50+ Delicious Old-Fashioned Dinner Recipes Your Family Will Love

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty, home-cooked meal that’s rooted in tradition.

Old-fashioned dinner recipes have a way of evoking nostalgia and warmth, often reminding us of simpler times spent gathered around the table with loved ones.

These classic dishes not only satisfy our hunger but also offer a sense of connection to the past, where meals were prepared slowly, with love and care.

Whether it’s a pot roast simmering in the oven, a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, or the crispy goodness of fried chicken, old-fashioned dinners are designed to fill both your stomach and your soul.

The beauty of these timeless recipes lies in their simplicity and the way they celebrate rich, comforting flavors.

In this blog post, we’ve gathered over 50 of the most beloved old-fashioned dinner recipes, each offering a unique taste of home.

From hearty stews and casseroles to succulent roasts and classic comfort foods, these dishes will transport you to a simpler time while satisfying your appetite for delicious, wholesome meals.

Get ready to rediscover the joy of old-fashioned cooking!

50+ Delicious Old-Fashioned Dinner Recipes Your Family Will Love

Old-fashioned dinner recipes are more than just meals—they’re a way to celebrate tradition and bring families together.

These time-tested recipes have been passed down through generations because they’re simply too good to be forgotten.

Whether you’re craving a rich, savory stew or a comforting casserole, these recipes provide the perfect balance of flavor, nostalgia, and simplicity.

As you explore these 50+ old-fashioned dinner recipes, you’ll not only discover new favorites but also rekindle fond memories of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the kitchen be the heart of your home once again.

Your family will thank you for the effort, and you’ll experience the joy of creating delicious memories around the dinner table.

Roast Chicken with Vegetables

This roast chicken recipe is a timeless comfort food, perfect for family dinners. Tender, juicy chicken seasoned with classic herbs, paired with roasted root vegetables, makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. The slow roasting allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a crispy skin and succulent meat.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved
• 3-4 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the chicken with olive oil, and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Place the lemon halves and garlic cloves inside the cavity of the chicken.
3. Arrange the carrots, potatoes, and onion around the chicken in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan.
4. Roast the chicken for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), basting occasionally with the pan juices.
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables on the side.

This roast chicken dinner is a nostalgic meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table. The rich flavors of garlic, rosemary, and thyme infuse the chicken as it roasts, while the vegetables soak up the delicious juices, creating a fulfilling meal that can be enjoyed by all. It’s the kind of meal that’s both simple to make and wonderfully satisfying.

Beef Stew with Biscuits

A hearty beef stew served with warm, fluffy biscuits is a classic comfort food that has stood the test of time. This rich and savory stew is filled with tender beef, root vegetables, and a thick, flavorful broth. Paired with freshly baked biscuits, it makes a filling and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients: For the stew:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup peas
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 2/3 cup milk

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef stew meat in batches, then set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the broth, wine (if using), and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it cook for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. Add the carrots, potatoes, and peas. Cook for an additional 30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the stew has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For the biscuits:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the milk and stir until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently. Roll it out to about 1-inch thickness, then cut into rounds.
4. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

This beef stew with biscuits brings back memories of family dinners around the table. The rich, savory stew filled with tender beef and vegetables is perfectly complemented by the soft, flaky biscuits. The stew’s depth of flavor comes from the slow cooking process, while the biscuits add an extra layer of comfort, making this a meal that’s both satisfying and timeless. It’s perfect for a cozy evening or for serving a crowd.

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Meatloaf is the epitome of an old-fashioned dinner. This version features a moist, flavorful meatloaf topped with a tangy ketchup glaze, paired with creamy mashed potatoes that bring everything together. It’s a comforting, no-fuss meal that feels like home.

Ingredients: For the meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the mashed potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for the glaze.
4. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

The meatloaf paired with mashed potatoes creates a meal that is both filling and full of nostalgia. The rich, savory meatloaf with its slight sweetness from the ketchup glaze complements the smooth, buttery mashed potatoes perfectly. This dinner is a classic family favorite, often passed down through generations. It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort and warmth, reminding us of simpler times spent with loved ones around the dinner table.

Chicken Pot Pie

This chicken pot pie is the epitome of home-cooked comfort. The creamy filling, filled with tender chicken and vegetables, is enveloped in a flaky, golden crust that crisps up beautifully as it bakes. It’s a perfect meal to serve on a chilly evening or when you want something hearty and filling.

Ingredients: For the filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• 4-6 tablespoons cold water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. For the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer to the dish, pressing the edges to seal.
7. Pour the filling into the crust and top with a second layer of dough, sealing the edges. Cut a few slits in the top for ventilation.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Chicken pot pie is a quintessential comfort food that has been warming homes for generations. The creamy filling, packed with tender chicken and vegetables, is the star of the dish, but it’s the flaky, buttery crust that truly elevates it. This meal can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, making it a great choice for busy days. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that brings a sense of nostalgia with every bite.

Country-Style Pork Ribs

Slow-cooked country-style pork ribs are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The meat practically falls off the bone, thanks to the long cooking time, and the smoky barbecue sauce adds the perfect touch of sweetness and tang. Served with mashed potatoes or cornbread, it’s a true southern classic.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs country-style pork ribs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork ribs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard.
3. Brown the pork ribs on all sides in the skillet, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set them aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
5. Stir in the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer, then return the ribs to the skillet.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake for 2-2.5 hours, or until the ribs are fork-tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
7. Remove the ribs from the oven and serve with mashed potatoes, cornbread, or steamed vegetables.

Country-style pork ribs are a flavorful, tender, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a relaxed family dinner. The long, slow cooking process ensures that the ribs are fall-apart tender, and the tangy barbecue sauce provides a delicious contrast. This dish is packed with rich, smoky flavors that are sure to satisfy anyone at the table. It’s a classic southern meal that feels like a warm embrace, full of comfort and tradition.

Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that combines pasta, marinara sauce, and a rich blend of cheeses, all baked together until golden and bubbly. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion and is perfect for feeding a crowd or for leftovers the next day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the cheese mixture and toss to combine.
4. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the pasta mixture on top, then cover with half of the remaining marinara sauce. Repeat with the rest of the pasta and sauce.
5. Top the dish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Baked ziti is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best elements of Italian cooking—rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella. The baked, slightly crispy edges of the pasta add texture, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors. It’s a dish that’s both simple and indulgent, ideal for feeding a family or for a gathering with friends. The combination of cheesy goodness and hearty pasta makes it an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together.

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These three additional old-fashioned dinner recipes continue the theme of hearty, comforting meals that bring people together. Whether it’s the creamy chicken pot pie, the smoky country-style pork ribs, or the cheesy baked ziti, each dish is perfect for creating lasting memories at the dinner table. The beauty of these meals lies in their simplicity, yet each one is packed with rich flavors and textures that make them truly satisfying.

Classic Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a quintessential old-fashioned comfort food, often made with ground beef (or lamb) and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with a golden, creamy mashed potato crust. It’s a hearty, filling meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients: For the filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the mashed potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. To make the filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the carrot and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
5. While the filling is simmering, make the mashed potatoes. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Transfer the beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing them into an even layer.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Classic beef shepherd’s pie is a meal that warms both the heart and the stomach. The savory beef filling, combined with the creamy mashed potato topping, creates a satisfying, layered dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the crisp, golden potato top adds a nice texture contrast. It’s an easy, filling dish that brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort, perfect for cooler months or any time you need a cozy, hearty meal.

Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy

Fried chicken is a true comfort food favorite, and when paired with creamy gravy, it becomes a complete meal that evokes memories of Southern hospitality. The crispy, seasoned chicken with its juicy interior is complemented perfectly by a rich, homemade gravy that’s irresistible.

Ingredients: For the fried chicken:

• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the gravy:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, or overnight in the fridge for best results.
2. In another bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, enough to submerge the chicken pieces halfway.
4. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to coat, then fry the chicken in the hot oil for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
5. For the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking, until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve the fried chicken with the creamy gravy poured over the top.

Fried chicken with creamy gravy is a beloved dish that never goes out of style. The crispy coating on the chicken gives each bite a satisfying crunch, while the rich, velvety gravy enhances the flavors and adds a luxurious finish. This meal brings comfort to the soul, making it a perfect option for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion when you want something hearty and delicious.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that’s both colorful and nourishing. Packed with a filling of seasoned meat, rice, and vegetables, they are baked to perfection with a tangy tomato sauce topping. It’s a balanced meal that is easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Stuff the bell peppers with the beef and rice mixture, packing them tightly. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
5. Pour a little water into the bottom of the dish to prevent burning. Cover with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes.
6. After baking, remove the foil, sprinkle the tops with shredded mozzarella cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Stuffed bell peppers are a versatile and satisfying dish that can be customized to suit various tastes. The hearty filling of seasoned beef, rice, and vegetables is balanced perfectly with the natural sweetness of the bell peppers. Topped with melted cheese, these stuffed peppers offer a comforting, wholesome meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that will quickly become a family favorite.

Baked Meatball Parmesan

Baked Meatball Parmesan is a hearty, comforting dish that layers tender meatballs with marinara sauce and melted cheese, all baked together until golden and bubbly. This dish is simple to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.

Ingredients: For the meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the dish:

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
5. In a large baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the cooked meatballs on top and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the meatballs, then bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Baked Meatball Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser that offers both comfort and flavor. The homemade meatballs are tender and flavorful, and the gooey melted cheese adds the perfect finishing touch. Paired with a side of garlic bread or pasta, this dish is a satisfying, filling meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. It’s a timeless classic that never disappoints.

Slow-Cooked Pot Roast with Vegetables

A slow-cooked pot roast is the epitome of old-fashioned comfort food. The beef becomes incredibly tender as it slowly simmers with vegetables and seasonings, creating a rich, flavorful gravy that’s perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs chuck roast (or brisket)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer the roast to a slow cooker.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes around the roast in the slow cooker.
3. In a small bowl, mix the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Pour the mixture over the roast and vegetables.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the roast is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the vegetables and gravy from the slow cooker.

Slow-cooked pot roast with vegetables is a warm, comforting meal that requires minimal hands-on time. The long cooking process allows the beef to absorb all the flavors of the broth and seasonings, becoming incredibly tender and flavorful. The vegetables cook alongside the roast, soaking up the savory juices, making this a one-pot meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. It’s a dish that brings a sense of tradition and is perfect for family gatherings or cozy Sunday dinners.

Cornbread and Sausage Dressing

Cornbread and sausage dressing is a classic side dish that’s often served during the holidays but is perfect for any meal. The savory, flavorful sausage combines perfectly with the slightly sweet cornbread, and when baked to a golden crisp, it makes an irresistible accompaniment to roasted meats or poultry.

Ingredients:

• 1 batch of homemade cornbread (or 1 box of cornbread mix)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare cornbread according to package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe. Once baked, crumble the cornbread into small pieces and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the crumbled cornbread and sausage to the skillet, mixing until well combined. Stir in the chicken broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be moist but not soggy; add more broth if necessary.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cornbread and sausage dressing is a hearty and flavorful side dish that complements a variety of main courses, particularly roasted meats or turkey. The combination of cornbread and sausage creates a savory, slightly sweet base, while the herbs and broth tie everything together with rich, comforting flavor. It’s the perfect dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you want a filling, satisfying side to accompany your meal.

Classic Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is a soul-warming dish that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, topped with fluffy, buttery dumplings. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights when you need something hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients: For the soup:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or 4 bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken pieces, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
2. While the soup simmers, make the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour mixture with a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually stir in the milk until the dough just comes together, then fold in the fresh parsley.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it. Discard the bones and skin, then return the chicken to the pot.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, until the dumplings have puffed up and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Chicken and dumplings is a perfect meal for a cold day or when you need something comforting. The tender chicken and vegetables create a rich, flavorful broth, while the fluffy dumplings add a soft, pillowy texture that soaks up all the delicious flavors. It’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, making it a favorite for families and a staple in southern and comfort food cuisine.

Beef and Vegetable Stew

Beef and vegetable stew is a timeless classic that combines tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth that’s perfect for soaking up with crusty bread. This dish is the ultimate winter comfort food, perfect for filling up after a long day.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown the beef in batches, ensuring all sides are seared. Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, red wine (if using), and beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to add more flavor.
4. Return the beef to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the stew simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Beef and vegetable stew is a rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for cold weather. The slow simmering process allows the beef to become incredibly tender, and the vegetables soak up all the savory flavors of the broth. This stew is great for leftovers, and its flavor only deepens the next day. It’s the kind of meal that brings the family together around the table, perfect for a comforting, filling dinner.

Roast Chicken with Herb Butter

A simple yet elegant roast chicken is the cornerstone of many classic family dinners. The skin crisps up beautifully, while the inside remains juicy and tender. The addition of herb-infused butter elevates this dish, giving it a fragrant, flavorful richness that’s irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the softened butter with rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Gently loosen the skin of the chicken by running your fingers between the skin and meat. Rub about half of the herb butter under the skin, spreading it evenly over the breast and thighs. Rub the remaining butter over the outside of the chicken.
3. Stuff the chicken cavity with the halved lemon and quartered onion. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings underneath the body.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
5. Roast the chicken for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking for extra flavor.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the pan juices.

Roast chicken with herb butter is a timeless meal that’s simple yet full of flavor. The crispy skin and juicy meat, infused with the fragrant herbs and garlic, make this a dish that’s hard to beat. The chicken is tender and full of flavor, with a rich, savory gravy created from the pan drippings. This dish is perfect for a family gathering or a special dinner, and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!