Food has a way of bringing people together, and nothing showcases that better than the recipes that newcomers request before they pack their bags. These dishes are steeped in the warmth of family gatherings and celebrations, often passed down through generations. When folks finally settle in and get comfortable, they realize that some meals hold the secret to feeling at home, no matter where they hail from.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
A timeless favorite, Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole combines creamy textures with delicious flavors. This comforting dish features tender egg noodles, chunks of tuna, and a rich sauce, often topped with a crunchy breadcrumb or potato chip crust. It’s a budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd and can be easily customized with additional vegetables or cheeses to suit your family’s preferences.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
These unique Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs get their name from the rice that’s mixed into the meat, which pokes out as they cook, resembling little porcupine quills. The meatballs simmer in a tangy tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb the delicious juices. This hands-off recipe is ideal for busy days, as the slow cooker does all the work, resulting in tender, flavorful meatballs that pair well with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken
Inspired by a popular restaurant dish, Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken is a mouthwatering combination of grilled chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a honey mustard sauce. The chicken is marinated to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful, then topped with delicious ingredients and baked until golden. This impressive yet easy-to-make dish is perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests, often becoming a requested favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken
John Wayne Casserole
Named after the iconic actor, John Wayne Casserole is a hearty Southwestern-inspired dish that’s packed with bold flavors. It typically features layers of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy cheese mixture, all baked to perfection. The casserole is often topped with biscuits or cornbread, adding a lovely textural contrast to the rich filling. This filling and comforting meal is sure to become a family favorite, especially on chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole
Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche
This elegant Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche combines tender asparagus spears with creamy ricotta cheese in a flaky pastry crust. The light and fluffy egg custard is enhanced by the subtle flavors of the vegetables and cheese, creating a harmonious balance. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner, this quiche can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for various occasions.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche
Pastitsio
Pastitsio is a Greek baked pasta dish that’s often described as a cross between lasagna and moussaka. It features layers of tubular pasta, seasoned ground meat (usually beef or lamb), and a creamy béchamel sauce, all baked until golden and bubbly. The dish is typically flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg, giving it a unique and aromatic profile. Pastitsio is a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for special family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio
Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast
Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast is a foolproof way to prepare a tender and flavorful beef roast with minimal effort. This method allows the tough cut of meat to break down slowly, resulting in a succulent and fork-tender dish. Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions can be added to create a complete one-pot meal. The slow cooking process infuses the meat with rich flavors, making it a perfect choice for a hassle-free family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast
Vintage Chicken Divan
Vintage Chicken Divan is a classic casserole that combines tender chicken and broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce. Often topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, this retro dish bakes to golden perfection in the oven. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a comforting meal that has stood the test of time. This versatile recipe can be easily adapted to personal preferences and is an excellent way to use leftover chicken.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan
Mediterranean Salmon
Mediterranean Salmon is a healthy and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. The salmon is typically seasoned with herbs like dill and oregano, then baked or grilled to perfection. It’s often served with a medley of colorful vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, olives, and artichokes, and may be finished with a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice. This light yet filling meal is perfect for those looking for a nutritious and delicious dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon
Cream Of Onion Soup
Cream Of Onion Soup is a rich and comforting dish that showcases the sweet and complex flavors of caramelized onions. The onions are slowly cooked until golden and tender, then simmered in a creamy broth that’s often enhanced with herbs and spices. This velvety soup is typically garnished with croutons or a sprinkle of cheese, adding a pleasurable crunch to each spoonful. It’s an excellent starter for a special meal or can be enjoyed as a warming main course on a cold day.
Get the Recipe: Cream Of Onion Soup
Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore is a rustic Italian dish that translates to “hunter-style” chicken. This flavorful recipe features chicken pieces braised in a sauce of tomatoes, onions, herbs, and sometimes wine. Bell peppers and mushrooms are often added to the mix, creating a colorful and aromatic dish. The long, slow-cooking process ensures that the chicken is tender and has absorbed all the delicious flavors of the sauce. Typically served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches
These Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches offer a delicious twist on traditional Greek flavors. Seasoned meatballs, often made with a combination of beef and lamb, are nestled in warm pita bread along with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. A dollop of tzatziki sauce adds a cool and tangy element to the sandwich. This handheld meal is perfect for casual dinners or as a unique option for packed lunches, offering a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches
Mexican Chicken Casserole
Mexican Chicken Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of a hearty casserole. Layers of shredded chicken, tortillas, beans, and cheese are smothered in a spicy sauce and baked until bubbly and golden. This one-dish meal often includes additional ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or olives for extra flavor and texture. It’s an excellent option for feeding a crowd or for make-ahead meals, as it reheats beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Chicken Casserole
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Inspired by the popular Italian restaurant dish, Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka features al dente rigatoni pasta tossed in a creamy tomato sauce that’s enhanced with a splash of vodka. The alcohol cooks off during preparation, leaving behind a subtle depth of flavor that complements the sweet tomatoes and rich cream. This elegant yet simple pasta dish is often garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl
Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl is a nutritious and colorful meal that combines perfectly cooked salmon with a variety of seasonal vegetables. The bowl typically includes roasted root vegetables, hearty grains like quinoa or farro, and fresh greens, all topped with a flavorful dressing. This balanced meal is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, offering a combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized based on available ingredients and personal preferences.
Get the Recipe: Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken
This Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken recipe brings the popular takeout dish to your home kitchen. Tender chunks of chicken are stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and dried chili peppers in a spicy sauce that balances sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The dish gets its signature crunch from the peanuts and its heat from the chili peppers, which can be adjusted to suit your spice preference. Served over rice, this homemade version allows you to enjoy the beloved dish anytime, with the added benefit of controlling the ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken
Ground Beef Fried Rice
Ground Beef Fried Rice is a quick and easy meal that transforms leftover rice into a flavorful one-pan dish. The ground beef adds a hearty protein element, while vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions provide color and nutrients. Seasoned with soy sauce and often enhanced with garlic and ginger, this dish offers a lovely blend of flavors and textures. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and can be easily customized with different vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice
Leftover Steak Soft Tacos
Leftover Steak Soft Tacos are a clever way to repurpose yesterday’s dinner into a fresh and exciting meal. Thinly sliced leftover steak is gently reheated and served in soft tortillas with an array of toppings such as diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The steak can be enhanced with additional seasonings or a quick sear to refresh its flavors. This adaptable recipe allows for endless variations and is a great way to stretch a small amount of leftover meat into a fulfilling meal for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes
Inspired by the popular meal kit service, Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes offer a gourmet touch to home cooking. These croquettes feature seasoned ground pork mixed with breadcrumbs and herbs, formed into patties and pan-fried until golden and crispy. The crispy shallots add a lovely texture and flavor contrast, upgrading the dish to something special. Often served with a side salad or roasted vegetables, these croquettes make for an impressive yet achievable weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl
This Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl recreates the popular fast-food item in your own kitchen. It features seasoned grilled chicken served over a bed of rice, along with black beans, fresh vegetables, and a variety of toppings like cheese, sour cream, and salsa. The homemade version allows for customization of ingredients and portion sizes, making it a healthier alternative to the restaurant version. This bowl is a complete meal that’s both filling and flavorful, perfect for those craving Tex-Mex flavors without leaving home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl
Texas BLT
Texas BLT takes the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich to new heights with a Lone Star State twist. This hearty version often features thick-cut bacon, ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and a generous spread of mayonnaise on toasted Texas toast or thick-sliced bread. Additional Texan touches might include sliced avocado, a fried egg, or a spicy chipotle mayo. The result is a substantial sandwich that’s perfect for a filling lunch or a quick dinner, offering a tasty combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT
Wild Rice Salad
Wild Rice Salad is a nutritious and versatile dish that combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with a variety of fresh ingredients. The rice is typically mixed with colorful vegetables, dried fruits, and nuts, then tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing. This salad can be served warm or cold, making it suitable for various occasions and seasons. It’s an excellent side dish for grilled meats or can stand alone as a light vegetarian main course, offering a tasty mix of textures and flavors in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad
Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches w/ Hot Honey Butter
These Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches w/ Hot Honey Butter take the classic comfort food to a new level of indulgence. Crispy bacon is layered between melty cheese and bread that’s spread with a spicy-sweet hot honey butter before grilling. The combination of tasty bacon, gooey cheese, and the subtle heat from the honey butter creates a complex flavor profile that’s irresistible. This grilled cheese is perfect for a special lunch or a quick dinner, paired with a bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches w/ Hot Honey Butter
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips recreate the popular restaurant dish with tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy. The beef is typically seared to lock in flavor before being slow-cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. Mushrooms are often added to the gravy, enhancing the depth of flavor. Served over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes, this hearty dish is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce. It’s a comforting meal that brings the steakhouse experience to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that infuses a whole chicken with the vibrant spices of Mexican cuisine. The chicken is typically rubbed with a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano, then slow-roasted to perfection. This cooking method ensures that the meat remains juicy while developing a crispy, well-seasoned skin. Often served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining, offering a delicious alternative to traditional roast chicken.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken
Diner Style Salisbury Steak
Diner Style Salisbury Steak is a nostalgic dish that brings the comfort of classic American cuisine to your table. Ground beef patties are seasoned and shaped to resemble steaks, then cooked and smothered in a rich mushroom gravy. The meat is tender and flavorful, while the gravy adds a delicious depth to the dish. Typically served with mashed potatoes and green beans, this meal is a hearty option that evokes memories of traditional diner fare. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a comforting, home-style dinner.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots
These Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots transform crispy tater tots into an indulgent meal inspired by the popular pizza topping. The tots are topped with seasoned steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and a generous amount of melted cheese. This fusion dish combines the comfort of crispy potatoes with the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, creating a unique and enjoyable meal. It’s perfect for game day snacking or as a fun twist on regular weeknight dinners, offering a crowd-pleasing option that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is a misleading name for this classic Creole dish, as it doesn’t involve barbecue sauce or grilling. Instead, it features large, shell-on shrimp cooked in a rich, spicy butter sauce infused with garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Creole seasonings. The sauce is perfect for sopping up with crusty French bread, which is traditionally served alongside. This dish is quick to prepare but packed with bold flavors, making it an excellent choice for a special dinner or when you want to bring a taste of New Orleans to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
Pasta With Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
This light and fresh Pasta With Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce showcases the bright flavors of ripe cherry tomatoes. The sauce is made by quickly cooking halved cherry tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs, allowing the tomatoes to burst and release their juices. This creates a light yet flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Often finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, this dish is a celebration of simple, quality ingredients. It’s an ideal meal for warm evenings or when you’re craving a taste of summer.
Get the Recipe: Pasta With Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich recreates the iconic Los Angeles sandwich at home. Thinly sliced roast beef is piled high on a crusty French roll, often topped with melted cheese. What sets this sandwich apart is the flavorful au jus served alongside for dipping, which adds moisture and an extra layer of beefy flavor to each bite. This simple yet pleasurable sandwich is perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, offering a taste of classic American deli fare in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
A classic sandwich gets a budget-friendly twist with Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. This hearty meal combines seasoned ground beef with sautéed peppers and onions, all nestled in a soft roll and smothered with melted cheese. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a quick and easy option for busy weeknights when you want something filling and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Bringing the taste of takeout to your home kitchen, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are a crowd-pleasing side dish or appetizer. These crispy potato bites are generously topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy bacon pieces, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. They’re easy to make in large batches, making them ideal for game day gatherings or family movie nights. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Chicken Paprikash
Chicken Paprikash is a comforting Hungarian dish that’s gained popularity worldwide for its rich flavors and creamy texture. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a velvety sauce made with sweet paprika, bell peppers, and sour cream, creating a dish that’s both warming and deeply pleasurable. Traditionally served over egg noodles or spätzle, this meal is perfect for those nights when you want something a little different but still comforting. It’s a great way to introduce your family to international flavors without straying too far from familiar ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Bring the flavors of your favorite Italian restaurant home with Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. This rustic dish features juicy Italian sausages cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions in a spicy tomato sauce. The combination of spices and herbs creates a rich, aromatic meal that’s perfect served over pasta or tucked into crusty bread as a hearty sandwich. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your family’s preferences, making it a go-to option for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Oven Baked Ribs
Oven Baked Ribs offer all the flavor and tenderness of grilled ribs without the need for outdoor cooking equipment. These ribs are slow-cooked in the oven until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender, then brushed with your favorite barbecue sauce and briefly broiled for a caramelized finish. The result is a rack of ribs that’s juicy on the inside with a perfectly sticky, slightly charred exterior. This method is ideal for those who want to enjoy ribs year-round or don’t have access to a grill, proving that great barbecue can indeed come from your kitchen oven.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Simplicity meets flavor in this 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken recipe that’s perfect for busy families. With just chicken, your choice of sauce or seasoning, and a couple of additional ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like it took hours of effort. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with flavor and ensuring it comes out tender and juicy every time. This versatile recipe can be adapted to various cuisines and preferences, making it a reliable go-to for easy weeknight dinners or stress-free entertaining.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Shipwreck Casserole
Shipwreck Casserole is a hearty, one-dish meal that combines layers of ground beef, potatoes, beans, and vegetables into a comforting family dinner. This old-fashioned recipe got its name from the seemingly random combination of ingredients, but the result is a well-balanced and filling meal. As it bakes, the flavors meld together, creating a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. It’s an excellent option for using up pantry staples and can be easily customized based on what you have on hand, making it a go-to recipe for busy households.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole