Heavenly roasts, comforting stews and creamy pastas were all staples on grandma's kitchen table. Recreate some of those nostalgic dishes with these dinner recipes that the whole family will love.
64 Dinner Recipes That Would Make Grandma Proud
Updated on Sep. 23, 2024
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Hearty Vegetable Beef Ragu
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is healthy yet satisfying, quick yet delicious. It's on the table in less than 30 minutes, and it's something that my children will gobble up! If you are not fond of kale, stir in baby spinach or chopped broccoli instead. —Kim Van Dunk, Caldwell, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 302 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 837mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 7g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 2 lean meat.
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Turkey and Mushroom Potpies
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I always use the leftovers from our big holiday turkey to prepare this recipe. I think my family enjoys the potpies more than the original feast! —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 314 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 701mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
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Chicken & Wild Rice Strudels
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I wanted the buttery crunch of layered pastry without the sweet filling of strudel. Using rotisserie chicken from the store, I found my savory answer. —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 323 calories, 18g fat (10g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 550mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 16g protein.
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Cod with Hearty Tomato Sauce
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My father made up this sweet, flavorful recipe for my mother when he took over the cooking. We serve it with whole wheat pasta or brown rice. —Ann Marie Eberhart, Gig Harbor, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet with 3/4 cup sauce: 271 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 746mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
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Corned Beef Hash Rustic Pie
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This suppertime pie has all the yummies: homemade crust, seasoned potatoes, and lots and lots of corned beef and cheese. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 356 calories, 23g fat (14g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 827mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein.
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Shrimp with Warm German-Style Coleslaw
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We love anything that is tangy or has bacon. With fennel and tarragon, this is a super savory dish. I use the medley from Minute Rice if I don't have time to make my own. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 472 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 156mg cholesterol, 546mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 28g protein.
7/64
Grandma Edna's Cajun Pork
Total Time
6 hours 35 min
Servings
12 servings (2-1/4 cups gravy)
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandma used to make this for our family on special occasions. We love to carry on the delicious tradition. —Tonya Cline, Greenville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked pork with 3 tablespoons sauce: 225 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 167mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
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Gnocchi Chicken Skillet
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Stovetop chicken and gnocchi recipes like this one make for a homey dinner in a hurry. Personalize it with your own favorite sauce and seasonings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups (calculated without cheese): 598 calories, 24g fat (6g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 1632mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 6g fiber), 30g protein.
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Slow-Cooker Sauerbraten
Total Time
6 hours 20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family is of German Lutheran descent, and although we enjoy this traditional beef roast, I never liked the amount of time and fuss it takes to make it. This recipe is so good and oh-so-easy. It's great served with dumplings, spaetzle, veggies or a salad. —Norma English, Baden, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 475 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 858mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (40g sugars, 1g fiber), 35g protein.
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Epiphany Ham
Total Time
3 hours 10 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I wanted to cook a ham but didn't have the ingredients for my usual glaze recipe, so I made substitutions. You can, too! Instead of black cherry, try another flavored soda, or use sweet-and-sour sauce in place of duck sauce. —Edith Griffith, Havre de Grace, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
6 ounces cooked ham: 303 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 133mg cholesterol, 1659mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 45g protein.
11/64
Pasta Fagioli al Forno
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The name of this Italian-inspired dish means "baked pasta with beans." But my busy family translates it as "super satisfying dinner." —Cindy Preller, Grayslake, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 440 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 1029mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 22g protein.
12/64
Mom’s Meat Loaf
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Mom made the best meat loaf, and now I do too. When I first met my husband, he wasn't a meat loaf guy, but this recipe won him over. —Michelle Beran, Claflin, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 366 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 135mg cholesterol, 1086mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (31g sugars, 0 fiber), 26g protein.
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Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Some recipes for chicken paprikash include vegetables like bell peppers and celery, but not my Grandmother Alta’s. Hers was a simple combination of chicken, onions, garlic, paprika and sour cream. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 422 calories, 26g fat (8g saturated fat), 127mg cholesterol, 596mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 40g protein.
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Red Clam Sauce
Total Time
3 hours 25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe tastes like an Italian restaurant specialty and cooks while you take care of other things. What a marvelous way to jazz up pasta sauce! —JoAnn Brown, Latrobe, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup sauce with 3/4 cup cooked linguine: 305 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 553mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 7g fiber), 15g protein.
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Corned Beef and Cabbage
Total Time
2 hours 55 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
It may be the most famous dish to eat on St. Patrick's Day, but this Irish-American corned beef recipe is a favorite at our table all year long. This is how to make corned beef and cabbage. —Evelyn Kenney, Trenton, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 510 calories, 24g fat (8g saturated fat), 124mg cholesterol, 1497mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 6g fiber), 28g protein.
16/64
Sausage Manicotti
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
7 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic Italian entree comes together in a snap but tastes as if it took hours. It's so tasty and easy to fix. My family always enjoys it. —Carolyn Henderson, Maple Plain, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
2 pieces: 489 calories, 24g fat (10g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 1232mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
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Slow-Cooker Potato Soup
Total Time
8 hours 45 min
Servings
12 servings (4 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to put twists on my grandmother's recipes, which is what I did with this one. I look forward to passing my own delicious comfort food recipes to my kids. —Jamie Chase, Rising Sun, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 447 calories, 27g fat (14g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 1512mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 14g protein.
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Mom’s Roast Beef
Total Time
2 hours 50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone loves slices of this fork-tender roast beef with its savory gravy. The well-seasoned roast is Mom's specialty. People always ask about the secret ingredients. Now you have the delicious recipe for our favorite meat dish! —Linda Gaido, New Brighton, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked beef with gravy: 210 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
19/64
Make-Ahead Lasagna
Total Time
1 hour 30 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is an old standby when time's limited and guests are expected for dinner. It's a combination of several easy lasagna recipes I have tried over the years. —Mary Grimm, Williamsburg, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 462 calories, 27g fat (12g saturated fat), 117mg cholesterol, 931mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein.
20/64
Chicken and Dumplings
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
8 servings (3 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
Homemade chicken and dumplings from scratch hearken back to my childhood and chilly days when we devoured those cute little balls of dough swimming in hot, rich broth. It's one of those types of soup you'll want to eat again and again. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 470 calories, 24g fat (8g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 892mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein.
21/64
Pork Shepherd’s Pie
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Of all the shepherd's pie recipes I've tried through the years, this version is my favorite. Although I live alone, I enjoy cooking and baking for friends and family. —Mary Arthurs, Etobicoke, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 365 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 1045mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein.
22/64
Slow-Cooker Short Ribs
Total Time
6 hours 45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These slow-cooker short ribs are an easy alternative to traditionally braised short ribs—you don't need to pay any attention to them once you get them in the slow cooker. (That makes it my favorite beef short ribs recipe!) —Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 251 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 402mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.
23/64
Tuna Mushroom Casserole
Total Time
55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to serve this dressed-up version of a tuna casserole. The green beans add nice texture, color and flavor. The first time I made this dish, my uncle asked for seconds even though tuna casseroles are not usually his favorite.
—Jone Furlong, Santa Rosa, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 343 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 770mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein.
24/64
Beef Barley Soup
Total Time
2 hours 10 min
Servings
9 servings (2-1/4 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
This hearty beef barley soup is a favorite menu item in our house throughout the year. Everyone savors the flavor. —Elizabeth Kendall, Carolina Beach, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 133 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 859mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
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Slow-Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs
Total Time
5 hours 50 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve been cooking for 50 years, and this dish is still one that guests request frequently. It is my No. 1 standby recipe and also makes amazing meatball sandwiches. The sauce works for any type of pasta. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
About 3 meatballs with 3/4 cup sauce: 250 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 1116mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 20g protein.
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Rump Roast Recipe
Total Time
8 hours 50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I enjoy a good pot roast, but was tired of the same old thing. So, I began experimenting. Cooking the beef in horseradish sauce gives it a tangy flavor. Even my young children love this slow-cooker pot roast with its tender veggies and gravy. —Mimi Walker, Palmyra, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 368 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 464mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1.500 starch, 1 fat.
27/64
Homemade Ravioli
Total Time
2 hours 10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to bake and cook—especially Italian dishes like this homemade ravioli recipe. In fact, my idea of a perfect day consists of cooking my family's favorite foods then watching them dig in!—Lori Daniels, Hartland, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
10 ravioli: 856 calories, 27g fat (13g saturated fat), 279mg cholesterol, 1139mg sodium, 110g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 7g fiber), 42g protein.
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Spanish Rice with Ground Beef
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom is famous for her Spanish rice recipe, the ultimate comfort food. When I want a taste of home, I whip up this dish. Punch up the flavor with a little lime and extra chili powder. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 408 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 727mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 6g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 vegetable.
29/64
Spiced Salmon
Total Time
20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This delicious, moist fish is very quick and easy to prepare. It gets a little sweetness from brown sugar, but overall the seasonings are mild and give this dish broad appeal. It's a wonderful way to enjoy healthy salmon.—Donna Reynolds, Innisfail, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked salmon: 256 calories, 17g fat (4g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 330mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
30/64
Shrimp Puttanesca
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I throw together these bold ingredients for a feisty seafood pasta. —Lynda Balslev, Sausalito, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup shrimp mixture: 228 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 140mg cholesterol, 579mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
31/64
Holiday Crown Pork Roast
Total Time
2 hours 15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Crown roast makes a regal Christmas dinner. Flavored with rosemary, sage and thyme, it’s elegant and simple, a real blessing during the hectic holidays. —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 rib: 301 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 95mg cholesterol, 298mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 39g protein.
32/64
Turkey Wild Rice Soup
Total Time
45 min
Servings
12 servings (about 3 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
Two Minnesota delicacies, turkey and wild rice, are the stars of this sensational soup. Be prepared to serve seconds! —Terri Holmgren, Swanville, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 222 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 533mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
33/64
Mainly Mushroom Beef Carbonnade
Total Time
2 hours 45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is the ultimate comfort food, an earth-and-turf combo that smells delicious while cooking and tastes like home. The mushrooms taste so meaty, you can decrease the amount of beef and add more portabellos if you like. —Susan Asanovic, Wilton, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 333 calories, 16g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 547mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 26g protein.
34/64
Cornish Game Hens
Total Time
76 hours 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Instead of a turkey or a big roast, why not serve individual Cornish game hens for the holidays? They cook in a fraction of the time and they're guaranteed to impress all your guests. —Shannon Roum, Cudahy, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 592 calories, 39g fat (16g saturated fat), 199mg cholesterol, 474mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 49g protein.
35/64
Pan-Seared Salmon
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my husband's favorite recipes. Salmon is a go-to for busy nights because it cooks so quickly and goes with so many different flavors. The creamy dill sauce with cucumber tastes light and fresh. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 salmon fillet with 1/4 cup sauce: 366 calories, 25g fat (4g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 349mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2-1/2 fat.
36/64
Stuffed Pork Chops
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Who would ever guess baked stuffed pork chops could be so simple? Baby spinach and stuffing mix are the secrets to this elegant recipe. —Rebecca Nossaman, Ballwin, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 320 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 535mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
37/64
Oven-Baked Brisket
Total Time
4 hours 30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Texans like brisket cooked on the smoker, but this recipe offers convenient prep in the oven. Sometimes I make extra sauce to serve on the side. Round out the meal with potato salad and slaw. —Katie Ferrier, Houston, TX
Nutrition Facts:
6 ounces cooked beef: 333 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 97mg cholesterol, 1920mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 0 fiber), 48g protein.
38/64
Fried Chicken
Total Time
30 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Always a picnic favorite, this deep-fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! —Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken: 543 calories, 33g fat (7g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 798mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
39/64
Sweet & Tangy Salmon with Green Beans
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm always up for new ways to cook salmon. In this dish, a sweet sauce gives the fish and green beans some down-home barbecue tang. Even our kids love it. —Aliesha Caldwell, Robersonville, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet with 3/4 cup green beans: 394 calories, 22g fat (5g saturated fat), 93mg cholesterol, 661mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
40/64
Pastitsio
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother used to work so hard in the kitchen to make this classic Greek dish, and the results were always well worth her effort. My recipe for pastitsio is easier, a bit lighter and every bit as great as Mom's.—Nikki Tsangaris, Westfield, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 332 calories, 18g fat (10g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 718mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
41/64
Creamy Prosciutto Pasta
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm always looking for dinners that I can put together quickly. I re-created a favorite pasta dish from an Italian restaurant by using grocery store convenience products. Add crusty bread and a salad for a complete meal. —Christine Ward, Austin, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 458 calories, 19g fat (11g saturated fat), 97mg cholesterol, 1188mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 6g fiber), 24g protein.
42/64
Chicken & Swiss Casserole
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
It's nice to have an alternative to the traditional baked ham on Easter. This comforting casserole is always a crowd-pleaser. Using rotisserie chicken from the deli makes prep simple. —Christina Petri, Alexandria, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 551 calories, 25g fat (10g saturated fat), 136mg cholesterol, 661mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 41g protein.
43/64
Creamy Italian Chicken
Total Time
4 hours 15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Italian salad dressing mix is like a secret weapon for adding flavor to this creamy chicken dish. Served over rice or pasta, this Italian dressing chicken is rich, delicious and special enough for company. —Maura McGee, Tallahassee, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 473 calories, 29g fat (14g saturated fat), 158mg cholesterol, 1556mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 40g protein.
44/64
Slow-Cooker Country-Style Ribs
Total Time
6 hours 10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Quick to prep for the slow cooker, this dinner is terrific with a salad and a fresh side. My family practically cheers whenever I make it! —Cheryl Mann, Winside, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
6 ounces cooked pork with 1/3 cup sauce: 598 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 131mg cholesterol, 1443mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (46g sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
45/64
Baked Balsamic Chicken
Total Time
2 hours 20 min
Servings
12 servings (1-1/2 cups onion sauce)
From the Recipe Creator:
As far as roast chicken ideas go, this baked balsamic chicken recipe is one of our favorites. When the aroma from this dish fills your house, your family will think you spent all day cooking. But this elegant Sunday-special roast chicken, flavored with rosemary, wine and balsamic vinegar, is surprisingly simple to make. —Tracy Tylkowski, Omaha, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken (skin removed) with 2 tablespoons sauce: 182 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 275mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat.
46/64
Sausage and Kale Soup
Total Time
35 min
Servings
8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom dehydrates the last pick of tomatoes from her garden each fall—perfect for quick soups like this one. When I have time to prepare dried beans, I do—but don't worry if you don't. Canned beans are just as good. —Lori Terry, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 217 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 51mg cholesterol, 868mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 18g protein.
47/64
Baked Chicken Parmesan
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Saucy chicken, melty mozzarella and crisp-tender broccoli—all in one pan. What could be better? —Becky Hardin, St. Peters, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 504 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 147mg cholesterol, 1151mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 8g fiber), 52g protein.
48/64
Pineapple-Glazed Ham
Total Time
2 hours 10 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This pineapple ham glaze is straightforward and simple—just what you're looking for in a holiday main dish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked ham: 329 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 1425mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 0 fiber), 39g protein.
49/64
Baked Mac and Cheese
Total Time
45 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Even people who have had their own homemade baked macaroni and cheese recipe for years ask for mine when they taste this crumb-topped version. For the best baked mac and cheese, use extra-sharp cheddar cheese for more flavor. —Shelby Thompson, Dover, Delaware
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 688 calories, 37g fat (21g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 839mg sodium, 63g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
50/64
Chicken & Garlic with Fresh Herbs
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The key to this savory chicken is the combination of garlic, fresh rosemary and thyme. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty Italian bread. —Jan Valdez, Lombard, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 2 tablespoons cooking juices: 203 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
51/64
My Best-Ever Jambalaya
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I tried to mimic Jambalaya from my favorite restaurant and it turned out so well my daughter and husband now prefer my recipe and won't order it when we go to the restaurant! —Alexis Van Vulpen, St. Albert, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 323 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 1124mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 24g protein.
52/64
Meatball Stroganoff
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe has fed not only my own family, but many neighborhood kids! They come running when I make this supper. It's one of those things you throw together after work on a busy day because you know it works. —Julie May, Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 717 calories, 57g fat (30g saturated fat), 172mg cholesterol, 1291mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.
53/64
Barbecue Chicken
Total Time
55 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Is there a better place than Texas to find a fantastic barbecue sauce? That’s where this one is from—it’s my father-in-law’s own recipe. We have served it at many family reunions and think it’s the best! —Bobbie Morgan, Woodstock, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked chicken: 370 calories, 19g fat (5g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 622mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 33g protein.
54/64
Italian Pasta Bake
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to make this pasta bake whenever I need to bring a dish to pass. Fresh tomatoes add a nice touch that's missing from most other meat, pasta and tomato casseroles.—Karla Johnson, East Helena, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 489 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 702mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein.
55/64
Braised Pork with Tomatillos
Total Time
3 hours 25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A pork braise is a sure way to make people’s mouths water. The tomatillos in this dish offer a subtle hint of lightness to the meat. For ultimate flavor, make the dish one day ahead and reheat. —La Boucherie, Matthew Lawrence, Vashon, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 514 calories, 24g fat (7g saturated fat), 120mg cholesterol, 1160mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 41g protein.
56/64
Turkey Stew with Dumplings
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I love dumplings, and this mild-tasting, homey dish has flavorful ones floating on a tasty turkey and vegetable stew. It hits the spot on chilly fall and winter days. —Rita Taylor, St. Cloud, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 255 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 995mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 15g protein.
57/64
Penne alla Vodka
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy and impressive pasta is always on the menu when my husband and I invite first-time guests over for dinner. Many friends have asked me to make the recipe again years after they first tried it. —Cara Langer, Overland Park, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 504 calories, 19g fat (11g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 966mg sodium, 62g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein.
58/64
Chicken Potpie Galette with Cheddar-Thyme Crust
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This gorgeous galette takes traditional chicken potpie and gives it a fun open-faced spin. The rich filling and flaky cheddar-flecked crust make it taste so homey. It's lovely for fall and winter dinners, but you can enjoy it anytime. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 342 calories, 21g fat (12g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 594mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein.
59/64
Rich Baked Spaghetti
Total Time
50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
It takes a little longer to make baked spaghetti, but the difference in taste, texture and richness is well worth the time. I serve this lasagna-style dish with a tossed green salad and breadsticks for a hearty, healthy meal. —Betty Rabe, Mahtomedi, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 343 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 medium-fat meat, 1 vegetable.
60/64
Slow-Cooker Beef with Red Sauce
Total Time
8 hours 25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A homemade rub spices up this tender beef; vinegar and gingersnaps add depth to the sauce. You can substitute graham crackers for the cookies. —Laurie Tietze, Longview, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 388 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 685mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein.
61/64
Italian Shrimp and Pasta
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We like pasta with Italian tomato sauces, and this recipe is one we make often. It’s heavy on the shrimp and light on the pasta, and that’s the way we like it. We can remember when shrimp was unheard of in our budget, so I guess we’re making up for it now! —Frank Fader, Payson, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 327 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 168mg cholesterol, 443mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein.
62/64
Chicken Tetrazzini
Total Time
50 min
Servings
2 casseroles (4 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
A good friend shared a version of this recipe with me 35 years ago. I pay it forward by bringing the second casserole to friends when they are unable to cook. —Helen McPhee, Savoy, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 576 calories, 30g fat (17g saturated fat), 144mg cholesterol, 814mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 31g protein.
63/64
Chicken Garden Medley
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
After my family sampled this dish at a friend's house, it quickly became a favorite—especially with our teenage daughters, who request it at least once a week! —Dohreen Winkler, Howell, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 404 calories, 19g fat (11g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 690mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein.
64/64
Filipino Chicken Adobo
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom always makes her saucy chicken adobo recipe when I come home to visit. I think it's even better the next day as leftovers —she says it's because of the vinegar. — Michael Moya, New York, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken: 234 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 1315mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein.
