Remember shoulder pads, big hair, and synth-pop? The 1980s were a decade of bold styles and even bolder flavors, and the food scene was no exception. From convenience-driven concoctions to eye-catching colors, the 80s brought us culinary creations that are both nostalgic and surprisingly delicious. Are you planning a retro bash that throws it back to the decade of excess? Or are you simply craving a taste of your childhood? This article will serve as your guide to planning the perfect 80s themed party, focusing on food that captures the decade’s vibrant culinary spirit. Get ready to rewind your taste buds and party like it’s 1985!
Appetizers & Snacks: Rad Recipes for a Rewind
The 80s were all about easy-to-prepare snacks that could fuel a night of dancing and fun. From cheesy delights to veggie platters, here’s a selection of appetizers that will transport your guests back in time.
Nacho Mania
The 80s were the era of excess, and that certainly applied to nachos! Heaping piles of tortilla chips loaded with melted cheese, seasoned ground beef, and spicy jalapenos were a staple at parties and gatherings. The beauty of nachos lies in their simplicity and customizable nature.
To recreate this classic 80s appetizer, you’ll need:
- A large bag of tortilla chips.
- One pound of ground beef, browned and seasoned with taco seasoning.
- A jar of your favorite cheese sauce (or make your own with cheddar cheese, milk, and butter).
- Pickled jalapeno slices.
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, black olives.
Simply layer the chips on a platter, top with the ground beef, cheese sauce, and jalapenos. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Add your optional toppings and serve immediately.
For a slightly more elevated take on this classic, consider adding shredded Monterey Jack cheese and black beans for extra flavor. You can even try using different types of tortilla chips, such as blue corn or whole wheat, for a modern twist. The point is to capture the spirit of the 80s while adding your own personal touch. This cheesy appetizer is quintessential food for an 80s party.
Cocktail Weenies (or Little Smokies)
These bite-sized sausages were another party essential during the 80s. Their sweet and savory flavor and ease of preparation made them a hit with both kids and adults. Cocktail weenies are perfect for keeping your guests satisfied.
Here’s a simple recipe:
- One package of little smokies sausages.
- One jar of grape jelly.
- One bottle of chili sauce.
Combine the grape jelly and chili sauce in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until the jelly is melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the little smokies and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and coated in the sauce. Serve in a chafing dish to keep them warm throughout the party.
The combination of grape jelly and chili sauce creates a surprisingly delicious sweet and tangy glaze that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. You can also experiment with other sauces, such as BBQ sauce or a honey-mustard glaze. Cocktail weenies are easy food for an 80s party.
Veggie Tray with Dip (Crudités)
Even in the 80s, people recognized the need for a “healthy” option, and the veggie tray was the answer. While it might not have been the most exciting dish at the party, it provided a welcome contrast to all the processed snacks.
A typical 80s veggie tray would include:
- Carrot sticks
- Celery sticks
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
The dip of choice was almost always ranch dressing or French onion dip. Arrange the vegetables artfully on a platter and serve with the dip in a separate bowl. This simple appetizer added a touch of color and freshness to the 80s party spread. Veggie trays are also great options for adding healthy food for an 80s party.
Cheese Ball
No 80s party was complete without a cheese ball! This spherical masterpiece, typically made with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and nuts, served as a centerpiece for the appetizer table.
Here’s a classic cheese ball recipe:
- Two 8-ounce packages of cream cheese, softened.
- Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- One cup of chopped pecans or walnuts.
- One tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
- One teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Shape the mixture into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least two hours. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in additional chopped nuts. Serve with crackers or pretzels.
You can also experiment with different flavors by adding pineapple, bacon, or herbs to the cheese ball mixture. This iconic appetizer is guaranteed to bring back memories of 80s parties gone by. Don’t forget to add a cheese ball to your food for an 80s party list.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs, a timeless classic, found a special place in 80s gatherings. Their creamy texture and savory flavor made them a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
A basic deviled egg recipe involves:
- Hard-boiled eggs.
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika for garnish.
Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half, remove the yolks, and mash them with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Spoon the mixture back into the egg whites and sprinkle with paprika. For an extra touch, garnish with olives. Deviled eggs are easy food for an 80s party.
Main Courses: From Microwave to Magnificence (Well, Almost!)
While the 80s may not be known for gourmet cuisine, there were certainly some main courses that defined the decade.
Casseroles: The Comfort Food King
Casseroles reigned supreme in the 80s, thanks to their convenience and family-friendly appeal. They were the perfect solution for busy weeknights and potluck dinners.
- Tuna Noodle Casserole: A classic combination of tuna, noodles, cream of mushroom soup, and peas. Variations include adding crushed potato chips or French fried onions for a crispy topping.
- Chicken Divan: A creamy and comforting casserole made with chicken, broccoli, and a cheesy sauce. It’s a simple dish that embodies the spirit of 80s comfort food.
To prepare Tuna Noodle Casserole: Cook egg noodles according to package directions. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, cream of mushroom soup, canned tuna (drained), frozen peas, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish and top with crushed potato chips. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Sloppy Joes
Quick, easy, and undeniably messy, Sloppy Joes were a staple of casual 80s gatherings. Ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce and served on hamburger buns – what’s not to love? Sloppy Joes are also budget-friendly food for an 80s party.
A classic Sloppy Joe recipe involves:
- Ground beef
- Chopped onion
- Tomato sauce
- Brown sugar
- Worcestershire sauce
- Hamburger buns
Brown the ground beef with chopped onion. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in tomato sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Serve on hamburger buns with a side of chips.
Pizza Rolls
The epitome of microwaveable convenience, pizza rolls were a popular snack and even a quick meal for many in the 80s. Totino’s Pizza Rolls were particularly iconic. These bite-sized pockets of pizza goodness were perfect for satisfying late-night cravings. Pizza rolls are also easy food for an 80s party.
Simply microwave or bake the pizza rolls according to package directions. Serve with pizza sauce for dipping.
Spaghetti and Meatballs
A timeless classic, spaghetti and meatballs provided a hearty and budget-friendly option for 80s families. It’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Spaghetti is great food for an 80s party
To prepare spaghetti and meatballs: Cook spaghetti according to package directions. While the spaghetti is cooking, prepare the meatballs by mixing ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Roll the mixture into small balls and brown them in a skillet. Add your favorite spaghetti sauce and simmer until the meatballs are cooked through. Serve the spaghetti with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with parsley and parmesan cheese.
Drinks: Quench Your Thirst with Totally 80s Flavors
No 80s party is complete without a selection of iconic beverages. From sugary sodas to fruity punches, here are some drinks that will transport your guests back to the decade.
Soda Pop Extravaganza
The 80s were a golden age for soda pop, with brands like Tab, New Coke (though briefly!), and Surge vying for market share. Stock up on these retro sodas (if you can find them!) to add an authentic touch to your party. The 80s was the peak of soda pop, so be sure to find the perfect soda for your food for an 80s party.
Serve the sodas in retro-style bottles or cans with colorful straws.
Punch Bowls
The punch bowl was a staple of 80s parties, offering a festive and refreshing beverage for guests of all ages.
- Hawaiian Punch: A classic combination of fruit juices that embodies the tropical flavors of the 80s.
- Sherbet Punch: A creamy and fizzy concoction made with sherbet and ginger ale.
To make Hawaiian Punch: Simply pour Hawaiian Punch into a punch bowl and add slices of fresh fruit.
To make Sherbet Punch: Scoop sherbet into a punch bowl and pour ginger ale over the sherbet. Stir gently to combine.
Wine Coolers
Wine coolers, particularly brands like Bartles & Jaymes, were a popular choice for those looking for a lighter alcoholic beverage. With their fruity flavors and lower alcohol content, wine coolers were perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
Serve the wine coolers chilled.
Juice Boxes
A fun throwback to childhood, juice boxes were a common sight in 80s lunchboxes. Choose iconic brands like Hi-C to add a nostalgic touch to your party. This is also a great alcohol-free option for food for an 80s party.
Desserts: Sweet Sensations from a Sugary Decade
Indulge your sweet tooth with these delectable desserts that capture the sugary spirit of the 80s.
Jell-O Molds
The wobbly wonder of the 80s, Jell-O molds were a creative and colorful dessert that showcased the decade’s love of gelatin.
- Layered Jell-O mold: A visually stunning dessert made with layers of different flavored Jell-O.
- Jell-O poke cake: A moist and delicious cake with holes poked into it and filled with Jell-O.
Rice Krispie Treats
A simple and satisfying treat, Rice Krispie Treats were a favorite among kids and adults alike. Their chewy texture and sweet flavor made them the perfect after-school snack and party dessert. A timeless classic, adding rice krispie treats will add some sugary fun food for an 80s party
A classic Rice Krispie Treat recipe involves:
- Rice Krispies cereal
- Marshmallows
- Butter
Melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted. Remove from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Press the mixture into a greased baking dish and let cool. Cut into squares.
Dirt Cups
Chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos, gummy worms – dirt cups were the epitome of 80s fun! These individual desserts were a hit with kids and adults alike. It is also the perfect dessert food for an 80s party.
To make dirt cups: Layer chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms in individual cups.
Hostess CupCakes and Twinkies
Store-bought treats like Hostess CupCakes and Twinkies were party favorites in the 80s. Their sweet and creamy fillings and convenient packaging made them a popular choice for busy parents.
Simply arrange the cupcakes and Twinkies on a decorative plate.
Presentation & Decor: Setting the 80s Scene
To complete your 80s party, don’t forget the presentation and decor!
- Table Decor: Use neon colors, geometric patterns, Rubik’s Cubes, and cassette tapes to create a retro vibe.
- Serving Dishes: Opt for plastic serving trays and bright colored bowls.
- Music & Atmosphere: Play 80s music to enhance the theme and get your guests dancing.
Conclusion
From cheesy nachos to sugary desserts, the food of the 80s was all about convenience, bold flavors, and fun. By incorporating these iconic dishes into your party, you’re sure to create a memorable and nostalgic experience for your guests. So, grab your leg warmers, tease your hair, and get ready to party like it’s 1985!
