Some of the most legendary moments in TV and movie history don’t come from plot twists or dramatic speeches—they come from food. Whether it’s a towering sandwich devoured by a cartoon duo, a decadent dessert shared between friends, or a humble homemade meal that becomes a symbol of love, food has a way of stealing the spotlight on screen.
It’s no surprise, then, that these scenes often stick with us long after the credits roll. They get us laughing, make us hungry, and sometimes even inspire us to hit the kitchen ourselves. That’s where Martin’s comes in. We’ve rounded up a list of recipes that pair perfectly with some of the most iconic, noteworthy, and familiar food moments from the big and small screen. From holiday leftovers to second breakfast, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to bring a little Hollywood—or Saturday morning nostalgia—into your next mealtime.
Whether you’re planning a themed watch party, hosting family movie night, or simply want an excuse to eat s’mores for dinner (we fully support it), these Martin’s recipes are the perfect supporting cast. Let’s dig in!
1. Chef – Grilled Cheese
In the film Chef, one of the most recognizable and acclaimed food scenes involves a simple grilled cheese sandwich transformed into culinary art. As Chef Carl Casper crafts this sandwich for his son, it becomes a quintessential moment of connection—and cheese pull perfection. You can recreate that same magic at home with our Deluxe Grilled Cheese, featuring melted Gouda, Asiago, and white cheddar cheeses, layered on Martin’s Old-Fashioned Butter Bread, brushed with garlic- and herb-infused butter, and toasted to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to some comfort food, this sandwich hits all the right notes.
2. Blondie – Dagwood Sandwich
Inspired by the Blondie comic strip, the notorious Dagwood Sandwich is a towering tribute to over-the-top deli indulgence. Known for its sky-high stack of meats, cheeses, and condiments, this sandwich became a visual gag and a fan favorite thanks to Dagwood Bumstead’s legendary late-night snacking. Channel that same energy with our Dagwood Sandwich, made with five slices of assorted Martin’s breads, deli ham, bologna, salami, turkey, American and Swiss cheeses, crisp lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a generous spread of mayo and mustard. It’s the perfect bite for big appetites and cartoon-level cravings.
3. E.T. – Reese’s Pieces
In E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, a trail of Reese’s Pieces becomes the unlikely bridge between alien and human friendship—making it one of the most famous candy moments in movie history. For a sweet-meets-strange treat that’s kid-approved, try our Bread Crumb Monster Cookies using toasted Martin’s Butter Bread. Loaded with pantry favorites like chocolate chunks, pretzels, marshmallows, and (of course) candy-coated chocolates, these customizable cookies are great for using up leftover trick-or-treat candy or creating your own “out-of-this-world” combo. Honestly, we’re starting to think they should’ve been called “Alien Cookies” all along.
4. Forrest Gump – A Box of Chocolates
As Forrest famously says, “Life is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get.” That line has become one of the most quoted in film history, and it’s the perfect inspiration for a sweet treat that’s full of surprises. Our Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars and Dark Chocolate Stuffed Cinnamon Toast offer just that—rich, indulgent, and customizable snacks that can be made with your favorite style of chocolate. Whether you’re in the mood for salty-sweet crunch or gooey cinnamon decadence, these recipes are a delicious way to embrace the unexpected.
5. Friends – The Moist Maker Turkey Sandwich
Few food moments on television are as legendary as Ross Geller’s beloved leftover sandwich in Friends. Dubbed “The Moist Maker,” this towering creation features Thanksgiving staples stacked between slices of bread—complete with roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, green leaf lettuce, and tomato. The secret? A gravy-soaked slice of bread in the middle that Ross insists makes it “the best sandwich in the world.” Want to try it yourself? Build your own Turkey Stacker Sandwich using Martin’s Potato Bread! Just make sure to label it clearly if you’re packing it for lunch—we’ve all seen what happens otherwise.
6. Gilmore Girls – Luke’s Diner Burger
In Gilmore Girls, no visit to Stars Hollow is complete without a stop at Luke’s Diner—home of flannel shirts, fresh coffee, and classic comfort food. One of the staples? A good old-fashioned diner burger, served up warm and unpretentious, just like Luke himself. You can bring that vibe home with our Big Marty Burger or diner-style Patty Melt, both perfect for your next cozy dinner or fast-paced Friday night TV-watching marathon.
7. Golden Girls – Cheesecake
Few foods are as closely tied to a show as cheesecake is to The Golden Girls. Whether they were celebrating, soul-searching, or just indulging in a midnight snack, Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia always had a slice nearby. Capture that same sweet sense of comfort with our Easy Mini Cheesecakes, baked into bite-sized portions using Martin’s Potato Bread crumbs. They’re nostalgic, familiar, and perfect for sharing with your best friends—thank you for being one.
8. Green Eggs & Ham – Green Eggs & Ham
Dr. Seuss’s Green Eggs and Ham has inspired generations of readers to try something new—and now, you can taste this whimsical classic for yourself. Our Green Eggs & Ham Sandwich brings the book to life using assorted Martin’s breads, scrambled eggs blended with pesto for that signature green hue, sliced deli ham, and provolone cheese. Toast the bread into creative shapes for extra fun, or enjoy as-is for a quirky breakfast or lunch that Sam-I-Am would absolutely approve of.
9. Harry Potter – Pumpkin Pasties
Whether you’re boarding the Hogwarts Express or just settling in for a movie marathon, no Harry Potter snack is more recognizable than pumpkin pasties from the trolley cart. You can conjure up your own version with our Hand Pies recipe—just swap the cherry filling for a spiced pumpkin butter or sweet pumpkin purée. Made with Martin’s Potato Bread and baked until golden and flaky, these mini hand pies are perfect for sharing with your fellow wizards (or muggles). Serve warm with a butterbeer (or hot cider) and enjoy a taste of the wizarding world.
10. Harriet the Spy – Tomato and Mayo Sandwich
In Harriet the Spy, our young heroine swears by her daily lunch: a simple tomato and mayo sandwich. Harriet’s go-to sandwich proved that simple can still be unforgettable. Recreate this slice of nostalgia with our classic Tomato Sandwich, made with juicy tomato slices, creamy mayo, and soft Martin’s Potato Bread. It’s a bold pick for curious minds and unapologetic eaters.
11. How the Grinch Stole Christmas – Roast Beast
“And he, he himself…the Grinch…carved the roast-beast!” Try our Cheesy Roast Beef Sliders for a hearty, shareable take on this holiday classic, made with tender roast beef and melted cheese on Martin’s Sweet Dinner Potato Rolls. And while it’s never quite clear exactly what kind of meat Dr. Seuss had in mind (we’re assuming roast beef), we’ve got options for every Whoville-style feast. For a true holiday spread, explore our recipes for Baked Ham, Roast Turkey, or Crown Roast of Pork. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to warm even the Grinchiest of hearts.
12. Jaws – Shark Bites
*Duh-dun…duh-dun…duh-dun…* These dangerously fun Shark Bites are just the thing to celebrate the infamous blockbuster Jaws. Made with Martin’s Sweet Party Potato Rolls, gooey melted marshmallows, and swirls of blue food coloring to mimic ocean waves, they’re topped with gummy sharks and red sprinkles for a bit of sweet suspense. Whether you’re planning a Shark Week viewing party or just making waves at your next get-together, these bites are guaranteed to make a splash.
13. Lady and the Tramp – Spaghetti and Meatballs
One of the most romantic food scenes in film history belongs to two pups sharing a plate of pasta under the stars. Lady and the Tramp made spaghetti and meatballs an instant classic—and now you can recreate the magic at home, no alleyway required. Prepare both our Spaghetti Boats and Meatball Subs recipes as a fun “his and hers” pairing: one a playful pasta-filled garlic bread boat, the other a warm, melty meatball sandwich. Made with Martin’s Hoagie Rolls and easy to split in half, they’re perfect for sharing—until someone reaches for the last bite.
14. Lord of the Rings – Second Breakfast and More
In the beloved film trilogy, The Lord of the Rings, mealtimes are serious business—breakfast, second breakfast, elevenses, and beyond. If you, like Merry and Pippin, frequently find yourself dealing with a hobbit-sized hunger, we have just the solution. Enjoy a hearty Breakfast Plate of eggs, bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, and Martin’s Potato Bread—certain to keep you full all the way through second breakfast. Or, if you’re preparing for a journey, consider packing our Mini Harvest Breakfast Stratas for an on-the-go elevenses, so you can arrive there and back again safely. (Just be sure to leave room for afternoon tea, dinner, and supper too!)
15. Matilda – Chocolate Cake
In Matilda, Bruce Bogtrotter’s showdown with a massive chocolate cake is one of the most notorious dessert scenes in movie history. Recreate the drama (minus the terrifying headmistress) with our Chocolate Bread Pudding, made from cubed Martin’s Potato Bread soaked in a velvety custard of chocolate chips, half-and-half, eggs, and vanilla. Baked to gooey perfection and served warm with powdered sugar, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruit, it’s a warm, comforting dessert that feels a little bit daring—and totally worth every bite. Just remember: you don’t have to eat the whole thing in one sitting… unless you want to.
16. Napoleon Dynamite – Tater Tots
Napoleon Dynamite taught us many things—how to draw a liger, why you should vote for Pedro, and that few things are more sacred than a warm handful of tater tots (especially when stashed in your cargo pocket for later). This cult classic comfort food gets an upgrade in our Breakfast Grilled Cheese, where crispy smashed tots are layered with spicy chorizo, Colby Jack cheese, and bacon jam between buttery slices of Martin’s Potato Bread. It’s the kind of bold breakfast Napoleon would absolutely approve of—just make sure you bring enough to share.
17. Paddington – Marmalade Sandwich
Paddington Bear is rarely seen without his signature snack: a marmalade sandwich, usually tucked under his hat “for emergencies.” This charming British bite is simple, sweet, and perfectly suited for teatime—or anytime. Whip up your own version using our Homemade Peach Jam recipe and soft Martin’s Potato Bread, or explore other fruity favorites in our Jam-Making Guide for a truly customized spread. Just don’t forget your raincoat.
18. Popeye – Spinach
Popeye didn’t need much to save the day—just a can of spinach and a little muscle. This classic cartoon moment turned leafy greens into a symbol of strength, and now you can enjoy them in a far tastier form. Our Salami and Spinach Scramble on Toast combines tender sautéed spinach and onions, chopped salami, and softly scrambled eggs, all served alongside toasted Martin’s Potato Bread. It’s a hearty, power-packed breakfast that’ll have you feeling strong to the finish.
19. Ratatouille – Ratatouille
In Ratatouille, a humble vegetable dish becomes a renowned culinary triumph—proof that great food can come from the most unexpected places. Capture that same spirit with our Grilled Farmer’s Market Sandwich, stacked with grilled eggplant, zucchini, red onion, fresh tomato, basil, and melty provolone cheese on balsamic-brushed Martin’s Potato Bread. Toasted to perfection on the grill, it’s a vibrant, garden-fresh meal that would make even Remy proud.
20. Scooby-Doo – Super Shaggy Sandwich
Scooby and Shaggy were never ones to turn down a snack—especially if it was piled high with deli meats, cheese, and just about everything else in the fridge. Their sky-high sandwiches became a cartoon classic, and now you can build your own towering tribute with our California Club Sliders. Served on Martin’s Sweet Dinner Potato Rolls with turkey, bacon, avocado, and more, these mini stacks are perfect for customizing, layering, and devouring in true Mystery Machine style. Whether you eat them two at a time or stack them sky-high, Scoob would definitely approve.
21. Sound of Music – Favorite Things
“Crisp apple strudels and schnitzel with noodles…” Just hearing the line brings a certain cozy nostalgia, doesn’t it? In The Sound of Music, these dishes are part of a list of comforting, familiar favorites—and you can bring them to your own table with a Martin’s twist. Try our Pork Schnitzel for a golden, crispy take on the Austrian classic, then follow it with Apple Charlottes for our take on a classic fruit-filled pastry. These are a few of our favorite things, too.
22. Spongebob – The Krabby Patty
Deep under the sea at the Krusty Krab, one burger reigns supreme: the legendary Krabby Patty. While Mr. Krabs keeps the secret formula under lock and key, we suspect it might involve a beachy classic like the Chesapeake region’s Old Bay seasoning. Our Old Bay Burger, served on Martin’s Big Marty’s Rolls and stacked with all the fixings, is a pretty solid guess—and a delicious one at that. And if that doesn’t quite satisfy your seafood craving, try our Crab Cake Sliders for a tasty twist. Just… don’t tell Mr. Krabs.
23. The Office – Kevin’s Chili
It’s one of the most infamous scenes in The Office: Kevin, beaming with pride, brings in his famous chili—only to spill the entire pot all over the floor in a spectacular slow-motion disaster. While we can’t promise you won’t drop it, we can help you make a recipe worth hanging onto. Use your favorite type of chili to top these Loaded Chili Dogs or serve it inside Chili Bread Bowls made with toasted Martin’s Sweet Dinner Potato Rolls. Just be sure to carry everything with both hands.
24. The Sandlot – S’mores
“You’re killin’ me, Smalls!” One of the most quotable scenes in The Sandlot is also one of the tastiest—introducing a generation to the melty, gooey perfection of s’mores. Recreate that fireside nostalgia with our Deep-Fried S’mores Rolls or S’mores Mountain Pie recipes, both made with the classic combo of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers. And if you find yourself wanting s’more, check out our complete S’mores Recipes Archive for even more delicious takes on this summertime favorite.
Ready to Roll the Credits?
From diner burgers and cartoon sandwiches, these iconic screen-inspired recipes bring a little movie magic to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a themed watch party or simply craving a nostalgic bite, Martin’s breads and rolls deliver scene-stealing flavor worthy of an encore. So, grab your remote—and maybe a napkin—and start recreating your favorite TV and movie moments, one delicious bite at a time.
P.S. Enter Our Summer Fun Sweepstakes!
From May 30, 2025 through June 13, 2025, enter for your chance to win a 55’’ 4K QLED TV, plus a prize pack of Martin’s rolls: one pack each of Big Marty’s Rolls, Hoagie Rolls, and Sweet Dinner or Sweet Party Potato Rolls.
Enter at: https://www.martinssummerfun.com
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