There’s nothing quite like gathering around the dinner table with loved ones and sharing a warm, comforting meal. For many of us, family recipes hold a special place in our hearts – they evoke memories of childhood, holidays, and cozy nights spent together. In this article, we’re celebrating 20 of the most beloved favorite family recipes that are sure to become new traditions in your household. From classic comfort foods like chicken pot pie and meatloaf to sweet treats like apple pie and chocolate chip cookies, these dishes have been passed down through generations and are guaranteed to bring people together. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next family gathering, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to relive some of the most memorable moments with these 20 heartwarming favorite family recipes.
Grandma’s Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! This homemade chicken pot pie is filled with tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky crust, making it the perfect dish for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, corn, and carrots)
– 1 pie crust, homemade or store-bought
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add flour, butter, broth, and cream; stir until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with chicken mixture.
5. Top with remaining pie crust or a crumb topping (optional).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mom’s Secret Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze
A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This moist and flavorful meatloaf is topped with a sweet and sticky brown sugar glaze that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Top with brown sugar glaze (see below).
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Brown Sugar Glaze:
1. Mix brown sugar and water in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Brush glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf during last 10 minutes of baking.
Aunt Linda’s Creamy Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that never goes out of style, Aunt Linda’s Creamy Mac and Cheese is a satisfying side dish or main course. Rich and velvety pasta baked to perfection with a crispy golden crust.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 3/4 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cool slightly.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and cheesy sauce. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dad’s Famous BBQ Ribs with Smoky Dry Rub
Get ready to fall off the bone with these mouthwatering BBQ ribs, slathered in a rich smoky dry rub and slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (4-6 bones per rack)
– 1/2 cup Dad’s Famous Smoky Dry Rub (see below)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Smoky Dry Rub:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Remove membrane from the back of ribs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Apply Smoky Dry Rub evenly, making sure all surfaces are covered.
4. Cook for 4-5 hours or until tender and falling off the bone.
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 15 minutes of cooking.
6. Rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Uncle Joe’s Slow-Cooked Beef Stew
Uncle Joe’s Slow-Cooked Beef Stew Recipe
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a cold winter night
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Serve hot and enjoy!
Cousin Sarah’s Buttery Garlic Rolls
Cousin Sarah’s Buttery Garlic Rolls: A deliciously simple recipe that yields tender, flavorful rolls perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, sugar, and 2 cups of flour; mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add remaining cup of flour, salt, and garlic; knead for 5-7 minutes until dough forms.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into desired rolls. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Great-Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Apple Pie
This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that will transport you to a simpler time. With just a few simple steps, you can create a pie that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use pastry blender or fingers to work into coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough forms a ball.
5. Divide dough in half and roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Arrange apple slices on one dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Sprinkle sugar mixture evenly over apples.
8. Place second dough circle on top and crimp edges to seal.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Family-Recipe Spaghetti Bolognese
This classic Italian dish has been a staple in our family for generations, and is sure to become a favorite in yours too! With its rich flavor profile and hearty texture, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and carrot to the pot and cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer sauce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
6. Serve pasta with sauce and top with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Holiday Honey-Glazed Ham
Add a touch of sweetness to your holiday meal with this easy-to-make honey-glazed ham recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a delicious and memorable holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves until well combined.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Sunday Morning Fluffy Pancakes
Sunday Morning Fluffy Pancakes
Start your day off right with these soft, fluffy pancakes that are sure to become a family favorite. Made with simple ingredients and a few clever tricks, this recipe yields a batch of pancakes that are light, airy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Flavorings of your choice (e.g. vanilla extract, chocolate chips)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 8-10 pancakes
Grandpa’s Chili with a Kick
Get ready to spice up your chili game with this bold and flavorful recipe, passed down from Grandpa himself!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 red bell peppers, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell peppers to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the canned tomatoes and kidney beans to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Mom’s Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies are a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. Made with semi-sweet chocolate chips and a hint of vanilla, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Aunt Carol’s Creamy Potato Salad
This classic potato salad recipe is a staple at any backyard barbecue or family gathering. With its creamy dressing and tender potatoes, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chopped dill and chives (if using) to the dressing and stir to combine.
5. Gently fold the dressing into the cooled potatoes until well coated.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dad’s Perfectly Grilled Burgers
Bring the backyard BBQ vibes to your patio with Dad’s secret recipe for perfectly grilled burgers. These juicy, flavorful patties are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces ground beef (80/20)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
3. Brush both sides of each patty with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides of the patties.
5. Place patties on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Assemble burgers with cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grandma’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that warms the heart and soothes the soul. This homemade chicken noodle soup is a staple for any occasion, from a cold winter day to a cozy family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the soup pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Uncle Mike’s Famous Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to taste the tender, tangy goodness of Uncle Mike’s signature pulled pork sandwiches! This classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Serve: With coleslaw and pickles, if desired.
Cousin Emily’s Cheesy Baked Ziti
A classic comfort food recipe that combines tender ziti pasta with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, cheese sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Great-Aunt Betty’s Buttermilk Biscuits
These classic biscuits are a staple of Southern cooking and are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter to dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and a pinch of salt until smooth.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until dough forms.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Roll out dough to about 1 inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out biscuits.
8. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Family-Style Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight family dinner. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be adjusted to suit your family’s taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, broccoli, and garlic. Cook until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mom’s Decadent Double Chocolate Brownies
These rich, fudgy brownies are sure to satisfy any chocolate craving. With a deep, dark chocolate flavor and a gooey center, they’re perfect for a special treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. Melt the butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder until smooth. Let cool slightly.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in flour and salt. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler; let cool slightly.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and top with melted chocolate.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up your kitchen with these 20 beloved family recipes! From classic comfort foods like Grandma’s Homemade Chicken Pot Pie and Mom’s Secret Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze, to sweet treats like Great-Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Apple Pie and Mom’s Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to recreate a childhood favorite or start a new tradition, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become staples in your household. So go ahead, gather the family, and get cooking!
