16 Retro Party Recipes That Make Hosting Feel Easy
Retro party food has a way of making entertaining feel fun, familiar, and a little more relaxed. These recipes bring back the kind of crowd-pleasing dishes people remember, from savory appetizers and creamy dips to sweet classics and easy shareable bites. Each one keeps hosting simple while adding a little old-school charm to the table. Pull out a serving platter and let the nostalgia do some of the work.
Sloppy Joe Sliders
These sloppy Joe sliders have all of the original flavors of classic sloppy Joes but in slider form. Browned beef is mixed with a slightly sweet and tangy sauce before being baked on buttery slider buns.
Classic Lemon Bars
If you enjoy eating scrumptious classic lemon bars, you’re going to love this delicious recipe! It starts with a beautiful buttery shortbread crust that’s filled with sweet, slightly tart lemony goodness. This bakery-style dessert is very easy to make and tastes 10 times better than a boxed lemon bar mix. Last week my good friend Mike requested that I make a batch of yummy lemon squares and post up the recipe. So here it is!
Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs
Crockpot grape jelly meatballs combine homemade or freezer meatballs, grape jelly, ketchup, and seasoning. They’re a perfect appetizer for any potluck, dinner party, or game day. These easy, delicious, and tender meatballs will also be the hit of any family dinner!
Lime Jello Salad Recipe with Cream Cheese
Lime jello salad is a holiday tradition that has stood the test of time. Make this vintage recipe to add a little sweetness to a heavy, holiday meal.
Shrimp Pasta Salad
This shrimp pasta salad recipe is creamy and irresistible! Full of crunchy veggies and herbs, this retro favorite hits the spot in summer.
Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip
This Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip is perfect for entertaining. This warm and creamy dip has been a staple for entertaining since the 1950’s. And my version has a secret ingredient that takes it over the top. I’ve made this dip for parties for years.
Cherry Pineapple Marshmallow Jello Salad
This Cherry Pineapple Marshmallow Jello Salad is a long-time family favorite recipe. There’s a cherry layer paired with a tangy lemon cream cheese layer.
Crock Pot Cranberry Meatballs
These Crock Pot Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect make-ahead appetizer but they also make a great main dish over rice with veggies on the side! With only 3 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep time, they are easy enough for every day and delicious enough for a party! Sweet and tangy with just a hint of spice, they will elevate any event and have everyone asking for more.
Coca-Cola Jello Salad
Coca-Cola Jello Salad is a jiggly, fruity treat studded with chopped tart cherries and crushed pineapple, with a bit of kick from the Coca-Cola. It’s especially fun made in a jello mold!
Easy Crescent Roll Taco Ring
Shake up Taco Tuesday and make this tasty Crescent Roll Taco Ring! It’s easy to pull together, with crescent rolls, ground, beef, refried beans, and cheese. Great for dinner, a buffet, or an appetizer.
Crock Pot Sweet And Sour Meatballs
These Crock Pot Sweet and Sour Meatballs are made with the help of your slow cooker and have a unique sweet and sour taste that everyone will love. Serve over rice, noodles, or as a fun party appetizer!
Cheesy Stuffing and Chicken Crescent Ring
An easy side or appetizer, this Chicken Crescent Ring uses just seven ingredients including stuffing mix and cream of chicken soup for simple assembly.
7up Bundt Cake
So much lemon-lime flavor in this vintage recipe for 7up Bundt cake!
PB & J Cookies
You’ll love these thumbprint peanut butter and jelly cookies. The flavors will take you back to your childhood and the ultimate elementary school sandwich! This delicious dessert elevates that familiar peanut butter and jelly taste in an easy to whip up cookie.
Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls
Buffalo wings, buffalo dip, and now introducing Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls to satisfy your love and craving for that spicy, tangy flavor. They’re perfect for serving at your next party or game day gathering.
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
These easy ham and cheese pinwheel appetizers steal the show every time they’re served. Crusty, flaky dough envelops hot ham and a melty combination of cheeses for the most delectable savory treat that everyone dives back into.
