Just Like Grandma's: 14 Recipes Inspired by Reader Favorites

Macaroni and cheese has been a cherished dinnertime treat by kids and adults across the country for countless years now. There's something about this warm, gooey, cheesy creation that, though incredibly simple, is also satisfying to every sense. So it's no wonder that so many grandmothers make a mean mac n' cheese — it's one of the few dishes that's always a huge hit with every age group.

Recipe: Mom's Mac 'n' Cheese

Tender chicken and lusciously soft dumplings are the kind of simple — but downright delicious — fare that many of our grandmothers are known for, and it's easy to see why. Though this dish doesn't require fancy ingredients, it does require time, effort, and a practiced hand to get those dumplings to turn out just right. A little of grandma's love always helps, too.

Recipe: Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

Low-fat chicken breasts stay juicy and delicious in the velvety, zesty sauce for this healthy Hungarian chicken dish.

Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

No family picnic or backyard party would be complete without a dish of cool, sweet, and creamy banana pudding. Enjoyed by every generation, this is the kind of dessert that grandmothers take pride in making just right.

Recipe: Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafer Crumble

Cornbread dressing (as stuffing is referred to in the South) is a classic holiday side, so it's no wonder one of our readers remembers her grandmother's version so well. Family gatherings are made even more special when traditional recipes, like this Cajun-style dressing packed with seafood and spicy sausage, are brought to the table.

Recipe: Crawfish and Andouille Cornbread Dressing

Who doesn't love fudge? A favorite sweet with chocolate-obsessed adults and kids alike, it's the kind of treat that's easy to pass around at a family gathering.

Recipe: Chocolate Fudge

This recipe for delicious caramel cake is courtesy of Dr. Maya Angelou and can be found in her cookbook, Hallelujah.

Recipe: Caramel Cake

Everyone has their own version of basic beef chili. One of our readers mentioned her grandmother's secret — starting the chili in a heavy-duty iron skillet and simmering the ingredients with a hearty dose of sweet brown sugar. Our version uses bacon to add a sweet-smoky flavor, but no matter which version you choose, you really can't go wrong.

Recipe: Real-Deal Chili

Multiple readers brought up their grandmothers' fried corn in our poll. Everyone has their own version, but we especially like this modern twist on the classic dish — corn fritters are crispy on the outside but still creamy on the inside, and they are perfect for dipping.

Recipe: Corn Fritters

For a more traditional take, try our recipe for Old Corn.

Are sweet baked goods one of your grandma's specialties? If you answered yes, just like some of our readers, then you'll love this extra gooey recipe for classic cinnamon rolls. One fan's grandma even served hers with homemade canned peaches on the side. Yum!

Recipe: Tyler's Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

A classic roast beef never fails to please the family. Served with sides like mashed or roasted potatoes and green beans, this traditional dish makes an impressive centerpiece for a holiday meal or Sunday dinner.

Recipe: Coriander-Dusted Roast Beef

Apple pie is about as traditional as it gets, so it's no surprise that one of our readers would rave about her grandma's version. For a pretty, easy-to-serve take on grandma's heartwarming original recipe, try these mini pies that feature those same beloved flavors.

Recipe: Rustic Little Apple Pies

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