1. Sloppy Joes
Nothing says “casual family dinner” quite like a good ol’ sloppy joe. Ground beef simmered in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce and served on a soft hamburger bun was a messy delight that kids loved. This dish might not be a fancy meal, but back in the day, it was the perfect way to make dinnertime fun and satisfyingly simple. A classic that always brings back memories of backyard cookouts and school cafeteria lunches.
2. Jell-O Molds
Back in the day, a party wasn’t complete without a colorful, jiggling Jell-O mold on the table. Whether filled with fruit chunks, marshmallows, or even vegetables (yes, veggies!), these desserts made any gathering feel festive. They were like little edible sculptures, and there was always someone who brought one to the potluck. Today, they might seem a little odd, but they sure knew how to brighten up a table back then.
3. Beef Stroganoff
Creamy, savory, and packed with tender beef, beef stroganoff was the dinner special in so many homes. The thick sauce over egg noodles or rice was a filling meal that kept the whole family happy. Today, it’s not as common to make a rich sauce from scratch, but every bite brings back memories of hearty family dinners around the table.
4. Spam Casserole
Yes, Spam was once a superstar in the kitchen! Canned meats may not sound glamorous now, but a Spam casserole was both affordable and versatile. Layered with veggies, cheese, and noodles, it was an easy, budget-friendly dinner that became a weekly staple. And for a lot of folks, it was actually pretty tasty!
5. Chicken a la King
This creamy dish of chicken, mushrooms, and peppers served over toast or biscuits felt fancy back in the day. It was the go-to meal for something that felt upscale yet simple. It’s fallen out of fashion, but for anyone who grew up in the ‘50s and ‘60s, Chicken a la King was a star on the dinner table.
6. Fondue
In the ’70s, fondue was more than just food—it was an event. With a bubbling pot of melted cheese or chocolate and long forks for dipping, this dish brought people together for a fun, hands-on experience. From bread cubes and veggies to marshmallows and fruit, everything was fair game for dunking. Today, fondue might seem like a novelty, but back then, it was the height of communal dining and made for memorable parties.
7. Fruit Cocktail Dessert
Remember those little tins of fruit cocktail? Served as a side dish or a dessert with a little whipped cream on top, fruit cocktail was a quick and easy way to make any meal feel special. Those syrupy pieces of pear, peach, and a single cherry (if you were lucky!) brought a little sweetness to the end of the meal.
8. Vienna Sausages
These tiny canned sausages were oddly fascinating and showed up at so many gatherings as a snack or on a toothpick. They were often paired with crackers or transformed into pigs-in-a-blanket. While they might seem a bit unusual today, back then, Vienna sausages were a party treat with a bit of a “fancy” twist.
9. Deviled Ham Spread
Before charcuterie boards were a thing, there was deviled ham spread. This tangy, creamy spread made from canned ham and mayonnaise was perfect for sandwiches or served on crackers at parties. It had a zing that was memorable, and for a while, it was a kitchen essential!
10. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, bell peppers were a colorful way to get a wholesome meal on the table. They were a little bit of work, but worth it for the presentation and taste. Stuffed peppers are still around today, but they don’t quite have the ‘70s charm they once did.
11. Chicken Divan
With a creamy sauce, broccoli, and tender chicken, Chicken Divan was the way to serve veggies and protein in one delicious dish. Often topped with cheese or breadcrumbs, this casserole was a hit at family dinners and special occasions. It was warm, comforting, and just a little bit indulgent.
12. Salisbury Steak with Gravy
If you ever had a TV dinner in the ‘70s, there’s a good chance it included Salisbury steak with a side of mashed potatoes. This ground beef patty smothered in rich brown gravy made for a satisfying meal that tasted just right after a long day. It might not be the most glamorous dish, but it always felt like home.
13. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This dessert had a signature look, with pineapple rings and bright red cherries on top of a golden cake. There’s something unforgettable about the sweet, caramelized topping and the way it looked on the plate. Pineapple upside-down cake was a true showstopper and a fun treat that brought sunshine to the dessert table.
14. Egg Salad Sandwiches
Egg salad sandwiches were the ultimate picnic food. Whipped up with mayo and a touch of mustard, egg salad was simple yet comforting. Spread between two slices of white bread or served in little tea sandwiches, this was a lunchbox classic that felt familiar and filling.
15. Liver and Onions
While it wasn’t every kid’s favorite, liver and onions was a dish many remember trying at least once. The rich taste of liver paired with caramelized onions was an acquired taste, to be sure, but it was also packed with iron and seen as healthy. This dish may not be in vogue anymore, but it was once a staple for many families.
These classic dishes are the flavors of an era that brought families together around the dinner table. While some of them have gone out of style, they still hold a special place in our memories, each bite a nostalgic trip back in time. Whether they were favorites or something you learned to love, they all have a way of making us feel like kids again.
