Discover The Food Charlatan’s Top 10 Reader-Favorite Recipes of 2018!
As we reflect on a fantastic year of culinary adventures, it’s time to unveil the most beloved recipes published on The Food Charlatan in 2018. From comforting savory dishes to irresistible sweet treats, our community spoke through their clicks and creations. Can you guess which recipe stole the top spot and captured the hearts (and stomachs) of our readers?
Well, fellow food enthusiasts, 2018 might be behind us, but the flavors and memories it brought are still fresh! It’s always a thrilling time of year to look back and see which recipes resonated most with you, our amazing readers. Based on blog traffic, this list represents the absolute cream of the crop—the dishes that truly made an impact this past year.
If you’re curious about the ultimate classics that have stood the test of time, you can always visit our Top 10 Recipes of ALL TIME page. But for now, let’s dive into the delicious highlights of 2018!
What’s truly exciting about this year’s lineup is the perfect balance: we have five incredibly satisfying savory recipes and five decadently sweet creations. This balanced selection shows that you all have impeccable taste, enjoying a diverse range of culinary delights! If you’re new to The Food Charlatan or looking for your next kitchen inspiration, this list is an excellent starting point to discover some truly fantastic, tried-and-tested dishes.
10. Irresistible Apple Pie Bars with a Buttery Crumble
Kicking off our countdown at number ten are these unbelievably decadent Apple Pie Bars. Let’s be upfront: these bars boast over a pound of butter, and that’s precisely why they’re so utterly amazing. The buttery, crumbly topping combined with the soft, spiced apple filling creates a texture and flavor profile that’s simply divine. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the classic comfort of apple pie in an easy-to-serve bar format. The crust and crumble combo here is so versatile that I’m already dreaming of adapting it for other fruits like peaches, berries, or even rhubarb. These bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy dessert at home. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they earned their spot!
9. Mastering Tri Tip: Grilled or Oven Roasted Perfection
Coming in at number nine is a savory sensation that’s quickly becoming a favorite: our guide on How to Cook Tri Tip (Grilled or Oven Roasted). This recipe is a nod to California-style cooking, bringing you a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to prepare this often-overlooked cut of beef. We even enjoyed this for Christmas dinner, proving its versatility for both everyday meals and special occasions. The beauty of tri-tip lies in its rich beefy flavor and tenderness when cooked correctly, and this recipe delivers just that. Whether you prefer the smoky char of the grill or the consistent heat of your oven, our straightforward instructions will help you achieve a perfectly juicy, tender tri-tip every time. It’s a surprisingly easy dish that tastes gourmet and is sure to impress.
8. The Only Texas Sheet Cake Recipe You’ll Ever Need
At number eight, we have a true chocolate masterpiece that lives up to its name: The Only Texas Sheet Cake You’ll Ever Need. Believe me when I say, this recipe is a game-changer. It’s a simple, incredibly rich, and intensely chocolatey cake that consistently earns rave reviews. The magic truly happens with the frosting—it’s absolutely to die for! The best part? You pour the warm, luscious frosting directly over the warm cake, creating an extra moist and gooey texture that’s pure bliss. This makes it an ideal last-minute dessert option, especially when you need to feed a crowd. It’s a nostalgic, comforting, and utterly delicious cake that’s perfect for any celebration or simply to satisfy a serious chocolate craving.
7. Fall-Off-The-Bone Honey Balsamic Slow Cooker Ribs
Securing the seventh spot is a testament to the power of the slow cooker: these incredible Honey Balsamic Slow Cooker Ribs. This fantastic recipe comes from my talented friend Natalie, author of a wonderful Paleo slow cooker cookbook. It’s hard to believe I hadn’t ventured into making ribs in a slow cooker before discovering this gem, but it truly opened up a whole new world of effortless, tender ribs! The combination of sweet honey and tangy balsamic creates an irresistible glaze that infuses the pork with deep flavor as it slowly cooks to fall-off-the-bone perfection. A quick trip under the broiler at the end adds that perfect caramelized crispness that takes these ribs from great to absolutely phenomenal. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy incredibly delicious ribs, this recipe is a must-try. (Natalie also released a Paleo Pressure Cooker book this year, which is another exciting avenue for healthy and delicious meals!)
6. Spicy & Sweet Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles)
Claiming the number six spot is a delightful twist on a classic cookie: these Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies (Chocolate Snickerdoodles). These fudgy, intensely chocolatey cookies are elevated by a warm hint of cinnamon, reminiscent of traditional Mexican hot chocolate. For those who love a little extra kick, a dash of cayenne pepper can be added to truly mimic the authentic experience. I like to think of them as an inventive take on chocolate snickerdoodles, offering that familiar soft, chewy texture with an unexpected depth of flavor. They are incredibly satisfying and unique, making them a fantastic addition to any cookie platter or a cozy treat on a chilly evening. These cookies are a perfect example of how small culinary twists can create something truly memorable.
5. The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies I’ve Ever Made (A Family Secret!)
At number five, we celebrate the timeless comfort of a perfectly baked cookie with The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies I’ve Ever Made. This recipe, a treasured hand-me-down from my cousin Alice, completely stole my heart. It brings a slightly untraditional yet utterly delicious twist to the classic, incorporating maple extract alongside vanilla for a subtle depth of flavor. A sprinkle of raw sugar on top before baking adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the chewy interior. These cookies are truly something special and consistently disappear quickly! It’s funny because just a few months later, my other cousin Emily shared her amazing 30 Minutes Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe, and now I find myself equally torn between the two – my cousins certainly have the best cookie secrets! Chocolate chip cookies, in all their forms, hold a special place in my heart, and these two recipes prove why.
4. Luxurious Caramel Cake with Homemade Caramel Icing Recipe
Holding the fourth spot is a dessert that defines indulgence: our Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing Recipe. Prepare yourself, because this is one of the richest, most satisfying cakes you will ever experience. The caramel frosting isn’t just icing; it’s a luscious, candy-like creation that envelops the moist cake in pure sweetness. My goal was to create an easy-to-follow version of a classic Southern Caramel Cake, and this recipe absolutely hits the mark. It delivers all the deep, complex flavors of a traditional caramel cake without the fuss, making it surprisingly accessible for home bakers. The result is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a truly unforgettable sweet treat. It’s incredibly easy to make and even more delicious to eat!
3. The Simply Amazing Grilled Chicken Recipe (No More Dry Chicken!)
Coming in strong at number three is a recipe I’m absolutely obsessed with, and for good reason: our Simply Amazing Grilled Chicken Recipe. My profound dislike for dry chicken led me on a quest to find the ultimate marinade, and this one truly delivers. It’s incredibly easy to prepare using everyday pantry staples, yet it transforms chicken into the juiciest, most flavorful grilled masterpiece imaginable. Seriously, no more sad, dry chicken! This marinade guarantees tender, succulent results every single time, whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue. It’s versatile enough to be served on its own, sliced into salads, or tucked into sandwiches. If you want consistently moist and delicious grilled chicken, stop what you’re doing and make this recipe immediately.
2. Hearty Cheesy Overnight Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Snatching the second spot is a beloved classic that got a major refresh this year: the Cheesy Overnight Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole. I originally published this recipe way back in 2012, complete with some (admittedly) rather amateur blogger photos. However, this casserole has always been a cherished family tradition, making an appearance every Christmas morning with my husband’s family. It’s wonderfully hearty, packed with flavor, and the ultimate convenience food because you can assemble it the night before! The combination of hashbrowns, ham, and an abundance of gooey cheese makes for a truly satisfying start to any day. When I republished the recipe with fresh, inviting photos at the beginning of last month, its popularity soared, propelling it to become the second most-loved recipe of the entire year! It’s proof that a great recipe, no matter its age, will always find its audience.
1. The Ultimate Easy Fall-Apart Pot Roast with Carrots – Slow Cooker Perfection
And now, for the grand reveal! Our number one most popular recipe of 2018 is the incredibly satisfying Easy Fall-Apart Pot Roast with Carrots – Slow Cooker. I confess, I was genuinely surprised by this recipe topping the charts, mainly because I thought everyone already had a go-to pot roast recipe! But it seems the demand for a truly foolproof, tender pot roast remains strong, and this recipe delivers beyond expectations. The “secret” to its immense flavor and simplicity? A classic trick of adding onion soup mix, which infuses the roast with incredible depth without any extra effort. The other key is patience – allowing it to slow cook for a full 8-10 hours transforms an ordinary piece of beef into an unbelievably tender, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. Our post shares even more tips and tricks to ensure absolute success. This recipe is genuinely foolproof, and I can confidently say I will never prepare a pot roast any other way. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Explore The Food Charlatan’s All-Time Favorite Recipes
For those who love to revisit culinary legends, don’t forget that you can always find our continuously updated list of “Top 10 Recipes” in the menu bar at the top of our site. This page showcases the recipes that have garnered the most enduring popularity since The Food Charlatan began. Click here to dive into the Top 10 Recipes Ever Published on The Food Charlatan! It’s a fantastic resource for discovering proven, crowd-pleasing dishes that have captivated readers for years.
And with that, we wrap up our delightful journey through the best of 2018! I am incredibly grateful to each and every one of you for reading, cooking, and engaging with my blog. Your support and enthusiasm truly make this space special. Please remember, one of the best ways to brighten a food blogger’s day and help others discover great food is by leaving a positive comment or review on your favorite recipes after you’ve made them. Your feedback is invaluable in helping new readers feel confident in trying our dishes. Thank you immensely for all your continuous support throughout the year. Wishing you all a very Happy New Year filled with delicious meals and cherished moments!
More Top Recipe Collections from Years Past!
If you enjoyed this look back, you’ll love exploring previous years’ favorites. It’s fascinating to see how tastes evolve and which recipes stand the test of time!
The Food Charlatan’s Top 5 Recipes of 2017
The Food Charlatan’s Top 5 Recipes of 2016
The Food Charlatan’s Top 5 Recipes from 2015
The Food Charlatan’s Top 5 Recipes from 2014
Even Earlier Top Recipe Posts on The Food Charlatan: A Trip Down Memory Lane!
For a true nostalgic culinary journey, explore these older top recipe round-ups from The Food Charlatan’s early days. Brace yourself for some truly “vintage” photography, but rest assured, the recipes themselves are still fantastic!
- Top 20 Recipes of 2013
- Top 20 Recipes of 2012
Discover More Reader Favorites: Top Recipe Round-Ups from My Talented Blog Friends!
The culinary community is a vibrant one, and I love seeing what other food bloggers are creating and what dishes their readers are loving. Check out these fantastic top recipe posts from some of my talented friends:
- Top 10 Most Popular Recipes of 2018 from Cupcakes and Kale Chips
- Top 10 Recipes of 2018 from Baked by Rachel
- Top 10 Recipes of 2018 from Flavor the Moments