Retro dishes are making a comeback, bringing nostalgic flavors back to our kitchens. These classic recipes are being rediscovered and enjoyed by a new generation. From comforting casseroles to timeless desserts, these dishes are proving that old-school can be cool again.
AUTHOR: Ree Winter
Table of Contents
- 1. Deviled Eggs
- 2. Fondue
- 3. Jell-O Salads
- 4. Meatloaf
- 5. Chicken à la King
- 6. Shrimp Cocktail
- 7. Tuna Noodle Casserole
- 8. Ambrosia Salad
- 9. Swedish Meatballs
- 10. Beef Wellington
- 12 Things You Should Never Say in an Elevator
- 24 Quick Dinners That Taste Better Than Takeout
- 15 Knock Knock Jokes That Will Have You Laughing Out Loud
1. Deviled Eggs
![Deviled Eggs](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Deviled-Eggs.jpg)
The History Channel suggests that a dish resembling deviled eggs can be traced back to Roman times. While they were a popular hors d'oeuvre in the mid-20th century, they fell out of favor among those looking for a more exciting appetizer. Creative chefs are bringing them back because experimenting with new and exciting toppings has made them appealing again.
2. Fondue
![Cheese Fondue](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Cheese-Fondue.jpg)
If you imagined long-haired individuals with bell-bottom trousers enjoying a fondue while laughing with friends, you're not the only one — so did I. Both savory and sweet fondue varieties were a hit during the 60s and 70s. Fondue is now coming back as a communal and interactive dining option with variations including smoked mozzarella, chocolate, and salted caramel, among many others.
3. Jell-O Salads
![Jello salad](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Jello-salad.jpg)
Yes, I dismissed these in my opening paragraph, but the modern versions look extremely tempting compared to their mid-twentieth-century counterparts. Think Clementine-Pomegranate Jello salad or a Sangria gelatin ring filled with fresh berries. That sounds like a great summer dessert to me.
4. Meatloaf
![Meatloaf](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Meatloaf.jpg)
This classic comfort dish doesn't wow anyone with its appearance or ingredient list. You might think of it as a comfort dish cooked by an older relative. It's rarely on a modern menu. Now, with our newfound love of all things culinary, some creative twists mean this dish is gracing dinner tables once more with variations like meatloaf with a balsamic and mushroom sauce and The New York Times Millionaire's Meatloaf that includes a spicy shrimp topping.
5. Chicken à la King
![Chicken a la king](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Chicken-a-la-king-1.jpg)
This creamy chicken and vegetable dish served over rice or toast gained popularity in the late 19th century. This comfort dish went out of favor with people seeking healthier options, but it's making a comeback. One elevated version serves it in puff pastry shells with porcini mushrooms and fresh tarragon. It's all about the presentation.
6. Shrimp Cocktail
![Refreshing Mexican Shrimp Cocktail with lime in glass on gray stone background, copy space.](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Prawn-Cocktail.jpg)
I remember thinking this appetizer was the height of elegance and serving it to bewildered friends at a birthday party during my teens. It had to be served in a fancy glass dish with crisp lettuce, fresh shrimp, and cocktail sauce. While it fell out of favor over the past few decades, it's recently made its modern debut on various recipe sites where the dish is given a modern twist. Get the recipe
7. Tuna Noodle Casserole
![Tuna Noodle Casserole](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Tuna-Noodle-Casserole.jpg)
This is honestly my favorite comfort dish and a family favorite. I've been making this for the last 30 years. Its lack of culinary sophistication meant that you weren't likely to see it unless you had a family member making it. However, it's making a big return with new innovations and higher-quality ingredients than the standard tuna casserole.
8. Ambrosia Salad
![Ambrosia Salad](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Ambrosia-Salad-1.jpg)
This 1950s and 60s favorite fruit salad containing canned fruit and marshmallows fell out of favor due to its processed ingredients. Now, it is returning, with chefs using fresh fruits and ingenious variations, appealing to a desire for nostalgic flavors. Adding sour cream, fresh pineapple, coconut, and nuts amps up this dish.
9. Swedish Meatballs
![Swedish Meatballs](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Swedish-Meatballs.jpg)
Every IKEA on the planet has Swedish meatballs. Unlike American meatballs served in a tomato-based sauce, Swedish meatballs tend to use various spices and are served in brown gravy. Now, you can find them back on the menu as chefs incorporate them into modern menus, focusing on authenticity. Get the recipe
10. Beef Wellington
![Beef Wellington](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Beef-Wellington.jpg)
If you've been watching Hell's Kitchen, you might think Beef Wellington has always been an upscale dish. However, it fell out of fashion in favor of lighter, faster, and more health-conscious options. With the help of chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Beef Wellington is experiencing a revival, with chefs putting a contemporary spin on the traditional recipe. Modern variations often incorporate high-quality beef, innovative fillings, and creative pastry techniques. Get the recipe
12 Things You Should Never Say in an Elevator
![Elevator people](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Elevator-people.jpg)
Conversations in an elevator can be awkward, and sometimes, saying the wrong thing can make it even more uncomfortable.
Click Here For 12 Things You Should Never Say in an Elevator
24 Quick Dinners That Taste Better Than Takeout
![Corned Beef Hash](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Corned-Beef-Hash.jpg)
Each dish is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Click Here For 24 Quick Dinners That Taste Better Than Takeout
15 Knock Knock Jokes That Will Have You Laughing Out Loud
![Laughing Out Loud](https://www.corriecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Laughing-Out-Loud.jpg)
Here's a collection of 15 timeless classics that promise to bring a smile and maybe even a groan.
Click Here For 15 Knock Knock Jokes That Will Have You Laughing Out Loud