48 Nostalgic American Dishes That Take Us Back in Time

TV Dinners, a staple since the ’50s, skyrocketed in popularity shortly after Swanson introduced them. For just $0.98, people could enjoy a Thanksgiving-themed meal right from their tray. Swanson revolutionized meal prep, adding desserts to its selection by 1960. Though many brands offer microwave meals today, Swanson remains the original pioneer in convenience dining.

Over the years, microwavable meals have vastly improved, offering a global palette right from your microwave. From lavish Chinese spreads to classic fish and chips, there’s a microwavable version of almost every cuisine. This variety and convenience explain why these meals continue to enjoy unwavering popularity among a broad audience.