When it comes to cooking for a large group or providing a potluck dish, the pressure can be overwhelming. You want your offering to impress, but you also need to ensure that it’s a crowd-pleaser. The solution lies in having a repertoire of delicious and easy-to-make dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. That’s why we’ve curated a list of 38 mouth-watering potluck dishes that cater to all tastes and occasions, taking the stress out of deciding what to bring.
38 Easy PotLuck Dishes for a Crowd
Chili Con Carne
A hearty chili recipe is a crowd-pleaser, especially on a chilly day. This savory and filling dish is straightforward to prepare and requires minimal supervision once the pot’s on the stove. To start, brown ground beef with aromatics like onions, garlic, and spices. Next, add in canned tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, and beef broth, then let it simmer for a few hours as the flavors meld together. As the dish cooks, the aroma will fill the air, building anticipation for your guests’ arrival.
Lasagna
When it comes to satisfying the palates of both kids and adults alike, few dishes can rival the classic appeal of lasagna. This beloved Italian-American staple is built on layers of simplicity, requiring just a few key ingredients and straightforward preparation. Begin by cooking lasagna noodles al dente, then brown ground beef with sautéed onions and garlic for added depth of flavor. Next, assemble the dish by alternating layers of cooked noodles, seasoned beef mixture, tangy tomato sauce, and shredded cheese in a baking-friendly vessel. Finally, pop it in the oven until the cheese melts and the flavors meld together, yielding a hearty, comforting casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Stuffed Peppers
When it comes to nutritious potluck options, stuffed peppers offer a versatile and flavorful choice. By filling bell peppers with a medley of ingredients such as cooked quinoa, savory turkey, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, you can create a dish that’s tailored to your taste preferences. Simply clean out the peppers, combine your desired fillings, bake until tender, and you’ll have a satisfying and healthy option for any gathering.
Baked Mac and Cheese
The quintessential comfort food – mac and cheese! The simplicity of this classic recipe belies its rich flavors and textures. It’s a match made in heaven: al dente elbow macaroni noodles paired with a velvety cheese sauce crafted from butter, flour, milk, and an assortment of cheeses. Combine the two and bake to perfection, yielding a dish that is at once creamy, satisfying, and deeply comforting.
Shepherd’s Pie
Savory comfort food at its finest, shepherd’s pie is a hearty delight that combines the rich flavors of minced lamb or beef, a medley of sautéed vegetables, and a creamy layer of mashed potatoes. The process begins by browning the meat with aromatic onions, pungent garlic, and an assortment of colorful vegetables. This flavorful foundation is then topped with a generous helping of mashed potatoes, before being sent to the oven where it emerges as a warm, inviting casserole that’s sure to satisfy any appetite.
Fish Tacos
Crafting the perfect taco is a straightforward process that allows for endless customization options. Start by preparing a variety of ingredients such as fish, vegetables, and shredded cheese, which can be arranged separately on a table or buffet-style. Additionally, have salsa and guacamole readily available to add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. By providing these components in individual bowls, you’re giving each guest the freedom to create their own unique taco creations, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.
Classic Italian Bruschetta
Simple yet flavorful bruschetta makes for a perfect accompaniment to any meal. To create this Italian-inspired delight, start by combining diced tomatoes with sautéed garlic and onion. Add some fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil to bring out the bold flavors. Finally, place the mixture onto toasted bread, allowing the crispy crust to provide a satisfying contrast to the soft, savory toppings.
Garlic Bread
Adding garlic bread to your next gathering is a surefire way to win over the crowd. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that can be prepared in just a few minutes by spreading butter infused with the pungency of garlic and the freshness of herbs on sliced bread, then letting it toast to perfection.
Mashed Potatoes
The simplicity and appeal of mashed potatoes are undeniable. A straightforward process of boiling potatoes until tender, then combining them with rich ingredients like butter, salt, and milk yields a comforting dish that is sure to please a crowd. The result is a creamy, flavorful side that can be enjoyed at any time.
Fried Rice
For a quick and effortless contribution to your next gathering, consider whipping up a batch of fried rice – a classic Chinese staple that never fails to impress. To get started, cook your rice according to the package instructions, then heat some oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your mixed vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a drizzle of soy sauce, stirring constantly until everything is well combined. With its harmonious blend of textures and flavors, fried rice is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Mini Meatballs
Meatballs are a staple of many cuisines, and their versatility is part of their enduring appeal. One of their greatest advantages is that they can be prepared well in advance, making them an ideal option for busy households. To make meatballs, simply combine ground beef with onion, garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs, then form the mixture into small balls. These can then be cooked to perfection using either the oven or stovetop.
Sausage and Peppers
In the heart of Italy, a classic dish has been delighting palates for generations – sausage and peppers. This simple yet flavorful recipe brings together sliced sausage, vibrant bell peppers, pungent onions, and rich tomato sauce. With just a few sautéed moments, this mouthwatering medley is ready to be devoured.
Deviled Eggs
Delightful deviled eggs have captured the hearts of many with their simplicity and universal appeal. The process begins by boiling and peeling the eggs, followed by a halving and removal of the yolks. The humble egg is then elevated with a medley of flavors courtesy of mayonnaise, mustard, and paprika, creating an addictive snack that’s sure to please.
Chicken Enchiladas
In the realm of Tex-Mex cuisine, few dishes evoke the same level of enthusiasm as the beloved chicken enchiladas. This satisfying staple is a masterclass in balancing bold flavors and textures, with its tender shredded chicken, pliable tortillas, and an abundance of melted cheese. To craft this mouthwatering masterpiece, start by shredding cooked chicken before stuffing it into tortillas alongside generous helpings of cheese. Then, add the crowning glory: a rich and tangy enchilada sauce smothered in even more cheese.
Broccoli Salad
With its ease of preparation and nutritious profile, a broccoli salad makes for an excellent choice as a side dish. To prepare this delightful concoction, start by briefly blanching the broccoli to retain its crisp texture. Then, combine it with sautéed onions, sweet raisins, tangy mayonnaise, and a touch of sugar to balance out the flavors.
Potato Salad
A quintessential addition to any gathering, potato salad has earned its place as a staple at countless potlucks. The simplicity of its preparation belies the depth of flavors it offers. By boiling potatoes until tender, then combining them with eggs that have been similarly cooked, you’re setting the stage for a creamy and savory experience. Next, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, and celery to create a tangy and crunchy contrast that will leave your guests craving more.
Simple Ground Beef Casserole
Feeding a crowd has never been easier than with casseroles, a staple of potlucks everywhere. And among the many options, a humble yet satisfying ground beef casserole stands out as a timeless classic. Its appeal lies not only in its simplicity but also in its ability to satisfy even the most discerning palates, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a reliable meal solution.
Baked Beans
When it comes to crowd-pleasing potluck dishes, baked beans are often at the top of the list. The reason is simple: they’re incredibly easy to make and offer a rich, satisfying flavor profile that’s hard to resist. To start, simply soak your beans overnight to rehydrate them. Then, combine the beans with some savory ingredients like ham hocks, caramelized onions, and a tangy tomato sauce. Simmer everything together until the flavors have melded together and the beans are tender, then serve hot and enjoy the oohs and ahhs from your guests.
Meat Loaf
When it comes to satisfying comfort food, few dishes are as iconic or effortless as meatloaf. This crowd-pleasing classic is a staple for many gatherings, including potluck dinners. To make it, simply combine ground beef with essential ingredients like breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, and a pinch of your favorite spices. Shape the mixture into a loaf and let it emerge from the oven golden brown, ready to be devoured by friends and family alike.
Chicken Curry
Aromatic and fiery, chicken curry is a culinary delight that combines the richness of tender chicken with the pungency of onions, the warmth of ginger, the piquancy of garlic, and the depth of curry powder. By allowing these ingredients to meld together in a slow simmer, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Roasted Vegetables
Indulge in the simplicity and flavor of roasted vegetables! A medley of sliced delights such as carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and potatoes can be effortlessly transformed into a mouthwatering dish by tossing them with olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs, before letting them roast to perfection in the oven.
Grilled Chicken
When it comes to hosting a potluck dinner, a reliable and flavorful protein option is crucial. Grilled chicken breast, seasoned with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, fits the bill perfectly. By grilling the chicken to perfection, you’ll achieve a tender and juicy texture that pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
For a nutritious and mouthwatering meal, combine a medley of vibrant vegetables with a rich and aromatic stir-fry sauce. The harmonious blend of textures and flavors will leave you wanting more.
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Transform your dining experience into an authentic Italian encounter by serving spaghetti alongside delectable homemade or store-bought meatballs, paired with rich and tangy marinara sauce.
Baked Ziti
Transform the humble ziti pasta into a satisfying and comforting casserole by layering it with a medley of rich flavors, including creamy ricotta cheese, tangy marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan. The result is a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Imagine the savory aroma of slow-cooked pulled pork wafting through the air, tantalizing taste buds and leaving everyone craving a bite. Served generously on soft buns and smothered in rich barbecue sauce, this indulgent dish is sure to satisfy even the largest of crowds.
Tuna Salad
Indulge in the simplicity of preparing a rich and satisfying tuna salad by combining canned tuna with mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and a tangy hint from relish. This effortless recipe is perfect for a quick meal solution.
Quiche
Quiche is an incredibly versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any palate or dietary preference. By combining eggs, cheese, an array of vegetables, and even crispy bacon, you can create a rich and fulfilling meal that’s perfect for brunch, dinner, or even as a snack.
Shrimp Scampi
Indulge your taste buds with a decadent seafood creation by cooking succulent shrimp in a flavorful medley of garlic, rich butter, and crisp white wine. Serve the savory mixture atop al dente pasta for a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress.
Fruit Platter
Elevate your next gathering or snack time with a vibrant and nutritious fruit platter, showcasing the best of what’s in season. Combine a medley of juicy, sweet, and tangy fruits to create a visually appealing and refreshing treat that’s sure to satisfy any palate.
Gazpacho
Indulge your taste buds with a revitalizing serving of traditional Spanish gazpacho soup, crafted from a harmonious blend of fresh tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and an array of aromatic spices.
Hawaiian Sliders
Indulge in the tropical flavors of Hawaii by crafting delectable mini sliders featuring a harmonious union of salty ham, succulent pineapple, and creamy Swiss cheese. This sweet and savory fusion is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Eggplant Parmesan
Layering tender bread and crispy eggplant slices with rich marinara sauce and creamy mozzarella cheese creates a mouthwatering vegetarian delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ceviche
Transform the freshness of the sea into a vibrant and tangy seafood ceviche by combining succulent pieces of fish or shrimp with the invigorating zing of lime juice, the subtle earthiness of cilantro, and the pungency of finely chopped onions.
Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip
Indulge your guests with a decadent take on the classic spinach and artichoke dip, served straight from a warm bread bowl or paired with crispy tortilla chips. The creamy, savory flavor combination is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Cucumber Sandwiches
Indulge in the simplicity and delight of crafting refreshing cucumber sandwiches, infused with the tanginess of cream cheese and the freshness of dill, all nestled between crispy slices of bread. The perfect union of flavors and textures awaits, as you bring together the humble ingredients to create a snack that’s both elegant and effortless.
Cabbage Rolls
Hearty and satisfying, stuffed cabbage rolls are a staple dish that combines the comfort of ground meat and rice with the richness of a flavorful tomato sauce. The combination of tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling creates a meal that is both nourishing and delightful.
Cheese Platter
When it comes to cooking for a crowd, simplicity is key. That’s why I recommend creating a cheese platter with a variety of cheeses, crackers, and fresh or dried fruits. This elegant yet effortless contribution is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good cheese plate? The beauty of potluck dishes like this lies in their ability to satisfy everyone’s cravings. They’re flavorful, filling, and easy to make in large quantities. So whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick and impressive meal solution, these dishes are sure to hit the spot. And who knows, you might just become the go-to potluck contributor among your friends and family!