Celebrating the Best of 2016: Your Favorite Emily Bites Recipes Revealed!

The votes are in, and the culinary countdown has concluded! We are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated winners of our 6^th annual Reader’s Choice Awards, celebrating the absolute best recipes of 2016 from Emily Bites. Your participation means the world to us; it’s a true joy to see which dishes resonated most with you throughout the year. For new visitors discovering our vibrant community, these award-winning recipes serve as the perfect starting point, a curated collection of our most beloved and successful creations. Thank you for guiding fellow food enthusiasts to the “greatest hits” from each year. If you’re eager to explore past favorites, you can also revisit the 2015 winners, 2014 winners, 2013 winners, 2012 winners, and 2011 winners.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Incredible Community

While we celebrate the winning recipes, it’s truly you, our readers, who deserve the biggest thanks. Whether you’re a long-time follower who has been cooking along with us since the very beginning or a new friend just joining the Emily Bites family, we are incredibly grateful for your presence. Thank you for consistently reading our posts, trying out our recipes, and bringing them to life in your kitchens. Your engagement, through insightful questions, encouraging comments, and valuable feedback, fuels our passion every single day. We appreciate you sharing our site with friends, showcasing your delicious creations on Instagram, saving your favorite recipes on Pinterest, and spreading the word on Facebook. Hearing your personal stories and recipe successes via email is genuinely thrilling and deeply inspiring. You are the heart and soul of Emily Bites, and your enthusiasm motivates us beyond measure.

Six Years of Flavorful Journeys: A Look Back at Emily Bites’ Growth

It was on Christmas Eve in 2010 that the idea of Emily Bites first took root, starting as a fun little pet project. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined it would blossom into such a significant and cherished part of my life and identity. As we step into 2017 with a promise of fresh, exciting new recipes, it’s also incredibly rewarding to pause and reflect on the remarkable journey and growth of this blog. For the past few years, I’ve shared some key readership, social media, and posting statistics, primarily as a personal benchmark. While blogging is certainly not about the numbers, it’s genuinely inspiring to see how much our community has expanded year after year. Here’s a snapshot of our incredible journey:

• **Six years** of dedicated recipe development and sharing.
• **495 posts** published, each crafted with love and a focus on delicious, lightened-up meals.
• **Over 37 million blog pageviews**, a testament to your consistent interest and support (according to Google Analytics).
• A vibrant Facebook community of **91,500 followers**.
• **85,000 friends** on Instagram, sharing beautiful food moments.
• **69,300 followers** on Pinterest, curating countless recipe ideas.
• **15,600 subscribers** who receive our latest recipes directly via email.

The sheer scale of this community and your engagement truly overwhelms me in the best possible way. Knowing that so many of you read the blog, make these recipes, and offer such wonderful feedback, encouragement, and inspiration is the greatest reward. THANK YOU! If you haven’t yet joined our social media family and wish to stay connected, here are the direct links: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and our exclusive Email Club.

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the main event: the Reader’s Choice Award Winners for the best recipes of 2016! Below, you’ll find the results for each category, featuring the winning recipe pictured, followed by the runner-up, and my own personal pick (which, of course, didn’t influence the official standings, but it’s fun to share!).

1. Best Appetizer Recipe: Pepperoni Pizza Dip

   This irresistible dip isn’t just a snack; it’s a party in a bowl! Rich, cheesy, and packed with savory pepperoni flavor, it perfectly captures the essence of classic pizza in an easy-to-share format. It’s no wonder it quickly became a fan favorite for game nights and gatherings, offering that comforting pizza taste with a lighter touch that Emily Bites is known for. A truly deserving winner for its crowd-pleasing appeal.

   Runner Up: Loaded Potato Rounds. These bite-sized delights offer all the comforting flavors of a loaded baked potato in a convenient appetizer form, making them a fantastic alternative.

   Emily’s Pick: I’m completely aligned with your choice on the Pepperoni Pizza Dip – it’s definitely one of my go-to party recipes! However, I also have a soft spot for the refreshing flavors of Strawberry Balsamic Bruschetta and the elegant simplicity of Caprese Wonton Bites. Delicious choices all around!

2. Best Breakfast Recipe: Maple Bacon Breakfast Wraps

   Starting the day right just got a whole lot tastier with these winning Maple Bacon Breakfast Wraps. This recipe expertly combines the sweet and savory notes of maple and crispy bacon with fluffy eggs, all neatly tucked into a convenient wrap. It’s the perfect portable breakfast solution that feels indulgent yet fits perfectly into a balanced lifestyle, proving that hearty and healthy can go hand-in-hand.

   Runner Up: Apple Streusel French Toast Muffins (just one vote behind first place!). These muffins capture the essence of classic French toast with a delightful apple streusel topping, making them a wonderful sweet treat for any morning.

   Emily’s Pick: For my personal breakfast indulgence, I have to choose the Orange Cranberry Baked Oatmeal Singles. I’m completely obsessed with their vibrant flavors and convenient individual portions – a truly fantastic grab-and-go option.

3. Best Salad Recipe: Taco Chicken Salad

   Who said salads have to be boring? The Taco Chicken Salad emerged as your top choice, and it’s easy to see why. This recipe transforms the exciting flavors of a taco into a refreshing and fulfilling salad. Featuring seasoned chicken, crisp greens, and all your favorite taco toppings, it’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that packs a punch without the guilt. It’s a brilliant example of how to make a salad a main event.

   Runner Up: Broccoli Salad. This classic side dish offers a delightful crunch and creamy dressing, proving that humble ingredients can be incredibly delicious.

   Emily’s Pick: This was a tough category for me! While I adore both of your top choices, I think I’m leaning towards the Roasted Beet Salad. I was really enamored with its earthy flavors and, let’s be honest, anything with goat cheese is usually a winner in my book!

4. Best Soup Recipe: Sausage and Tortellini Tomato Soup

   When it comes to ultimate comfort in a bowl, the Sausage and Tortellini Tomato Soup captured your hearts, and taste buds! This hearty and flavorful soup combines savory sausage with tender tortellini in a rich tomato base, creating a truly satisfying and warming meal. It’s the kind of dish that brings coziness to even the chilliest evenings, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly exceptional.

   Runner Up: Chicken Corn Chowder. A creamy, comforting blend of chicken and sweet corn, perfect for a soothing and filling meal.

   Emily’s Pick: My pick aligns perfectly with yours here! I truly dream of a never-ending bowl of Sausage and Tortellini Tomato Soup. Pure comfort, pure bliss. Swoon indeed!

5. Best Pasta Recipe: Beefy American Goulash

   Pasta lovers rejoiced, crowning the Beefy American Goulash as the best pasta recipe of 2016. This classic, hearty dish brings together ground beef, pasta, and a savory tomato sauce in a comforting medley that feels like a warm hug. It’s an easy-to-make, family-friendly meal that delivers on flavor and satisfaction, making it a staple for busy weeknights and a favorite for many.

   Runner Up: It’s a tie! Both Slow Cooker Kickin’ Chicken Pasta and Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells earned equal votes. Both offer unique takes on pasta dishes – one slow-cooked and spicy, the other a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite.

   Emily’s Pick: While the goulash was certainly a huge and well-deserved hit, I’m going to champion my Beef Stroganoff here. It’s such an incredible comfort food, rich and flavorful, truly satisfying every time.

6. Best Chicken Recipe: Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken

   Chicken, a versatile staple, was elevated to new heights with your pick for the best chicken recipe: the Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken. This dish takes tender chicken breasts and infuses them with the creamy, tangy goodness of pimento cheese, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s an elegant yet approachable meal that proves healthy eating can still be utterly delicious and exciting.

   Runner Up: Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders. These crispy, flavorful tenders are a family favorite, offering a healthier spin on a beloved classic.

   Emily’s Pick: This category is always incredibly tough for me, as I truly love chicken! I’m absolutely tied between my fresh and vibrant Mediterranean Topped Grilled Chicken and the incredibly flavorful Pimento Cheese Stuffed Chicken. I simply can’t choose, which is precisely why I rely on all of you to vote!

7. Best Side Dish Recipe: Cheddar Bay Pull Apart Muffins

   Sometimes the side dish steals the show, and that was certainly the case with the Cheddar Bay Pull Apart Muffins, your top choice for 2016. Inspired by a popular restaurant classic, these savory, cheesy muffins are incredibly addictive and perfect for soaking up sauces or simply enjoying on their own. Their soft, airy texture and rich flavor make them an irresistible addition to any meal, transforming an ordinary dinner into something special.

   Runner Up: Cheddar Broccoli Orzo. A delightful and creamy pasta side dish that combines tender orzo with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese.

   Emily’s Pick: This year, I’m making a resolution to post even more fantastic side dish recipes! And I completely agree with the community: the Cheddar Bay Pull Apart Muffins are an absolutely perfect winner!

8. Best Casserole Recipe: Layered Chicken Enchilada Bake

   For ultimate ease and flavor, the Layered Chicken Enchilada Bake took the crown in the casserole category. This recipe is a brilliant twist on traditional enchiladas, layering all the delicious components—seasoned chicken, tortillas, cheese, and sauce—into a comforting bake. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option that’s bursting with vibrant Tex-Mex flavors, making it a hearty and satisfying meal for the whole family, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

   Runner Up: Chili Cornbread Bake. This comforting dish combines savory chili with a sweet cornbread topping, creating a complete and satisfying meal in one pan.

   Emily’s Pick: Hmm, I’m quite happy to agree with these excellent choices! Both are fantastic, comforting casserole options.

9. Best Meaty Main Dish Recipe: Slow Cooker Apple Bacon BBQ Pulled Pork

   Slow cookers continued to be a favorite kitchen tool, and your top meaty main dish, the Slow Cooker Apple Bacon BBQ Pulled Pork, truly showcases its magic. This recipe delivers incredibly tender, flavorful pulled pork infused with the sweetness of apple and the smoky depth of bacon and BBQ sauce. It’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just enjoying on its own, offering maximum flavor with minimal effort, ideal for meal prep and feeding a crowd.

   Runner Up: Slow Cooker Korean-Style Beef Tacos (from my review of the Skinnytaste Fast and Slow cookbook affiliate link). A delightful fusion dish that brings bold Korean flavors to your taco night.

   Emily’s Pick: I wholeheartedly agree with this winner! The Slow Cooker Apple Bacon BBQ Pulled Pork is absolutely my jam – so incredibly easy to make and utterly delicious. However, I must give a special shout-out to my Sausage Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms in this category because the stuffing is truly amazing!

10. Best Handheld Recipe: Easy Taco Cups

    When it comes to convenient and fun eating, the Easy Taco Cups were your clear winner! These delightful little bites pack all the savory goodness of a taco into a perfectly portioned, handheld cup. They are fantastic for parties, kids’ meals, or a quick and satisfying lunch. Their simplicity and customizable nature make them a versatile crowd-pleaser that embodies the joy of easy, flavorful food.

    Runner Up: It’s a tie! Equal votes were cast for Ham and Cheese Twists and Cheeseburger Egg Rolls. Both offer unique and flavorful handheld options, perfect for snacking or light meals.

    Emily’s Pick: I’m going a bit rogue with my pick here! I’d have to choose either the zesty Spicy Southwest Chicken Wraps or the incredibly flavorful Spicy Steak Tacos with Southwestern Guacamole. Evidently, I have a deep love for spicy southwest flavors!

11. Best Pizza Recipe: Sausage and Ricotta Pizza

    Pizza night got an upgrade with your choice for the best pizza recipe: the Sausage and Ricotta Pizza. This gourmet-style pizza combines savory sausage with creamy ricotta cheese, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile that feels both indulgent and perfectly balanced. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy homemade pizza, offering a sophisticated yet accessible option for your next pizza craving, demonstrating that even a classic can be made healthier and more exciting.

    Runner Up: Three Cheese Mushroom Flatbread. A delightfully cheesy and earthy flatbread, perfect for a lighter meal or appetizer.

    Emily’s Pick: I’m actually torn between some of the more seasonal flatbreads we created this year! I absolutely adored both the festive Turkey Cranberry Flatbread and the unique Savory Sausage Pumpkin Flatbread.

12. Best Dessert Recipe: Pecan Pie Bites

    To sweeten the end of the year, the Pecan Pie Bites were crowned your favorite dessert! These miniature versions of the classic pecan pie offer all the rich, nutty, and sweet flavors you love in a perfectly portioned bite. They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or whenever you crave a decadent treat without overindulging. This recipe proves that even traditional desserts can be adapted for a lighter touch while retaining all their beloved charm.

    Runner Up: Peppermint Cheesecake Cups. These festive, creamy cups are a refreshing and delightful treat, perfect for the holiday season.

    Emily’s Pick: I had a strong feeling the Pecan Pie Bites would win – they truly are amazing! However, at heart, I’m a fruity dessert person, so my personal vote goes to the elegant and delicious Mixed Berry Mini Tarts.

Once again, our deepest gratitude goes out to each and every one of you for being such an integral part of the Emily Bites community. Thank you for reading our blog, for bringing our recipes into your homes, and for continuously encouraging and inspiring us with your wonderful comments and feedback. We extend our warmest wishes for a happy, healthy, and deliciously satisfying 2017. We sincerely hope you’ll stay tuned as we continue to share more fantastic, lightened-up comfort food recipes in the new year!