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The Ultimate Culinary Rewind: Discover the Top 21 Reader-Favorite Recipes of 2017

As the curtain drew on 2017, we took a nostalgic journey through our recipe archives to spotlight the dishes that truly captured your hearts and kitchens. This special collection, “The 21 Best Recipes of 2017,” isn’t just a list; it’s a testament to the incredible community we’ve built, featuring the recipes *YOU* loved, cooked, and shared the most. We’ve compiled these culinary gems based on your engagement and feedback, ensuring every recipe here is a proven hit.

Prepare to be inspired by 21 utterly delicious creations, spanning a magnificent range from satisfying dinner ideas to delectable sides and irresistible sweets. Whether you’re craving the rich indulgence of Creamy Carbonara Chicken, the vibrant flavors of Tuscan Shrimp, the savory perfection of Browned Butter Salmon, or the comforting embrace of the Best Pot Roast, this list has something to delight every palate. Beyond just the recipes, we’ve included some of the heartfelt comments left by YOU, our amazing readers, proving just how much these dishes resonated.

For those eager to explore even more timeless dishes, don’t forget to check out our previous year’s favorites. You’ll find a link to the 2016 best recipes at the bottom of this post, perfect for continued culinary exploration!

COUNTING DOWN THE BEST!

1. Browned Butter Honey Garlic Salmon

This Cafe Delites original recipe showcases salmon steaks pan-fried to perfection in rich, nutty browned butter. Infused with sweet honey and aromatic garlic, the salmon is then briefly grilled or broiled, creating an irresistibly golden, crispy, and caramelized finish. With just three main ingredients, this impressive dish comes together in under 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet elegant weeknight meal or a special occasion. It’s a true celebration of simple ingredients yielding extraordinary flavor.

“Hi, I found this recipe on Pinterest and HAD to try it! I tried it once, and now we eat it at least once a week! It is so delicious, thank you for this recipe!” — Celine

2. Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese

Say goodbye to endless dishwashing with this incredible ONE POT dinner! This Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese is prepared entirely on the stove top in less than 30 minutes, using simple ingredients to create a deeply satisfying meal. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, studded with savory chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all infused with classic Tuscan herbs. It’s a flavorful upgrade that makes it incredibly hard to go back to regular mac and cheese once you’ve tasted this gourmet version.

“I made this last night and it came out awesome! It tastes as good as it looks. Perfect blend of flavors. Thank you so much!” — CATHERINE

3. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushroom Chicken & Bacon

This dish is an explosion of savory flavors, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that the entire family will adore. Featuring crispy chicken thighs cooked to golden perfection, bathed in a decadent garlic parmesan cream sauce, and generously loaded with tender sliced mushrooms and smoky bacon. It’s a rich and comforting meal designed to impress everyone at your table, balancing textures and tastes in every bite. Prepare for rave reviews from family and friends!

“I made this recipe and it was the most delicious chicken dinner I have ever had. That is not an exaggeration. I have made Julia Child’s recipes with wine and cream which was delicious, and I will honestly say that the sauce in this recipe was better than Julia Child’s white sauce….The next day after I cooked this chicken dinner, I went back to the store and got ingredients to make some more of the sauce and I froze the sauce in increments for other dinners….” — CHERYL

4. Slow Cooked Balsamic Pot Roast (Slow Cooker, Instant Pot or Oven)

Experience the ultimate in comfort food with this Slow Cooked Balsamic Pot Roast, perfectly suited for an effortless weekday or a cozy weekend dinner. This recipe promises fall-apart tender beef, simmered slowly in a rich, tangy garlic balsamic sauce. Accompanied by wholesome potatoes and carrots that cook right alongside the meat, it delivers a complete, hearty meal with minimal fuss. Whether you opt for a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or a traditional oven, you’ll achieve maximum flavor with minimal effort.

“This was delicious! My husband hates roast and he loved it! I am making it twice this week.” — JULIE

5. Smashed Sweet Potatoes

Elevate your side dish game with these Garlic Butter Smashed Sweet Potatoes. They offer an irresistible combination: wonderfully crispy and buttery on the outside, yet incredibly soft and naturally sweet on the inside. Drizzled with fragrant garlic butter and sprinkled with savory Parmesan cheese, this method transforms humble sweet potatoes into a truly extraordinary culinary experience. It’s hands down one of the most flavorful and satisfying ways to enjoy this versatile root vegetable, guaranteed to become a family favorite.

“My fiance has not stopped talking about this recipe since I made them — they were seriously the BEST. We just kept rolling our eyes with happiness the whole time we were eating!!! I’m making more tonight and he’s so excited he invited friends over — thanks for the amazing recipe!” — CARA

6. Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Parmesan Chicken

Prepare for an explosion of flavor in a single pan with this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Parmesan Chicken. This dish starts with pan-fried garlic, creating an aromatic base that gives way to the intense, sweet-tart notes of sun-dried tomatoes and earthy mushrooms. The sauce is then enriched with luxurious melted Parmesan cheese, creating an incredibly creamy and savory texture. This combination of ingredients transforms a simple chicken dinner into an unforgettable culinary experience, offering depth and richness in every bite.

“Thank you for your amazing recipes Karina. I used to have trouble getting my son to visit with his very busy work schedule but as soon as I tell him i’m making a dish like this he makes the time to visit. I also have to make more and freeze it for him so he can take them to work to eat in his lunch hour (he’s the envy of his work colleagues who believe his dad is a master chef and want him to take them food in). Thank you once again for some amazing recipes, you are a godsend to this old fart who found his kitchen later on in life.” — NEIL

7. Honey Mustard Chicken & Potatoes

Discover the magic of a complete meal cooked in just ONE PAN with our Honey Mustard Chicken & Potatoes. Succulent chicken thighs are coated in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, then roasted alongside tender green beans and hearty potatoes. This recipe delivers incredibly juicy chicken and flavorful vegetables, all simmering together to create a harmonious and satisfying dinner. It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.

“This was so good, thank you! My husband could not stop saying, ‘this is so good’ lol! I’m not a huge honey mustard fan but you’re right, this is the one to try.” — ESTHER

8. Creamy Salmon Piccata

Move over chicken, because this Creamy Salmon Piccata is set to become your new favorite! This recipe offers a sophisticated yet surprisingly easy way to prepare salmon, featuring flaky fish drenched in a luscious, vibrant lemon-caper cream sauce. The bright, briny notes of capers beautifully complement the rich cream and zesty lemon, creating a harmonious flavor profile that elevates salmon to an entirely new level. It’s the elegant, flavorful salmon dish you’ve been waiting for, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.

“I rarely take the time to go back and make comments on recipes I make from online. However my family loved this recipe so much I just had to pop by and say so. Thanks for sharing what will surely be a new favorite!….” — ANN

9. Quick Soft Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in the heavenly warmth of homemade cinnamon rolls without the long wait! These Quick Soft Cinnamon Rolls are incredibly fluffy and light, featuring a simple, easy-to-handle dough. The secret lies in a streamlined method that gets these irresistible treats from kitchen to table in record time. Each roll is generously swirled with fragrant cinnamon filling and crowned with a luscious, tangy cream cheese glaze, making them an ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dessert.

“Greetings from Cape Town! This recipe has never failed and is a resounding hit. Thanks for the useful tips, step by step guide and “easy to use” approach. Thank you for this recipe!” — SANDISIWE

10. Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken

Experience a delightful twist on the beloved Caprese salad with this Caprese Stuffed Balsamic Chicken. Succulent chicken breasts are generously filled with a vibrant combination of fresh and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a burst of flavor in every bite, enhanced by gooey melted mozzarella cheese. The chicken is then cooked in a rich, tangy balsamic reduction, which perfectly complements the fresh ingredients. This dish transforms a simple chicken meal into a gourmet experience, making it truly the chicken of your dreams.

“My mother flew cross county to visit and showed me this recipe. I made it and wooow! Amazing.” — BRYANT

11. Pan Seared Garlic Butter Steak & Mushroom Cream Sauce

This Pan Seared Garlic Butter Steak with Mushroom Cream Sauce is a showstopper, perfect for a romantic date night, an elevated weeknight treat, or any occasion that calls for something truly special. Perfectly seared, tender, and juicy steak is basted with fragrant garlic butter, then served alongside a luxurious, earthy mushroom cream sauce. The rich flavors and exquisite textures combine to create an unforgettable dining experience that’s both comforting and gourmet, guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

“…tried it out for dinner last night for my family. IT WAS A HIT! Very delicious…it was awesome! I am looking forward to trying out other recipes of yours in the future. Thanks!” — Raphaela

12. Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes

Transform your ordinary potato side dish into something truly extraordinary with these Browned Butter Roasted Potatoes. While regular roasted potatoes are delightful, these take flavor to a whole new dimension. Potatoes are tossed in nutty browned butter, infused with aromatic herbs and garlic, and then roasted until wonderfully crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a savory, irresistible finish. These potatoes are so flavorful, they’re guaranteed to complement absolutely anything you serve them with, making them a versatile and essential addition to your recipe repertoire.

“Karina, your recipes are simply delicious. Do you have a recipe book on sale? If so, where can I purchase it?” — JIM

13. Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken

Turn a beloved creamy dip into an unforgettable main course with this Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken. Succulent chicken breasts are generously filled with a luscious, cheesy blend of spinach and artichoke hearts, delivering a burst of savory flavor with every slice. This recipe offers the flexibility of serving with a “no cream” creamy sauce option, ensuring a decadent yet balanced meal. It’s a deliciously clever way to elevate everyday chicken into an incredible dinner that’s both comforting and impressive.

“OOOOOohhhh MY! I am admittedly a terrible cook. I found this recipe, and thought to myself, UGH… I hate artichokes… they are so slimy… and the Italian spice, yeah, not fond of that either. This recipe was THE BOMB!” — DEE

14. Creamy Parmesan Carbonara Chicken (No Egg)

This Creamy Parmesan Carbonara Chicken offers an ultimate and family-friendly twist on classic Carbonara flavors, minus the egg for a simpler approach. Crispy, golden chicken fillets are nestled in a luxurious, creamy sauce inspired by the beloved Italian dish, creating a rich and comforting new favorite. The velvety texture and savory notes of Parmesan beautifully complement the tender chicken, making this a weeknight winner that delivers gourmet taste without the fuss. It’s guaranteed to be loved by everyone around the table.

“Oh my goodness. I’m embarrassed to admit that I, a 47 year old woman, literally just licked my plate clean. This was absolutely wonderful. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!” — MICHELLE

15. Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake

Prepare for a truly magical dessert with this Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake, an extremely easy and fast recipe that delivers decadent results. As it bakes, a rich, molten chocolate fudge sauce mysteriously forms right underneath a layer of moist chocolate cake, all by itself! This self-saucing wonder offers a delightful contrast of warm, gooey fudge and tender cake in every spoonful. We even explored different cocoa powder tests to show you how to achieve your desired depth of chocolatey goodness, ensuring a perfect outcome every time.

“I tried this on a whim last night and it was phenomenal! I am a self-proclaimed broke college student with no talent of cooking. But this worked well! My parents loved it and it has become our new dish to bring to parties. My mom also wanted to note that it is still delicious the day after.” — RJ RISUENO

16. Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos

Indulge in low-carb heaven with these Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos. Large portobello mushroom caps are generously filled with fragrant garlic butter, fresh slices of mozzarella cheese, and vibrant grape tomatoes. Broiled to tender perfection, these savory mushrooms are then finished with a drizzle of rich, sweet balsamic glaze. This elegant and flavorful dish makes an exceptional appetizer or a satisfying vegetarian main course, proving that healthy eating can be absolutely delicious and incredibly satisfying.

“I made these last night with some smaller portobellos I had left over and they were incredible! They could have been a fancy appetizer from an upscale restaurant! Fortunately I was home alone so didn’t have to share them with anyone…I’ll definitely be making these again and will share next time. Thanks so much for sharing this awesome recipe.” — HEATHER

17. Quick & Easy Creamy Herb Chicken

Imagine this: tender, juicy chicken breasts gently simmered in a luscious, flavorful creamy herb sauce with just a hint of garlic. This Quick & Easy Creamy Herb Chicken is the quintessential solution for a hassle-free weekday meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The rich and aromatic sauce is incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly whether spooned over fluffy rice or tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a simple recipe that delivers gourmet-level comfort and satisfaction in a flash, making it a staple for busy cooks.

“Holy cow! This recipe was SO good! I made this for my family last night and it came out amazing! I love that it was a recipe I already had the ingredients for and it only took like 30 min. It was good with mashed potatoes, but I could also see it going great with pasta! Thank you! Two thumbs up!” — SOMMER

18. Grilled Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad

This Grilled Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad recipe is as close to perfection as you can get for a vibrant, healthy, and utterly delicious meal. Featuring a brilliantly designed dressing that doubles as a flavorful marinade for the chicken, it simplifies preparation while maximizing taste. This salad is brimming with fresh Mediterranean flavors: briny olives, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, creamy avocados, and tender grilled chicken, all combined to create a complete and satisfying meal served in a single bowl.

“This is one of my favorite salads! Made it 3 times at least and now, will make it again! Thank you for the great recipe.” — POLINA

19. Garlic Steak & Cheesy Bacon Potato Hash Foil Packs

Say hello to effortless cleanup and maximum flavor with these Garlic Steak & Cheesy Bacon Potato Hash Foil Packs. This ingenious recipe combines two universally loved favorites—tender-juicy-charred steak and a rich cheesy potato hash—all cooked together in a single foil packet. Infused with aromatic garlic butter, this dish creates the ultimate flavor combination without any pans to wash afterward. It’s an absolute game-changer for grilling, camping, or simply a convenient and delicious home-cooked meal.

“My children are very picky eaters and they all loved this steak/potatoes packet. Thanks!” — ISELA

20. Sheet Pan Lemon Parmesan Garlic Chicken & Veggies (Milanese)

Discover the ultimate easy dinner solution with our Oven Baked and CRISPY Sheet Pan Lemon Parmesan Garlic Chicken & Veggies. This Milanese-style chicken is coated in a flavorful, crispy breading and baked alongside tender potatoes and fresh green beans, all generously smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: everything cooks together on a single sheet pan, resulting in a complete, satisfying, and incredibly easy meal with minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you crave maximum flavor with minimal effort.

“This is my go-to recipe for when company comes, when I’m short on time, when i want something really yummy…basically, anytime!! Thanks for sharing this recipe. It’s one of my faves!” — JEN

21. Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp

Prepare to astound your guests and family with this Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp, a dish so rich and flavorful, they’ll wonder if you’ve hired a secret chef! Plump shrimp are coated in a light, yet incredibly creamy, garlic Parmesan sauce that’s bursting with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. This recipe is guaranteed to impress with its elegant presentation and deeply satisfying flavors. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare but delivers a gourmet dining experience, making it perfect for any occasion where you want to serve something truly special.

“This IS so good, thought I was eating at a restraunt, but even better!
Thanks!” — DC

And there you have it: the magnificent 21 BEST RECIPES that defined the culinary landscape of 2017, as chosen by you!

We hope this curated list has reignited your passion for cooking and introduced you to some new favorites. Each recipe tells a story of delicious success and joyful meals shared. Keep exploring, keep cooking, and keep sharing your wonderful feedback!

To see last year’s cherished favorites and continue your culinary journey, be sure to click here for the BEST LOW CARB and LOW FAT ROUND UP, or navigate to our 2016 collection.

Top 21 Recipes from 2017