20 Retro Dishes from the 70s That Are Making a Comeback
The 1970s gave us disco, shag carpeting, and a kitchen full of dishes that, let’s face it, haven’t exactly held onto their hipness over the decades. But now, some of these retro foods are sashaying back onto our plates, with a touch more flair and a hint less gelatin. Today’s chefs and home cooks alike are taking these vintage creations and giving them a modern twist that somehow makes us wonder why they ever fell out of fashion in the first place.
1. Deviled Eggs with a Twist
Deviled eggs have always been party staples, but they’re making a comeback with flavors like Sriracha, truffle, and avocado. This 70s classic has been zhuzhed up and elevated, proving once again that eggs are cool (especially when they’re devilish).
2. Beef Wellington
This decadent pastry-wrapped beef dish once ruled fine dining menus, and it’s now popping up at everything from trendy bistros to holiday tables. Today’s Beef Wellington is often lighter, with flaky puff pastry and an assortment of mushrooms in the duxelles—though it’s still every bit as fancy as ever.
3. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Nothing says retro quite like pineapple rings with maraschino cherries. This vibrant cake is making a comeback as a tropical throwback, often with rum, fresh pineapple, or a caramelized edge that gives a new life to this classic dessert.
4. Fondue Parties
Fondue sets went the way of bell-bottoms, but melted cheese and chocolate have never been more popular. Now, people are embracing communal fondue again, adding unique cheeses, chocolates, and even things like peanut butter to elevate the classic dipping experience.
5. Jell-O Molds (But Make It Classy)
Once the epitome of 70s kitsch, Jell-O molds are coming back, minus the mystery meat and canned vegetables. Today’s versions focus on fruit, natural flavors, and gelatin with a little Prosecco, creating a jiggly dessert that’s more chic than questionable.
6. Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp cocktail may feel a bit dated, but when done right, it’s a timeless appetizer. With fresh, sustainably sourced shrimp and bold, house-made cocktail sauce, this 70s staple feels modern and elegant enough to make an appearance at any party.
7. Cheese Balls
The beloved cheese ball is back, but today it’s no longer a homogenous ball of cheddar and pecans. Now, we’re seeing variations like goat cheese and herbs, blue cheese and walnuts, and even pimento-studded creations that make this spreadable snack shine.
8. Meatloaf (Hold the Ketchup)
Meatloaf may have been synonymous with bland dinners, but today’s version is anything but. Think gourmet ingredients like caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and blends of meats beyond plain ground beef. Served with mashed potatoes, it’s the ultimate comfort food comeback.
9. Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, meat, and veggies are back on the table, with endless variations. These revamped peppers might be filled with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even Tex-Mex flavors for a satisfying meal that still feels wholesome and retro.
10. Ambrosia Salad
This fruit-and-marshmallow concoction might sound more kitschy than chic, but it’s back with fresh ingredients and a new following. Modern versions might use Greek yogurt instead of whipped topping and swap canned fruits for fresh, giving ambrosia salad a much-needed glow-up.
11. Chicken Cordon Bleu
Once the ultimate “fancy dinner” option, chicken cordon bleu is making a comeback with artisan cheeses, quality ham, and panko breadcrumbs for a crispy crust. It’s as tasty as ever but feels fresh, especially when drizzled with homemade sauce instead of a packet mix.
12. Waldorf Salad
This iconic mix of apples, celery, and walnuts tossed in mayo may sound old-school, but now, chefs are elevating it with arugula, Greek yogurt, and toasted nuts. The Waldorf has found new fans among salad lovers who appreciate that perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunch.
13. Swedish Meatballs
Thanks to everyone’s favorite Scandinavian furniture store, Swedish meatballs are back in the spotlight. Served with lingonberry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes, this 70s hit is now a comfort food staple with a modern twist.
14. Quiche Lorraine
Quiche Lorraine is a 70s brunch staple that’s back with a vengeance. Today, it’s made with fresh cream, high-quality bacon, and artisanal cheese. Whether served warm or cold, this classic quiche is the new brunch MVP.
15. Chicken à la King
This creamy, hearty dish has found its way back into our hearts and our kitchens. With modern twists like lean cuts of chicken, wild mushrooms, and even a bit of sherry, today’s Chicken à la King has that familiar richness but with more sophisticated flavors.
16. Aspic (But Make It Gourmet)
Hear us out: aspic is back, but not like you remember. Rather than questionable meat chunks, today’s gourmet aspics are made with fresh herbs, high-quality broths, and perfectly sliced veggies. It’s a visually stunning dish that no longer tastes like a 70s time capsule.
17. Salisbury Steak
This dish was once synonymous with frozen TV dinners, but today’s Salisbury steak is elevated with quality ground beef, caramelized onions, and a rich mushroom sauce. Served with mashed potatoes, it’s a nostalgic yet fresh take on an old classic.
18. Pot Roast
Pot roast, a 70s family dinner staple, is back with a slow-cooked twist. Now, it’s made with top cuts of meat, root vegetables, and rich, red wine-based sauces. This cozy, hearty dish reminds us why it was always the ultimate Sunday meal.
19. Classic Cheese Soufflé
The cheese soufflé was once the star of any formal dinner party, and now it’s popping up again in restaurants and foodie kitchens everywhere. Made with Gruyère or sharp cheddar, this fluffy, savory delight is a 70s-inspired dish that shows off anyone’s culinary chops.
20. Baked Alaska
This flashy dessert with ice cream and meringue used to be the height of dessert sophistication, and it’s back with new flavors. Now, you can find everything from passionfruit to espresso-flavored Baked Alaskas, and the flambé action has never looked cooler.
