My Weeknight Wins Usually Involve These 29 Retro Recipes

There’s something oddly comforting about these 29 retro recipes pulling through again and again. They’ve been around for years and somehow still beat half the new stuff out there. They’re reliable, unfussy, and don’t require a mood board to make sense of. If these meals had a motto, it’d be “still here, still cooking.”

Close-up of a savory biscuit with a creamy ham filling, looking like a gourmet twist on a Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, served elegantly on a plate.
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

A baked potato topped with shredded barbecue chicken, sour cream, and chopped herbs on a white plate.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These are perfect for a quick dinner after a long day. BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes combine comfort with ease for a meal that doesn’t take much effort. They’re loaded with ingredients that keep you coming back for more. It’s a meal that feels both hearty and fun.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, pickles, green olives, blue cheese, breadsticks, baguette slices, grapes, a jar of honey, and a round cheese topped with a dollop of jam.
Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you’re craving something easy but fulfilling, this is the way to go. A Charcuterie Board gives you plenty of variety to hit every craving. It’s perfect whether you’re snacking or making it the main event. You can’t go wrong with this easy-to-pull-together meal.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Beef Pot Pie

A golden-brown homemade pie with a flaky crust, garnished with a sprig of rosemary on the side.
Beef Pot Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s something about a dish like this that feels like home. Beef Pot Pie brings a warm, hearty feel to any table. With its flaky crust and comforting filling, it’s a go-to for satisfying meals. It’s simple, yet always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Beef Pot Pie

French Onion Soup

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This is the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out. French Onion Soup packs a rich flavor that’s perfect when you want something cozy and easy. It’s great for nights when you need something light but filling. It’s the ideal bowl for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Eggnog Pudding Shots

Plastic cups filled with creamy yellow eggnog pudding shots are topped with whipped cream, star anise, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Eggnog Pudding Shots. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you’re looking for a sweet treat with a twist, this hits the mark. Eggnog Pudding Shots combine dessert and a drink in one fun bite. It’s a unique way to enjoy the festive flavor without the usual routine. They’re simple to make and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Pudding Shots

Beef Jerky

A plate of beef jerky slices next to a small bowl of dipping sauce.
Beef Jerky. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This is the snack you can count on when hunger strikes. Beef Jerky offers the perfect balance of protein and flavor to keep you going. It’s a great option for those busy days when you need something that’s both quick and filling. Whether as a snack or part of a meal, it fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Beef Jerky

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you want a bowl that’s both comforting and exciting, this is it. Birria Ramen combines the best of two worlds: rich birria and warm ramen. It’s the perfect choice when you’re craving something hearty with a bit of spice. This bowl brings a twist to traditional ramen that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Want perfectly cooked ribs without the hassle? The Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe ensures you get tender, flavorful ribs with minimal effort. The perfect crust on these ribs makes them a standout on any dinner table. It’s a recipe that turns an ordinary meal into something special.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This delightful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick and packed with flavor, this is the answer. Cashew Chicken is a simple but fulfilling choice for any night of the week. It’s a filling dish that’s easy to make and hard to resist. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you feeling good, without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This dish has the kind of rich, tender meat that makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen. Beef Bourguignon is a great choice when you want something classic and fulfilling. Though it takes some time to cook, the results are always worth it. It’s perfect for when you want to make a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want a side that’s both comforting and simple, this is a great pick. Focaccia Bread is soft and warm, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether paired with soup or salad, it’s always a hit. This bread might be simple, but it’s a key player in any dinner spread.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This is the kind of soup that fills you up without being too heavy. Cheeseburger Soup brings all the flavors of a burger into a creamy, comforting bowl. It’s perfect for when you want a fulfilling meal without a lot of prep. This one is great for when you need something warm and quick.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat.
General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for something bold and exciting? General Tso’s Chicken brings a delicious mix of heat and sweetness. It’s a great choice for when you want a fulfilling meal that’s easy to make. Perfect for weeknights, this dish always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gnocchi is the kind of comfort that never gets old. It’s simple, filling, and always hits the mark. Perfect for a quick fix after a busy day, these little bites never disappoint. There’s something fulfilling about how they hold up with almost any topping.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Beef Tacos

Three beef tacos filled with ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and sliced red onions.
Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re craving something quick, Beef Tacos are the go-to option. These are easy to throw together, and the flavor just comes alive. You can load them with whatever you feel like, making them as light or hearty as you want. Everyone can enjoy them, and there’s never any leftover.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Cheese Grits

Creamy polenta in a skillet, topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, and stirred with a wooden spoon.
Cheese Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cheese Grits are a go-to when you need something easy and comforting. They pair perfectly with so many dishes, offering a creamy base. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter what’s going on. Whether as a side or on its own, it’s a solid choice for a weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy dish with melted cheese, beef, beans, and scattered cilantro leaves. Red onion slices are visible in the foreground.
Beef Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for a filling meal with just the right amount of spice? Beef Enchilada Casserole has layers of flavor that make it perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s quick to put together and even better when it’s ready to eat. This is one of those dishes you can keep coming back to for a hearty, hassle-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

German Chocolate Cake

A slice of double-layer chocolate cake with a creamy filling and glossy chocolate frosting on top.
German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those moments when only dessert will do, German Chocolate Cake hits the mark. It’s sweet, moist, and rich, with a texture that’s just right. The layers make it feel special, even if it’s just another Tuesday night. It’s one of those treats that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake

Cheeseburger

A cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, and ketchup on a plate. A bowl of lettuce is in the background.
Cheeseburger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A classic like Cheeseburger is always a hit, and it’s perfect for those days when you want something simple. This burger brings all the comfort without a complicated prep. With a juicy patty and that melt-in-your-mouth cheese, it’s everything you want in a quick meal. You can’t go wrong with a cheeseburger when it’s time to eat.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Caramel Apple Fudge

A stack of green and brown swirled fudge cubes. The top cube has a bite taken out of it.
Caramel Apple Fudge. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For something that feels like a sweet indulgence, Caramel Apple Fudge is the way to go. It brings that perfect balance of creamy and tart in one bite. It’s a dessert that doesn’t take long to make but satisfies every time. You’ll find yourself sneaking bites, no matter the time of day.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Fudge

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You can’t go wrong with Cattle Drive Casserole when you’re craving a hearty meal that’s easy to throw together. It’s packed with flavor and can easily feed a crowd without much effort. The combination of ingredients makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but filling.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington sliced on a wooden board with a side salad in the background.
Beef Wellington. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Beef Wellington is one of those recipes that always feels like a win, even if you’re just making it on a regular weeknight. It brings together tender beef with a delicious layer of pastry that bakes up perfectly every time. Whether you’re cooking for one or a group, this dish never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves.
Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you need something comforting and quick, Cheese Ravioli is a go-to that’s easy to make and always hits the spot. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for those nights when you don’t want to put in a ton of effort but still want something that feels like a meal. Toss it in your favorite sauce, and you’ve got dinner done. It’s one of those recipes that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Beef Stew

A close-up of a beef stew with green peas and chopped parsley, showing a spoon partially submerged in the rich, red sauce.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Beef Stew is a classic for a reason, it’s hearty and great for a cozy meal at home. The rich, savory taste gets better as it simmers, making it a great option when you’ve got a little extra time to let the flavors develop. Even on a regular weeknight, it feels like a meal you’d want to serve for a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Cheese Ball

A cheese ball on a cutting board with crackers.
Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This might be a simple dish, but it’s one that always brings people back for more. It’s easy to make, and you can dress it up however you want with your favorite spices or herbs. Whether you’re serving it for a quick snack or as part of a larger spread, it never disappoints. Cheese Ball is just the right mix of cheesy and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball

Funeral Potatoes

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Funeral Potatoes might sound like an unusual name, but this dish is a winner every time. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal side for almost any meal. Whether you’re serving it up for dinner or bringing it to a gathering, it’s always a hit. It’s one of those comfort food staples that’s quick to make but fills you up in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture.
Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to prepare and fulfilling, Cheeseburger Sliders are always a great choice. They’re small but pack a punch when it comes to flavor, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The bite-sized nature of these sliders makes them fun to eat while still feeling like a full meal. Plus, they’re easy to customize to suit everyone’s tastes.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Lamb Shank

Roasted lamb leg on a platter with sliced potatoes, lemon, and herbs. A knife is placed beside the dish.
Lamb Shank. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you want to step up your dinner game without going overboard, Lamb Shank is the way to go. It’s a rich, tender dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, even on a busy evening. The slow-cooked meat practically falls off the bone, making each bite so satisfying. It’s a dish that feels fancy without the fancy effort.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shank

Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Close-up of a savory biscuit with a creamy ham filling, looking like a gourmet twist on a Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, served elegantly on a plate.
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you love comfort food, Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a must-try. This dish combines the fluffiness of biscuits with the rich, savory gravy for a meal that feels both indulgent and filling. It’s a great way to mix up your usual dinner routine with something that still feels like home. Perfect for when you need a hearty meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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