Classic American Dishes with Few Ingredients for Easy Cooking

When I think of classic American diner food or home cooking, I think of my Minnesota-born father. Growing up in the 1960s and 1970s, our family was not rich, but we didn't eat gourmet meals daily. We ate humbly most of the time, focusing on sustenance rather than luxury. But these simple, authentic American dishes were a joy and a comfort in our budget-friendly meals. Here, I share some of my family's favorite go-to meals that require just a few staple ingredients.

Meatloaf

Meatloaf is an essential part of American home cooking. You can make it with ground beef, ground pork, or a combination of both. The key to a successful meatloaf is using pantry staples, and you can customize the recipe to your taste. For instance, you can add herbs, spices, and even fruits like apples or cranberries to give it a unique flavor. The leftovers are delicious, and a meatloaf sandwich is a classic combination. If you don't have one of the main ingredients, use a substitute—be creative!

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

1 1/2 lbs ground beef or pork or a combination of both 1/2 cup bread crumbs (or crushed cornflakes) 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup ketchup 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper Tiny amounts of Italian seasoning or dried herbs like oregano or thyme 1-2 eggs (optional) 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional) Pan-fried or baked according to your preference

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and form into a loaf. Place it on an oven-safe baking dish and bake at 350°F for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna Noodle Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that was a lifesaver for me during my college days. While my father hated it, we kids enjoyed it as a change from beef and pork. This dish is a true reflection of the mid-20th-century American diet. The easy preparation and affordability made it a staple in many middle-class American homes. You can use crushed potato chips or crackers for the crunchy topping, and canned chicken or leftover shredded chicken as a substitute for tuna if you prefer.

Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

1 can (15 oz) chicken or tuna, drained 8 ounces macaroni, cooked al dente 1 can (8 oz) Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (or regular) 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup milk Crumbed potato chips or crackers for topping Tabasco sauce or any preferred seasoning Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the drained tuna (or chicken) with the macaroni, soup, and milk. Pour into a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, crumbled potato chips, and Tabasco sauce. Bake at 375°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Serve with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

American Goulash

Every so often, my father would take on the role of chef and cook American Goulash. He called it "Catastrophe Casserole," but I think it’s simply a delicious beef macaroni dish. This classic comfort food is easy to prepare and perfect for those tight budgets. You can use ground turkey instead of beef if you prefer a leaner option. My father was flexible and used whatever cheese was available, from cheddar to Velveeta. This dish is a celebration of American home cooking and a reminder of the simple joys in life.

American Goulash Recipe

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey (or a mix) 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 28 oz can crushed tomatoes 4 oz can tomato sauce 1/2 cup sugar (optional) 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried herbs like oregano and thyme) 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 8 oz macaroni, cooked al dente 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving

In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in oil until soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 1 hour, or until the sauce thickens. Add the cooked macaroni and stir to combine. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

These classic American dishes are not only easy to prepare but also full of nostalgia and comfort. They remind us of the simple joys and the deeper feelings of togetherness and kindness that bind families together. Enjoy these recipes and make them a part of your family's culinary tradition.