Our Top 12 Recipes of 2024!

As we wrap up 2024, it’s time to celebrate the year’s standout dishes that captured our hearts and taste buds. From smoky redfish on the half shell from Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina to the creamy decadence of Burnt Bean Company’s street corn pudding, these recipes brought bold flavors and unforgettable experiences to our tables. Whether it’s the indulgent beef cheek ragu from Azzurro Coastal Italian Cuisine, the tropical flair of guava-glazed shrimp kebabs, or the Southern comfort of chicken spaghetti, each dish represents a unique blend of creativity, tradition, and irresistible taste. Here are the top 12 recipes of 2024 that we’ve tried—and loved—this year!

Crawfish Etouffee from Poche’s Seafood Shoppe & Restaurant

The crawfish étouffée from Poche’s Seafood Shoppe & Restaurant is a true celebration of Southern flavors, offering an authentic taste of Cajun cuisine with every bite. This recipe features tender crawfish tails bathed in a rich, silky sauce made from a golden-brown roux, simmered to perfection with the classic “holy trinity” of onions, bell peppers, and celery. The result is a deeply flavorful base that’s enhanced by just the right amount of spice that brings warmth without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the crawfish.

Chicken Curry from North Street Curry Shop

North Street Curry Shop’s chicken curry is a rich, aromatic dish made with tender chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful sauce of onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices including cumin, mustard seeds, turmeric, and garam masala. Infused with the warmth of curry leaves, red chiles, and ginger-garlic paste, this comforting curry is finished with fresh cilantro for a burst of brightness. Served with a velvety, spiced sauce, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal with a perfect balance of heat and depth.

Guava-Glazed Shrimp Kebabs from Goya

These guava-glazed shrimp kebabs from Goya bring a tropical twist to grilling, featuring juicy shrimp and mango slices brushed with a sweet and spicy guava glaze. Seasoned with garlic and Goya’s signature spices, the skewers are grilled to perfection and finished with fresh cilantro for a quick, flavorful dish. Yum!

Chicken Spaghetti from Southern Dough

Southern Dough Baking Company’s chicken spaghetti is a creamy, comforting dish packed with bold flavors. Tender pulled chicken, vibrant bell peppers, mushrooms, and a rich blend of cheeses combine with spaghetti in a luxurious sauce made from heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth. Enhanced with garlic, onion, and parsley, this hearty meal delivers Southern-style indulgence in every bite.

Smoked Brisket Queso Dip from Black’s Barbecue

Elevate your queso game with this smoked brisket queso dip from The Original Black’s Barbecue. It’s a creamy, smoky, and flavorful dip that’s perfect for any party or BBQ! Made with a rich, cheesy base, seasoned tomatoes and chilies, and chunks of tender smoked brisket, this dip brings together the best of Texas BBQ and comfort food. Garnish it with colorful toppings like pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce to make it a showstopper.

Redfish on the Half Shell from Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina

Beef Cheek Ragu from Azzurro Coastal Italian Cuisine

Azzurro Coastal Italian Cuisine’s beef cheek ragu is a luxurious, slow-cooked dish bursting with rich, savory flavors. Tender beef cheeks are braised in a fragrant sauce with aromatics like garlic, onion, and cinnamon. Served over hearty al dente pasta, this dish is a comforting and elegant meal that showcases the heart of Italian cooking. It’s a winner!

Perini Ranch’s Watermelon Pecan Salad with Jalapeno Vinaigrette

I discovered this delicious, refreshing salad while shooting an episode of our TV show at Perini Ranch in Buffalo Gap, a steakhouse I highly recommend! The tangy, slightly salty blue cheese in this refreshing salad pairs surprising well with the fresh watermelon. The pecans add some crunch, and the jalapeno vinaigrette adds some sweet heat! You can make the dressing and prep the ingredients up to an hour before serving but assemble the salad just before serving. Check out the restaurant’s cookbook by owners Lisa and Tom Perini: Perini Ranch Steakhouse: Stories and Recipes for Real Texas Food.

Burnt Bean Company’s Street Corn Pudding

The street corn pudding from the award-winning Burnt Bean Company in Seguin is a rich and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. This dish combines cornbread mix with creamed and whole kernel corn for a perfectly moist texture, enhanced with melted butter, sour cream, and a hint of sweetness. Jalapeños add a touch of heat, while toppings like crema, tangy Tajín, and crumbled queso fresco bring a street corn-inspired flair. Perfectly baked and served warm, it’s a delicious side dish that blends Southern comfort with bold Mexican flavors.

BBQ Grilled Cheese with Brisket, Sausage, and Pickles

This isn’t your average grilled cheese! Packed with smoky brisket, savory sausage, and the perfect blend of melty Oaxaca and sharp cheddar cheese, this BBQ Grilled Cheese from The Original Black’s Barbecue brings bold flavors to the table. The crispy cheese crust and a hint of honey take this sandwich over the top, while sour dill pickles add a tangy crunch. It’s an unforgettable mashup of BBQ and comfort food—perfect for a weekend lunch or casual dinner!

Liam’s Steakhouse Shrimp Sambuca

This incredible shrimp sambuca from The Liam’s Steakhouse in Dallas is an indulgent dish that combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with a creamy, aromatic sauce. Sautéed shrimp is paired with butter, diced shallots, and red peppers, then deglazed with white vermouth and the distinctive anise flavor of Romana Sambuca. Heavy cream creates a rich, velvety sauce, accented with fresh green onions and a touch of salt and pepper. This elegant dish offers a balance of creamy textures, subtle spice, and a hint of licorice for a truly refined seafood experience.

No-Bake Lime Marquesa from Goya