The 10 Recipes Readers Loved Most on Slice of Southern in 2025

 

A look back at the 10 recipes readers loved most on A Slice of Southern in 2025—from easy weeknight dinners and fresh salads to comforting classics you cooked again and again.

The 10 Recipes Readers Loved Most on Slice of Southern in 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, I found myself looking back through the recipes you spent the most time with this year—the ones you searched for, cooked, and came back to again and again. From cozy one-pot dinners to fresh seasonal salads and a surprise breakfast favorite that truly ran away with the year, these dishes quietly tell the story of how we cooked in real life: practical, comforting, and full of flavor. These are the recipes that stood out not because they were flashy, but because they worked—and because you welcomed them into your kitchens.

Most Loved Recipe of 2025

Tomato-Mozzarella Scrambled Eggs – A Savory Morning Upgrade

Why readers loved it: Simple ingredients and big flavor made this an easy, elevated breakfast readers kept coming back to.

Best Weeknight Dinner

One-Pot Ground Beef & Orzo in 30 Minutes

Why readers loved it: This weeknight-friendly, one-pot meal delivered comfort and convenience without sacrificing flavor.

Southern Comfort Classic

Southern Skillet Cornbread: Buttery, Golden, & Irresistible

Why readers loved it: A classic Southern staple with crisp edges and a tender crumb that fits just as well on a weeknight table as a holiday spread.

Most Popular Salad

Late Summer Fig Salad with Cucumbers & Feta

Why readers loved it: Sweet figs, crisp cucumbers, and salty feta struck the perfect balance of fresh and satisfying.

Most Impressive (But Approachable)

Rustic Tomato Galette with Gruyère & Thyme

Why readers loved it: This savory galette felt special enough for entertaining but approachable enough for home cooks.

Sleeper Hit of the Year

Leftovers Transformed: Pearl Couscous Risotto with Chicken & Greens

Why readers loved it: A creative, resourceful way to turn leftovers into something comforting and completely new.

Bold Weeknight Favorite

Summer Cajun Chicken Skillet – Light, Bold, and Low-Carb

Why readers loved it: Bold Cajun flavor and a quick skillet method made this a standout for easy, flavor-packed dinners.

Best Protein-Packed Salad

The Ultimate Summer Steak Salad with Zesty Avocado Chimichurri

Why readers loved it: Hearty enough for dinner, fresh enough for warm weather, this salad checked all the boxes.

Best Seasonal Recipe

Summer Stone Fruit Salad with Two Dressings to Love

Why readers loved it: The option of two dressings gave readers flexibility while letting peak-season fruit shine.

Comfort Pasta Favorite 

Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera

Why readers loved it: Bright lemon, fresh herbs, and creamy pasta came together in a comforting dish that still felt light.

Can’t wait to see what we’ll be cooking together in 2026! Save your favorites and get ready for more cozy, flavorful recipes.

The Viral Lasagna Soup Everyone’s Making — A Cozy Winter Comfort Food (Perfect for Christmas Eve)

 

This viral lasagna soup is a cozy winter comfort food made in one pot and packed with classic lasagna flavor. Perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or Christmas Eve.

The Viral Lasagna Soup Everyone’s Making — And Why It’s Perfect for Christmas Eve

When the weather turns cold and comfort food cravings hit, this viral lasagna soup is exactly what you want simmering on the stove.  If you’ve been on social media at all lately, you’ve seen the viral lasagna soup taking over everyone’s feeds — and for good reason. It’s cozy, cheesy, and packed with all the flavor you love in traditional lasagna, but without the hours of prep and baking. One pot, a handful of simple ingredients, and a few minutes later, you have a steaming bowl of comfort that tastes like it belongs at a family dinner table. 

This year, I’m putting a holiday twist on this internet favorite. Imagine serving a warm, twirly bowl of lasagna soup on Christmas Eve — something that feels festive and indulgent, yet keeps your kitchen stress-free. It’s also perfect for busy evenings, casual family gatherings, or even a quiet, cozy night at home with your loved ones. The aroma alone will make your house feel like all cozy and warm, and the cheesy, meaty, tomato-rich broth guarantees smiles all around.

And the best part? This viral soup is ridiculously easy to make, but it looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. With every bite, you’ll get the nostalgia of traditional lasagna without the heavy lift, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser and a recipe you’ll want to keep on your rotation. Trust me — once you try it, this lasagna soup will become your new holiday and winter tradition.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Ground Sirloin – Adds a rich, beefy flavor and keeps the soup hearty and filling.

• Ground Italian Sausage – Brings seasoning, depth, and the classic lasagna flavor you expect.

• Yellow Onion – Builds a savory base and adds natural sweetness as it cooks.

• Garlic – Essential for that warm, aromatic flavor that ties the whole soup together.

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Intensify the tomato flavor and add a subtle tangy richness.

• Red Pepper Flakes – Add a touch of heat you can scale up or down to taste.

• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that gives the soup its familiar lasagna essence.

• Salt & Pepper – Balance, enhance, and bring out all the savory flavors.

• Crushed Tomatoes – The main body of the broth, giving the soup its rich tomato base.

• Tomato Paste – Deepens the flavor and thickens the broth slightly.

• Red Wine – Adds boldness and complexity (and cooks off!), but can be swapped if needed.

• Beef Broth – Forms the savory liquid base and keeps the soup hearty.

• Lasagna Noodles – Broken into pieces for that fun, twirly “lasagna-in-a-bowl” effect.

• Ricotta Cheese – Creates that creamy, classic lasagna topping when dolloped onto the soup.

• Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor that melts beautifully into the hot broth.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Ground Sirloin → Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or extra sausage.

• Italian Sausage → Replace with mild or spicy sausage, or use all ground beef if preferred.

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes → Skip them or swap in a spoonful of tomato pesto for added depth.

• Red Wine → Replace with beef broth, chicken broth, or a splash of balsamic vinegar.

• Beef Broth → Chicken broth or vegetable broth both work in a pinch.

• Lasagna Noodles → Any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, mafalda, or broken fettuccine.

• Ricotta Topping → Swap for cottage cheese blended smooth or use a dollop of mascarpone.

Variations

• Creamy Lasagna Soup – Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a rich, silky broth.

• Veggie-Loaded Version – Add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to bulk it up and make it extra hearty.

Kitchen Notes & Tips

• Break the noodles into large pieces so they mimic real lasagna layers and don’t overcook too quickly.

• Cook the noodles right in the soup for maximum flavor — they soak up all that tomato-rich broth.

• Taste as you go, especially after simmering — soups need seasoning adjustments at the end.

• Use a Dutch oven or heavy pot to help the soup simmer evenly without scorching.

• Let the ricotta topping sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors meld.

• Add extra broth if your soup thickens too much; the noodles continue to absorb liquid as it rests.

• Top with chopped parsley, or basil for a little garnish.

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Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup 2.0: The Arrabbiata Upgrade

 

Warm, bold, and irresistibly cozy — this Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup 2.0 features an arrabbiata upgrade that adds deeper flavor and a fiery kick. A hearty one-pot twist on the original fan-favorite soup that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or chilly nights.

Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup 2.0: The Arrabbiata Upgrade

If you’ve made my original Spicy Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup, you already know it’s one of the coziest, most satisfying one-pot meals in my kitchen. But today, we’re turning up the heat—literally. This updated version swaps the classic marinara for bold, fiery arrabbiata sauce, adding a deeper, more vibrant spice that takes this soup to a whole new level. All the hearty comfort of the original remains, but with an extra kick that makes it perfect for chilly nights, easy weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re craving a bowl with personality. Welcome to Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup 2.0: The Arrabbiata Upgrade.

It's amazing the way the arrabbiata sauce transforms this pot of soup. The broth becomes richer and redder, the aroma is gives off is deeper and more fragrant. As it simmers, you get this warm, peppery heat that wafts through the kitchen — not overwhelming, but enough to make you lean over the pot for another breath. The tender macaroni, savory beef, and bright tomatoes soak up every bit of flavor, creating a bowl that feels both nostalgic and exciting at the same time.

And if you loved the original, this upgrade is one you have to try. It has the same cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort that made the first version one of my most popular recipes, but with a bolder personality that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the kind of soup that wakes up your taste buds, warms you from the inside out, and makes you wonder how you ever made it without that extra hit of heat. One spoonful and you’ll know exactly why this version earned its “2.0” name.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this upgraded, spicy beef and macaroni soup. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the cozy, bold flavors you’ll love:

• Ground Sirloin: Lean and flavorful, it forms the hearty base of the soup and pairs perfectly with the spicy tomato broth.

• Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s savory flavor.

• Garlic: Provides a fragrant punch that complements the heat of the arrabbiata sauce.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the meat and vegetables.

• Oregano: A classic Italian herb that adds warmth and aromatic notes to the tomato base.

• Chicken Broth: Forms the flavorful liquid backbone of the soup, keeping it light yet rich.

• Arrabbiata Sauce: The star of this version — spicy, garlicky, and full of personality.

• Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture, freshness, and extra tomato flavor to balance the heat.

• Elbow Macaroni: The comforting, chewy pasta that soaks up all the bold flavors.

• Parsley (Garnish): Adds a fresh, bright note to finish the soup beautifully.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few simple ingredient swaps and variations you can try:

Substitutions:

• Ground Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
• Chicken Broth: Substitute with beef broth, vegetable broth, or water with a splash of tomato paste for extra depth.
• Elbow Macaroni: Try small shells, ditalini, or even gluten-free pasta to fit dietary needs.
• Arrabbiata Sauce: Swap for marinara if you prefer a milder soup.

Variations:

• Cheesy Beef & Macaroni Soup: Stir in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan just before serving for a creamy twist.

• Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra color, nutrients, and texture.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Browning the Beef: Don’t skip browning the ground beef well—it adds rich flavor and a heartier texture.

• Simmer Gently: Let the soup simmer for the full time to allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the broth.

• Pasta Timing: Add the pasta last and cook until just tender to avoid overcooking.

• Make Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze portions for easy future meals.

• Adjust Heat: Arrabbiata sauce adds spice, but you can control it by choosing mild, medium, or hot versions depending on your taste.

       Set the Mood       

Turn a simple bowl of soup into an unforgettable cozy experience with these ambiance tips ↓

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

 

This 5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad comes together in just 30 minutes! With the help of a simple Caesar salad kit, tender pasta, and savory salami, it’s an easy, satisfying weeknight meal that tastes like a deli favorite — without the extra work.

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

I’m bringing you another 5-Ingredient Meal! My last post — 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado — was such a time-saver for busy weeknights that I couldn’t wait to share another easy recipe in the series.

This 5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad might just be even easier. It starts with a simple Caesar salad kit and turns into something that tastes like you put in way more effort than you actually did. A handful of ingredients — tender mini farfalle, sliced salami, a few pepperoncini, and some red onion — give it a hearty, deli-style twist that’s ready in just about 30 minutes.

It’s the kind of dinner that checks every box: quick, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re too tired to cook after work or just need something you can toss together without thinking too hard, this pasta salad is a total win for busy nights.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

You’ll only need five simple ingredients for this Caesar-inspired pasta salad — most of which you probably already have on hand. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and flavor.

• Mini Farfalle Pasta – These little bowties hold the creamy Caesar dressing beautifully, giving every bite a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Any short pasta shape will work in a pinch — think rotini or penne.

• Caesar Salad Kit – The ultimate shortcut! It includes the greens, dressing, croutons, and Parmesan — everything you need to build a classic Caesar base with almost no prep.

• Sliced Salami – Adds savory, salty richness that makes this salad feel hearty and satisfying. Use a good-quality Italian salami for the best flavor.

• Pepperoncini Peppers – Bright, tangy, and just a touch spicy, these bring a pop of contrast that cuts through the creamy dressing.

• Red Onion – Thinly sliced for a mild bite and beautiful color — it ties everything together and gives the salad a little extra crunch.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to mix things up? This recipe is incredibly adaptable — here are a few ways to change the flavor profile or use what you already have.

Substitutions - Simple Swaps

• Pasta: Any small shape will do — rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni.

• Protein: Swap the salami for grilled chicken, diced turkey, pepperoni, or even chickpeas for a lighter, meat-free version.

• Cheese: Add a sprinkle of fresh shaved Parmesan or even a touch of feta for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations

1: Chicken Caesar Twist

Add grilled chicken (or rotisserie chicken) in place of the salami and toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness. It’s fresh, filling, and meal-prep friendly.

2: Italian Deli Style

Use an Italian-style salad kit instead of Caesar and add a handful of olives or roasted red peppers. The flavors are bolder and perfect for a picnic or make-ahead lunch.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Chill the pasta – Rinse your cooked pasta in cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and keep it from getting too soft.

• Toss just before serving – Mixing the dressing and toppings right before serving keeps the greens crisp and the textures balanced.

• Make it ahead – You can prep the pasta, chop the onion, and slice the salami earlier in the day. Wait to add the dressing and toppings until ready to eat for the best texture.

• Garnish Twist – Take the croutons from the salad kit and crush them up and mix them with the Parmesan cheese from the kit.  Sprinkle that on top of your pasta salad before serving.

• Upgrade the kit – Salad kits are an amazing shortcut, but don’t be afraid to enhance them — a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up.

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