Best Main Dish Recipes of 2011

With so many delicious main dish recipes to choose from, narrowing it down to just five was no easy task! To keep things balanced, I made sure to include at least one recipe each featuring beef, chicken, and pork, along with a couple of other standouts that became fast family favorites. These dishes represent the very best of 2011—comforting, flavorful, and perfect for bringing everyone to the table.

#1 – Homemade Corn Dogs

I have to confess—corn dogs from the mall have always been one of my guilty pleasures. There’s just something about that golden, crispy coating wrapped around a juicy hot dog that feels nostalgic and fun. The best part? With this recipe, I can now enjoy that same indulgence right at home, no deep fryer at the food court required!

These homemade corn dogs are surprisingly simple to make, and they taste even better fresh from your own kitchen. I especially love making the mini version—they’re perfect for kids, parties, or even game-day snacking. Whether you serve them with classic ketchup and mustard or get creative with dipping sauces, these corn dogs are proof that sometimes the most playful recipes are also the most memorable.

#2 – Best Oven Roast

There’s just something timeless about a classic roast with mashed potatoes. It’s the kind of meal that instantly feels like Sunday dinner at home. This oven roast is my absolute favorite way to prepare it. The slow roasting process locks in all the juices and creates tender, flavorful meat with a perfectly browned crust. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich pan gravy. You’ve got a hearty, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s simple, satisfying, and a tradition worth keeping alive week after week.

#3 – Coconut Chicken

As much as I adore coconut shrimp, discovering this coconut chicken recipe was a total game-changer. It takes all the tropical, crispy goodness of the shrimp version and transforms it into a family-friendly dish that’s just as fun and flavorful. The chicken comes out golden and crunchy on the outside. Then it’s tender on the inside, and bursting with that subtle sweetness from the coconut coating. And don’t skip the sauces—they’re the perfect finishing touch, adding layers of flavor that complement the chicken beautifully. Whether you go with something tangy, sweet, or a little spicy, the dipping sauces make this dish shine.

#4 – Spicy Honey Chicken

There’s just something irresistible about the combination of sweet and spicy. This recipe delivers that perfect balance in every bite. The spicy honey chicken is coated in a flavorful seasoning. Then finish it with a sticky honey glaze that brings both heat and sweetness to the table. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a bold kick that’s mellowed by the natural richness of honey.

What I love most is how versatile this dish can be. It’s just as delicious served with rice and veggies for a weeknight dinner as it is paired with fresh salad. Or tuck it into wraps for something a little lighter. It’s a recipe that proves you don’t have to choose between sweet comfort and spicy excitement. You can have both in one mouthwatering dish.

#5 – BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos

These BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos have quickly become a new family favorite, and it’s easy to see why. My oldest son is especially obsessed with them—he asks for them any chance he gets! The combination of tender, smoky pulled pork layered over crunchy tortilla chips, then topped with melty cheese, tangy barbecue sauce, and a pile of fresh toppings, is nothing short of irresistible.

What really takes these nachos over the top is the contrast of textures and temperatures. The warm, savory pulled pork paired with the cool, crisp crunch of coleslaw creates the perfect bite every time. It’s a dish that feels fun and casual, yet hearty enough to serve as a main meal. Whether you’re making them for game day, a family movie night, or just a weeknight dinner with a twist, these nachos are guaranteed to disappear fast.

And with that, we wrap up the Best Main Dish Recipes of 2011. This is a collection full of comfort, flavor, and family favorites that are sure to stay in rotation for years to come.