The All-Time Facebook Foodie Favorites: Recipes That Broke the Internet
Facebook, the behemoth of social media, isn’t just for connecting with friends and family; it’s a veritable treasure trove of recipes! Over the years, certain dishes have gone viral, captivating millions with their seemingly simple instructions and mouthwatering results. These are the recipes that dominated our feeds, sparked countless kitchen adventures, and earned their place as all-time Facebook foodie favorites. Get ready to recreate the magic in your own kitchen!
1. Baked Feta Pasta: The TikTok Sensation That Conquered Facebook
Originally popularized on TikTok, this recipe’s virality quickly spread to Facebook, becoming a global phenomenon. The sheer simplicity of baking feta with tomatoes and pasta proved irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite shape)
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat & Prep:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches), place the block of feta cheese in the center. Arrange the cherry tomatoes around the feta.
2. **Flavor Infusion:** Sprinkle the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) over the tomatoes. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and softened, and the feta is golden brown and softened.
4. **Cook Pasta:** While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
5. **Combine:** Once the feta and tomatoes are baked, remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork or spoon, mash the feta and tomatoes together to create a creamy sauce.
6. **Incorporate Pasta:** Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss well to coat evenly with the feta and tomato sauce. Add a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
7. **Serve:** Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately. Enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Protein:** Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage can be added for extra protein.
* **Spice it Up:** Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* **Vegetable Boost:** Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or onions can be added to the baking dish alongside the tomatoes.
* **Creamier Sauce:** For an even creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the baking dish after the tomatoes and feta are baked.
* **Lemon Zest:** A little lemon zest brightens the flavor.
2. One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta: Weeknight Dinner Made Easy
One-pot pasta recipes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and this creamy tomato version is a Facebook favorite for its simplicity and deliciousness.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Add Ingredients:** Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add the pasta, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. **Simmer:** Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. **Cream & Cheese:** Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and Parmesan cheese until well combined and the sauce is creamy.
5. **Serve:** Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately. Enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Protein:** Cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef can be added to the pot before simmering.
* **Vegetable Power:** Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to the pot along with the tomatoes and broth.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Cheese Variations:** Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar, instead of or in addition to Parmesan.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Use fresh oregano or thyme in addition to or instead of dried Italian herbs.
3. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser
Slow cooker recipes are always a hit on Facebook, and this pulled pork recipe is a classic for its tender, flavorful results with minimal effort.
**Ingredients:**
* 3-4 pound pork shoulder (Boston butt), excess fat trimmed
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* Hamburger buns, for serving
* Coleslaw, for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear Pork (Optional):** For extra flavor, sear the pork shoulder on all sides in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned. This step is optional but recommended.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** In the same skillet (or in the slow cooker if not searing the pork), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Combine Sauce Ingredients:** In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. **Place in Slow Cooker:** Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the pork. Add the sautéed onions and garlic.
5. **Slow Cook:** Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. **Shred Pork:** Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat.
7. **Return to Sauce:** Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss with the sauce to coat evenly.
8. **Serve:** Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw if desired. Enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Dry Rub:** Before searing the pork, rub it with a dry rub made of paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
* **Liquid Smoke:** Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce mixture for a smokier flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Sweetness Adjustment:** Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking. Use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for brown sugar.
* **Vinegar Variation:** Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar.
4. No-Bake Oreo Dessert: The Sweet Treat That’s Impossible to Resist
No-bake desserts are perfect for warm weather or when you simply don’t want to turn on the oven. This Oreo dessert is a Facebook favorite for its simple ingredients and decadent flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (14.3 ounces) Oreo cookies
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 container (12 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
* Optional: additional crushed Oreo cookies for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Crush Oreos:** Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a resealable bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Set aside about 1/4 cup of the crumbs for topping (optional).
2. **Make Crust:** In a bowl, combine the remaining Oreo crumbs with the melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a crust.
3. **Make Filling:** In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
4. **Assemble:** Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the Oreo crust. Sprinkle with the reserved crushed Oreo cookies (if using).
5. **Chill:** Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to set.
6. **Serve:** Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Different Oreo Flavors:** Use different flavors of Oreo cookies for a unique twist, such as Golden Oreos, Mint Oreos, or Peanut Butter Oreos.
* **Chocolate Ganache:** Drizzle the dessert with chocolate ganache before chilling for an extra layer of chocolate flavor.
* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Swirl peanut butter into the cream cheese filling for a peanut butter Oreo dessert.
* **Berry Topping:** Top the dessert with fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, for a fruity addition.
* **Coffee Flavor:** Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the cream cheese filling for a coffee-flavored dessert.
5. Creamy Chicken Alfredo: The Italian Classic Made Easy
Chicken Alfredo is a restaurant favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This Facebook version simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound fettuccine pasta
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup butter
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook Pasta:** Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. **Cook Chicken:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Sauté Garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Make Alfredo Sauce:** Pour in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. **Combine:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the Alfredo sauce and chicken until well combined.
6. **Serve:** Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Vegetables:** Add steamed broccoli, peas, or mushrooms to the pasta along with the chicken.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Garlic Powder:** Add a teaspoon of garlic powder to the Alfredo sauce for extra garlic flavor.
* **Nutmeg:** Add a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce for a warm, subtle flavor.
* **Thickening Sauce:** If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce.
6. Chocolate Lava Cakes: Decadent Dessert in Minutes
These molten chocolate lava cakes are rich, decadent and surprisingly easy to make. The perfect warm, gooey dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
* 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
* 2 large eggs
* 2 large egg yolks
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* Pinch of salt
* Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
* Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep:** Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease and flour two ramekins.
2. **Melt Chocolate & Butter:** In a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water (double boiler), melt the chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. **Whisk Eggs & Sugar:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until light and pale, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** Gradually whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
5. **Add Dry Ingredients:** Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Pour into Ramekins:** Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft and molten. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.
8. **Invert & Serve:** Let the lava cakes cool in the ramekins for a minute or two. Then, carefully invert them onto serving plates. Dust with powdered sugar (if using) and serve immediately with vanilla ice cream (optional). Enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Dark Chocolate:** Use dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor.
* **Espresso Powder:** Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a mocha flavor.
* **Liqueur:** Add a tablespoon of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Frangelico, to the batter for an extra touch of flavor.
* **Raspberry Sauce:** Serve the lava cakes with raspberry sauce for a sweet and tart contrast.
* **Whipped Cream:** Top the lava cakes with whipped cream instead of ice cream.
7. Garlic Parmesan Wings: The Perfect Game-Day Snack
These wings are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly addictive. A perfect appetizer or snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds chicken wings, separated at the joints
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare Wings:** In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. **Bake:** Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the wings are crispy and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
4. **Make Garlic Parmesan Sauce:** While the wings are baking, in a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, melted butter, and chopped parsley.
5. **Toss Wings:** Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven and place them back in the large bowl. Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately. Enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Air Fryer:** Cook the wings in an air fryer for even crispier results. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
* **Hot Sauce:** Add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic Parmesan sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Lemon Juice:** Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the garlic Parmesan sauce for a bright flavor.
* **Different Cheese:** Use a combination of Parmesan and Romano cheese for a more complex flavor.
* **Dried Herbs:** Use dried oregano or Italian herbs instead of fresh parsley.
8. Mac and Cheese Bites: The Perfect Party Appetizer
These bite-sized mac and cheese bites are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties, game days, or a fun snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup melted butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook Macaroni:** Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. **Make Cheese Sauce:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, until smooth.
3. **Add Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4. **Season:** Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
5. **Add Cheese:** Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. **Combine:** Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
7. **Cool & Chill:** Pour the mac and cheese into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
8. **Cut into Bites:** Once the mac and cheese is chilled and firm, cut it into 1-inch squares or use a small cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
9. **Prepare Breadcrumbs:** In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
10. **Coat Bites:** Dip each mac and cheese bite in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat evenly.
11. **Bake/Fry:** You can either bake the bites in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown, or fry them in hot oil until golden brown. If baking, place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If frying, heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Fry the bites in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
12. **Serve:** Serve immediately. Enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Different Cheeses:** Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Add-ins:** Add cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables to the mac and cheese before chilling.
* **Herbs:** Add dried thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumbs for a more flavorful coating.
* **Air Fryer:** Cook the bites in an air fryer for a healthier option. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
These are just a few of the many recipes that have taken Facebook by storm. These recipes are all relatively easy to make, use readily available ingredients, and deliver satisfying results. So, grab your apron, head to the kitchen, and start cooking your way through the most popular Facebook recipes of all time! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag your friends – after all, that’s what Facebook is for!