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19 Retro Meals Your Kids Will Actually Eat (And Love)

Bringing back the classics has never been more fun, especially when those retro meals are something your kids will actually eat—and love! If you’ve ever wished your little ones could appreciate the dishes you grew up with, you’re in luck. These 19 nostalgic recipes have been given a kid-friendly twist, making them just as appealing today as they were back then.

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

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.

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup is a vibrant dish that’s both comforting and simple, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. This soup combines familiar flavors in a way that feels both comforting and slightly adventurous. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter to a family meal. Serve this colorful soup and watch it become a new favorite among the younger crowd.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

Blueberry Shortcake

Close-up shot of Blueberry Shortcakes served on a white plate.
Blueberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

This sweet treat layers fresh blueberries with soft cake, making it both delicious and visually appealing. Blueberry Shortcake offers a fun twist on a classic dessert that’s sure to capture the hearts of children. It’s ideal for teaching kids about the joys of homemade desserts. Enjoy this confection at your next family gathering for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Shortcake

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.

Leftover Cottage Roll Hash is a resourceful way to reinvent leftovers into something exciting and new. This dish offers a hearty and satisfying meal that kids will eagerly anticipate. It’s a clever mix of flavors that ensures nothing goes to waste while still being incredibly tasty. Serve this hash for a comforting meal that fills everyone up with smiles.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Cottage Roll Hash

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring a touch of the exotic to your dinner table with Chinese Chicken Salad. This meal combines crunchy textures and sweet flavors that are likely to win over even the pickiest eaters. It’s a fresh way to introduce kids to different culinary styles without leaving their comfort zone. This salad is both nutritious and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Homemade Corned Beef

Homemade corned beef on a white plate.
Homemade Corned Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Homemade Corned Beef offers a sense of accomplishment along with deep, savory flavors. This meal can be a fun weekend project that results in a delicious and fulfilling dish perfect for family gatherings. It’s a wonderful way to introduce children to traditional cooking methods. Relish the rich flavors and tender texture that make this corned beef so memorable.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Corned Beef

Butter Scones

Two butter scones on a plate with a cup of tea on a marble surface.
Butter Scones. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

These scones are buttery and soft, ideal for a tea party or as a sweet snack after school. Butter Scones are perfect for teaching kids the basics of baking. They’re simple enough for kids to help make, providing a fun and interactive kitchen activity. Enjoy these light and fluffy scones with your favorite spread for a tasty experience.
Get the Recipe: Butter Scones

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.

Turkey à la King brings a classic comfort dish back to the table. This meal is a fantastic way to use leftover turkey, turning it into a new and exciting dish that children will love. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner that fills the room with its inviting aroma. Serve this creamy dish over rice or pasta for a fulfilling family meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Ribs and Sauerkraut

Ribs and Sauerkraut with a fork.
Ribs and Sauerkraut. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Bringing back a forgotten classic, Ribs and Sauerkraut marries the rich, tender flavors of ribs with the tangy crunch of sauerkraut. It’s a simple yet unexpectedly harmonious dish that promises to leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. It’s perfect for introducing your family to the melding of flavors that defined generations past.
Get the Recipe: Ribs and Sauerkraut

Beef Stew

Beef stew in a white bowl with carrots and potatoes.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

There’s something about Beef Stew that screams comfort and home. This timeless recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl, brimming with hearty goodness. It’s the kind of meal that makes you think of family dinners, where stories were as plentiful as the stew. A definite must-have for those chilly evenings when all you crave is warmth.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Ground Beef Fried Rice

Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner By Six.
Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Who says you can’t make a meal out of what’s in your fridge? Ground Beef Fried Rice is the ultimate retro remix that turns leftovers into a feast. It’s quick, satisfying, and versatile, proving that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this dish has got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A pineapple upside-down cake with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries in a cast iron skillet.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

For a sweet trip down memory lane, Pineapple Upside Down Cake is your passport. It’s a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of pineapple with a moist, buttery cake. Every slice is a piece of history, perfect for family gatherings or just because. It’s the kind of treat that’ll have everyone gathering around the table for a story or two.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Wild Rice Salad offers a refreshing change to the usual fare with its unique textures and flavors. It stands out as a side dish that’s both nutritious and full of character. Ideal for those looking for something different, this salad is a conversation starter. It not only complements any meal but also introduces a bit of the wild side to dinnertime.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

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.

Transform yesterday’s roast into today’s feast with Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie. This recipe is all about making the most of what you have, creating a comforting, heartwarming dish. It’s a clever way to reinvent leftovers, ensuring nothing goes to waste. It resonates with both the young and the young at heart.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Easy Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice with a slice of lime on a black bowl.
Easy Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Easy Mexican Rice is the vibrant side dish your dinners have been missing. It’s a fuss-free recipe that punches above its weight in flavor and color. This rice is a sidekick that easily steals the spotlight, promising to brighten up any meal. It’s a quick, no-nonsense way to add a splash of excitement to your culinary routine.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

A hand holding a spoonful of creamy chicken noodle soup with vegetables over a bowl, accompanied by slices of bread on a plate.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Imagine cuddling up with a warm bowl of something comforting after a long day. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is exactly that kind of dish. It brings together the nostalgia of childhood and the need for a hearty meal in one scoop. It’s a simple way to introduce a classic dish to your kids that they’ll surely want again.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Ukrainian Potatoes

Ukrainian Potatoes on a white plate.
Ukrainian Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When thinking of a meal that feels like a hug from the inside, Ukrainian Potatoes come to mind. This dish offers a cozy and familiar taste that both kids and adults can appreciate. Its roots are deep in tradition, yet it fits perfectly on the modern family table. It’s an easy choice for an evening meal, bringing a slice of heritage to your kitchen without complication.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce with pita dipped in a black bowl.
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Dipping into the flavors of the Mediterranean has never been easier with Authentic Tzatziki Sauce. This sauce is a versatile addition to your family’s recipe repertoire. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a flexible option for meal planning. Bringing this sauce into your kitchen means bringing a taste of adventure.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Introducing Easy Salmon Pasta Salad, a dish that guarantees no leftovers. Its blend of flavors captures the essence of what a family meal should be. Whether it’s for a quick weekday dinner or a weekend lunch, this recipe stands out for its convenience and appeal. It’s a straightforward way to serve up omega-3s without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

There’s nothing more comforting than a recipe passed down through generations. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, it creates a sense of togetherness at the table. A serving of this dish is like embracing a cherished memory, making it a hit with kids and grown-ups alike.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

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