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Family Suppers Always Feel Fuller With 41 Old Fashioned Dishes on the Table

No one leaves the table hungry when 41 hearty recipes rooted in tradition make their way to dinner. It’s easy to lose count between casseroles, roasts, and those sides everyone secretly wants the recipe for. These kinds of suppers prove that sometimes bigger really is better, especially when it comes to feeding a hungry, chatty crowd.

Plate with Cast Iron Smothered Pork Chops served alongside mashed potatoes and vine tomatoes.
Cast Iron Smothered Pork Chops. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A white bowl filled with fried cabbage with pieces of bacon sits on a white surface with a blue cloth nearby.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Family suppers always feel fuller with Fried Cabbage with Bacon as a staple on the table, offering a well-loved combination of tender cabbage and smoky bacon. Each bite brings out the natural flavors, balanced by a hint of sweetness and crispness from the bacon. This dish stands out for its simplicity and reliable results when shared among relatives or guests.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Robust family meals often include Dutch oven Carnitas, providing fork-tender pork seasoned just right for everyone at the table. Slow-cooking allows the flavors to develop deeply, resulting in a dish that can anchor any gathering. Typically served shredded, this pork brings people together, making plates look and feel abundant.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

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Baked Ziti

A close-up of a wooden spoon lifting a serving of baked ziti with melted cheese and tomato sauce from a casserole dish.
Baked Ziti. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Plates always seem just a bit more generous when Baked Ziti joins family suppers, brimming with layers of pasta, sauce, and melted cheese. The hearty combination brings warmth and comfort, serving as a familiar centerpiece that invites seconds. Whether served for busy weeknights or special occasions, this baked dish promises a filling option that satisfies everyone.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ziti

Pasta & Peas (Pasta e Piselli)

A bowl of pasta and peas with a fork, grater, and cheese on the side.
Pasta & Peas (Pasta e Piselli). Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Dinner tables are heartier with Pasta & Peas (Pasta e Piselli) featuring a delicate mix of tender pasta and sweet green peas. Incorporating a dash of cheese ties the flavors together, making this dish both simple and appealing for all ages. Quick to prepare but full of comforting goodness, it works well as a main or a side.
Get the Recipe: Pasta & Peas (Pasta e Piselli)

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

A bowl of red pepper and tomato soup next to a plate of bread and a spoon.
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Family suppers always take on a fuller feeling when Red Pepper & Tomato Soup is ladled into bowls, as it combines tangy tomatoes with roasted peppers for a smooth, warming starter. The bright flavors work well together, making it an inviting choice that appeals to varied palates. It stands out for bringing lightness while still offering depth, often paired with hearty bread or sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

Creamy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

A plate of Deviled Egg Pasta Salad served with a fork on a white plate.
Creamy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Platters become even more welcoming when Creamy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is added to family suppers, marrying the familiar flavors of deviled eggs with pasta. Finished with a creamy dressing, this salad keeps everyone coming back for more. It transitions easily from side dish to a main for lighter appetites, making it flexible for any dinner setting.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup

A wooden spoon holds Rotisserie chicken noodle soup above a pot filled with more soup.
Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Family tables grow more inviting with Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup as a classic centerpiece, packed with shredded chicken and tender noodles. Using rotisserie chicken saves time, delivering depth of flavor without all the fuss. This soup brings warmth and nourishment, making it ideal for shared suppers that feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup

Honey Roasted Baby Carrots

Assorted roasted baby carrots in orange, yellow, and purple colors on a baking sheet, garnished with chopped herbs.
Honey Roasted Baby Carrots. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Shared meals feel more complete when Honey Roasted Baby Carrots are included, creating a sweet and lovely addition to any plate. Roasting enhances the carrot’s natural sweetness, while a touch of honey creates a caramelized finish. These carrots pair well with almost any main course, making them a versatile favorite.
Get the Recipe: Honey Roasted Baby Carrots

Classic Pork Souvlaki

Three pieces of Pork Souvlaki with a bowl of white sauce and pieces of flatbread on a black slate serving board.
Classic Pork Souvlaki. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Full family tables are a guarantee with Classic Pork Souvlaki skewers, seasoned just right and grilled until juicy and flavorful. Served with pita and fresh sides, this dish encourages gatherings where everyone can build their own plate. Pork souvlaki is both fun and practical, suitable for groups both big and small. This meal leaves everyone satisfied, with leftovers ready for easy lunches the next day.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki

Oma’s German Potato Salad

A spoonful of German potato salad topped with bacon, red onion, and chopped parsley held over a bowl of the same salad.
Oma’s German Potato Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Gathering around the table feels more special with Oma’s German Potato Salad, featuring tangy dressing and hearty potatoes for a dish enjoyed by many. Unlike traditional mayonnaise-based versions, this salad is enjoyed warm with crispy bacon and onions. Its unique taste profile complements roasted meats, sausages, or even simple sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Oma’s German Potato Salad

Zucchini Lasagna

A close-up, slightly high-angle view of Zucchini Lasagna squares arranged on a dark gray baking sheet, each topped with a glossy, light brown apple filling and a generous sprinkle of light brown crumb topping.
Zucchini Lasagna. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Making family suppers fuller, Zucchini Lasagna swaps noodles for layers of thin-sliced zucchini, combining flavor and nutrition in every bake. The dish holds sturdy alongside any main course, pleasing even those who don’t usually favor vegetables. Meat sauce, cheese, and seasoning blend perfectly, giving each slice a hearty feel without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Lasagna

Chicken Cacciatore

A white dish filled with pieces of Chicken Cacciatore in a red sauce, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Shared family meals feel truly complete once Chicken Cacciatore is brought to the table, filled with tender chicken in a rich tomato sauce full of peppers and onions. Its rustic appeal draws everyone in, serving well over pasta or rice for a filling plate. With each simmer, the dish gains a depth that makes for memorable dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

3-Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

A metal spatula lifts a slice of 3-Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole from a glass baking dish.
3-Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Complimenting a variety of main dishes, 3-Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole uses just a few ingredients to create a crowd-pleasing side for shared suppers. A creamy cheese layer covers tender broccoli, resulting in a dish that’s simple but never dull. Preparation is quick and easy, ideal for busy evenings when the family gathers.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Italian Pot Roast Pasta

A hand lifting a fork with a bite of Italian Pot Roast Pasta on a bowl.
Italian Pot Roast Pasta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Family suppers gain a sense of abundance when Italian Pot Roast Pasta appears, combining slow-cooked beef with rich tomato sauce and hearty noodles. This dish brings layers of flavor developed over time, making it a standout on the dinner table. It provides generous servings, making leftovers likely and lending itself well to meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pot Roast Pasta

Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche

A slice of Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche on a white plate with a side of mixed fruit. A full quiche and glass of orange juice are in the background.
Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mealtime presentation is always better with Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche as part of the spread, offering a creamy, custard-like filling studded with vegetables. The blend of cheeses adds depth, while broccoli brings freshness and color to every slice. Baked until set, it’s easy to slice and serve either warm or at room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

A plate of Chicken Tetrazzini topped with melted cheese and sprinkled with chopped herbs, with a fork and napkin beside it.
Easy Chicken Tetrazzini. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Group dining is always improved by Easy Chicken Tetrazzini, featuring pasta, chicken, and mushrooms baked in a creamy sauce. This casserole-style dish comes together with little fuss, making it ideal for feeding a crowd. Each bite brings together multiple flavors in a way that feels comforting and fulfilling. Leftovers make for wonderful lunches, ensuring nothing ever goes unused.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Steak Fried Rice

A bowl of steak fried rice served with blue chopsticks on a white tiled surface.
Steak Fried Rice. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Plates feel heartier with Steak Fried Rice as a main course, blending bite-sized steak pieces with rice, egg, and vegetables in one skillet. The flavors mix well, delivering a dish that feels special without a lot of preparation time. This meal is both filling and practical for family gatherings, using pantry staples with great results.
Get the Recipe: Steak Fried Rice

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Two bowls of creamy chicken & wild rice soup on a wooden table.
Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Family meals reach a new level of comfort when Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is served, as its smooth texture and tender chicken bring a sense of completeness. Wild rice adds texture and nuttiness, complementing the mild creaminess of the broth. This soup becomes a favorite when served with bread or crackers, offering plenty for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon, surrounded by fresh green onions.
Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Gathering around the dinner table feels generous with Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole, featuring creamy potatoes layered with cheese and crispy bacon. Each serving delivers a familiar taste that recalls home-cooked favorites, making it perfect for family reunions or weekly dinners. Preparation is straightforward, allowing hosts to focus on spending time together.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Classic Meatballs

A plate of spaghetti topped with two meatballs, marinara sauce, grated cheese, and basil garnish.
Classic Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Fullness and comfort become the focus when Classic Meatballs find their place on the table, seasoned and baked to tender perfection. Served in a favorite sauce over pasta or as part of sandwiches, these meatballs have a way of drawing everyone in. They provide reliable results and are suitable for larger crowds, often disappearing quickly.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatballs

Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

A white rectangular plate with Potatoes & Cabbage garnished with parsley on a patterned surface.
Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!). Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Table spreads are made heartier by Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!), a simple yet filling choice featuring tender potatoes and cabbage mixed in one pan. This straightforward approach makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels and complements both meats and other vegetables. Each forkful is warm and comforting, making it a popular family staple.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

A plate of German pot roast beef with a sauce being poured over it.
Slow Cooker German Pot Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Time spent together over plates of Slow Cooker German Pot Roast often leads to lasting memories, as this dish combines well-seasoned beef and vegetables in a flavorful gravy. Cooking slowly allows flavors to meld, producing fork-tender meat that’s easy to serve. This pot roast is perfect for feeding a crowd, requiring minimal active preparation.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

Leftover Cottage Roll Hash

A bowl of leftover cottage roll hash on a white tablecloth.
Leftover Cottage Roll Hash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mealtime resourcefulness is highlighted with Leftover Cottage Roll Hash, a dish that transforms leftovers into something fresh and filling. Diced potatoes and cottage roll blend with onions and seasoning for a hearty combination that reduces food waste. This recipe is particularly useful after big gatherings, ensuring every bit of food is put to good use.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Cottage Roll Hash

Beef Bourguignon

Beef bourguignon in a white bowl with thyme.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Family suppers quickly feel more substantial when Beef Bourguignon is served, featuring tender beef braised with wine, vegetables, and herbs for deep, comforting flavors. Each bite speaks of tradition, making this dish a natural fit for special occasions or large gatherings. The slow-cooking method guarantees a rich result, best served over mashed potatoes or noodles.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata served over pasta, garnished with lemon slices, capers, and parsley.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Palates perk up during shared dinners when Chicken Piccata joins the occasion, offering chicken cutlets in a lemony caper sauce. The bright, fresh flavors help balance plated sides and invite people to linger longer at the table. This Italian classic is easy to prepare but feels special every time it’s served. Leftovers fit perfectly into the next day’s lunch rotation, highlighting their versatility.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd's Pie in a cast iron dish.
Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Filling plates is effortless with Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie, which layers seasoned roast beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. Every spoonful provides both nourishment and comfort, drawing families closer during supper. Repurposing leftovers in this way ensures nothing is wasted while delivering a dish rich in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Traditional family evenings become more memorable thanks to Turkey à la King, a creamy mix of turkey, vegetables, and sauce served over toast or rice. This recipe transforms leftovers into a dish that’s warm and fulfilling for groups of all sizes. The easy method keeps dinner relaxed, offering a break from more complicated meals.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Oma’s Beer Braised Bratwurst

Five Beer Braised Bratwurst cooking in a skillet with a thick, light brown gravy or sauce.
Oma’s Beer Braised Bratwurst. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Main courses carry rustic appeal with Oma’s Beer Braised Bratwurst, as sausages simmer in beer and onions to take on hearty flavors. This dish pairs effortlessly with potatoes, salads, or rustic breads, making it a versatile addition to any supper table. Beer adds an edge that anyone can appreciate, regardless of age or background.
Get the Recipe: Oma’s Beer Braised Bratwurst

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts

A plate of Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts, served with a fork and spoon on the side.
Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Shared suppers appear fuller when Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts is placed alongside favorite entrees, bringing color and crunch to every plate. Roasted beets, creamy cheese, and walnuts make for a memorable blend of flavors and textures. This salad provides a fresh counterpoint to classic meat dishes, ensuring balance.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts

Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef

A hand holds a fork with a Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef topped with melted cheese and herbs.
Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Generosity shines with Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef as part of a family menu, since it combines pasta, beef, and cheese in a single pan for easy serving. Attendance at the table tends to grow whenever this lasagna is prepared, given its approachable flavors. Quick to prepare and even easier to clean up, it’s a favorite for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Skillet Lasagna with Ground Beef

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A rectangular white plate with cooked red cabbage and bacon pieces, placed on a light surface next to a floral-patterned cloth.
Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Main dishes always look heartier with Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon as a side, blending tangy notes with smoked bacon for a dish that stands out. The brightness of red cabbage balances some of the heavier centerpieces, making it an ideal partner at family meals. This old-fashioned recipe is both practical and flavorful, requiring only simple pantry ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style dish in a round ceramic plate with cooked snails topped with herbs and butter sauce, and slices of bread on a wooden board.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Family feasts feel more plentiful with Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style, featuring tender steak pieces cooked in a tangy garlic butter sauce. This recipe brings a touch of novelty, resembling classic escargot but using familiar cuts of beef. Steak bites are easy to serve on shared platters, making them suitable for both gatherings and casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites Escargot-Style

Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

A bowl of cheesy soup with bread on top.
Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Suppers always feel more traditional with Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup at the center of attention, as its caramelized onions and melted cheese cap deliver both aroma and depth. The hearty broth is perfect for ladling over crisp bread, encouraging conversation and slow enjoyment. Each bowl promises warmth, making it a go-to for shared meals.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Cucumber and Onion Salad

A bowl of cucumber salad with red onions and fresh dill, placed on a wooden plate with a fork, surrounded by ingredients on a marble surface.
Cucumber and Onion Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Table settings look more complete with Cucumber and Onion Salad acting as a cool, crunchy counterpoint to richer dishes in a family meal. Thinly sliced cucumbers and onions marinate in a tangy dressing, providing lightness and flavor. This side dish helps balance heavy entrees, ensuring plates never feel overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber and Onion Salad

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of cooked ground beef mixed with diced vegetables and garnished with lime wedges and chopped herbs. A red striped cloth is placed beside the plate.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Servings are noticeably larger when Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef is presented, featuring seasoned ground beef ready for tacos, rice, or bowls. The flexibility of this recipe means each family member can create a plate tailored to individual tastes. Versatile and easy to scale, this dish guarantees plenty for leftovers or second helpings.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Poor Man’s Meal

A frying pan filled with Poor Man's meal sits on a white surface with a spoon, surrounded by fresh parsley, tomatoes, tortilla chips, and seasoning.
Poor Man’s Meal. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Any meal feels more resourceful and filling with Poor Man’s Meal, where potatoes, ground beef, and onions combine for a budget-friendly, delicious dish. It comes together easily with minimal ingredients, making it accessible to all. The recipe’s simplicity doesn’t sacrifice flavor, ensuring a meal that pleases a range of appetites.
Get the Recipe: Poor Man’s Meal

Chicken & Corn Chowder

Chicken & Corn Chowder in a black bowl, topped with bacon, scallions, and red pepper flakes.
Chicken & Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Comfortable, family-centered dining becomes easier with Chicken & Corn Chowder, offering chunks of chicken and corn in a creamy, rich base. Each spoonful brings a sense of comfort, filling bowls and bellies alike. This chowder complements bread or biscuits and is easy to personalize with favorite seasonings. Sharing a pot of this chowder ensures everyone enjoys both nourishment and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken & Corn Chowder

Mom’s Meatball Casserole

A hand lifts a serving of meatball casserole from a rectangular baking dish, showing melted cheese stretching.
Mom’s Meatball Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Dinner spreads gain warmth and heartiness with Mom’s Meatball Casserole, featuring tender meatballs baked under layers of sauce and melted cheese. As the centerpiece of the meal, it’s loved by all ages and makes great leftovers. The casserole style allows for easy serving and portioning, perfect for large gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mom’s Meatball Casserole

A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie

A slice of tomato pie on a white plate with a serving utensil, and a whole tomato pie in a white fluted dish, are shown on a marble surface with a small bowl of spices and basil leaves.
A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Family suppers enjoy a touch more variety with A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie, where layers of juicy tomatoes and cheese are baked inside a flaky crust. This dish highlights the beauty of simple, quality ingredients working together. Tomato pie stands up well to a variety of mains while offering a unique flavor profile. Plates stay full and interest remains high when this casserole joins the table.
Get the Recipe: A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie

Oven Baked Ribs

Oven-baked ribs with onion and garlic on top served on a white rectangular plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Hands and hearts are always busy when Oven Baked Ribs headline the menu, as tender ribs baked until juicy make conversation flow easily. The preparation keeps things simple and cleanup easy, so hosts can have more time with family. Each rib offers plenty of flavor, making second helpings likely. Meals feel more festive and generous when these ribs take center stage.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Best Ever Giant Meatballs

A stack of giant meatballs garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs served on a black rectangular slate plate.
Best Ever Giant Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Table presence increases with Best Ever Giant Meatballs, generously sized spheres of seasoned, slow-cooked meat. Serving these alongside pasta or fresh bread creates an impression of abundance. Their size and rich flavor make them a favorite among all diners, big and small. Gathering for supper feels more special with these memorable meatballs at the center.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Giant Meatballs

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