Celebrating a Decade of Deliciousness: Announcing the 2020 Reader’s Choice Award Winners!

What an incredible journey it has been! Thank you from the bottom of my heart to every single one of you who participated in my 10thannual Reader’s Choice Awards. Can you believe it’s been ten years since Emily Bites first started? Your votes, comments, and engagement mean the world to me, and I absolutely adore seeing which recipes resonated most with you throughout the year.

For those new to the Emily Bites community, especially the wonderful readers joining us this January, this annual post serves as a fantastic starting point. It’s a curated collection of our community’s “greatest hits” from the past year, making it easy for you to dive into the most beloved lightened-up recipes that have delighted so many. Your input is invaluable, not just for me, but for every new food enthusiast looking for trusted, delicious meals to try. If you’re curious about past favorites that continue to be incredibly popular today, you can explore the winners from previous years: 2019 winners, 2018 winners, 2017 winners, 2016 winners, 2015 winners, 2014 winners, 2013 winners, 2012 winners and 2011 winners.

A Decade of Dedication: My Heartfelt Thanks to You

Whether you cast a vote or not, I want to extend my deepest, most genuine gratitude to YOU. Whether this is your very first visit to Emily Bites or you’ve been cooking alongside me since the blog’s inception, thank you so much for being here. It’s hard to put into words how much your presence means to me – it’s truly immeasurable. Thank you for consistently reading my posts, for trying and loving my recipes, and for bringing them into your homes. Thank you for asking thoughtful questions, leaving encouraging comments, and offering valuable feedback that helps this community grow. Your generosity in sharing my site with friends, posting your delicious creations on Instagram, pinning recipes you’re eager to try, and sharing posts on Facebook doesn’t go unnoticed. I’m also so grateful for your emails, filled with your stories, ideas, and culinary successes. You are the constant motivation and inspiration behind everything I do here, and I’m genuinely thrilled to have you as part of this journey. My gratitude for you knows no bounds.

10 Years of Emily Bites: A Journey of Passion and Community

It’s truly surreal to think that a full decade has passed since I launched Emily Bites on Christmas Eve of 2010. Back then, I was actively on Weight Watchers and had recently discovered a newfound passion for cooking. I was absolutely captivated by how enjoyable and delicious it could be to create lightened-up meals without sacrificing flavor. My excitement to share these culinary discoveries was immense, but I never in my wildest dreams imagined that so many of you would find my little corner of the internet and choose to cook along with me. Today, this website has grown into an enormous and incredibly important part of my life and identity. It’s difficult to even recall what life was like before Emily Bites came to be!

This blog is more than just a collection of recipes; it is my heart and soul, my unwavering passion. And your presence here, your continued support, is what makes it possible for me to keep living this dream. So once again, from the deepest part of my heart, thank you for making Emily Bites what it is today.

Reflecting on 2020 and Looking Forward to 2021

Last year, I remember expressing such excitement for 2020, and well… that didn’t quite go according to plan, did it? Let’s be honest, 2020 was a challenging year for many of us. I wish I could offer each of you a comforting hug, as I believe we could all use one. While I approach 2021 with cautious optimism, hoping it brings brighter days (it simply has to, right?), I won’t jinx it by making grand predictions. Instead, let’s simply celebrate the close of 2020 and look ahead. I’m incredibly eager to kick off the new year with an abundance of fresh, exciting recipes, but it’s also truly rewarding to pause and reflect on how far Emily Bites has come.

For the past few years, I’ve shared some readership, social media, and posting statistics—primarily for my own enjoyment and to mark our growth. While I certainly don’t blog just for the numbers, it’s a delightful tradition to check in each year and witness the incredible expansion of our community. Here we go again:

• Ten years of blogging!
• A staggering 716 posts shared with you.
• Over 78 million blog pageviews – a number that still astounds me!
• A vibrant community of 162,000 followers on Facebook.
• 226,000 of you are my Instagram friends (this platform holds a special place in my heart!).
• 112,000 followers on Pinterest.
• 32,000 of you subscribe to my recipes by email (if you haven’t joined yet, subscribing by email is a fantastic way to ensure you never miss a new recipe!).

I cannot overstate how incredibly overwhelming and humbling it is to know that so many of you read my blog, recreate my recipes, and provide such wonderful feedback, encouragement, and inspiration. THANK YOU! If you’d like to stay even more connected and follow Emily Bites on social media, here are the links:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Pinterest
• Email Club

And now, without further delay, let’s unveil the highly anticipated 2020 Reader’s Choice Award Winners! Below, you’ll find the results for each category. I’ve proudly featured a picture of the winning recipe, listed the runner-up, and, just for fun, included my own personal pick (which, of course, didn’t influence the official standings!).

The 2020 Reader’s Choice Award Winners: Your Top Picks!

1. Best Breakfast Recipe: Sheet Pan Blueberry Pancakes (A Clear Favorite!)

   

   The sheer delight of waking up to a warm, fluffy breakfast is undeniable, and our readers have crowned the Sheet Pan Blueberry Pancakes as their ultimate favorite in the Best Breakfast Recipe category. This innovative approach to pancake making takes the fuss out of flipping individual pancakes, allowing you to whip up a generous batch for the whole family with minimal effort. The burst of juicy blueberries, combined with a golden, airy texture, makes this a weekend brunch staple that truly simplifies delicious mornings. It’s no wonder this recipe won by a landslide – it delivers convenience without sacrificing an ounce of flavor.

   Runner Up: Crustless Spinach and Feta Quiche. Coming in as a close second, this savory and nutritious option is perfect for meal prep or a lighter, elegant breakfast. Packed with vibrant spinach and tangy feta, this crust-free quiche proves that healthy can be incredibly satisfying.

   Emily’s Pick: I wholeheartedly agree with your choice! The Sheet Pan Blueberry Pancakes have become a beloved tradition in my own home, a reliable source of joy that my family enjoys at least once a month. We often experiment with different toppings, but the classic blueberry remains a firm favorite – even my two-year-old eagerly requests them, which is always a sign of a true winner!

2. Best Muffin Recipe: Pumpkin Zucchini Muffins

   

   Combining the best of seasonal flavors and sneaky veggie goodness, the Pumpkin Zucchini Muffins soared to victory as your top muffin pick. These delightful treats are incredibly moist, spiced just right, and are a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting snack or a quick breakfast on the go. They effortlessly blend the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the subtle moisture from zucchini, making them a family-friendly favorite.

   Runner Up: Chocolate Raspberry Muffins. A decadent and fruity contender, these muffins offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate and tart raspberries, proving that indulgence can still be part of a balanced diet.

   Emily’s Pick: While I certainly appreciate both the winner and runner-up, my heart leans towards the Carrot Muffins. They have a timeless appeal and a wonderful texture that makes them a personal favorite for any time of day!

3. Best Appetizer Recipe: Apricot Brie Tartlets

   

   For those special gatherings or simply a sophisticated snack, the Apricot Brie Tartlets were your undisputed champion in the appetizer category. These bite-sized wonders combine the creamy, rich notes of brie with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of apricot, all nestled in a delicate pastry shell. They’re incredibly easy to prepare yet look and taste impressively gourmet, making them perfect for entertaining or a delightful treat.

   Runner Up: Spinach Balls. A classic party favorite, these savory bites are packed with flavor and are always a hit, offering a delicious, vegetable-forward option for any spread.

   Emily’s Pick: Absolutely agreed! I adore these fruity, cheesy tartlets. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, and their elegant presentation makes them a joy to serve and eat.

4. Best Handheld Recipe: Easy Chicken Tacos

   

   When it comes to meals you can comfortably hold and devour, the Easy Chicken Tacos captured your hearts and taste buds! These tacos live up to their name by being incredibly simple to assemble yet bursting with vibrant flavors. They offer a versatile canvas for all your favorite toppings, from fresh salsa and avocado to zesty lime crema, making them a perfect, customizable weeknight dinner that everyone in the family will love.

   Runner Up: Greek Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce. These Mediterranean-inspired burgers offer a fantastic lean alternative, with savory seasonings and a refreshing tzatziki sauce that elevates the entire experience.

   Emily’s Pick: I’m definitely siding with the runner-up here – the Greek Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce. They are absolutely phenomenal, packed with incredible flavor and that creamy, cool tzatziki is just divine. This pick reminds me that I absolutely need to make them again very soon!

5. Best Meaty Main Course Recipe: Sheet Pan Meatloaves with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans

   

   When it comes to a comforting, satisfying meaty main course, our readers unequivocally chose the Sheet Pan Meatloaves with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans. This recipe is a weeknight warrior, offering a complete, delicious meal all on one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. The perfectly portioned meatloaves, alongside tender roasted potatoes and crisp green beans, create a hearty and balanced dinner that feels like a classic homemade favorite.

   Runner Up: Korean-Inspired Ground Turkey. A vibrant and quick dish, this flavorful ground turkey offers an exciting twist on traditional weeknight meals, bringing bold Asian-inspired flavors to your table.

   Emily’s Pick: This is an easy one for me: MEATLOAF WITH GRAVY! If you’ve been a long-time reader of my blog, you’ll know my deep affection for gravy, so this choice is almost automatic. When gravy is an option, gravy is my choice! I must admit, I was quite surprised that the incredibly popular Korean-Inspired Ground Turkey didn’t win, especially given how many of you rave about it on Instagram! However, it’s hard to argue with the sheer convenience and deliciousness of an all-in-one, easy sheet pan meal.

6. Best Chicken Recipe: Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

   

   Elegance meets flavor in your winning choice for the Best Chicken Recipe: the exquisite Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken. This dish transforms a simple chicken breast into a gourmet experience, with a delightful filling of sweet apples and creamy brie cheese. It’s perfect for a special occasion yet surprisingly approachable for a weeknight, delivering tender chicken and a luscious, savory-sweet interior that’s incredibly satisfying.

   Runner Up: A tie between Blackened Chicken Bites and Chicken Lo Mein. These two strong contenders showcase the versatility of chicken, offering quick, flavorful options for both a zesty spice kick and a comforting takeout-style meal at home.

   Emily’s Pick: The Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is absolutely a deserving winner; it truly is delicious. However, my personal pick would probably be a tie with the Blackened Chicken Bites. They are my ultimate go-to for a quick and easy dinner when I haven’t planned ahead, so we make them a *lot*! Their flavorful simplicity makes them a constant in my kitchen.

7. Best One-Pot Meal Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing

   

   For ultimate ease and heartwarming flavor, your pick for the Best One-Pot Meal is the incredible Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing. This recipe epitomizes comfort food with minimal effort, allowing your slow cooker to do all the heavy lifting. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the stuffing absorbs all the delicious juices, creating a rich, savory dish that feels like a holiday feast any night of the week. It’s a perfect solution for busy evenings when you crave a home-cooked meal without the fuss.

   Runner Up: One-Pot Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta. This zesty and hearty pasta dish brings big flavors to a single pot, making it another fantastic option for a quick and satisfying dinner.

   Emily’s Pick: This is an incredibly tough category for me! I genuinely adore all the one-pot meals. I wasn’t surprised at all to see the Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing win, especially since you all started making it like crazy right after I posted it last month! I completely understand the appeal of a comfort food meal that requires minimal effort. However, I find myself torn between that one, the delightful Turkey Veggie Spaghetti, and the creamy Creamy Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Spinach. Oh, and let’s not forget the irresistible Chili Mac! I’m officially sitting out this category – too many amazing choices!

8. Best Vegetarian Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes

   

   Proving that vegetarian dishes can be incredibly hearty and satisfying, the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes were your top choice. These generously sized baked potatoes are scooped out, mixed with a luscious broccoli and cheddar cheese filling, then re-stuffed and baked to golden perfection. They offer a complete meal that’s rich in flavor, wonderfully creamy, and a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables in a comforting and filling format.

   Runner Up: Vegetable Fried Rice. A versatile and quick-cooking dish, this fried rice is packed with colorful vegetables and savory flavors, making it an excellent vegetarian main or a hearty side.

   Emily’s Pick: Yes, I’m absolutely with you on this one! I’m a total sucker for a creamy, cheesy sauce generously smothering a perfectly baked potato. The combination of tender broccoli and sharp cheddar is simply irresistible. Agreed!

9. Best Side Dish Recipe: Caprese Salad

   

   For a refreshing and elegant accompaniment to any meal, your favorite side dish of 2020 was the timeless Caprese Salad. This simple yet sophisticated salad highlights the beautiful fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a touch of balsamic glaze. It’s the perfect light and vibrant addition to summer barbecues or a colorful complement to a richer main course, proving that sometimes, the simplest ingredients make the best dishes.

   Runner Up: Creamy Corn with Bacon and Jalapenos. A flavorful and slightly spicy side, this dish offers a wonderful blend of sweet corn, smoky bacon, and a kick of jalapeño, making it a crowd-pleaser.

   Emily’s Pick: The Caprese Salad is undoubtedly a fantastic summer favorite, and I understand why it won! However, I have to give a special shout-out to the Stovetop Green Beans with Almonds. I make that particular dish constantly, year-round, as its simplicity and deliciousness make it a perfect staple for any meal.

10. Best Dessert Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake Mini Tarts

    

    To satisfy your sweet cravings, the delightful Blueberry Cheesecake Mini Tarts clinched the top spot as your favorite dessert! These charming mini tarts offer all the creamy, tangy goodness of a classic cheesecake in a perfectly portioned, easy-to-handle form. With a buttery crust and a luscious blueberry topping, they are an absolute treat for any occasion, proving that lighter desserts can be incredibly indulgent and satisfying.

    Runner Up: Baked Peaches with Crisp Topping. A warm and fruity dessert, this recipe celebrates the natural sweetness of peaches with a delightful crunchy topping, perfect for a cozy evening.

    Emily’s Pick: This category was actually a tie, and I had the pleasure of being the tie-breaker! Cheesecake is, without a doubt, my all-time favorite dessert. Given that, it’s no surprise that I could happily eat these Blueberry Cheesecake Mini Tarts every single day and be the happiest person alive. They are truly that good!

Looking Ahead: A New Year of Healthy Comfort Food

Once again, thank you immensely for continuing to read my blog, for bringing my recipes to life in your kitchens, and for inspiring and encouraging me with your wonderful comments and feedback. Your support is the cornerstone of Emily Bites.

I wish each and every one of you a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2021. I sincerely hope you’ll stay tuned as we embark on another year of discovering more delicious, lightened-up comfort food recipes together. Let’s continue to cook, share, and enjoy amazing meals. Stay safe and well out there!