Discover the Most Popular Recipes of 2016!
Welcome to a curated collection of culinary sensations that captivated kitchens and delighted palates throughout 2016! This exclusive roundup features dishes that weren’t just popular; they were absolute phenomena, trending across social media and becoming staple favorites in homes everywhere. From comforting main courses to decadent desserts and delightful sides, these recipes truly stood out for their unique flavors, ease of preparation, or simply their irresistible appeal. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering new inspirations, prepare to be amazed by the enduring charm of these widely beloved creations.
Each recipe title below is your direct gateway to deliciousness. Simply click on the TITLE of any recipe to unlock its full directions and embark on your next culinary adventure!
The Ultimate Pepperoni Roll!
Originating from the Appalachian coal country, the Pepperoni Roll is more than just a snack; it’s a culinary icon. This ultimate version, a timeless classic, combines savory slices of pepperoni baked into soft, fluffy dough, often with a hint of melted cheese. Perfect for a hearty lunch, a satisfying snack on the go, or even a game-day appetizer, its simplicity belies its incredible flavor. In 2016, its humble charm made it a viral hit, reminding us that sometimes, the most comforting foods are the simplest. Experience the rich, savory goodness that made this a fan-favorite and understand why it continues to be cherished.
Balsamic Soy Roasted Garlic Mushrooms
Don’t let the simplicity fool you – these Balsamic Soy Roasted Garlic Mushrooms are destined to be the highlight of any meal. This recipe soared in popularity due to its incredible depth of flavor and versatility. Earthy mushrooms are beautifully caramelized with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, enriched by umami-packed soy sauce and aromatic garlic. They make an exceptional side dish for almost any main course, a fantastic appetizer, or even a flavorful topping for pasta or grain bowls. Their ease of preparation combined with their sophisticated taste ensures they’ll impress without requiring extensive effort, making them a consistently sought-after recipe.
PEANUT BUTTER CUP PIE
For anyone who adores the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate, this Peanut Butter Cup Pie is an absolute dream come true. This dessert earned its viral status by delivering a perfect balance of rich, creamy peanut butter filling nestled in a decadent crust, often adorned with chocolate ganache and mini peanut butter cups. It’s a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to assemble, making it ideal for celebrations, potlucks, or simply satisfying a profound sweet craving. Its irresistible charm and universally loved flavors cemented its place as a top recipe of 2016, and it remains a go-to for dessert enthusiasts.
The Best Coffee Punch
Elevate your beverage game with this recipe for The Best Coffee Punch, a truly unique and refreshing drink that became incredibly popular for entertaining in 2016. Moving beyond traditional coffees, this punch offers a delightful blend of rich coffee flavor with creamy, sweet notes, often featuring ice cream or whipped topping. It’s an unexpected crowd-pleaser for brunches, parties, or any gathering where you want to serve something special and memorable. Easy to prepare in large batches, it’s the perfect way to cool down on a warm day or to provide a sophisticated non-alcoholic (or easily adaptable to alcoholic) option for your guests.
CARROT CAKE with MAPLE PECAN Cream Cheese Frosting!
This Carrot Cake with Maple Pecan Cream Cheese Frosting quickly became a sensation for its incredibly delicious combination of flavors and textures. It takes a classic dessert and elevates it with the warm, comforting notes of maple and the delightful crunch of pecans in the frosting. The cake itself is moist and spiced, providing the perfect canvas for the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s a truly indulgent treat that feels both homey and sophisticated, ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or simply when you desire an exceptional dessert. Its widespread popularity in 2016 is a testament to its irresistible appeal.
Strawberry Jello Fluff Salad!
A beloved classic that made a significant comeback in 2016, this Strawberry Jello Fluff Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults adore. This light, airy, and fruity “salad” (more like a dessert or side dish) brings together the nostalgic flavors of strawberry Jello, whipped topping, fruit, and sometimes marshmallows, creating a delightful texture that’s both creamy and fluffy. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires no baking, and is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday meals. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a perennial favorite for those seeking a fun, simple, and satisfying treat.
Lemon Asparagus Pasta
This Lemon Asparagus Pasta offers a perfect blend of fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying heartiness, quickly becoming a dinner table favorite in 2016. Bright lemon zest and juice cut through the richness of the pasta, while tender asparagus adds a wonderful spring texture and a touch of green freshness. It’s an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal but also elegant enough for special occasions. Everyone will undoubtedly ask for seconds of this perfectly balanced dish, which highlights seasonal ingredients in a simple yet profound way. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create truly memorable meals.
Strawberry Jello Cake
The Strawberry Jello Cake is a wonderfully light, incredibly fluffy, and perfectly sweet dessert that garnered immense popularity for its ease of preparation and delightful flavor. This cake is infused with the vibrant taste of strawberries and a moist, tender crumb, often featuring a beautiful pink hue. It’s a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts and is particularly appealing during warmer months or as a festive treat. Simple to make, it requires minimal effort for maximum impact, making it a go-to recipe for those seeking a charming and effortlessly delicious sweet ending to any meal.
CREAMY CHICKEN MARSALA
This Creamy Chicken Marsala recipe consistently ranks as a top favorite, earning rave reviews for its restaurant-quality taste that often surpasses dining out experiences. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared and then simmered in a rich, velvety Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms, creating an incredibly aromatic and comforting dish. It’s a fantastic choice for an elegant dinner party or a special weeknight meal when you want to impress without being overly complicated. The depth of flavor and luscious texture of the sauce make this a truly unforgettable culinary experience, a definite highlight from 2016.
SPINACH ARTICHOKE STUFFED CHICKEN
Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken is a gourmet-level meal that the entire family will wholeheartedly adore. This recipe takes succulent chicken breasts and fills them with a creamy, savory mixture of spinach, artichokes, and cheese, creating a delightful surprise in every bite. It’s an excellent way to elevate a simple chicken dinner into something truly special, offering a wonderful balance of textures and robust flavors. Despite its impressive appearance, it’s remarkably straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights when you crave something extraordinary without the fuss. This dish was a massive hit in 2016, and its appeal remains strong.
Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies!
If you’re a fan of Andes Mints, you are absolutely going to fall in love with these Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies! These soft, chewy cookies are bursting with refreshing mint and rich chocolate flavors, made even more tender by the inclusion of pudding mix. They’re not only incredibly delicious but also visually appealing, especially with their festive green hues or chocolate-mint swirls, making them a perfect treat for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion. Their unique flavor profile and delightful texture made them a standout recipe that continues to charm mint chocolate enthusiasts.
BAKED SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALLS
For feeding a hungry family, Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is the ultimate skillet meal that delivers both hearty satisfaction and classic comfort. This recipe takes beloved spaghetti and meatballs to the next level by baking it all together, often with a cheesy topping, creating a cohesive and incredibly flavorful dish. It simplifies mealtime while providing all the familiar tastes of a traditional Italian-American favorite. Easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table, this dish remains a popular choice for its comforting warmth and robust flavors.
Pillsbury’s Crescent Roll Taco Bake!
This ingenious Pillsbury’s Crescent Roll Taco Bake offers a fun, easy, and incredibly flavorful way to enjoy all the classic tastes of tacos in a unique ring shape. Utilizing convenient crescent roll dough, this recipe wraps up seasoned ground meat (or plant-based alternative), cheese, and other taco fillings into a stunning, pull-apart meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something quick and delicious, or as an impressive appetizer for parties and potlucks. Its viral appeal lies in its simplicity, versatility, and sheer crowd-pleasing power.
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
This Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad is one of those timeless recipes that will quickly become a cherished family favorite, made time and time again. It combines tender pasta, crisp broccoli florets, and sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any casual meal, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier mains. Easy to prepare ahead of time, its flavors only get better as they meld, making it an excellent option for entertaining or meal prepping. Its enduring popularity speaks to its delicious simplicity and broad appeal.
Lemon Brownies
For those who crave a bright, zesty dessert, these Lemon Brownies are an absolute must-try. Loaded with an intense lemon flavor, these “lemonies” offer a delightful sweet-tart balance that is incredibly refreshing, especially after a delicious meal. Unlike traditional chocolate brownies, they provide a light and sunny alternative, with a chewy, cake-like texture that makes them truly addictive. Easy to bake and perfect for spring or summer gatherings, they quickly became a popular choice for their vibrant taste and charming simplicity, proving that lemon desserts can be just as satisfying as chocolate.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushroom Chicken & Bacon
Prepare for an explosion of flavor with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushroom Chicken & Bacon, an easy dinner the whole family will undoubtedly love. This dish packs an incredible punch, featuring tender chicken, savory bacon, and earthy mushrooms all swimming in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a truly decadent yet surprisingly straightforward one-pan meal that brings gourmet tastes to your everyday table. Its viral success stems from its luxurious flavor profile and its ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary without extensive effort, making it a perennial favorite for comfort food lovers.
COCONUT BUNDT CAKE
This Coconut Bundt Cake is an incredibly moist cake that celebrates the tropical essence of coconut in every single bite. With its elegant bundt shape and a tender, flavorful crumb, it’s a dessert that feels both impressive and inviting. Whether glazed or simply dusted with powdered sugar, it offers a refreshing escape with its rich coconut notes. Perfect for special occasions, afternoon tea, or simply when you’re craving a taste of the tropics, its luxurious moisture and intense flavor made it a beloved recipe in 2016 and a continued favorite for coconut aficionados.
Sea Salt Caramel Carrot Poke Cake!
If you’re a fan of the delightful “poke cake” trend, you are going to absolutely adore this Sea Salt Caramel Carrot Poke Cake. This innovative dessert takes the comforting classic of carrot cake and infuses it with a decadent caramel sauce that seeps into every crevice, then tops it with a hint of sea salt for a perfect sweet-and-savory balance. It’s a truly indulgent and textural experience, offering moist cake, gooey caramel, and a sophisticated finish. Its unique twist on a traditional favorite made it a widely shared and loved recipe, perfect for any celebration or a memorable sweet treat.
Slow Cooker Chili Mac
For an effortless and deeply comforting meal, look no further than Slow Cooker Chili Mac. This easy dish is made right in your crock pot, allowing you to set it and forget it while it simmers to perfection. It combines the hearty, robust flavors of chili with tender macaroni and melted cheese, creating a beloved mashup that’s perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. Its hands-off preparation and satisfying taste make it an ideal family meal, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. A true gem for comfort food enthusiasts!
Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake!!!
Indulge in a nostalgic trip with this sensational Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream Cake! This delightful frozen dessert captures the essence of the beloved creamsicle treat, layering vibrant orange flavors with creamy vanilla ice cream and often a crunchy crust. It’s the perfect no-bake option for summer parties, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for a refreshing and universally appealing sweet treat. Its bright colors and familiar, comforting taste made it an instant hit, offering a fun and easy way to enjoy a show-stopping dessert that evokes childhood memories.
Pink Lemonade Vodka Slush
This easy, 3-ingredient Pink Lemonade Vodka Slush is the ultimate refreshing cocktail, perfect for effortlessly entertaining at get-togethers, showers, and cocktail parties. Its vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor make it an instant hit, while the addition of vodka provides a delightful kick. Simple to mix up and keep frozen, it’s a fuss-free way to serve a sophisticated yet fun alcoholic beverage that guests will adore. This slush was a viral sensation for its sheer simplicity and its ability to add a festive touch to any celebration without requiring complex mixology skills.
Balsamic-Glazed Steak Rolls
Don’t these Balsamic-Glazed Steak Rolls look absolutely delicious? They are as incredible to eat as they are visually appealing! This recipe transforms tender cuts of steak into elegant rolls, often filled with flavorful ingredients and then coated in a rich, tangy balsamic glaze. Ideal as a sophisticated appetizer for dinner parties or as a lighter, yet satisfying main course, these rolls impress with their gourmet flair. The combination of succulent beef and the sweet-savory glaze creates a memorable culinary experience, making them a popular choice for those looking to elevate their cooking.
Cajun Steak with Apricot Orange Glaze!
Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience with this Cajun Steak recipe, featuring an amazing sweet and tangy Apricot Orange Glaze! This dish delivers crazy juicy, incredibly tender steak, deeply infused with bold Cajun spices, and then smothered in a vibrant, fruity glaze. It’s a masterful blend of heat, sweetness, and tang, creating a truly dynamic flavor profile that stands out. Whether grilled or pan-seared, this steak offers a restaurant-quality meal at home, promising a culinary adventure with every bite. Its unique and exciting flavors made it a true sensation in 2016.
Tomato Beef Country Casserole
This comforting Tomato Beef Country Casserole is a lifesaver for busy evenings, coming together quickly with readily available and inexpensive ingredients. Despite its simplicity, it delivers deep, satisfying flavors that make it incredibly delicious and truly comforting. Layered with ground beef, tomatoes, and often pasta or potatoes, it’s a hearty, all-in-one meal that’s perfect for feeding a family on a budget. Its straightforward preparation and robust, home-style taste made it a highly popular and practical choice for home cooks seeking wholesome and easy dinner solutions.
Kahlua and Cream Cheesecake
Kahlua and Cream Cheesecake – I bet this tastes absolutely amazing, and you’d be right! This sophisticated dessert takes the classic creamy cheesecake and infuses it with the rich, unmistakable flavor of Kahlua coffee liqueur, often balanced with a delicate hint of cream. It’s a decadent and elegant treat, perfect for adult dinner parties or any occasion where you want to serve a dessert that’s both impressive and deeply satisfying. Its luxurious texture and exquisite flavor profile made it a standout recipe for those who appreciate a touch of indulgence.
HEALTHY SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN
This Healthy Sweet & Sour Chicken is an ingenious and delicious way to satisfy your takeout cravings without compromising on health or flavor. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a perfectly balanced sweet and sour sauce, this homemade version offers all the irresistible tastes of your favorite Chinese takeout. It’s quick to prepare, customizable with your choice of veggies, and a fantastic alternative for a lighter yet incredibly flavorful meal. Its popularity soared as people discovered they could enjoy this classic dish guilt-free and conveniently at home.
3-Minute Fudge!
Prepare to be amazed: all you need are 3 minutes and just 3 simple ingredients to create this incredible Homemade Fudge! This recipe became an instant sensation for its unbelievably quick preparation time and its consistently delicious results. Perfect for last-minute dessert cravings, homemade gifts, or satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort, this fudge delivers a rich, smooth, and decadent treat every time. Its simplicity and speed made it a wildly popular choice for busy individuals and anyone looking for a foolproof dessert solution.
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad!
Doesn’t this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad look absolutely delicious? It’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make, making it a stellar hit for healthy, vibrant meals. This refreshing salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado, often tossed in a light, zesty dressing. It’s the perfect light side dish, a healthy lunch, or a refreshing addition to any summer barbecue. Its simplicity, fresh flavors, and nutritional benefits ensured its widespread popularity among those seeking quick and wholesome meal options.
PHILLY CHEESESTEAK EGG ROLLS
These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are the quintessential perfect party food, offering a creative and irresistible twist on two beloved classics. Combining the savory, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak with the crispy, portable format of an egg roll, they are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Ideal for game nights, casual gatherings, or any celebration where you want to serve something uniquely delicious, these appetizers were a huge hit for their innovative flavors and delightful texture. Prepare for them to disappear fast!
Thin Mint Cheesecake Brownie Cake!
If you’re among the many who eagerly await Girl Scout Thin Mints each year, then you are absolutely going to LOVE this Thin Mint Cheesecake Brownie Cake! This layered dessert masterfully combines a rich, fudgy brownie base with a creamy, mint-infused cheesecake, all topped with elements reminiscent of the iconic cookie. It’s a show-stopping, decadent treat that’s perfect for celebrations, holidays, or any time you want to indulge in a truly spectacular dessert. Its inventive use of a beloved flavor made it a viral sensation for dessert enthusiasts.
French Potatoes!
These French Potatoes are wonderfully easy to make and serve as the perfect versatile side for any meal. Often featuring thinly sliced potatoes baked with cream, cheese, or herbs, they offer a comforting and flavorful accompaniment that complements everything from roasted meats to simple weeknight dinners. Their rich flavor and tender texture make them a sophisticated yet approachable addition to your table. The simplicity of preparation combined with their irresistible taste made them a sought-after recipe for home cooks looking to elevate their side dishes.
Beefy Tomato Soup!
If you’re in need of a quick, deeply comforting dinner that your whole family will love, this Beefy Tomato Soup recipe is precisely what you’re looking for! Taking classic tomato soup to the next level with the addition of hearty ground beef, it transforms a simple soup into a satisfying and complete meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy days, it’s an easy one-pot wonder that delivers rich, savory flavors. Its widespread appeal comes from its ability to provide warmth, sustenance, and a taste of home in a straightforward, delicious package.
Easy ONE POT LASAGNA SOUP
This Easy ONE POT LASAGNA SOUP is an absolute must-try that revolutionized how people enjoy the flavors of lasagna! It brilliantly captures all the rich, comforting tastes of traditional lasagna – savory beef, tangy tomatoes, tender pasta, and creamy cheese – without any of the laborious layering or the mountain of dishes. Simply brown your beef, then dump in all the ingredients, simmer, and watch the magic happen. This innovative approach offers a quick, fuss-free alternative that’s so delicious, you might never go back to traditional lasagna again! Its incredible convenience and authentic flavor made it an instant sensation.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this delicious journey through some of the most popular and beloved recipes from 2016! These dishes have stood the test of time, proving that great food is truly timeless. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal, a special gathering, or just looking to satisfy a craving, this collection offers something wonderful for everyone. Please remember to explore these incredible recipes further by clicking on their titles and share your favorites with friends and family.