A nationally representative survey of 2,000 UK adults, commissioned by recipe-kit brand SimplyCook, found that roast dinners, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and cottage pie were among the meals people most commonly ate while growing up.
Over half of respondents (52%) remembered roast dinners being a regular childhood meal, followed by fish and chips at 41%. Both shepherd’s pie and cottage pie were mentioned by 34%.
Today, however, pasta has become the most commonly eaten meal among those surveyed, with 43% expecting to have it during the coming week. Curry was selected by 27% and stir-fry by 23%.
Meanwhile, only 25% expected to eat a roast dinner, while shepherd’s pie had fallen to 14% and cottage pie to 17%.
Pasta has experienced the greatest rise, increasing from 29% of childhood diets to 43% today. Its popularity reflects the demand for convenient, comforting meals that can be adapted to suit different ingredients and tastes.
The research also revealed some differences between men and women. Almost half of women surveyed expected to eat pasta during the week, compared with 36% of men. Women were also more likely to choose stir-fries, while men remained slightly more inclined towards fish and chips and cottage pie.
The most striking generational changes were found among people aged between 18 and 24. Ramen and Korean noodles are now more likely to appear on their weekly menus than either cottage pie or shepherd’s pie. One in five Gen Z adults also expected to eat burritos or tacos.
Britain’s enthusiasm for international flavours is partly being driven by the popularity of “fakeaways”, homemade versions of favourite takeaway meals. Pizza topped the list, followed by burgers, Italian dishes and Chinese food. One in five households regularly recreates Indian dishes at home.
However, some cooks remain uncertain about unfamiliar ingredients. Almost one-third avoid gochujang because they do not know how to use it, while 29% say the same about kimchi. More than a third admit buying herbs or spices for a single recipe and then leaving them unused.
Vicki Christie, a spokesperson for SimplyCook, said the definition of comfort food had evolved, with pasta, curries, noodles and tacos now sitting alongside the traditional roast dinner.
The survey was conducted between 16 and 20 July 2026.