10 Microwave Meals That Were a Big Deal in the ’80s
Microwaves were the kitchen heroes of the 1980s, bringing fast and easy meals to busy households. For many families, frozen dinners were the height of convenience and even a little exciting. These 10 microwave meals were iconic back then, heating up both plates and memories.
- Tricia Quitales
- 3 min read
In the 1980s, the microwave oven became a household staple, and with it came a wave of frozen meals that changed dinner forever. These quick fixes were marketed as modern miracles, offering taste and ease in minutes. While some were loved, others were just tolerated — but they all had their moment. Here’s a list of 10 microwave meals that were a big deal during the ’80s and still trigger nostalgia today.
1. Kid Cuisine
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Bright packaging and cartoon mascots made Kid Cuisine a favorite with kids. The meals came in fun sections, such as mac and cheese, nuggets, and brownies, all in one tray. It felt more like a treat than just dinner.
2. Swanson TV Dinners
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Swanson’s trays were classics, with compartments for meatloaf, corn, and mashed potatoes. They were the go-to for quick weeknight meals, especially if mom was busy. Watching TV while eating one felt futuristic at the time.
3. Stouffer’s Lasagna
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This was the closest thing to a homemade lasagna you could get from a microwave. With layers of pasta, meat, and cheese, it was hearty and filling. Many families kept one in the freezer “just in case.”
4. Lean Cuisine
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For adults watching calories, Lean Cuisine offered a diet-friendly solution without skipping flavor. The small portions and health-focused branding made it feel smarter than regular frozen meals. It was trendy and practical at the same time.
5. Hot Pockets
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Though they came out in the late ’80s, Hot Pockets exploded in popularity fast. Quick to cook and packed with cheesy fillings, they were perfect for teens and late-night snacks. The tongue burns were real, but so was the craving.
6. Banquet Fried Chicken Dinner
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Banquet served up crispy-style fried chicken with sides, all microwaveable. It wasn’t exactly KFC, but it did the job on a budget. That soft dessert square at the end made it memorable.
7. Budget Gourmet
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With its black trays and slightly more “adult” flavors, Budget Gourmet tried to offer fancier frozen meals. They included dishes like beef stroganoff or chicken cacciatore. People felt like they were getting restaurant-style food from their freezer.
8. Marie Callender’s Pot Pies
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These took a little longer to heat up, but they were worth it. With a flaky crust and creamy filling, they were a step above the rest. Straight from the microwave, they gave off homemade vibes.
9. Michelina’s Fettuccine Alfredo
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Creamy pasta dishes were a novelty in frozen food at the time. Michelina’s green box and Italian flair made it seem like something special. It was a comfort food favorite for many households.
10. Weight Watchers Smart Ones
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Aimed at dieters, Smart Ones meals were tied to the growing Weight Watchers trend. They balanced calories and flavor, offering things like turkey and mashed potatoes. People felt good about eating them, even from a microwave.