A delicious collection of our readers’ favorite (new!) recipes here on Gimme Some Oven over the course of 2020.
Dear friends, we’ve collectively navigated a truly unprecedented year. The journey through 2020 was undeniably historic, marked by unexpected challenges, shifts in daily life, and a global rollercoaster of emotions. While countless moments from this period will be etched into our memories, as a food blogger, one profound observation stands out: you, our incredible community, embraced your kitchens like never before. Whether by choice, necessity, or a blend of both, home cooking became a central pillar for many, a source of comfort, nourishment, and even creative escape.
And for that dedication, that commitment to feeding yourselves and your loved ones, we want to extend our deepest appreciation and offer a heartfelt declaration: you truly did an outstanding job.
The early days of quarantine sparked a unique energy, an eagerness to tackle ambitious DIY projects. This period saw a renaissance of homemade staples, from the satisfying aroma of freshly baked bread and the tactile joy of crafting pasta, to perfecting your own tortillas. Many of you delved into the comforting sweetness of cinnamon buns, the rustic charm of focaccia, the intricate art of sushi, and even elevated your home happy hour with an array of cocktails galore. It was a time of culinary experimentation and skill-building, transforming kitchens into vibrant hubs of activity.
However, as the months progressed and the initial adrenaline waned, the reality of prolonged time at home settled in. The marathon of daily cooking often became a demanding task. We observed a natural shift in preferences, with our community increasingly seeking out recipes that offered speed, simplicity, and a comforting embrace. Our quickest and easiest dinner solutions, such as savory fried rice, the elegant simplicity of spaghetti aglio e olio, and the ever-popular 5-ingredient chicken chili, soared in popularity. Alongside these, classic comfort food recipes, especially an abundance of holiday cookies, provided much-needed solace and joy. We understood that some days, simply getting *any* meal on the table – whether it was a frozen pizza or scrambled eggs – was a monumental achievement, a small victory in a challenging time.
So, regardless of what your culinary journey looked like throughout 2020, please know that your efforts were remarkable. You demonstrated incredible resilience, providing sustenance and comfort for a record number of nights in a row. You nurtured yourselves and your loved ones, navigating unprecedented circumstances with grace and resourcefulness. As we look ahead, we eagerly anticipate a future filled with renewed energy for healthier habits, and perhaps, more opportunities for those much-deserved nights off from kitchen duty. We dream of freely gathering again, hosting vibrant dinner parties, and safely dining out at all our beloved restaurants. But for now, we celebrate our collective strength in cooking our way through one of the most complicated and unpredictable years of our lives, creating countless delicious moments and cherished memories along the way.
On a more personal note, we want to express our profound gratitude. Thank you for allowing Gimme Some Oven and our recipes to be a part of your journey this past year. It has been the most meaningful period in our food blogging career, offering new recipes and resources that we sincerely hope provided a helpful guide through the pandemic. The trust you place in us and in these recipes is a treasure we hold incredibly dear. It has been an absolute privilege to know that our blog served as a reliable resource for you during such a pivotal time.
Once again, our sincerest thanks. We are immensely grateful, as always, to have each and every one of you as part of our community. As is our cherished annual tradition, we proudly present the definitive list of the top 20 new recipes that captured your hearts and taste buds here on Gimme Some Oven in 2020! Make sure to stay tuned tomorrow for a separate list featuring our personal favorites, and we warmly invite you to share your own top picks in the comments section below!
As colder weather settled in and families sought comforting meals, this Ultimate Chili recipe quickly became a community favorite. Its rich, savory broth and hearty combination of beef, beans, and vegetables made it a perfect fit for cozy evenings and game day gatherings. Easy to adapt for various cooking methods like stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker, it offered flexibility for busy schedules.
Ultimate Chili
“Ridiculously good. I used a potato masher to smash some of the beans in the soup to thicken and let it go a bit uncovered to simmer to thicken a bit more. Love the smokiness of this. I used ground beef and hot Italian sausage. Also used black beans and pinto beans. Highly recommend.” -Christy
For those seeking lighter, healthier meal options amidst the comfort food craze, this vibrant Lentil Salad offered a refreshing alternative. Packed with protein from French lentils and bursting with fresh flavors like cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, and a bright lemon-mint dressing, it was a popular choice for quick lunches and wholesome dinners throughout the year.
Favorite Lentil Salad
“This salad is scrumptious, light, delicious and tastes like sunshine in a bowl. I love lentils anyway, but the mint really adds a whole new dimension. It was so easy to make. I just hope git lasts long enough to make it to dinner tomorrow night.” -Susan
When you need a quick, elegant, and uniquely flavored soup, this Lemony Artichoke Soup delivered. Its simplicity and use of pantry staples made it accessible, while the delicate artichoke flavor, brightened by lemon, offered a sophisticated touch. A perfect 30-minute meal that delighted many looking for something different yet comforting.
Lemony Artichoke Soup
“I’ve owed you a comment about this soup recipe for some time now. My husband and I love artichokes so I couldn’t wait to try this recipe after you first posted it. I’ve made it a few times now and it’s definitely a keeper. I use a bag of frozen artichokes from Trader Joe’s and since we really like the lemony flavor, I double the amount called for, but that’s my only change. Hubby even requested it as part of his birthday dinner earlier this month. Thank you for sharing!” -Helen
The quest for homemade bread reached new heights in 2020, and this No Knead Bread recipe offered the perfect solution. With options for an overnight or a quicker 2-hour method, it demystified bread-making, allowing everyone to achieve a beautiful, crusty loaf with minimal effort. It quickly became a staple for many aspiring bakers.
No Knead Bread
“I’ve tried a few other no-knead recipes, but wasn’t happy with either the texture or flavor of any of them. This one is just right. Came out perfect! I used the 2 hour version and baked it in my small oval LC. The only change I might make is to cut the salt slightly to 1.5 teaspoons, just because we’re cutting down on salt in my house.” -Jan
Craving a classic dessert without the fuss? These Carrot Cake Bars hit all the right notes. Perfectly moist, gently spiced, and crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they provided the beloved flavors of carrot cake in a convenient, shareable bar format. Ideal for celebrations or a delightful weeknight treat.
Carrot Cake Bars
“I really wanted a carrot cake but didn’t want to deal with the complexity of a multi-tiered cake. This recipe and size was exactly what I was looking for. It tastes delicious! I will definitely be making it again!” -Bethany
Homemade meatballs are a timeless comfort, and this recipe delivers on all fronts. Perfectly seasoned and incredibly versatile, these meatballs quickly became a go-to for hearty pasta dishes, subs, or even as a simple appetizer. Their deliciousness and ease ensured their spot in many monthly meal rotations.
Meatballs
“This recipe has earned a permanent spot in my monthly rotation! No need to modify, it’s perfect the way it is!! Be sure to read the tips which make a world of a difference.” -Kim
Elevate any salad with this incredibly flavorful Best Caesar Dressing. Quick and easy to whip up, it boasts all the creamy, savory, umami notes you expect from a classic Caesar, making homemade salads feel restaurant-worthy. A must-have dressing that delighted palates with its irresistible taste.
Best Caesar Dressing
“Outstanding! My husband made it yesterday and it was EVEN BETTER tonight! Quite possibly the best Caesar dressing that I’ve ever tasted!” -Brady
Bringing the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine home, this Carne Asada recipe proved to be a sensational hit. Featuring a potent citrusy marinade that tenderizes and infuses the steak with incredible flavor, it’s perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking on the stovetop. Versatile for tacos, burritos, or nachos, it offered a delicious escape.
Carne Asada
“This was SO good. I didn’t even use the salt; it had so much flavor. Thank you for sharing!” -Amy
This Italian Sausage Orzo Soup became a beacon of comfort, especially as the seasons changed. Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and simmered in a zesty garlic tomato broth, it offered a hearty and flavorful meal that satisfied the soul. Perfect for dinner and even better as leftovers, it truly warmed many homes.
Italian Sausage Orzo Soup
“This soup was so good–my whole family loved it! I had kale in the refrigerator so I used that instead of spinach. Topped it with some fresh grated parmesan and served alongside grilled cheese. Perfect for the first snow of the year!” -Meri
Embracing the DIY spirit of the year, these Homemade Flour Tortillas quickly became a runaway favorite. Irresistibly soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor from just five simple ingredients (no lard!), they redefined the taco, burrito, and quesadilla experience for many. Their ease of preparation and superior taste made them an instant classic.
Flour Tortillas
“I have made this recipe more than a dozen times and every time I make these tortillas I ask myself why did we ever buy tortillas from the store in the past? These are by far the best tortillas anyone in our family has ever tasted and believe me we have tried MANY!!!! The taste is amazing, they are very easy to make and a batch can be prepared in no time at all. Last week I made a double batch and used them in enchiladas. Hands down the best enchiladas ever and it all comes back to one thing, this recipe. Give this recipe a try, you will love the tortilla!!!” -Dave
Bringing vibrant, fresh flavors to the dinner table, these Shrimp Tacos were a clear winner. Featuring zesty shrimp, a refreshing cilantro lime coleslaw, creamy avocado, and a spicy chipotle crema, they offered a gourmet taco experience at home. Perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight meal or a festive gathering.
Shrimp Tacos
“These were so simple and so tasty!! We made everything according to the recipe and it was perfect. Paired it with your fresh strawberry margaritas and a jicama and radish salad from Fine Cooking. Can’t wait to enjoy leftovers tomorrow! Thanks for another fabulous meal at home!!” -Hannah
For those seeking a baking project that yields utterly delicious results, these Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar) captivated our audience. Their perfectly soft, chewy cardamom-infused dough, buttery cinnamon-sugar filling, and charming knotted shape made them an irresistible treat. A delightful indulgence for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon fika.
Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)
“I finally tried making these and followed the recipe exactly, and they are INCREDIBLE! My family is obsessed. And they were so fun to make. Can’t wait for the next batch!” -Julie
Simple yet utterly luxurious, this Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes, Burrata, and Basil became a beloved weeknight meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it marries sweet burst tomatoes, creamy burrata, fresh basil, and garlic for an outrageously delicious Italian-inspired dish that felt both effortless and gourmet.
Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes, Burrata and Basil
“One of the best pasta dishes I’ve ever had, let alone cooked myself!” -Gordon
Bringing the iconic taste of a soft pretzel shop right into your kitchen, these Buttery Soft Pretzels were a huge hit for snacking and entertaining. Remarkably easy to make in just one hour, their warm, buttery goodness and customizable toppings made them a fun and satisfying project for all ages.
Buttery Soft Pretzels
“These were SO good! The extra butter on top totally made them taste like Auntie Anne’s too. ?” -Rachel
Effortlessly elegant and incredibly delicious, this Brown Butter Lemon Pasta quickly earned a spot in many dinner rotations. With just five ingredients and less than 30 minutes, it transforms simple pasta into a divine Italian comfort food experience. Its rich, nutty brown butter and bright lemon notes create a truly unforgettable flavor profile.
Brown Butter Lemon Pasta
“I’ve made other lemon pastas before and my kids always turned their noses up at it. But they loved this one (as did I)! It’s going into our regular rotation.” -Emilee
For those who love seasonal sips, this Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte offered a delightful homemade alternative to coffee shop versions. Made with real pumpkin puree, your choice of milk, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, it’s easy to prepare in minutes and delivers robust fall flavors without being overly sweet. Perfect both iced and hot!
Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte
“Love how flavorful this is without being overpoweringly sweet! I’ve been using this recipe to make hot PSLs all winter too and it is delicious.” -Beth
Ushering in the cozy flavors of autumn, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls became a new breakfast sensation. Soft, chewy, and infused with delightful pumpkin spice, they are topped with a heavenly maple cream cheese frosting. Remarkably easy to prepare in about an hour, they delivered the ultimate fall treat to many eager households.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
“New favorite cinnamon roll recipe! Made these this morning and it is the perfect fall treat. The pumpkin spice flavor with the maple cream cheese frosting makes the perfect combo for a fall breakfast. Every family member gave it a two thumbs up!” -Courtney
For a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying plant-based meal, this Sweet Potato Chickpea Coconut Curry proved immensely popular. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, it simmers sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and spinach in a cozy, creamy coconut curry broth. It quickly became a weeknight staple, perfect served with rice or naan.
Sweet Potato Chickpea Coconut Curry
“I made this, and it was amazing! Easy and so flavorful. A really satisfying meal. I used veg stock instead of milk. Thanks for this great recipe that is definitely going in regular rotation!” -Catherine
This rich and savory Mushroom Gravy redefined holiday meals and weeknight sides alike. Naturally vegetarian and vegan, it’s packed with umami flavor and can be made ahead, offering a delightful alternative to traditional meat gravies. It earned its place as a go-to for mashed potatoes and many other comforting dishes.
Mushroom Gravy
“We had a vegetarian Thanksgiving and I couldn’t make my usual turkey gravy, so I tried this one and this is the best gravy I’ve ever made. It’s going into the recipe box for future re-makes as my go-to gravy!” -Jessica
When time is short but a delicious, satisfying meal is a must, this classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio shone brightly. With just four simple ingredients – spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes – it comes together in a mere 20 minutes, proving that culinary joy doesn’t require complexity. A consistently happy-making meal.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
“Delish and easy to prepare, its in our rotation of meals that make us happy :)” -Jennifer
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What about you? What were your favorite new recipes from Gimme Some Oven in 2020? Did they make our top 20 list, or do you have other gems to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!