Now that the new year has officially begun, I love taking a moment to look back on the recipes I made most during 2025 to help give me inspiration for meals to make in 2026.
All three of the recipes I chose have a few things in common: they’re easy to make, can be doubled or even tripled for leftovers the next day, and, most importantly, they’re all family favorites. Even my two toddlers, who have a lot to say about what they eat, happily eat these meals.
I picked one appetizer and two dinners that are perfect to make in a pinch. They also work great if you need to bring a dish to something like a Super Bowl party or if you’re having people over and want something reliable and crowd-pleasing.
Buffalo Chicken Dip: A Go-To Crowd Favorite
This buffalo chicken dip quickly became my go-to whenever we needed something easy and guaranteed to disappear. Whether it was game day, a casual get-together, or just a fun weekend snack, this recipe delivered every time. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, and it’s always one of those dishes people ask for the recipe after trying. Looking back, it was hands-down one of the most made snacks in our house last year.
Carnitas with Spanish Rice, Black Beans and Pico
This Carnitas with Spanish Rice dinner is one of my go-to easy family meals because it’s as delicious as it is simple. I used Del Real Foods Carnitas and paired them with Spanish-style rice, black beans, and fresh pico de gallo for a meal that’s full of flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. The carnitas are tender and perfectly seasoned, the rice and beans make it hearty and satisfying, and the pico adds a fresh, zesty finish. It’s a meal the whole family loves, and it’s definitely one I’ll keep making again and again.
Chicken Pot Pie Orzo: Cozy Comfort Food
As the weather cooled down, this Chicken Pot Pie Orzo became a staple at our table. It has all the cozy flavors of a classic pot pie but in an easy, comforting pasta dish the whole family loved. It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for slower nights when everyone just wants a comforting meal together. This one was especially popular toward the end of the year and felt like the perfect way to close out 2025.
My husband and I both love to cook, but we’re also very aware that life gets busy and there isn’t always time to make a full two-hour meal, even if we wish there was. We still prioritize good flavor and try not to make the same thing every single week, which is why I love these recipes so much. They don’t take a ton of prep, but they’re still comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.
As we head into the new year, these recipes will definitely stay in rotation, and I’m excited to see what new family favorites 2026 will bring.
This blog is all about family-favorite recipes and easy dinner ideas for families. For more recipes, be sure to visit everydaywithcassie.com.
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