Reflecting on the past year and celebrating what resonated most with you, my incredible readers, is always a highlight of my annual blogging journey. It’s truly fascinating to revisit these year-end summaries and observe how culinary preferences and popular recipes evolve with time. As we look back at 2021, it’s clear that many of us found comfort and joy in returning to the kitchen basics. Are you curious to discover which dishes topped the charts? Join me for a comprehensive **2021 Year in Review**, where we’ll explore the cherished moments and, of course, your absolute favorite recipes!
Cheers to 2021: Celebrating a Memorable Year and Your Top 10 Recipes
Welcome, dear friends, to my much-anticipated annual year in review! As I reflect on 2021, I find myself pausing to contemplate a year that felt anything but ordinary. We collectively exhaled a sigh of relief bidding farewell to 2020, yearning for a semblance of normalcy. Yet, 2021 presented its own unique set of challenges and unexpected turns, making it a year that redefined what “normal” truly means for many of us. Despite the global uncertainties, it was also a year rich with personal milestones, cherished family moments, and significant growth for An Affair from the Heart. From exploring new destinations to celebrating joyous occasions, my aim was to embrace life and create as much positivity and stability as possible, particularly in the spaces I could control.
2021: A Year of Adventures and Personal Milestones
While some events remained on hold, I eagerly seized opportunities for travel when they arose. Although certain trips, concerts, and conferences faced postponements or cancellations, the anticipation for their eventual return continues to build. Nevertheless, I was determined to foster a sense of normalcy in my own sphere. This led to some truly wonderful getaways that filled our hearts with happiness. We explored the vibrant beauty of the Florida Keys, soaked up the sun in Cancun, immersed ourselves in the bustling energy of Chicago, and enjoyed the serene beaches of Destin. A particularly memorable trip took me to Columbus, Ohio, where I had the pleasure of finally meeting one of my cherished clients for lunch in person – a delightful experience after so much virtual interaction.
Cherished Family Moments and New Beginnings
For our twins, 2021 marked their final year of high school, a significant transition filled with memorable moments. School activities, while different from previous years, still allowed us to celebrate their achievements. I beamed with pride watching my daughter deliver an unforgettable performance as the stepmother in the musical “Into the Woods.” A few weeks later, both of them proudly walked across the stage to receive their diplomas in May, a truly momentous occasion for our family.
As summer arrived, we made our traditional escape to the lake, creating new memories under the sun. Our family also expanded with the joyous arrival of Willow, our new grand-puppy, who brought an abundance of playful energy and affection into our lives.
August brought another heartwarming celebration as we witnessed our oldest son marry his girlfriend of four years. Sharing that first dance with the boy who made me a mother, at his own wedding reception, was an experience that made my heart swell with an indescribable happiness and gratitude.
The autumn months ushered in a significant shift as our two youngest children embarked on their college journeys. This transition officially welcomed us into the world of “empty nesters.” It’s an adjustment, to say the least! You know what isn’t normal? Cooking for two people when cooking for eight has always felt like second nature. This new phase has inspired me to explore and create more delightful **dinner for two recipes**, so keep an eye out for those on the blog very soon!
We’re embracing this new chapter, cherishing their visits home, enthusiastically cheering on their college teams at football tailgates, and savoring every moment of family time, whether it’s at home or our beloved lake house.
Celebrating a Decade: An Affair from the Heart’s 10-Year Anniversary
March of 2021 marked an extraordinary milestone: An Affair from the Heart celebrated its 10-year Blogiversary! To commemorate a decade of sharing delicious recipes and culinary passion, I orchestrated a spectacular month-long celebration filled with generous giveaways. Nearly every day, I shared video clips, and the prizes were carefully chosen to reflect some of my most favorite things. These exciting gifts were mailed to lucky winners across the country, culminating in a grand prize that truly thrilled everyone – a coveted KitchenAid mixer!
The celebration didn’t end there! I continued to spread joy throughout the year by gifting a birthday gift card each month to my loyal weekly email subscribers. My newsletters are always packed with special treats and exclusive content, so if you haven’t already, I warmly invite you to sign up right here on my blog to join our growing community and never miss out on these delightful surprises.
To further mark this special occasion, I commissioned these exclusive Ten Year Anniversary t-shirts. They were incredibly popular, and I was thrilled to give away tons of them to my amazing readers and supporters!
An Affair from the Heart: A Decade of Delicious Recipes and Culinary Inspiration
In 2021 alone, I proudly published an impressive 136 new recipes, bringing fresh flavors and exciting culinary ideas to your kitchen. Beyond creating new content, I am continually dedicated to revising and updating older posts, ensuring that those timeless classics remain as delicious and accessible as ever. I sincerely hope you’re enjoying the updated versions of these beloved recipes! Did you know that An Affair from the Heart currently hosts over 1100 recipes? That’s right, a vast collection awaits your discovery! So, whenever you’re seeking inspiration for something special – perhaps a comforting weeknight meal, a show-stopping dessert, or a unique appetizer – remember that convenient search bar at the top of my site. Chances are, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. Make sure to bookmark my site for easy access to all your favorite culinary adventures!
Exciting “Firsts” and Professional Achievements
Featured in NebraskaLife Magazine
This year brought several exhilarating “firsts” that I’m incredibly proud of. One such highlight was the immense pleasure of being featured in NebraskaLife Magazine’s March-April edition. Seeing my recipes and photographs beautifully showcased in print was an absolutely surreal and deeply rewarding experience. It’s truly a dream come true to have my passion recognized in such a respected publication.
My First Stage Appearance as an Expert Panelist
Another exciting new experience occurred in July when I had the honor of sitting on a panel of experts at the Marketech conference, an event thoughtfully hosted by Grow Nebraska. This was a completely new venture for me, and I admit I was incredibly nervous beforehand. However, those nerves quickly transformed into pure enjoyment! It was an incredibly engaging and fun experience, and I was fortunate enough to connect with so many amazing and inspiring individuals that day.
The momentum continues into 2022, as I’m thrilled to announce yet another upcoming “first” – I’ve been invited to be a guest on a podcast! I can’t wait to share more details with you all soon, so definitely stay tuned for that exciting update!
An Affair from the Heart’s Top 10 Recipes of 2021 – Your Reader Favorites!
The moment you’ve all been waiting for has arrived! It’s time to unveil the most popular recipes of 2021, chosen by you, my wonderful readers. Are you ready to discover if your absolute favorite dish made it to the top? I’m genuinely eager to hear which of these incredible recipes you’ve already tried and, of course, which ones you’ll be adding to your “must-make” list in the near future!
Let’s Count Down An Affair from the Heart’s Top 10 Recipes of 2021!
Number 10:
Homemade Runzas
Discover the delightful taste of **Nebraska’s famous Runzas, crafted right in your own kitchen**! These savory bread dough pockets, conveniently made with frozen bread dough, are generously stuffed with a flavorful mixture of tender cabbage, sweet onion, and perfectly seasoned ground beef, often with a hint of melty cheese. Baked until beautifully golden brown, these portable and hearty meals are an absolute delight. They are perfect for a satisfying lunch, a unique dinner, or even a tasty snack on the go, bringing a beloved regional classic to your table with ease.
Number 9:
Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs
Prepare for an effortlessly delicious meal with these incredible **Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs**. Featuring tender Country Style Pork Ribs, these are slow-cooked to perfection in the unexpected sweetness of Dr. Pepper, resulting in incredibly moist and flavorful meat that falls right off the bone. After their slow-cooker journey, they’re transferred to the oven for a quick bake, allowing the Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce to caramelize into a sticky, irresistible glaze. The best part? This mouthwatering recipe requires just three simple ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a stress-free weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend feast.
Number 8:
Dirty Vodka Martini (aka The Dirty Bird)
Elevate your evening with a classic **Dirty Vodka Martini**, affectionately known as The Dirty Bird among enthusiasts. This quintessential cocktail is meticulously shaken, then served exquisitely “up” in a chilled martini glass, typically garnished with luscious, stuffed green olives. The dirty martini stands as one of the finest cocktails ever conceived, offering a perfect balance of savory and spirited notes. Our recipe guides you through crafting the ideal version, ensuring a smooth, perfectly chilled, and impeccably balanced drink every single time. It’s the ultimate sophisticated indulgence for any occasion.
Number 7:
Beef & Noodles
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with my Mom’s old-fashioned **Beef & Noodles**. This hearty dish features succulent chunks of tender beef, slow-cooked to perfection, and then lovingly tossed with thick, chewy egg noodles, all enveloped in a rich and savory beef gravy. It’s a nostalgic recipe that transports you straight back to grandma’s kitchen, offering warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. For those who wish to elevate this already incredible meal, consider making Homemade Egg Noodles. While certainly not the only way to enjoy this classic, crafting your own noodles undeniably takes this dish to an unparalleled level of deliciousness.
Number 6:
Texas Trash Dip
Ever wondered, “What exactly is **Texas Trash Dip**?” Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly creamy, warm bean dip, absolutely bursting with rich flavors and generously topped with an irresistible layer of ooey-gooey, melted cheese. Baked to golden, dipping perfection, this dip is so satisfying that I’ve honestly made a meal out of it more than once! It’s the ultimate appetizer for game days, parties, or simply a cozy night in. Seriously, once you try this flavorful concoction, you’ll realize what you’ve been missing. It’s addictive in the best possible way!
Number 5:
Dill Pickle Dip
For all the lovers of those classic dill pickle wraps – you know, the ones featuring creamy cream cheese and savory dried beef – this **Dill Pickle Dip** is guaranteed to bring a huge grin to your face! This wildly popular recipe has consistently held a spot in my top 10 list since the very first year I shared it. In fact, it’s so beloved that it once got so much traffic that it actually crashed my website twice! That’s a testament to its irresistible appeal. Prepare for a tangy, creamy, and utterly addictive dip that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply satisfying a craving.
Number 4:
Prepare for a symphony of flavors with this incredible **Smoked Pork Loin**. Marinated to perfection and then cooked low and slow on a pellet Traeger grill, this recipe yields an exceptionally tender and flavorful piece of pork that pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. It’s an easy-to-follow guide to achieving a perfectly prepared pork loin every single time. Just look at that magnificent smoke ring – a true indicator of expertly smoked meat! Whether for a special occasion or a delightful family dinner, this smoked pork loin is sure to impress.
Number 3:
Award-Winning Crack Dip
Brace yourself for the deliciously addictive experience of my **Award-Winning Crack Dip**! This creamy, irresistible dip offers a tantalizing hint of heat from fresh jalapeños, perfectly balanced by a burst of flavor from MexiCorn and crisp green onions. It’s a guaranteed hit at every gathering, consistently being the first dish to disappear – it earned its “award-winning” title for a reason! Ideal for parties, game nights, or simply as a satisfying snack, this dip is so easy to make and impossible to resist. Get ready for rave reviews and empty bowls!
Number 2:
Learn how to craft the popular cold-fighting **Copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball** tea right in your own kitchen! This soothing and comforting super tea is an absolute lifesaver during cold and flu season, offering warmth and relief with every sip. Why endure the drive-thru and pay premium prices when you can easily recreate this beloved Starbucks favorite at home? Our simple recipe ensures you’ll have a steamy, comforting mug ready whenever you need it most, without ever leaving your house.
? Drum Roll Please ?
And now, the moment of truth! It’s time to reveal the undisputed champion, the number one recipe of 2021… drumroll, please!
Number 1:
How to Make a Can of Refried Beans Taste Like a Restaurant’s
Unbelievable but true, our top recipe of 2021 reveals **how to transform a simple can of refried beans into a restaurant-quality delicacy in mere minutes!** This culinary hack is a game-changer for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors at home. With just two incredibly simple add-ins, you’ll elevate ordinary canned beans to a creamy, savory side dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Mexican eatery. It’s the perfect accompaniment to tacos, enchiladas, burritos, or simply enjoyed as a dip with tortilla chips. Prepare to impress your taste buds and your guests with this shockingly easy yet incredibly flavorful transformation!
What? No Desserts Made the Top 10 List?!
You might be noticing a trend, as this marks the second consecutive year that none of our top 10 most-loved recipes were sweets! Rest assured, this doesn’t mean my passion for baking has waned. My kitchen is still a haven for all things sugary and delightful! I understand that sometimes, savory dishes simply capture the collective craving more intensely. But for those moments when your sweet tooth calls, know that I have an extensive collection of treats designed to satisfy every craving. Be sure to explore all of my indulgent sweets and desserts, where you’ll find everything from decadent cakes to comforting cookies and beyond!
This past summer, I experienced the profound loss of a very dear friend. One minute she was here, full of life, and the next, she was gone. I am still grappling with the immense shock and trying to comprehend the reality of it all. I think about her every single day, and my heart aches for her family.
This heartbreaking experience has served as a powerful reminder of how precious life truly is. It has deepened my understanding that we must love our people fiercely while they are still with us. We must actively protect and nurture the relationships and friendships that bring us peace and a sense of calm. It’s essential to let go of past hurts, refusing to allow them to define our present or future. And, most importantly, we should intentionally spend our time with those who fill our lives with genuine happiness.
Tell people you love them. Always tell them. Don’t let a moment pass where they might wonder. These words hold more weight than we often realize.
Pin Your Favorite Top 10 Recipes of 2021 Before You Go!
Before you leave, I’d absolutely love it if you’d take a moment to pin these incredible top 10 recipes! Better yet, try some of them out in your own kitchen and then drop me a message or tag me on social media to let me know what you think. Seeing photos of your creations truly brings me so much joy!
Wishing you all a Happy New Year from myself and my ever-growing, wonderful family! I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you who takes the time to read my posts, leave comments, and recreate my recipes. Your support means the world to me. I can hardly wait to bring you many more delicious recipes and exciting content in the year to come!
See ya next year! 
Looking Back: Past Year’s Top 10 Recipes
Curious about what recipes captivated readers in previous years? Dive into our archives and discover all our past top 10 lists:
- 2020
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2015 Sweet Favorites / 2015 Savory Favorites