The ultimate roundup of 21 reader-favorite dishes

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Ever wondered what makes certain recipes a hit with pretty much everyone? We’ve rounded up 21 of those crowd-pleasers that have folks nodding in approval. These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill meals. They’re the ones that have that extra something – a touch of nostalgia, a dash of innovation, or simply that unbeatable flavor. It’s the kind of food that makes you think, “Yeah, this is why I love to eat.”

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a bowl of this, and it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. It’s a rustic, hearty soup filled with pasta and beans that’s been warming hearts and homes for generations. If you’ve never had Pasta e Fagioli Soup before, you’re in for a comforting surprise.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, eager and waiting. These chicken thighs come out of the oven juicy and tender, smothered in a rich creamy onion gravy that’s to die for. It’s a dish that turns an ordinary night into a feast with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This is not just another stew; it’s a journey to Hungary in a pot. Every spoonful of this Authentic Hungarian Goulash carries the warmth of paprika, tender beef, and a rich history of Hungarian cuisine. It’s a dish that demands crusty bread for sopping up every last bit of its savory sauce.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash on a platter with gravy.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash is a hug in a bowl, every single time. This dish is a beloved classic for a reason, with its tender chicken drenched in a creamy paprika sauce. It’s simple, it’s comforting, and it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine biting into these little cubes of heaven: crispy, smoky on the outside, and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside. They’re not just a dish, they’re an experience, making Pork Belly Burnt Ends the star of any barbecue spread. If you’ve yet to try them, you’re missing out on a carnivore’s delight.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen, with juicy chicken, olives, and a medley of vegetables. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Mediterranean Chicken Bake is the answer to the weeknight dinner dilemma, flavorful and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It’s a salad that eats like a meal, combining tender steak with hearty pasta and fresh veggies. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying dinner, it’s versatile and packed with flavor. Steak & Pasta Salad is where comfort food meets fresh, vibrant ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

With its smoky, spicy sauce and shredded chicken, it’s a versatile dish that can top tacos, tostadas, or even rice. Every bite is a flavor explosion, making Chicken Tinga a must-try for anyone who loves a little heat. It’s the kind of recipe that keeps you coming back for just one more taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

A closeup shot of two tacos filled with smoked pork belly and vegetables.
Smoked Pork Belly Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos are a surefire way to turn any gathering into a fiesta. These tacos are a celebration in your mouth, with smoked pork belly that’s been cooked to perfection. Paired with your favorite toppings, they’re irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This recipe is a game-changer, delivering chicken that’s crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, all coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s downright delicious. Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are about to become your new go-to meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a dish that’s light, flaky, and full of flavor, with a touch of the Mediterranean sea in every bite. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Mediterranean Cod is the kind of meal that makes any night feel a little special.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Braised Beef Short Ribs with gravy and mashed potatoes.
Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fall-off-the-bone tender, these short ribs are slow-cooked in a garlic-infused sauce that’s rich and comforting. It’s a dish that’s meant for slow weekends and special occasions. Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs are a testament to the art of slow cooking.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This salad is a hearty, wholesome choice that’s packed with flavor and texture. It’s the perfect dish for when you want something light yet satisfying. Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes is a fresh take on lunch that won’t leave you hungry.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Break away from traditional pizza with this delightful combination of ham and asparagus on a crispy crust. It’s a creative way to enjoy pizza night that’s both delicious and a little bit fancy. Ham & Asparagus Pizza turns any meal into a celebration.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

They bring a whole new level of flavor to the table, combining the deep, smoky taste of the chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze that’s hard to resist. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to fire up the smoker every weekend. Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze are a sure way to impress at any backyard barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops on a baby blue serving dish.
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine pork chops so tender, they melt in your mouth, all thanks to the magic of the slow cooker. Paired with the rich, creamy flavor of Swiss cheese, it’s a dish that feels indulgent without all the fuss. Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops are the comfort food you didn’t know you were missing.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Pizza Raclette

A group of pizza raclette.
Pizza Raclette. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This brings a fun twist to pizza night, letting everyone customize their mini pizzas right at the table. It’s not just about making dinner; it’s about creating memories with every slice. Pizza Raclette turns mealtime into an interactive experience that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Raclette

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

They’re fall-apart tender, with just the right amount of crispiness, making them a staple for taco night. The Dutch oven does all the work, slowly cooking the pork to perfection. Dutch oven Carnitas are the kind of meal that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

Two bowls of cream of caramelized onion & mushroom soup with garlic and thyme.
Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This soup is a rich, velvety blend of deeply caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, offering a level of comfort that only a bowl of warm soup can. It’s a gourmet experience right at your dinner table. Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup is perfect for those chilly nights when you need a little warming up.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A vibrant mix of flavors and textures, combining the warmth of curry with the sweetness of raisins and the crunch of celery. It’s a refreshing take on chicken salad that’s as perfect for a picnic as it is for a lunchbox. Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins brings a bit of excitement to your typical salad fare.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These aren’t your average green beans; they’re simmered with bacon and onion for hours, absorbing all those rich, savory flavors. It’s a side dish that often steals the show, proving that sometimes, the supporting roles have the most character. Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are a must-try for anyone who thinks they don’t like green beans.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

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