boil chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
6. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meat filling and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm your heart and belly with these 18 old-time recipes that grandma would love! From classic comfort foods like homemade buttermilk biscuits, beef pot roast, and chicken and dumplings, to sweet treats like apple pie, cinnamon rolls, and banana pudding, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new family favorites. With a mix of traditional techniques and modern twists, this collection is perfect for anyone looking to relive the good old days or start some new culinary traditions.
