Ever caught the smell of meatloaf in the oven and instantly been whisked back to your childhood kitchen? Food is a powerful time machine, and some dishes hold a special place in our collective memory, especially those popular in the mid-20th century. From family potluck picnics to school cafeterias, these recipes defined an era.
But nostalgia isn’t the only reason these dishes live on in our hearts. Many are surprisingly simple to make with easily accessible ingredients that offer a comforting familiarity rarely found in modern culinary trends. It’s no wonder we keep circling back to them, both for the memories and the unquestionable deliciousness.
So, let’s fire up the fondue pot and grab a deviled egg (or three…) as we reminisce about 16 iconic dishes that were all the rage back in the day. Maybe you’ll even rediscover a forgotten favorite!
1. Tuna Casserole
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Remember that creamy, cheesy dish with a crispy topping? Tuna casserole was a staple in many households, offering a budget-friendly and protein-packed meal. Using canned tuna, a common pantry item, this dish is a testament to the era’s resourcefulness in the kitchen.
Often baked in a Pyrex dish and topped with crushed potato chips, tuna casserole remains a comfort food for many, evoking memories of simpler times and family dinners.
2. Deviled Eggs
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No potluck or party in the 70s was complete without a platter of deviled eggs. These bite-sized appetizers, filled with a creamy yolk mixture and topped with paprika, were both delicious and visually appealing.
The tangy filling and retro charm of deviled eggs continue to make them a popular party snack today, a reminder of a time when presentation and flavor went hand in hand.
3. Meatloaf
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A true embodiment of home-cooked comfort, meatloaf reigned supreme on dinner tables throughout the mid-century. Often made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a medley of seasonings, it was a hearty and satisfying meal that could feed a whole family.
Typically served with mashed potatoes and gravy, meatloaf captured the essence of the era’s love for simple, wholesome dishes that warmed both body and soul.
4. Ambrosia Salad
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A delightful concoction of fruit, marshmallows, coconut, and sometimes nuts, Ambrosia Salad was a festive dessert that graced many a holiday table. Its playful combination of textures and flavors, from the juicy fruit to the fluffy marshmallows, made it a hit with both children and adults.
The origins of Ambrosia Salad can be traced back to the 19th century, but it reached peak popularity in the 70s, becoming a symbol of celebratory gatherings and sweet indulgence.
5. Jell-O
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Jello-O, both in sweet and savory forms, was a culinary trend that reflected society’s fascination with creating all-in-one meals. These jiggly creations could be made into a rainbow of colors and often featured suspended fruits, vegetables, or even meats.
While their popularity has waned, Jell-O remains a quirky and nostalgic symbol of the 60s and 70s cuisine, a reminder of a time when experimentation and novelty were embraced in the kitchen.
6. Swedish Meatballs
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These savory meatballs, typically served in a creamy gravy, became a household favorite thanks in part to IKEA’s introduction of them to the American market in the 60s. Their popularity continues to this day, with IKEA selling over a billion meatballs yearly, worldwide.
Often found alongside lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes, Swedish meatballs offer a taste of Scandinavian comfort food that has transcended cultural boundaries.
7. Fondue
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Dipping bread cubes or fruit into melted cheese or chocolate was a social dining experience that captured the spirit of the decade in the 60s. Fondue parties were a popular way to entertain guests, offering a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal.
The communal nature of fondue, with everyone gathered around a shared pot, made it a symbol of togetherness and camaraderie, a reflection of the social values of the time.
8. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
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This eye-catching dessert, with its caramelized pineapple topping, was a token of hospitality and celebration. The sweet and tangy flavors of caramelized pineapple combined with a buttery cake made it a beloved treat for special occasions.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake was often baked in cast iron skillets, adding to its rustic charm and nostalgic appeal.
9. Chicken à la King
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This creamy chicken dish, often served over toast or rice, was a popular choice for weeknight dinners in the mid-century. It’s made with cooked chicken, mushrooms, pimentos, and a rich, creamy sauce.
Its simplicity and versatility made it a go-to recipe for busy homemakers, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that could be prepared quickly and easily.
10. Sloppy Joes
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This messy yet satisfying sandwich, filled with seasoned ground beef, was a kid-friendly favorite that often made an appearance at backyard barbecues and family gatherings. The sweet and tangy sauce paired with a soft bun created a flavor explosion that was both fun and delicious.
Sloppy Joes were a symbol of casual dining and carefree fun, a reminder of a time when food was meant to be enjoyed without fuss or formality.
11. Green Bean Casserole
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A Thanksgiving staple that originated in the 1950s, green bean casserole combined canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions in a delicious blend of flavors and textures.
Its ease of preparation and comforting taste quickly made it a holiday favorite, and it remains a beloved side dish for many families today.
12. Liver and Onions
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While perhaps not as universally loved as some other dishes on this list, liver and onions were a common sight on dinner tables in the 50s and 60s. It was a budget-friendly way to incorporate organ meats into the diet, often served with mashed potatoes or rice.
Though its popularity has declined in recent decades, liver and onions remain a nostalgic dish for some, evoking memories of childhood meals and simpler times.
13. Watergate Salad
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This sweet and fluffy dessert salad, typically made with pistachio pudding, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped cream, was a popular potluck dish in the 70s. Its name is a playful reference to the Watergate scandal, which was unfolding around the time of its rise to fame.
With its vibrant green color and creative combination of flavors, Watergate Salad became a symbol of lightheartedness and humor in the face of political turmoil.
14. Chicken Divan
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This elegant casserole, featuring chicken, broccoli, and a cheesy Mornay sauce, was a popular dinner party dish in the ’60s and ’70s. Its rich flavors and sophisticated presentation made it a favorite among those who sought to impress their guests.
Often baked in a casserole dish and topped with breadcrumbs or grated cheese, Chicken Divan was a testament to the era’s love for creamy, indulgent dishes that were both delicious and visually appealing.
15. Quiche Lorraine
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This savory tart, filled with a custard of eggs, bacon, and cheese, rose to popularity in the 1970s as a brunch dish. Its versatility and elegant presentation made it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike.
Quiche Lorraine’s popularity also reflected a growing interest in French cuisine during this era, as Americans began to explore and embrace international flavors.
16. Cheese Balls
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These festive appetizers, often rolled in chopped nuts or herbs, were a staple of holiday parties and gatherings in the 70s. Their creamy texture and savory flavors made them a crowd-pleasing snack.
Cheese balls were often served with crackers or vegetables, and their versatility allowed for endless variations, from classic cheddar to spicy jalapeño.