Celebrating 2021: A Year of Culinary Triumphs, Cherished Memories & Your Top 10 Favorite Recipes
As another year draws to a close, it’s always a joy to reflect on the journey and share the moments and, most importantly, the recipes that resonated most with you, my incredible readers. Looking back over the past year allows us to see how culinary trends evolve and what truly brings comfort and delight to kitchens everywhere. 2021 felt like a return to beloved basics for many, focusing on heartwarming meals and easy-to-make dishes. Are you eager to discover which recipes stole the spotlight and became your ultimate favorites? Join me as we explore the highlights of 2021 – A Year in Review!
Reflecting on 2021: A Year of Shifting Norms and Renewed Connections
Welcome back to my annual year-in-review post, a tradition I cherish deeply. As I cast my mind back over 2021, I find myself pondering the complexities of a year that promised a return to normalcy but delivered a unique blend of familiar joys and unforeseen challenges. While we eagerly waved goodbye to 2020 with hopes for a smoother path, 2021 continued to remind us that “normal” is an ever-evolving concept. Yet, amidst the ebb and flow, there was so much to celebrate, both personally and professionally.
Adventures and Milestones: My 2021 Journey
Travel, a cherished passion, began to tentatively open its doors in 2021, and I embraced every opportunity to explore when I could. Although some trips, concerts, and conferences remained postponed or canceled, dimming spirits momentarily, I chose to focus on creating as much normalcy and happiness as possible in the areas I could control. This mindset led to some truly memorable adventures.
My family and I created wonderful memories during a few well-deserved getaways. We soaked up the sun and vibrant atmosphere in the Florida Keys, enjoyed the tropical allure of Cancun, explored the bustling cityscapes of Chicago, and relaxed by the beautiful beaches of Destin. A particularly special trip took me to Columbus, Ohio, where I had the immense pleasure of meeting one of my most cherished clients for lunch in person – a delightful experience after so much virtual interaction.
Family: Graduations, Weddings, and Becoming Empty Nesters
2021 was a monumental year for my family, particularly for our twins as they navigated their final year of high school. School activities, like everything else, looked a bit different, but we were incredibly proud to watch my daughter shine as the stepmother in the musical “Into the Woods.” The joy continued as we saw both of them walk across the stage in May, proudly receiving their diplomas. It was a moment filled with both pride and a touch of bittersweet realization that a chapter was closing.
Summer brought a refreshing escape to the lake, a treasured family tradition. We also welcomed a furry new addition to our family: Willow, a delightful grand-puppy who instantly captured our hearts and added even more joy to our household. This period of warmth and togetherness culminated in August, when we celebrated a truly special occasion: my oldest son uniting in marriage with his girlfriend of four wonderful years. Dancing with the boy who first made me a mom, at his own wedding reception, was an overwhelming moment, filling my heart with an unparalleled sense of happiness and love.
Fall ushered in a completely new dynamic for our family as our two youngest children embarked on their college adventures. Suddenly, my husband and I found ourselves in the “empty nester” club! What’s truly *not normal*? Cooking for two people when you’ve been accustomed to preparing meals for eight. This new phase has certainly brought its adjustments, but it also sparks new culinary inspiration. So, keep an eye out for more exciting “dinner for two” recipes hitting the blog in the near future! We embrace this change, eagerly anticipating their visits home, cheering on their teams at football tailgates, and cherishing precious family time both here at home and at our beloved lake house.
An Affair from the Heart: Celebrating a Decade of Deliciousness!
March of 2021 marked a monumental milestone for me and for “An Affair from the Heart” – our 10-year Blogiversary! It was a truly incredible journey, and I celebrated this decade of deliciousness in a grand fashion. To express my immense gratitude to my loyal readers, I hosted a month-long giveaway extravaganza, featuring video clips almost daily. The prizes were carefully curated around my favorite things, bringing joy to winners across the country. The grand prize? A coveted KitchenAid mixer, a dream appliance for any home cook!
The celebration didn’t stop there. I continued to spread the joy throughout the year, giving away a birthday gift card each month to my dedicated weekly email subscribers. These newsletters are a special place where I share exclusive content, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and, of course, these fantastic giveaways. If you haven’t joined my subscriber family yet, you’re missing out on some fantastic perks! You can easily sign up directly here on my blog to ensure you don’t miss any future fun or delicious recipes.
As part of the anniversary festivities, I even had these special Ten Year Anniversary t-shirts designed and produced. It was wonderful to see so many of them go to my fantastic readers and followers. It’s a tangible way to share the celebration and a reminder of the community we’ve built together over the years.
Fresh Content & Timeless Classics: The Heart of the Blog
2021 was a bustling year in my kitchen and on the blog! I proudly shared 136 brand-new, delicious recipes with you all. Beyond creating new content, I’ve also been diligently working on revising and updating older recipes. This process ensures that those timeless classics continue to shine, providing accurate, easy-to-follow instructions and beautiful new photos for everyone to enjoy. I truly hope you’re loving these refreshed favorites as much as I enjoy bringing them to you.
Did you know that “An Affair from the Heart” now boasts approximately 1100 recipes? Yes, you read that right – 1100! It’s a vast treasure trove of culinary inspiration. So, next time you’re searching for something special, whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a festive dessert, or a unique appetizer, remember to utilize that handy little search bar on my site. Chances are, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for, and more! I highly recommend bookmarking my site for quick and easy access to all your favorite recipes.
Exciting “Firsts” and New Horizons
Featured in NebraskaLife Magazine
2021 brought with it some incredibly exciting “firsts” for me, marking significant professional achievements. One highlight was the immense honor of being featured in NebraskaLife Magazine’s March-April edition. Seeing my recipes and photographs beautifully laid out in print was a truly surreal and deeply gratifying experience. It’s a moment I’ll always cherish, a testament to years of passion poured into my culinary creations.
My First Stage Appearance
Another thrilling first occurred in July when I had the opportunity to sit on a panel of experts at the Marketech conference, proudly hosted by Grow Nebraska. This was an entirely new experience for me, and I admit, I was incredibly nervous beforehand. However, once I was up there, the nerves melted away, and I ended up having so much fun! It was an enriching experience, allowing me to share insights and connect with so many amazing and inspiring people that day.
The momentum continues into 2022, bringing yet another exciting first: I’ve been invited as a guest on a podcast! I can’t wait to share more details about this venture with you all, so definitely stay tuned for updates!
Your Top 10 Recipes of 2021 – The Reader Favorites!
Now, for the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Are you ready to see if your most-loved recipe made it onto this prestigious list? I’m genuinely excited to hear which of these fantastic dishes you’ve already tried and, more importantly, which ones you’ll be adding to your “must-make-soon” culinary queue!
Let’s Count Down An Affair from the Heart’s Top 10 Recipes of 2021!
Number 10: Homemade Runzas
Homemade Runzas
A true taste of Nebraska, made right in your kitchen! These famous Homemade Runzas (also known as Bierocks) are comforting bread dough pockets, crafted effortlessly with frozen bread dough. Each one is generously stuffed with a savory mixture of finely shredded cabbage, sweet onion, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and often a layer of melty cheese. Baked until golden brown and irresistibly delicious, they’re pure comfort food. A staple for game days or a cozy family dinner, it’s easy to see why this classic made the top 10!
Number 9: Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs
Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs
Unbelievably tender and bursting with flavor, these Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs feature country-style pork ribs slow-cooked to perfection in the sweet, subtle spice of Dr. Pepper. After their long, gentle simmer, they’re transferred to the oven to caramelize the rich Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce into a sticky, irresistible glaze. What’s even better? This mouthwatering recipe requires only three simple ingredients, making it an absolute weeknight dinner hero!
Number 8: Dirty Vodka Martini (aka The Dirty Bird)
Dirty Vodka Martini (aka The Dirty Bird)
For cocktail aficionados, the traditional dirty vodka martini is a timeless classic. Shaken, not stirred, and elegantly served “up” with plump, stuffed green olives, this iconic drink is pure sophistication. The dirty martini has earned its reputation as one of the best cocktails ever, offering a delightful savory kick. This simple yet perfect recipe will guide you to craft an impeccably balanced and utterly delicious dirty martini, every single time. Cheers to a perfect pour!
Number 7: Beef & Noodles
Beef & Noodles
There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of my Mom’s old-fashioned Beef & Noodles to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. This dish features tender chunks of savory beef, slow-simmered until melt-in-your-mouth perfection, then tossed with thick, chewy egg noodles in a rich, flavorful beef gravy. It’s the quintessential comfort food – perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a culinary hug. Want to elevate this already incredible recipe? Try making your own Homemade Egg Noodles! While store-bought works wonderfully, a fresh batch of homemade noodles truly takes this dish to an unforgettable level.
Number 6: Texas Trash Dip
Texas Trash Dip
What exactly is Texas Trash Dip, you ask? It’s a lusciously creamy, irresistibly warm bean dip, absolutely bursting with Tex-Mex flavors and crowned with layers of ooey-gooey, melted cheese. Baked to golden, bubbling perfection, this dip is designed for ultimate dipping pleasure. Honestly, I’ve been known to make a whole meal out of this glorious dip – it’s that good! Seriously, with this much flavor and cheesy goodness, what more could you possibly need? Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a satisfying snack.
Number 5: Dill Pickle Dip
Dill Pickle Dip
If you adore those classic dill pickle wraps – the delightful combination of cream cheese and dried beef wrapped around a pickle spear – then this Dill Pickle Dip is guaranteed to put a huge grin on your face! This recipe has been a consistent superstar, appearing in my top 10 recipes every single year since it was first posted. It’s so popular, in fact, that twice it generated such a surge of traffic that it temporarily *broke* my website! That’s how much people love this addictive, tangy, and creamy dip. Serve with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies for an unforgettable appetizer.
Number 4: Smoked Pork Loin
Our Smoked Pork Loin is a testament to the magic of low and slow cooking. This incredibly flavorful piece of pork is marinated to perfection and then cooked on a pellet Traeger grill, infusing it with a delicious smoky aroma. The result is a wonderfully tender and juicy pork loin that pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. This is an easy, straightforward recipe for achieving a perfectly prepared pork loin every time. Just look at that magnificent smoke ring – it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate!
Number 3: Award-Winning Crack Dip
Award-Winning Crack Dip
This dip truly lives up to its name – it’s deliciously addictive! Our Award-Winning Crack Dip is a wonderfully creamy concoction, offering a delightful hint of heat from fresh jalapeños, and bursting with vibrant flavors from MexiCorn and crisp green onions. This dip is an absolute hit at every gathering, always the first dish to disappear! It isn’t called “award-winning” for nothing; its irresistible combination of textures and tastes makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a staple for any party spread.
Number 2: Copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball
Learn how to craft the popular cold-fighting super tea with this easy Copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe. This soothing tea is an absolute lifesaver during cold and flu season, offering comfort and warmth with every sip. Why bother with the drive-thru queues and often hefty prices when you can effortlessly create this Starbucks favorite right in the comfort of your own home? It’s a simple, comforting brew that brings relief and deliciousness whenever you need it most.
? Drum Roll Please ?
And now, the moment of truth! It’s time to unveil the number one recipe of 2021, the dish that captured the hearts and taste buds of the most readers this past year!
Number 1: How to Make Canned Refried Beans Taste Like a Restaurant’s
How to Make a Can of Refried Beans Taste Like a Restaurant’s
It’s official: this clever culinary hack was your absolute favorite recipe of 2021! Discover how to effortlessly transform a simple can of refried beans into a restaurant-quality delicacy in a matter of mere minutes! With just two simple, yet impactful, add-ins, you’ll feel like you’re dining at your favorite authentic Mexican restaurant, all while enjoying the comfort of your own home. This recipe proves that sometimes, the simplest tweaks yield the most extraordinary results. It’s perfect for Taco Tuesday, a quick side dish, or an easy base for a flavorful dip.
What? No Desserts?!
For the second consecutive year, I’m surprised to report that none of my beloved dessert recipes made it into the top 10! But rest assured, this doesn’t mean I’ve stopped baking or indulging my sweet tooth. On the contrary, my kitchen is always bustling with new and classic sweet creations!
I know many of you cherish a good dessert, and I have an extensive collection of treats to satisfy every craving. From decadent cakes to simple cookies, fruity pies to creamy puddings, my blog is a paradise for those who appreciate the sweeter things in life. Be sure to explore all of my delightful sweets and desserts categories – I promise you won’t be disappointed!
As I look back on 2021, it wasn’t without its moments of profound sadness. This past summer, I lost a very dear friend. She was vibrant and full of life one moment, and gone the next. The suddenness of it all still leaves me reeling, and I find myself thinking about her every single day, my heart aching for her family and for the void she left behind. Her memory serves as a poignant reminder of life’s incredible fragility.
This loss has underscored, more than ever, just how precious life truly is. It has deepened my understanding of the importance of living fully and loving fiercely. We must embrace our loved ones with all our hearts while they are still with us. It’s vital to nurture and protect the relationships and friendships that bring us peace and a sense of calm. Let go of past hurts, refusing to let them define our present or future. Seek out and spend time with people who truly bring happiness and light into our lives. And above all, never hesitate to express your love. Always tell them. These simple acts are the true treasures of our existence.
Pin Your Favorites: Save These Top 10 Recipes of 2021!
Before you go, I’d be absolutely thrilled if you would take a moment to pin these top 10 reader-favorite recipes of 2021! Don’t just pin them, though – I encourage you to try a few, or all of them, in your own kitchen. Once you do, please let me know what you think! Feel free to send me a message or, even better, tag me on social media. I absolutely adore seeing photos of your creations and hearing about your culinary adventures with my recipes!
As we step into a new year, I extend my warmest Happy New Year wishes from myself and my ever-growing family to all of you. My heartfelt appreciation goes out to each and every one of you who takes the time to read my posts, leave comments, and recreate my recipes. Your engagement and support mean the world to me and are the driving force behind “An Affair from the Heart.” I can’t wait to bring you many more delicious recipes, stories, and culinary inspiration in the year to come!
See ya next year! 
Past Year’s Top 10 Recipes: A Delicious Look Back
Curious to see what recipes have captured hearts and taste buds in previous years? Dive into our archives and discover the timeless favorites from past annual reviews:
- 2020: The Year of Comfort Food
- 2019: Your Go-To Dishes
- 2018: A Collection of Culinary Delights
- 2017: Reader Favorites Revealed
- 2016: The Hottest Recipes
- 2015 Sweet Favorites / 2015 Savory Staples