There’s something special about cooking up a storm in your own kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and comfort of home. And what better way to do that than with a collection of classic homestead recipes that have been passed down through generations? In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 timeless and delicious dishes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From hearty stews and soups to sweet treats and comfort foods, these recipes will transport you back to a simpler time when family meals were the heart of every homestead.
Homestead-style Chicken Pot Pie
This recipe brings together tender chicken, flaky crust, and a rich filling to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, corn, and carrots)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the filling mixture into the pie crust.
6. Dot the top with butter and pour in heavy cream.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
Classic Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
There’s something comforting about a hearty beef stew that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. This recipe is a timeless favorite, perfect for a cozy night in with family or friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium 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 oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to pot; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add browned beef back into the pot along with broth, wine (if using), and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Rustic Homemade Bread
Savor the warm, crusty goodness of homemade bread with this simple recipe. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals, this rustic loaf is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with the warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes from start to finish.
Grandma’s Apple Pie
Grandma’s Apple Pie Recipe
Summary:
This classic apple pie recipe has been passed down through generations of Grandma’s family, and is sure to become a favorite in your household too! With its flaky crust and tender, sweet apples, this pie is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine apples, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place apple mixture in center of crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold crust up over filling, pressing gently to seal. Crimp edges to form a decorative border.
5. Brush top crust with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Farmhouse Cabbage Rolls
These hearty cabbage rolls are a classic farmhouse staple, filled with tender beef, onions, and rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage head, then cut out the center stem. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds, then shock in an ice bath.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in both sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Brown the cabbage rolls on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homestead Corn Chowder
This creamy corn chowder is a perfect remedy for a cold winter’s day, filled with the warmth of homestead ingredients. Made with fresh corn, tender potatoes, and savory herbs, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add corn kernels, potato, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until potatoes are slightly tender.
3. Pour in milk and heavy cream. Stir in thyme.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are fully cooked.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Traditional Pumpkin Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of traditional pumpkin soup, perfect for the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the cubed pumpkin and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Handcrafted Sausage Gravy
This rich and savory sausage gravy is a staple of Southern comfort food, perfect for serving over biscuits, eggs, or hash browns. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful cooking, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful breakfast treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Add cooked sausage back into the gravy and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homestead-style Buttermilk Biscuits
Classic Homestead-style Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
These tender, flaky biscuits are a staple of Southern comfort food, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to your favorite homestyle dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it forms a cohesive mass.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Country Fried Chicken
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this timeless Southern comfort food classic! Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, our country fried chicken recipe is a staple for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured chicken in buttermilk, coating completely.
5. Dredge chicken in flour mixture again, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Homemade Pickled Vegetables
Add a tangy twist to your meals with this easy-to-make recipe for homemade pickled vegetables. This flavorful condiment is perfect for topping sandwiches, adding crunch to salads, or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1 cup vinegar (white wine, apple cider, or white distilled)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp pickling spice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine vegetables, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Transfer pickles to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Classic Shepherd’s Pie
Classic Shepherd’s Pie: A hearty and comforting casserole that combines tender ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and mashed potatoes.
Farm-style Baked Beans
Farm-Style Baked Beans Recipe
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual meals. This hearty dish is made with tender beans, rich tomato sauce, and a hint of smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6-8 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 250°F.
- In a large Dutch oven or baking dish, combine the soaked beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the bacon pieces (if using) on top of the bean mixture.
- Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Old-World Potato Pancakes
These crispy, golden potato pancakes are a classic Eastern European treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can transport yourself to the comfort of grandma’s kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, chopped onion, and beaten egg. Mix well.
2. Add flour, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until combined.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch (6 mm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain pancakes on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes per batch
Homestead-style Jam Preserves
These preserves are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, made with love and care using fresh fruits and natural ingredients. They’re a great way to preserve the flavors of the season and enjoy them throughout the year.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon pectin
– 1/4 teaspoon butter
Instructions:
1. Rinse the berries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large pot, combine the berries and sugar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juices and the mixture to become syrupy.
3. Add the lemon juice and pectin to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the preserves have thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
6. Let the preserves cool slightly before transferring them to clean, sterilized jars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rustic Beef and Barley Soup
Rustic Beef and Barley Soup Recipe: Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food
This classic soup recipe is a staple of comfort food, made with tender beef, chewy barley, and rich vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the beef broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the barley is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Traditional Cornbread Dressing
This classic Southern dressing recipe pairs perfectly with roasted turkey or chicken, and is a staple at many family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed cornbread (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the celery, onion, and bell pepper in butter until tender.
3. Add the cubed cornbread to the skillet and stir until well coated with the vegetable mixture.
4. Mix in poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Maple Syrup Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy, golden pancakes infused with the rich flavor of pure maple syrup. This classic breakfast treat is easy to make and perfect for a lazy Sunday morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and maple syrup.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if necessary.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Farmhouse-style Meatloaf
Classic comfort food gets a hearty boost with this farmhouse-style meatloaf recipe. Ground beef, pork, and veal are combined with aromatic herbs and spices, then topped with a tangy ketchup glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1/4 lb ground veal
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup glaze (see below)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meats, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Remove from oven and brush with ketchup glaze.
Ketchup Glaze:
– Mix 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
Classic Homestead Apple Butter
This timeless recipe yields a rich, velvety apple butter that’s perfect for spreading on toast, using as a filling, or serving as a side dish. With just six ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs apples (any variety, but firmer apples like Granny Smith work best)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a large pot, combine the apple pieces, water, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened.
4. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the apple mixture to your desired consistency.
5. Continue to simmer the apple butter for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired thickness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 classic homestead recipes that are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly! From comforting chicken pot pie to hearty beef stew, and from homemade bread to grandma’s apple pie, these traditional dishes are perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in. Try your hand at farmhouse cabbage rolls, homestead corn chowder, or old-world potato pancakes, and don’t forget the classic shepherd’s pie and farm-style baked beans. With a little bit of love and some simple ingredients, you’ll be whipping up these homestead classics in no time!
