18 Foods Every Household Had in the ’70s and ’80s
The '70s and '80s were a golden age of convenience food, where colorful, quirky snacks and easy-to-make meals defined family kitchens and fueled the fast-paced, fun-loving spirit of the time.
- Alyana Aguja
- 6 min read
The ’70s and ’80s were a lively period for food, with convenience as the star in American kitchens everywhere. From the bright-colored powders of Tang to the nostalgic TV dinners that made eating simple, these foods added an air of fun and ease to family life. Whether it was the rich indulgence of Snack Pack puddings or the crunchy comfort of fried chicken, these snack and meal masterpieces from a bygone era still create nostalgia for an age when food was as convenient as it was delicious.
1. Tang
Image from Ubuy Philippines
Tang was the powdered beverage mix that guaranteed astronauts’ seal of approval, and soon, it was a breakfast favorite. It was packaged in bright orange packets and added to water for a tangy, sweet citrus punch. Children and adults enjoyed Tang, which was sold as both a playful beverage and a vitamin-fortified substitute for juice.
2. TV Dinners
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These pre-packaged, frozen dinners made dinnertime a snap for harried families. Stouffer’s and Hungry-Man, among other popular brands, offered all sorts of meat-and-potatoes fare, ranging from Salisbury steak to fried chicken. They were known for their compartmentalized trays, which were icons of convenience food culture in the ’70s and ’80s.
3. Jell-O
Image from Food and Recipes | HowStuffWorks
Jell-O was the dessert of choice for every special occasion, frequently topped with fruit, whipped cream, or even marshmallows. The bright-colored gelatin dessert had numerous flavors to choose from, and Jell-O molds were a staple party decoration. It represented the frivolous food fads of the era, merging sweetness and fun into one quivering bite.
4. Snack Pack Pudding
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Snack Pack puddings, which were silky and creamy to the touch, were a lunchbox favorite. The pudding cups, available in chocolate, vanilla, and butterscotch flavors, made great, quick, mess-free desserts. Children enjoyed the convenience, and parents loved the inexpensive, easy-to-serve treat.
5. Spam
Image from Britannica
Although its history began during World War II, Spam was still a staple in most homes during the ’70s and ’80s. This meat in a can, usually fried or part of casseroles, was famous for its shelf life and delicious taste. It was particularly favored in areas where fresh meat was hard to find or too costly.
6. Rice-a-Roni
Image from The Kitchn
Nicknamed “The San Francisco Treat,” Rice-a-Roni was an easy and delicious side dish that became popular during the ’70s and ’80s. It was available in various flavors, the most popular being the original butter and herb flavor. To make it, simply sauté the rice, add water, and cook—easy enough for busy family households.
7. Pop-Tarts
Image from Pop-Tarts
Pop-Tarts transformed breakfast by introducing a pastry you could eat in transit. The icing-coated, sugary squares came in many flavors, such as strawberry and brown sugar cinnamon, usually with sprinkles. They became popular among children, who enjoyed the fast and sugary kick-off to their day.
8. Cheez Whiz
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Cheez Whiz was the standard cheese product to use on crackers, in cheese fries, or even as a dip. Its processed, smooth texture and orange color made it a household staple. Although its flavor may not have been genuine, its ease of use and taste made it a hit in the ’70s and ’80s.
9. Pasta Roni
Image from Allrecipes
Like Rice-a-Roni, Pasta Roni was a fast, tasty pasta side dish in several styles, such as Alfredo and Parmesan. It was simple to make, needing only boiling water and stirring, which made it a hit with busy parents. The creamy sauces and soft pasta were a favorite among children and adults.
10. Deviled Eggs
Image from Food Network
Deviled eggs were a staple appetizer at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. The boiled eggs, with their creamy, tangy yolk-mayo-mustard filling, were easy to prepare and delicious. They were a sign of an older era, particularly with their appearance at holiday parties.
11. Fried Chicken
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While fried chicken was a Southern staple, it gained widespread popularity during the ’70s and ’80s with the fast-food chain rise of KFC. Homemade or from a bucket, crunchy fried chicken was a treat for special occasions and family dinners. With its crunchy outside and juicy interior, it was a comforting food classic that pleased.
12. Taco Kits
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In the ’70s and ’80s, taco kits such as Old El Paso made it possible to have tacos at home. Pre-seasoned taco meat and soft or hard taco shells made it easy to have Mexican food. The kits also allowed families to personalize their tacos with toppings such as lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
13. Chicken Nuggets
Image from Allrecipes
Introduced in the 1970s by fast-food chains like McDonald’s, chicken nuggets quickly became a beloved snack for kids. They were breaded, deep-fried, and served with dipping sauces like barbecue or honey mustard. Their small, bite-sized shape made them easy to eat on the go.
14. Casseroles
Image from Southern Living
Casseroles were the epitome of ’70s and ’80s comfort food, mixing meats, pasta or rice, and creamy sauces in one dish. Tuna noodles and green bean casserole were among the most popular, topped with crunchy onions or breadcrumbs. These one-pot meals were also budget-friendly and could feed a big family with no problems.
15. Miracle Whip
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Miracle Whip was the popular mayonnaise substitute among many homes in the ’70s and ’80s. Its sweet, tangy taste added flavor to anything from salads and sandwiches to use as a dressing for coleslaw. With its unique flavor, it found its way onto the shelf in many kitchens, especially those from the Midwest.
16. Fruit Cocktail
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Canned fruit cocktails, usually filled with syrup, were common in most households at this time. The combination of chopped peaches, pears, cherries, and grapes made it a speedy and sugary dessert or side dish. While not the healthiest option, it was a quick method of receiving a serving of fruit if fresh was not always an option.
17. Bologna
Image from Wikipedia
Bologna, sliced thin and stacked high in sandwiches, was a staple in the ’70s and ’80s lunchboxes. This cheap, processed meat was enjoyed for its mild taste and ease of use. It was usually served with mustard or ketchup and, for others, a slice of cheese, making it an easy, comforting meal.
18. Sloppy Joes
Image from The Kitchn
Sloppy Joes were a sloppier, meatier sandwich alternative. They were prepared by cooking ground beef in a tangy tomato-based sauce and serving it in a bun. The dish was enjoyed for its simplicity and the pleasure of eating it with your hands. It was a staple in homes and school cafeterias, a convenient meal that children and adults could share.