Looking back over the past year and sharing what you, my dear readers, loved most is always one of my favorite posts of the year. It’s lovely to be able to go back year after year and see how popular recipes change with the times. Curious to see what the favorites were? Check out my 2022 – a Year in Review!
A Toast to the End of the Year: Unveiling the Top 10 Recipes of 2022
Welcome to my annual year in review, a cherished tradition where we celebrate the culinary journey we’ve shared. As I reflect on 2022, it’s clear that while some timeless classics continued to capture your hearts and palates, you also warmly embraced the new recipes I lovingly crafted and shared. After the unprecedented challenges of the past couple of years, 2022 truly felt like a welcome return to a more “normal” rhythm, filled with exciting adventures, precious family moments, and, of course, plenty of delicious food. Join me as we journey through the highlights of my year and count down the most beloved recipes that graced your tables.
My 2022 Year in Review: A Blend of Travel, Family, and Passion
The year 2022 was a tapestry woven with unforgettable experiences, and I am absolutely thrilled that traveling is a “thing” again! I seized every opportunity to explore, creating lasting memories along the way. My adventures took me to the vibrant city of San Diego, where I soaked in the sun and explored beautiful coastlines. I made two delightful trips to Florida, enjoying its balmy breezes and relaxed pace. Colorado beckoned twice, and on one of those memorable visits, I finally checked the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre off my long-standing “places to visit” list – a truly awe-inspiring experience. And, to top it all off, I enjoyed a much-anticipated meet-up with my wonderful blogger besties just outside Atlanta, a cherished time for connection and creative inspiration.
Beyond picturesque landscapes, 2022 also brought the exhilarating energy of live music back into my life. I saw some truly fantastic concerts, singing along to my favorite artists and feeling the collective joy of shared musical experiences. The thrill of live shows is something I deeply appreciate, and I’m already eagerly acquiring tickets for more favorites in the upcoming year, anticipating even more melodious adventures!
Cherished Family Moments and Exciting Expansions
Without a doubt, one of the absolute highlights of 2022 was the blessing of our first grandchild, who arrived on the auspicious date of 2-22-22! Becoming a grandma has been an absolute joy that defies description. I knew it would be wonderful, but I truly had no idea the depth of love and happiness it would bring. I am utterly head over heels in love with this little guy, and I like to think he finds his grandma pretty special, too! And the wonderful news doesn’t stop there: our ever-growing family is expanding even further with two more precious babies expected in 2023! I couldn’t be more elated to anticipate even more snuggles and boundless love in the coming year.
We also navigated our first year as “empty nesters,” a new chapter with its own unique adjustments. While the quiet house took some getting used to, I’m still working on mastering the technique of cooking for just two people. It’s a delightful challenge, and I’m slowly but surely adapting our culinary routines!
Embracing Northern Iowa: My Lakeside Home Away From Home
While I continue to bring you delicious recipes from my home state of Nebraska, I am now also proudly calling Iowa home part-time! Living lakeside has truly been a dream come true, offering a serene escape and a unique way of life. I adore the charming small-town feel of our Iowa home and find immense joy in its beauty throughout all four seasons. Whether the lake is magnificently iced over in the winter, sparkling under the summer sun, or framed by the vibrant hues of autumn, it is always a breathtaking sight. Watching the sunset from the middle of the lake in the summertime is a particularly magical experience that fills me with gratitude.
My beloved fur babies are absolutely thriving by the lake. It’s a constant adventure for them, filled with fascinating wildlife encounters, invigorating walks along the shore, and exciting boat rides. Their joy and energy add another layer of happiness to our lakeside living, making every day an exploration.
An Affair from the Heart: A Year of Culinary Creation and Connection
This past year was incredibly productive for “An Affair from the Heart,” as I proudly posted a remarkable 151 new recipes! It’s a labor of love that I am deeply passionate about, constantly striving to bring fresh, exciting, and approachable dishes to your kitchen. In addition to creating new content, I am continually working on revising older recipes, updating them with fresh photography, clearer instructions, and helpful tips. Sharing these classic favorites with you, reinvigorated for today’s cooks, is a rewarding process, and I sincerely hope you are enjoying them.
Did you know that my site is a treasure trove of over 1100 recipes? That’s right – a vast collection covering everything from comforting classics to innovative new flavors! So, whenever you’re searching for something special, whether it’s a quick weeknight meal, a holiday showstopper, or a sweet treat, remember to use that little search bar on my site. Chances are, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. I highly recommend bookmarking my site to keep your culinary inspiration just a click away!
Your feedback is invaluable to me. If you ever can’t find what you’re looking for, or if you have a particular craving or recipe idea in mind, please don’t hesitate to reach out! I absolutely love hearing from you. Send me a message here on the blog, or connect with me on social media, and let me know what recipes you’d love to see more of in 2023. Your suggestions help shape the future of “An Affair from the Heart.”
A Personal Milestone: Featured in Omaha Magazine
A Dream Come True: Recognized by Omaha Magazine
Since I first embarked on this incredible journey of creating “An Affair from the Heart,” one of my biggest personal bucket list items has been to be featured in a magazine. Last year, I had my first taste of this dream, and this year, I was honored to be featured once again! I was proudly showcased in Omaha Magazine’s annual Food Issue, a moment that truly felt like a culmination of years of hard work and passion. To be recognized in such a respected local publication was an incredible feeling, a true dream checked off my list. I’ve been on cloud nine about it ever since the issue hit the stands in June, and it continues to be a source of immense pride and motivation.
But enough about me! What about the recipes?!
The Most Loved: Top 10 Recipes of 2022 – Your Reader Favorites
The moment you’ve been waiting for has arrived! Are you ready to discover if your absolute favorite made the coveted list? I can’t wait to hear which of these popular dishes you’ve already tried, and which ones you’ll be adding to your “must-make” list for the coming year. These recipes represent the collective taste of our incredible community, and each one is a testament to deliciousness and shared culinary joy.
Let’s Count Down An Affair from the Heart’s Top 10 Recipes of 2022!
Number 10: Succulent Smoked Pork Loin
Our tenth most popular recipe is the incredibly flavorful Smoked Pork Loin. This recipe features a perfectly marinated pork loin, cooked low and slow on a pellet Traeger grill, resulting in an exceptionally tender and juicy piece of pork bursting with smoky goodness. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The beautiful smoke ring visible in every slice is a testament to its expertly prepared flavor. If you’re looking to elevate your pork dishes, this recipe is an absolute must-try!
Number 9: Effortless Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs
Coming in at number nine, we have the incredibly simple yet utterly delicious Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs. These country-style pork ribs are slow-cooked to perfection in the unique sweetness of Dr. Pepper, then finished in the oven to achieve a beautifully caramelized BBQ sauce. With just three ingredients, this recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tender ribs with a distinctive, craveable flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds. It’s the ultimate hassle-free meal for busy days, promising maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Number 8: Cozy Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Brown Butter Glaze
Capturing the essence of autumn at number eight is our delightful Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Brown Butter Glaze. This moist, spiced coffee cake, infused with rich pumpkin and crunchy walnuts, is drizzled with an exquisite spiced brown butter glaze that truly elevates every bite. It’s the perfect treat to welcome a crisp fall morning, whether enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or as a comforting dessert. The warm spices and comforting textures make this a perennial favorite that brings smiles with every slice.
Number 7: The Classic Dirty Vodka Martini (aka The Dirty Bird)
At lucky number seven, we toast to the timeless elegance of the Dirty Vodka Martini, affectionately known as The Dirty Bird. This traditional dirty martini, shaken to frosty perfection and served up with plump, stuffed green olives, is a cocktail masterpiece. The delicate balance of smooth vodka and briny olive juice creates a sophisticated drink that has captivated palates for decades. This recipe guides you through making the perfect dirty martini every single time, ensuring a sophisticated sip for any occasion. It’s a true classic for a reason!
Number 6: Irresistible Dill Pickle Dip
Claiming the sixth spot and continuing its reign as a reader favorite is the utterly addictive Dill Pickle Dip. If you adore those classic dill pickle wraps with cream cheese and dried beef, then this dip is guaranteed to bring a huge grin to your face! This creamy, tangy, and savory concoction has been a consistent presence in my top 10 list since the very first year it was posted, a true testament to its universal appeal. Want to hear something amusing? On two separate occasions, this recipe garnered so much traffic simultaneously that it literally crashed my website! That’s how beloved and immensely popular this Dill Pickle Dip truly is – a testament to its irresistible charm!
Number 5: Hearty Homestyle Beef & Noodles
Landing at number five is the ultimate comfort food, my Mom’s old-fashioned Beef & Noodles. This soul-warming dish features tender chunks of beef tossed with thick, hearty egg noodles in a rich, savory beef gravy. It’s the kind of meal that instantly transports you back to childhood, embodying pure warmth and satisfaction. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, delicious home cooking. For an extra special touch, consider making Homemade Egg Noodles to serve with it – it certainly elevates the dish to an even more extraordinary level, though it’s undeniably delicious either way!
Number 4: The Crowd-Pleasing Texas Trash Dip
Coming in strong at number four is the legendary Texas Trash Dip. What is Texas Trash Dip, you ask? It’s a wonderfully creamy warm bean dip, absolutely packed with savory flavor and generously topped with all sorts of ooey-gooey, melted cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this dip is designed for dipping and delight. Seriously, I could make an entire meal out of this dip – and, honestly, I often have! It’s the ultimate party appetizer, game day snack, or even a satisfying lunch. Rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, it’s a dish that leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
Number 3: Our Award-Winning Crack Dip
Securing the bronze medal at number three is our famous Award-Winning Crack Dip. This dip truly lives up to its name – it’s deliciously addictive! A creamy base combines with a delightful hint of heat from jalapeños, while bursting with vibrant flavor from MexiCorn and fresh green onions. It’s a guaranteed hit at every gathering, always the first dish to disappear. It isn’t “award-winning” for nothing; its irresistible combination of textures and tastes ensures it’s always a crowd-pleaser and a conversation starter. Prepare for compliments (and requests for the recipe) when you serve this masterpiece!
Number 2: Restaurant-Style Refried Beans from a Can
Taking the impressive second spot is a kitchen hack that truly transforms: How to Make a Can of Refried Beans Taste Like a Restaurant’s. This ingenious recipe shows you how to elevate humble canned refried beans into restaurant-quality perfection in a matter of minutes! With just a couple of simple, clever add-ins, you’ll feel like you’re dining at your favorite Mexican restaurant, right in the comfort of your own home. It’s a game-changer for quick meals, tacos, burritos, or as a flavorful side dish, proving that gourmet flavor doesn’t always require hours in the kitchen.
Drum Roll Please… Announcing the Number One Recipe of 2022!
And now, the moment of truth! It’s time to reveal the most beloved, most visited, and most cherished recipe of 2022, as chosen by you, my incredible readers. This recipe captured the hearts and taste buds of our community more than any other this past year, and for good reason!
Number 1: The Ultimate Copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball
And the undisputed champion, claiming the top spot as the number one recipe of 2022, is the incredibly popular Copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball! This recipe provides a detailed guide on how to recreate this famous cold-fighting, super soothing tea right in your own kitchen. It’s a tremendously comforting and effective tea, especially during cold and flu season, offering a warm embrace when you need it most. Skip the drive-thru lines and those increasing prices; now you can enjoy this beloved Starbucks favorite at home, whenever you need a boost of warmth and wellness.
Save Your Favorites: Pin the Most Popular Top 10 Recipes of 2022!
Before you go, I’d absolutely love it if you’d take a moment to pin these incredible top 10 recipes! Saving them to your Pinterest boards ensures you can easily find them later for future cooking adventures. Better yet, try some of them out and let me know what you think! I cherish your feedback and love seeing your creations. Feel free to shoot me a message or, even better, tag me on social media when you share photos of what you’ve made. Your culinary successes truly make my day!
From the Bottom of My Grateful Heart: A Sincere Thank You
As we close out this incredible year, I want to express my deepest gratitude. I genuinely appreciate each and every one of you who takes the time to read my posts, leave thoughtful comments, and, most importantly, create my recipes in your own kitchens. It is truly an honor that, with countless options available across the vast culinary world, you choose “An Affair from the Heart” to be a part of your family meals and celebrations, year after year. Your trust and engagement inspire me daily, fueling my passion to create and share. Thank you for being such an integral part of this amazing community.
I am incredibly excited and can’t wait to bring you many more delicious, inspiring, and easy-to-follow recipes in 2023! Let’s make the new year even more flavorful together.
See ya in 2023! 
Explore Past Favorites: Previous Year’s Top 10 Recipes
Curious about how culinary trends and reader favorites have evolved over time? I began my blog in March 2011, but this wonderful tradition of sharing my “Top 10 Recipes” didn’t start until 2015. It’s fascinating to look back and see how popular recipes shift and change from year to year, reflecting new inspirations and enduring classics. If you’d like to delve into the archives and explore the most loved dishes from past years, you can find them all here:
- Top 10 Recipes of 2021
- Top 10 Recipes of 2020
- The Top 10 Recipes of 2019 from An Affair from the Heart
- An Affair from the Heart’s Top 10 Recipes of 2018
- An Affair from the Heart’s Top Recipes of 2017
- What Was Hot on An Affair from the Heart in 2016
- Top 10 Sweet Recipes of 2015 / Top 10 Savory Recipes of 2015