Growing up, food choices weren’t as scrutinized as they are today. I remember one family whose home was filled with the scent of vitamins and PBS shows. My mom dubbed them “health nuts” and, with a roll of her eyes, served me four Vienna Fingers and a large glass of peach Hi-C for lunch—just like all my friends’ moms did. Now, our diets are dominated by gluten-free, organic, and biodynamic options, leaving me nostalgic for a simpler time when Roman Meal bread and Chewy granola bars were considered health foods. I look back fondly at some of the less-than-healthy delights I devoured as a child, many of which sparked pure joy. Here’s a list of ten comfort foods that evoke sweet memories for Gen Xers:
1. French Bread Pizza
When Mom pulled that bright red box from the freezer, it felt like a celebration. The pepperoni, sausage, and peppers flavor was a family favorite, and my sister and I loved adding extra mozzarella and “shaky cheese”—the parmesan that came in the green can—making it even more delightful.
2. Ring Dings
Every day, a foil-wrapped Ring Ding awaited me in my lunch bag. As an adult, I know indulging in just half would likely lead to health consequences, but as a kid, I burned those calories off during recess with ease.
3. Ramen Noodles
After countless late-night ramen binges in my early twenties, I swore them off. Yet, nostalgia pulled me back. The salty, brown goodness of Top Ramen transports me to my middle school days. Tossing in some frozen peas—just to pretend it’s healthy—makes it even better.
4. Processed American Cheese Food Product
Let’s take a moment to remember the days when cheese came in a spray can! From Cheez Whiz to Kraft singles, our childhood grilled cheese sandwiches were a masterpiece. Whether dipping nachos into a microwaved jar of queso or slapping cheese on Ritz crackers, those cheesy delights are hard to replicate today.
5. Magic Shell
How could I forget this glorious creation? Pour it over ice cream, and watch as it magically becomes a crunchy shell. Little did we know back in the ‘80s that coconut oil was behind the magic. Today, it’s still available in various flavors—definitely worth a trip to the store.
6. Chicken Pot Pie
Forget gourmet versions with fancy ingredients. A true chicken pot pie comes frozen in a metal dish, complete with that unmistakable yellow gravy, peas, carrots, and mysterious chunks of chicken. The crust is the star of the show, after all.
7. Carnation Instant Breakfast
Only the chocolate malt flavor matters here; the other varieties were never an option. This drink was the highlight of my morning routine. For an added treat, I’d recommend sprinkling Strawberry Quik on vanilla ice cream—thank me later.
8. Swanson Turkey Dinner
Imagine being able to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner anytime! My mom would buy these for special occasions, especially on her girls’ nights out. The turkey dinner, complete with mysterious apple cranberry crumble, was always a hit.
9. Hostess Fruit Pies
I only got these for field trips, which made them feel extra special. Cherry was my go-to flavor, but honestly, every variety was delicious. And let’s not forget the original McDonald’s deep-fried apple pies—pure nostalgia in every bite.
10. Frozen Burritos
These required precise cooking instructions, but when done right, they were a delightful treat. Even if the ends turned crunchy, the gooey taco-flavored center made it all worthwhile—especially with melted cheese on top.
While our eating habits have evolved over the years, it’s fun to reminisce about these childhood favorites and occasionally share them with our kids. I might just surprise my daughter with a nostalgic chicken pot pie or French bread pizza night. After all, who can resist a little Magic Shell for a special treat?
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Summary
Gen Xers fondly recall comfort foods from their childhood, including French bread pizza, Ring Dings, ramen noodles, and more. These nostalgic treats evoke warm memories and highlight how far our diets have come. Despite healthier eating habits today, there’s still joy in occasionally indulging in these classic delights.