19 Nostalgic Recipes That’ll Take You Back to Grandma’s Kitchen

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my disclosure policy.

Step into a world of comforting aromas, cherished memories, and timeless flavors! These beloved dishes, passed down through generations continue to warm our hearts and satisfy our souls.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops on a plate covered with a creamy mushroom gravy and served on mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Deviled Eggs with Pickle Relish

Holding a deviled egg sprinkled with paprika.
Deviled Eggs with Pickle Relish. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Everyone loves deviled eggs with pickle relish, and these eggs have a subtle pickle flavor that makes them perfect for any occasion. This classic bite will turn your appetizer tray into a mouth-watering and creative masterpiece.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs with Pickle Relish

Amish Cinnamon Bread

Loaf of cinnamon bread sliced to show the ribbon of cinnamon inside.
Amish Cinnamon Bread. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Amish cinnamon bread is a sweet treat that will fill your home with the warm scent of cinnamon, just like grandma’s kitchen. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this bread is the perfect comfort food that takes you back to simpler times.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Bread

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Two slices of meatloaf on a plate with mashed potatoes and carrots.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Enjoy delicious homestyle cooking with this mouth-watering copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, this meatloaf captures the comforting flavors of the beloved dishes grandma used to serve.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Italian Ricotta Cookies

closeup of ricotta cookies with colorful sprinkles
Italian Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Italian ricotta cookies are soft, cake-like treats that have been enjoyed for generations. These classic cookies are a beloved holiday tradition, but their delightful flavor makes them perfect for summer.
Get the Recipe: Italian Ricotta Cookies

Campbells Green Bean Casserole

Classic Campbell's Green Bean casserole topped with fried onions.
Campbells Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Make the classic Campbells Green Bean Casserole, just like grandma used to prepare. This timeless side dish creates a comforting and familiar addition any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Campbells Green Bean Casserole

Lime Jello Salad

Piece of lime jello salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Lime Jello Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Lime Jello Salad is a nostalgic green dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings and picnics. This old-fashioned favorite is a delightful addition to any holiday table or summer get-together.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad

Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Pork Chops on a plate covered with a creamy mushroom gravy and served on mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This crock pot pork chops recipe features a creamy, flavorful mushroom soup sauce and requires just a few simple ingredients with minimal prep. The tender, savory pork chops are reminiscent of the comforting meals grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Icebox Cake

Icebox cake with raspberries, blueberries and strawberries on a pink plate.
Icebox Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This old-fashioned icebox cake is a simple no-bake dessert that combines layers of graham crackers, summer berries, and whipped cream. With its classic flavors and easy preparation, this cake is perfect for summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Icebox Cake

Peanut Butter Bread

Slice peanut butter bread on a cutting board with a jar of raspberry jam and knife.
Peanut Butter Bread. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This quick and easy peanut butter bread is a delightful alternative to traditional banana bread. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, this yeast-free bread is packed with comforting flavor.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Bread

Oven Roasted Pork Loin

Oven roasted pork loin with potatoes, carrots and cabbage on a plate.
Oven Roasted Pork Loin. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Oven roasted pork loin is a simple, hearty family dinner that cooks alongside cabbage, potatoes, and carrots. This comforting meal is impressive enough for a dinner party, reminiscent of the satisfying dishes grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Pork Loin

Lunch Lady Brownies

A pile of neatly cut chocolate-frosted brownies is displayed on a white surface.
Lunch Lady Brownies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Lunch Lady Brownies are a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of childhood school days. This easy recipe lets you recreate that classic taste in your own kitchen, resulting in rich, fudgy brownies just like the ones grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Lunch Lady Brownies

Salt Potatoes

Salt Potatoes drizzled with melted butter.
Salt Potatoes. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Salt Potatoes are a beloved staple recipe in upstate New York. These creamy, buttery, bite-sized potatoes are simple to make and incredibly delicious, especially when served with a generous pat of butter.
Get the Recipe: Salt Potatoes

Crock Pot Beef and Noodles

Closeup of Slow Cooker beef with egg noodles.
Crock Pot Beef and Noodles. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Try this slow cooker beef and noodles recipe for an easy and delicious comfort food that reminds you of grandma’s heartwarming meals. The beef is slow-cooked until tender and combined with noodles, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Beef and Noodles

Italian Mushroom Stew

Top view of a big pot of mushroom stew with cheese and basil on a cutting board next to the pot.
Italian Mushroom Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Italian mushroom stew is a rustic dish traditional to Utica, NY. Served over Italian bread, this comforting stew evokes memories of the hearty meals grandma used to prepare, making it the perfect choice for a satisfying and nostalgic dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Italian Mushroom Stew

Baked Manicotti

Baked manicotti in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Manicotti. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Baked Manicotti is a hearty dinner featuring pasta shells stuffed with cheese and topped with ground beef and homemade marinara sauce. This cheesy and comforting dish is reminiscent of the satisfying meals grandma used to make, perfect for family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Baked Manicotti

Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and Potato soup in a gray and white bowl with a spoon.
Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Crock pot ham and potato soup is a simple and delicious comfort food that evokes memories of grandma’s cooking. Potatoes and ham cook in a slow cooker to create a rich and creamy soup. For an extra comforting touch, stir in some cheese to make a cheesy ham soup that’s perfect for cozy meals.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup

Mandarin Orange Pie

A slice of mandarin orange pie with creamy filling topped with a cherry and served on a white plate.
Mandarin Orange Pie. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Beat the summer heat with this cool, refreshing Mandarin Orange Pie! This no-bake wonder features juicy mandarin oranges and fluffy whipped cream, all in a light and easy recipe that evokes memories of the sweet, creamy desserts grandma used to serve on warm days.
Get the Recipe: Mandarin Orange Pie

Utica Greens

Top view of Utica Greens in a skillet with breadcrumbs and cherry peppers.
Utica Greens. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Utica Greens, a traditional Italian-American dish, features escarole, hot peppers, and garlic for a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy greens. This comforting recipe evokes memories of the savory, wholesome dishes grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Utica Greens

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken on a white plate on rice topped with parsley.
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken is a perfect solution for busy days, requiring minimal preparation. With its comforting blend of spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, this dish evokes memories of the satisfying meals grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

Leave a Comment