Remarkable Retro Remixes
Want a better look at how easy Conagra Foodservice products make it to create the Retro Remixes your customers are sure to love?
A Never-Ending Demand for Nostalgia
While nostalgia has always been “in”, foodservice operations have recently found tremendous success when bringing back classic dishes to current menus. Grown-up versions of childhood favorites and cherished bygone menu items from national fast-food restaurants have given older consumers a way to tap into fond memories while introducing them to a new generation.
But how does the foodservice industry take what’s old and make it new again? Retro Remixes are the perfect opportunity for operators to capitalize on this nostalgia trend while creating something unique, fusing what was popular before with what is exciting now. This can lead to more satisfied customers and a safer, more familiar way to explore new flavors.
There are an infinite number of interesting, mouthwatering ways to make the most of this trend. And we’re excited to share some! But regardless of how operators choose to capitalize on this opportunity, one thing is certain: there’s never been a better time to find a new way to delight customers with a fresh twist on a classic idea.
of people ages 22–55 love things that remind them of their past1
of consumers are more likely to try new things if showcased in a traditional or familiar way2
of consumers are more likely to try new or unique flavors from a restaurant than at home3
The Quick Dish
Today’s hottest comfort foods are a great jumping-off point for menu innovation, as operators can introduce nostalgic flavors or formats into these contemporary dishes. Here are the fastest-growing comfort foods to inspire your next signature retro creation!4
No matter what nostalgic dish you may want to remix with new and inventive twists, Conagra has the brands that will make it simple for you and delicious for customers!
Chef Tips
What’s old is new again. Consumers are more eager than ever to enjoy nostalgic eats with modern twists that remind them of their past. Whether it’s hot dogs, biscuits or nachos, the possibilities are endless. Take a look at these tips from the Conagra Foodservice team to discover the inspiration for your next creation.
Putting the Fun in Functional. Breakfast is nostalgic for all ages. Add ingredients like flax seed or protein powder and sprinkles to make traditional dishes like pancakes more unique, functional and fun! Finish with a hefty drizzle of Log Cabin® Original Syrup.
A Hot Dog of Many Flavors. Hot dog recipes span the globe, making them perfect for this trend. A Rio de Janeiro-inspired hot dog dish could start with a Hebrew National® Beef Frank in a blend of vegetables and be served in a whipped potato-brushed bun topped with mayonnaise and potato sticks.
Building a Better Burger. Put a contemporary spin on a classic American favorite by serving plant-based burgers with global flavors like a mango chutney burger featuring a Gardein® Ultimate Plant-Based Burger topped with spicy rich mango chutney, Brie cheese and arugula on a seeded bun.
Not Your Average Nachos. Revolutionize your nacho cheese sauce by spiking it with RO*TEL® Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies and use premium ingredients for toppings like chili-braised short rib, crispy fried garlic or avocados pickled in Rosarita® Jalapeño Peppers.
Break The Biscuit Mold. While your first instinct for biscuits may be savory dishes, don’t hesitate to utilize Bakery Chef® Premium Buttermilk Biscuits in sweeter applications like bread pudding, or brûlée them with a bit of butter and sugar for a perfect ice cream topper.
Classic Recipes with Fresh Twists
Conagra Foodservice products are designed to make it simple to serve up a huge variety of classic menu items with unique, delicious twists.
Wrapped in nostalgic goodness, this recipe takes the Hebrew National® Beef Franks your customers love and wraps them in flaky vegan croissant dough with vegan pepper jack cheese and Vlasic® Kosher Dill Pickle Spears for a spicy twist everyone will go crazy for! View Recipe
A few flavorful tweaks can make any classic dish new again. This recipe brings a bit of heat by combining Log Cabin® Original Syrup with jalapeño peppers and ancho poured over savory cakes complete with Gardein® Original Plant-Based Breakfast Saus’ge cooked right in. View Recipe
Dishes don’t need to be complicated to be unforgettable. This recipe utilizes Cajun-style andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning to add some spice to deliciously traditional biscuits and gravy made with Libby's® Old-Fashioned Country Sausage Gravy and Bakery Chef® Premium Buttermilk Biscuits. View Recipe
A savory classic can become even more scrumptious with the right ingredients! Start with perfectly seasoned, shredded chicken breast and simmer it with RO*TEL® Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies for a spicy kick. Take it to the next level with Rosarita® Jalapeño Peppers folded right into the dumpling batter. View Recipe
You'll Find Even More Delicious Recipe Ideas on Our Instagram, @conagrafoodservice
We know that consumers are drawn to familiar flavors and that they’re more likely to try new things when dining out as opposed to cooking at home. Here are a few examples of operations that have capitalized on this with exciting new twists on some of their more popular staple menu items.
Crossroads Kitchen, Las Vegas
For some, it doesn’t get more nostalgic than the classic bubblegum flavor. And there’s no limit to the sweet dishes or drinks you can add it to. Crossroads Kitchen has made the most of this trend with their California Dreaming drink made with bubblegum-infused vodka, lemon juice and simple syrup.
The Waverly, Cardiff, CA
Fun never goes out of style and it’s a great way to add a nostalgic feel to staple offerings. The Waverly puts a familiar, decadent twist on their Funfetti Pancakes by topping them with not only Vermont maple syrup but classic vanilla icing as well.
Van Da, New York
Premium grilled cheese sandwiches are a prime opportunity for Retro Remixes. Van Da brings global inspiration to this all-time favorite with their Pho Short Rib Grilled Cheese featuring caramelized onions, provolone and a shot of pho broth to tie it all together.
Panera Bread
Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese offers a mashup of two classic dishes, featuring shell pasta in a blend of creamy cheese sauce and tangy white cheddar, simmered with seasoned broccoli and carrots.