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    Home / Roundups

    28 vintage recipes that deserve a comeback

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Jan 27, 2026 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    There's something comforting about recipes that have stood the test of time, and I love bringing them back into the kitchen. These vintage dishes are practical, flavorful, and easy to enjoy without any fuss, making weeknight dinners and family meals feel a little more special. I'm excited to share a collection of classics that remind us why these flavors were once so beloved.

    Two pork chops covered in creamy gravy on a plate, served with rice and steamed broccolini in the background.Pin

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    Maryland Crab Cakes

    Close-up of a crab cake on a plate, topped with creamy sauce, partially cut to show the inside. Lemon wedges and parsley garnishes are nearby.Pin
    Maryland Crab Cakes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These crab cakes bring back the classic flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with a balanced mix of crab and seasonings. They cook quickly and can be served as a main dish or appetizer. The recipe is approachable for anyone, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. They remind us why old favorites like this have remained beloved over the years.
    Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cakes

    Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

    Sliced ham with orange slices and grapes, garnished with parsley on a platter.Pin
    Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    The sweet and tangy glaze adds a bright twist to a traditional ham. Cooking in the air fryer keeps the process fast and mess-free. This dish works well for family dinners or holiday meals when time is tight. It's a simple way to enjoy a recipe that deserves to be tried again.
    Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

    Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

    A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.Pin
    Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Comforting and creamy, this mac and cheese captures the style of classic stovetop versions. Using the crock pot makes it effortless to prepare while multitasking. It's perfect for lunch or dinner when you want a warming, hearty meal. The recipe brings back the nostalgia of old-school gatherings.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

    Easy Yeast Rolls

    Yeast rolls in baking dish.Pin
    Easy Yeast Rolls. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Soft and fluffy rolls that are ideal alongside soups, stews, or main dishes. The recipe keeps preparation straightforward, with minimal hands-on time. They're great for family meals or when hosting friends. This simple bread shows why traditional recipes like these never go out of style.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Yeast Rolls

    Crock Pot Tomato Soup

    Top view of a bowl of creamy tomato soup garnished with basil, served with a spoon and sunglasses on the side.Pin
    Crock Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Smooth and rich, this soup warms the kitchen and the heart. Using a slow cooker makes it convenient to set and forget until mealtime. Pairing it with sandwiches or bread makes it a full meal. The recipe is a classic that reminds us of simple, timeless flavors.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

    Chicken Pot Pie

    Small serving of chicken pot pie casserole on plate with fork.Pin
    Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Loaded with tender chicken and vegetables, this dish feels like home in every bite. It's easy to prepare ahead and bake for a comforting dinner. Perfect for weeknights or cozy weekend meals. The recipe recalls the wholesome flavors of vintage family dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

    Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

    Pouring savory sauce over a bowl of rice topped with beef and bell peppers.Pin
    Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Juicy strips of beef and crisp peppers cook gently in the slow cooker for full flavor. The hands-off cooking style makes weeknight dinners stress-free. This recipe works well served over rice or noodles. It brings back a classic dish that was once a staple in many households.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

    Chicken Chop Suey

    Stir-fried chicken chop suey in a skillet.Pin
    Chicken Chop Suey. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A simple mix of chicken and vegetables creates a meal full of texture and color. The dish cooks quickly on the stovetop, making it practical for busy nights. Serve with rice or noodles for a complete dinner. It's a recipe that has held its place in home kitchens for decades.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

    Easy Beef Stew

    Beef stew in yellow bowls.Pin
    Easy Beef Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Tender beef and vegetables simmer together for a filling and hearty meal. Preparation is simple, and the slow cooking allows flavors to develop naturally. It's ideal for colder evenings or weekend dinners. The recipe showcases a timeless dish that remains comforting across generations.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

    Slow Cooker Pork Roast

    A plate with roasted pork, sliced carrots, and potatoes on a woven mat, with a fork and knife beside the dish. A slow cooker is partially visible in the background.Pin
    Slow Cooker Pork Roast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A flavorful pork roast becomes tender without constant attention thanks to the slow cooker. Minimal prep makes it approachable for any cook. Perfect for Sunday dinners or casual gatherings. This recipe shows why old-school roasts are still worth making.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Roast

    Individual Shepherd's Pie

    Shepherd's pie in a red ceramic dish with a spoon, showcasing layers of mashed potatoes and minced meat with vegetables on a white tablecloth.Pin
    Individual Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Each portion of mashed potatoes and savory filling makes this a classic comfort meal. It's easy to prepare in small dishes and bakes quickly. Great for lunches or intimate dinners. The recipe demonstrates why this traditional favorite continues to charm.
    Get the Recipe: Individual Shepherd's Pie

    Easy Scalloped Potatoes

    Close-up of a cheesy scalloped potatoes dish in a white baking dish, garnished with parsley.Pin
    Easy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Thinly sliced potatoes in a creamy sauce make a side dish that complements almost any meal. The recipe is simple and quick to assemble. Ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads. These potatoes recall classic family-style cooking that stands the test of time.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

    Slow Cooker Beef Tips

    A spoon holding chunks of beef in a rich, brown stew garnished with small pieces of green herbs.Pin
    Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Tender beef tips simmer in a rich sauce for a hands-off dinner that fills the house with aroma. Minimal prep means you can focus on other tasks while it cooks. Serve with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. The recipe keeps alive a vintage favorite for comforting meals.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

    Garlic Butter Pork Chops

    Two pork chops covered in creamy gravy on a plate, served with rice and steamed broccolini in the background.Pin
    Garlic Butter Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Juicy pork chops with garlic butter make an easy, flavorful dinner. Cooking is straightforward, and the dish comes together quickly. Perfect for weeknight meals or a simple weekend supper. This recipe reminds us of the timeless appeal of well-prepared pork.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Pork Chops

    Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

    Roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots on a white plate.Pin
    Whole Chicken in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A whole chicken cooks evenly in the air fryer, making a traditional meal fast and convenient. Minimal effort creates a main dish ready for family dinners. Serve with vegetables or potatoes for a complete meal. The recipe brings back a classic roasted chicken experience with modern ease.
    Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

    Chicken Divan

    A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin.Pin
    Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A creamy, chicken-filled casserole that pairs well with rice or a light side. The recipe is simple to assemble and bake for dinner. It's ideal for casual weeknight meals or small gatherings. This dish keeps alive a vintage recipe that was once a staple in home cooking.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

    Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

    A blue bowl of cooked chicken breasts garnished with chopped herbs on a light fabric backdrop.Pin
    Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Chicken thighs cook gently in the slow cooker, coming out tender and flavorful. Minimal hands-on time makes it perfect for busy days. Serve with vegetables or grains for a complete meal. The recipe shows why this old favorite is worth revisiting.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

    Crock Pot Chili for Two

    Crock Pot Chili served in two white bowls with spoon.Pin
    Crock Pot Chili for Two. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A small-batch chili simmers slowly for a warm, hearty dinner without leftovers. It's simple to prep and perfect for cozy nights. Serve with bread or over rice for a complete meal. This recipe brings a classic chili back into rotation for small households.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

    Crock Pot Cabbage Soup

    A bowl of hearty tomato-based soup with cabbage.Pin
    Crock Pot Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A light but flavorful soup that makes use of fresh cabbage and vegetables. The slow cooker keeps preparation easy and hands-off. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a starter for a larger meal. The recipe highlights a traditional, comforting soup that deserves more attention.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Cabbage Soup

    Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

    Four twice baked potatoes in a small baking dish.Pin
    Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Potatoes stuffed with cheese and toppings create a side that feels hearty and complete. The recipe is easy to assemble and bake, making it approachable for any cook. Ideal for family meals or casual dinners. It reminds us why baked potatoes with extras were once a dinner table favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

    Hershey's Hot Chocolate

    A glass mug filled with hot chocolate, topped with mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of cocoa powder, placed on a white surface.Pin
    Hershey’s Hot Chocolate. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Smooth and rich chocolate warms the body and spirit in minutes. Preparation is quick and easy, perfect for cold mornings or after-school drinks. Serve with whipped cream or marshmallows for a classic treat. This recipe revives a timeless beverage loved by generations.
    Get the Recipe: Hershey's Hot Chocolate

    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    Chocolate oatmeal no-bake cookies on a white plate.Pin
    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Simple ingredients come together quickly to form a sweet treat that doesn't require an oven. Perfect for busy afternoons or last-minute snacks. The recipe makes clean-up easy and keeps things manageable. It showcases a retro favorite that never loses its charm.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Chocolate oatmeal cookies on a white plate, one broken in half, showing a soft interior, with loose chocolate chips scattered around on a white surface.Pin
    Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A few ingredients make cookies that are soft, chewy, and perfect for smaller batches. Quick prep ensures you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime. Ideal for sharing or enjoying alone. This recipe brings back a classic cookie that's worth repeating.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Shrimp Scampi

    A plate with shrimp and bread on it.Pin
    Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Tender shrimp in a buttery garlic sauce creates a quick, flavorful dinner. Preparation is minimal, and the dish cooks fast. Serve with pasta or rice for a complete meal. It's a recipe that keeps an old favorite in the weekly rotation.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

    Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

    Cabbage and bacon in white serving bowl.Pin
    Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Cabbage and bacon come together in a simple, flavorful side dish. Minimal prep and quick cooking make it approachable for any home cook. It pairs well with meats or main courses. The recipe revives a traditional Southern classic that deserves recognition.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

    Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

    A plate of apple crisp with chunks of apple, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an oat crumble topping.Pin
    Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A single-serving apple crisp brings a sweet finish to any meal without fuss. The air fryer keeps the cooking process quick and easy. Perfect for a cozy treat or solo dessert. This recipe reintroduces a vintage comfort dish in a modern, practical way.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

    Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

    Meatloaf sliced on a white plate.Pin
    Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A hearty meatloaf that feels familiar and filling. Preparation is simple, and it bakes to a classic, savory finish. Great for weeknight dinners or family meals. The recipe shows why this style of meatloaf remains a beloved traditional dish.
    Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

    Individual Lasagna

    Lasagna for One in small 10-ounce square baking pan.Pin
    Individual Lasagna. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Layered noodles, sauce, and cheese make a comforting personal-sized meal. Easy to assemble and bake, it's practical for any dinner. Perfect for serving without leftovers or sharing. This recipe brings a classic Italian-American dish back to everyday tables.
    Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

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