Welcome to our much-anticipated annual roundup, showcasing the **MOST POPULAR Recipes on Fox and Briar from 2018**! This carefully curated list features the dishes and delights that captured your hearts and taste buds throughout the year. We’ve also included a few gems from December 2017, as we believe a truly outstanding recipe needs a little more time to blossom into widespread popularity and achieve its full potential in our annual rankings. Consider this your definitive guide to the culinary hits that defined a fantastic year of cooking and sharing, highlighting recipes that resonated deeply with our community.
The year 2018 was truly monumental for us, both personally and professionally. We celebrated the joyous arrival of our “baby fox” in April, an event that naturally shifted priorities and brought immense happiness into our home. To fully embrace this precious new chapter, I took a few months away from the blog, dedicating my time to family and savoring every moment. Eight months in, I’m still navigating the wonderful, albeit challenging, world of being a work-at-home mom – a journey many of you can surely relate to. Despite the delightful whirlwind, I managed to share approximately 55 brand new recipes with you this year, and the enthusiasm and support you showed were nothing short of incredible. This collection represents the absolute best, the recipes you clicked on, cooked, and cherished the most. Get ready to discover your next favorite meal and find inspiration for your kitchen adventures!
And don’t forget to mark your calendars! Tomorrow, I’ll be sharing a deeply personal list: **MY Top 15 Favorite Recipes of the Year** – a selection of the dishes that resonated most with me in my own kitchen and made a lasting impression. It’s a fun way to compare my personal favorites with what you, our amazing community, loved best, offering a unique perspective on the year’s culinary creations!
Curious to see what was trending in previous years? Dive into our past popular recipe roundups and explore more timeless favorites:
- TOP RECIPES OF 2017
- TOP RECIPES OF 2016
15. Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Kicking off our countdown at number 15 is the utterly delightful **Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate**. While a single serving of peppermint hot chocolate is a classic treat, this big-batch version takes winter indulgence to an entirely new level. Imagine coming in from a snowy adventure – perhaps after a thrilling day of skiing or sledding, or even just after selecting the perfect Christmas tree – to the comforting aroma and warmth of this festive beverage waiting for you. It’s an absolute game-changer for holiday parties, cozy family gatherings, or simply for those quiet evenings spent admiring your beautifully decorated Christmas tree. The slow cooker method makes it incredibly easy to prepare and keeps it warm for hours, allowing you to relax and enjoy the season. This recipe consistently proves to be a holiday favorite, offering a simple yet incredibly satisfying way to spread cheer. Don’t miss out on this seasonal sensation!
Ready to cozy up? Get the Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe Here.
14. Cranberry Orange Sangria
Coming in strong at number 14 is our dazzling **Cranberry Orange Sangria Recipe**, an absolute must-have cocktail for any festive gathering. This vibrant and refreshing sangria truly captures the essence of the holiday season, making it an ideal choice for Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas celebrations, or New Year’s Eve parties. What makes this recipe a perennial favorite is its incredible ease of preparation; simply mix the ingredients, and you’re good to go! Furthermore, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and saving you precious time when entertaining. The harmonious blend of tart cranberries and bright, zesty oranges creates a perfectly balanced drink that is both sophisticated and incredibly approachable. Serve it chilled with plenty of fresh fruit, and watch it become the star of your next holiday event. It’s no wonder this festive sangria was such a huge hit with our readers!
Ready to impress your guests? Find the Cranberry Orange Sangria Recipe Here.
13. Easy Chicken Shawarma
Earning its spot at number 13, the **Easy Chicken Shawarma** recipe became a weeknight dinner hero for many. This dish brings the incredible flavors of traditional shawarma right into your home, but with a simple, oven-roasted approach that eliminates the need for specialized equipment. Marinated chicken, packed with aromatic spices, cooks to tender perfection, resulting in a meal that’s both deeply satisfying and surprisingly quick to prepare. It’s fantastic served in warm pita bread with a drizzle of tahini sauce, fresh vegetables, and a sprinkle of herbs, making it a customizable and family-friendly option. This recipe proves that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor or authenticity for convenience, offering a taste of the Middle East with minimal effort. It quickly rose in popularity thanks to its bold flavors and straightforward method.
Craving delicious chicken? Get the Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe Here.
12. Turmeric Rice
Securing the 12th spot on our list is the brilliant and versatile **Turmeric Rice Recipe**. This vibrant side dish is a fantastic way to elevate any weeknight dinner with its beautiful golden hue and subtle, earthy flavor. Beyond its appealing color, turmeric is celebrated for its health benefits, making this rice not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your meal. It’s incredibly fast and easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time. Turmeric rice pairs wonderfully with a wide array of main courses, from grilled chicken and fish to curries and stir-fries, adding a touch of exotic flair. Its simplicity and ability to transform an ordinary meal into something special made it a consistently popular choice among our readers looking for easy, healthy, and flavorful sides.
Brighten up your dinner! Find the Turmeric Rice Recipe Here.
11. How to Make a Charcuterie Board
Claiming the 11th position is not a recipe, but an essential skill for entertainers: **How to Make a Charcuterie Board**. No party, large or small, feels truly complete without an epic charcuterie board stealing the show. This guide goes beyond just arranging ingredients; it offers step-by-step photos and invaluable tips to help you craft a stunning and delicious platter that will impress every guest. From selecting the perfect combination of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, nuts, and crackers to artfully arranging them, this post demystifies the process. It’s designed to help you create a visually appealing and gastronomically satisfying centerpiece that encourages grazing and conversation. Its popularity highlights a growing trend in entertaining, where presentation and variety are key to a memorable gathering. Learn the secrets to building a board that will have your guests coming back for more, time and time again.
Become a charcuterie master! Learn How to Make a Charcuterie Board Here.
10. How to Make the Best Bacon
At number 10, we have the ultimate guide to a breakfast (or anytime) favorite: **How to Make the Best Bacon**. This post reveals the foolproof secret to achieving perfectly crispy, evenly cooked bacon every single time – by baking it in the oven! Say goodbye to greasy splatters and unevenly cooked strips, and hello to consistently delicious bacon. Beyond mastering the basic technique, we also delve into exciting ways to elevate your bacon experience by showcasing four delicious flavored bacon variations. From sweet and spicy to herbaceous, these flavor infusions add an unexpected twist to an already beloved classic. Whether you’re making a batch for a crowd or just for yourself, this method ensures superior results. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves bacon, which explains why it quickly became one of our most-visited posts of the year.
Unlock bacon perfection! Get the Best Bacon Recipe (Plus 4 Flavors) Here.
9. Olive Oil Marinated Mozzarella Balls
Sliding into the ninth spot are these incredibly simple yet elegant **Olive Oil Marinated Mozzarella Balls**. This recipe is the definition of a quick and easy appetizer, requiring less than 15 minutes to prepare, making it a lifesaver for last-minute entertaining. Tender, fresh mozzarella balls are gently marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, herbs, and spices, transforming them into irresistible bites. They are perfect for a variety of occasions, from holiday parties like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, to casual get-togethers or even a sophisticated addition to a simple weeknight meal. The beauty of this appetizer lies in its minimal effort and maximum impact, delivering a burst of fresh, savory flavor with every pop. It’s a fantastic solution for hosts seeking something delicious and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
Effortless entertaining starts here! Find the Olive Oil Marinated Mozzarella Balls Recipe Here.
8. Pomegranate Goat Cheese Bites
Our eighth most popular recipe takes us into the realm of sweet and savory with these exquisite **Pomegranate Goat Cheese Bites with Honey and Thyme**. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can combine to create a truly impressive party appetizer. The creamy tang of goat cheese pairs beautifully with the juicy sweetness of pomegranate arils, all brought together with a delicate drizzle of honey and the earthy aroma of fresh thyme. These bites are not only incredibly flavorful but also visually stunning, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. They offer a sophisticated appetizer option that is surprisingly easy to assemble, allowing you to focus on enjoying your guests rather than fussing in the kitchen. Their unique flavor profile and elegant presentation quickly made them a reader favorite for holiday entertaining and special occasions.
Impress with ease! Get the Pomegranate Goat Cheese Bites Recipe Here!
7. Creamy Pasta with Pancetta and Peas
At number 7, we celebrate the ultimate in quick comfort food: **Creamy Pasta with Pancetta and Peas**. This dish is a true revelation for busy individuals and families, promising an elegant and incredibly satisfying dinner in a mere 15 minutes! The rich, savory notes of crispy pancetta perfectly complement the sweet tenderness of fresh or frozen peas, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce. It’s a testament to the fact that a gourmet-tasting meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This recipe is a versatile choice for any night of the week when you crave something special but are short on time. Its speed, ease, and irresistible flavor profile made it an instant hit, becoming a go-to for many readers seeking both convenience and culinary delight. It truly exemplifies smart, delicious cooking for a modern lifestyle.
Dinner in 15 minutes! Find the Creamy Pasta with Pancetta and Peas Recipe Here.
6. Cauliflower Rice Turkey Taco Skillet
Taking the sixth spot is the incredibly popular **Cauliflower Rice Turkey Taco Skillet**, a testament to the growing demand for healthy, low-carb dinner options that don’t compromise on flavor. This recipe is a powerhouse of nutrition and taste, offering all the vibrant flavors of tacos in a convenient, skillet-friendly format. It comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet wholesome meal. Packed with lean ground turkey, nutrient-rich cauliflower rice, and an abundance of colorful veggies, this dish is both satisfying and guilt-free. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a lighter version of a beloved classic, proving that healthy eating can be both delicious and incredibly easy. Its widespread appeal speaks to its perfect blend of health, speed, and irresistible taco-inspired taste.
Healthy tacos, fast! Get the Cauliflower Rice Turkey Taco Skillet Recipe Here.
5. Easy Sauteed Cabbage
At number 5, we have a true underdog success story: the **Easy Sauteed Cabbage Recipe**. This simple yet utterly delicious side dish completely transforms humble cabbage into something extraordinary. If you’ve ever thought you weren’t a fan of cabbage, this recipe is designed to change your mind! It’s incredibly quick and healthy, making it a perfect accompaniment to almost any meal on any night of the week. While it’s especially fitting for a festive Saint Patrick’s Day celebration, its versatility and deliciousness ensure it’s enjoyed year-round. The sautéing method brings out a natural sweetness and tender texture that even the most skeptical eaters will love. Its popularity underscores the idea that sometimes the simplest dishes, when prepared correctly, can be the most surprising and satisfying hits. This recipe truly makes a believer out of everyone who tries it.
Discover delicious cabbage! Find the Easy Sauteed Cabbage Recipe Here.
4. Shrimp Scampi with White Wine
Coming in at number 4 is a classic that never goes out of style, elevated to perfection: **Shrimp Scampi with White Wine**. This recipe features succulent shrimp bathed in a delectable garlicky, buttery sauce, beautifully balanced by the bright acidity of white wine, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and the fresh zest of parsley. It’s a dish that feels incredibly gourmet yet is surprisingly easy to whip up. This shrimp scampi is fantastically versatile – wonderful when tossed with your favorite pasta, served elegantly over fluffy rice, or simply enjoyed with crusty bread for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that incredible sauce. Its robust flavors and comforting appeal make it a favorite for both special occasions and weeknight indulgences. The perfect combination of richness and freshness explains its enduring popularity.
Indulge in classic flavors! Get the Shrimp Scampi with White Wine Recipe Here.
3. Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl
Earning a coveted spot at number 3, the **Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl** is the quintessential holiday party appetizer that truly impresses. This show-stopping dish combines a warm, crusty bread bowl filled with exquisitely melty brie cheese and a vibrant, sweet-tart cranberry sauce. The combination is, quite simply, a match made in heaven – rich, creamy, and bursting with festive flavors. It’s designed for sharing, allowing guests to tear off pieces of the bread, scooping up the irresistible cheesy cranberry mixture. Beyond its incredible taste, its beautiful presentation makes it a centerpiece at any holiday gathering, from Thanksgiving to Christmas. It’s an easy-to-prepare appetizer that looks and tastes far more elaborate than it is, making it a beloved choice for hosts who want to create a memorable culinary experience with minimal stress.
A holiday showstopper awaits! Find the Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl Recipe Here.
2. Instant Pot Ramen Egg
The runner-up in our countdown, at number 2, revolutionized homemade ramen for many: the **Instant Pot Ramen Egg Recipe**. Achieving that perfect soft-cooked, jammy yolk is often seen as a challenge, but this recipe makes it incredibly simple and foolproof using the Instant Pot. These exquisite eggs cook in just two minutes, after which they are lovingly soaked in a flavorful Japanese-style marinade. The result is a ramen egg with an ideal texture and a depth of umami flavor that elevates any bowl of homemade ramen. Its immense popularity highlights the desire for restaurant-quality details in home cooking, especially with the rise of the Instant Pot. This recipe is an essential for any ramen enthusiast looking to perfect their bowl, offering a simple hack for a truly gourmet touch.
Perfect your ramen! See the Instant Pot Ramen Egg Recipe Here.
1. Instant Pot Chicken Ramen
And finally, taking the top spot as the **MOST POPULAR Recipe on Fox and Briar in 2018** is the phenomenal **Instant Pot Chicken Ramen**! This recipe became an absolute sensation, offering a way to create a delicious, deeply flavorful ramen in approximately half an hour using your electric pressure cooker. Gone are the days of simmering broth for hours; the Instant Pot streamlines the process, delivering a rich, complex broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles in a fraction of the time. It brings the beloved flavors of a favorite restaurant dish right into your kitchen with incredible ease and speed. Its immense popularity speaks volumes about its ability to satisfy cravings for authentic, comforting ramen without the lengthy preparation. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves ramen and seeks a fast, convenient, and utterly delicious way to enjoy it at home.
Experience ramen perfection, fast! Get the Instant Pot Chicken Ramen Recipe Here.
As we conclude this wonderful recap of the most beloved recipes of 2018, I am truly filled with gratitude. To each and every one of you who visited Fox and Briar, tried a recipe, left a comment, or shared a photo – thank you. Your support, engagement, and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind this blog, especially as I navigated the beautiful challenges of becoming a new mom this past year. Sticking with me through this exciting and transformative period means the world.
This year’s most popular recipes showcase a wonderful blend of comforting classics, innovative quick meals, and impressive entertaining bites, reflecting the diverse culinary interests of our amazing community. It’s inspiring to see what truly resonated with you, from speedy Instant Pot creations to delightful slow cooker treats and elegant appetizers.
I can’t wait to see what new culinary adventures and popular recipes 2019 will bring to our kitchens and our community. I’m already brimming with ideas and look forward to sharing many more delicious creations with you. Be sure to check back tomorrow for my personal favorite recipes of the year!