19 Retro Recipes Making a Comeback This Year
Old-school recipes are having a major moment as people rediscover the charm of nostalgic dishes. These retro favorites bring comfort, familiarity, and a touch of fun back into the kitchen.
Whether it’s a family recipe or a classic dish that’s getting a modern twist, these meals remind us why they’ve stood the test of time. Let’s take a tasty trip down memory lane with 19 retro recipes that are making a delicious comeback this year.
Beef Stroganoff
This creamy, savory dish from the mid-20th century is back on tables everywhere. Tender beef strips, mushrooms, and onions are cooked in a tangy sour cream sauce and served over egg noodles.
While traditional recipes are still beloved, many cooks now lighten it up with Greek yogurt or add modern spices for a fresh twist.
Jello Salad
Vibrant and wiggly, jello salads were a staple at parties in the 1950s. Made with gelatin, fruit, and sometimes marshmallows or cream, they’re equal parts quirky and nostalgic.
Modern versions incorporate fresh fruit and artisanal gelatin, giving this dessert a classy upgrade.
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Chicken à la King
Creamy and comforting, chicken à la king is a one-pan wonder featuring diced chicken, mushrooms, and bell peppers in a velvety sauce. Traditionally served over toast or rice, this dish has regained popularity for its simplicity and versatility.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are classic appetizers that have been reimagined with gourmet fillings like avocado, smoked salmon, or spicy sriracha. Perfect for gatherings, these little bites pack big flavor and are endlessly customizable to suit any occasion.
Meatloaf
Once a weeknight dinner staple, meatloaf is making its way back into kitchens. Recipes today often include creative twists like barbecue glazes, ground turkey, or stuffed centers.
It’s hearty, easy to make, and the leftovers are just as good as the first bite.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This tropical dessert is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Caramelized pineapple rings and cherries sit atop a buttery cake, creating a sweet and tangy treat.
Many bakers are giving it a modern touch with fresh fruit and innovative flavor combinations.
Ambrosia Salad
A mix of fruit, coconut, marshmallows, and whipped cream, ambrosia salad is pure nostalgia. This sweet dish has evolved with the times, often swapping out canned fruit for fresh and reducing the sweetness for a more balanced flavor.
Shepherd’s Pie
Hearty and comforting, shepherd’s pie layers ground meat and vegetables under a blanket of creamy mashed potatoes. While the original version is still beloved, modern takes include vegan versions or cauliflower mash for a lighter option.
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Chicken Pot Pie
Golden, flaky crust and a creamy chicken filling make pot pie a timeless favorite. Today’s home cooks are experimenting with mini versions, puff pastry toppings, and gluten-free crusts to bring this classic into the modern age.
Cheese Fondue
Nothing says retro like a pot of melted cheese surrounded by bread and veggies for dipping. Cheese fondue is back, and it’s more decadent than ever.
From traditional Swiss cheese blends to truffle-infused versions, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for parties.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed peppers, filled with ground meat, rice, and spices, are a hearty, wholesome dish. Updated recipes now feature quinoa, lentils, or vegan fillings, making them a versatile choice for all dietary preferences.
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Shrimp Cocktail
Once the star of 1960s dinner parties, shrimp cocktail is regaining its spotlight. Served with a tangy, zesty cocktail sauce, this appetizer feels both elegant and retro.
Add a modern kick with horseradish or smoked paprika.
Banana Bread
Though never fully out of style, banana bread saw a massive revival in recent years. Home bakers are adding everything from chocolate chips to walnuts, turning this humble loaf into a personal masterpiece.
Tuna Noodle Casserole
A budget-friendly classic, tuna noodle casserole combines pasta, canned tuna, and a creamy sauce. Today’s versions ditch the canned soup in favor of fresh ingredients, making this dish tastier and healthier than ever.
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Oyster Rockefeller
This luxurious appetizer, baked oysters topped with a buttery spinach mixture, is staging a comeback in upscale dining and home kitchens alike. It’s a nod to indulgence with a timeless appeal.
Sloppy Joes
Messy and delicious, sloppy joes are a childhood favorite making a return. Modern recipes use high-quality ingredients, like grass-fed beef or even plant-based meat, for a guilt-free twist on this comfort food.
Baked Alaska
This show-stopping dessert, with its cake base, ice cream center, and flambéed meringue topping, has wowed dinner guests for decades. Baked Alaska is back as chefs and home bakers embrace its drama and nostalgia.
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Waldorf Salad
Apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts dressed in mayo or yogurt make up this iconic salad. The Waldorf is reappearing on menus, often with a lighter, fresher spin that incorporates arugula or vinaigrette.
Gelatin Molds
Once a party centerpiece, gelatin molds are reemerging with artistic flair. Modern cooks use natural flavors, vibrant colors, and fun shapes to turn this retro staple into a chic dessert or side dish.
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