33 Potluck Recipes Big Enough to Fill a Hall, Feed a Crowd, and Maybe Even Win You a Compliment From the Pastor

Some dishes were made to feed more than a family, and these bring enough backup to cover the whole church basement and the choir. With 33 recipes in one place, there’s no need to panic when you hear “bring something everyone will like” and realize you forgot to RSVP. And if someone starts asking who brought that one dish, well, you’ve got your humble response ready.

A white rectangular plate with Potatoes & Cabbage garnished with parsley on a patterned surface.
Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!). Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Grilled Corn Guacamole

Corn guacamole with tortilla chips on a plate.
Grilled Corn Guacamole. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Known for adding an enjoyable crunch, Grilled Corn Guacamole combines the smoky flavor of charred corn with the creamy goodness of avocados. The dish gets an extra punch from lime juice, cilantro, and chopped tomatoes. Perfect for gatherings, it is a flavorful twist on a classic dip that will have people reaching for more. Pair it with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for a complete snack.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Guacamole

Sweet Potato Casserole

A close-up of Sweet Potato Casserole on a white dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Featuring a rich blend of mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, Sweet Potato Casserole offers a comforting combination of textures. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the buttery, nutty topping. Ideal for feeding a crowd, it can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish alongside your favorite main courses.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

The Backyard Table

An e-book titled "The Backyard Table: Recipes for Summer Cookouts" by Chef Jenn Allen is displayed on a tablet, featuring a bowl of potato salad on the cover.

Get it NOW and level up your outdoor dining! The Backyard Table - Recipes for Summer Cookouts features 34 of Chef Jenn's BEST recipes for outdoor eating and entertaining.

You'll get ad-free recipes like:

  • Grilled Corn Guacamole
  • Grilled French Onion Burgers
  • Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
  • Blueberry Grunt
  • and so many more!

Every recipe is created, tested and loved by Chef Jenn and her family - there's no AI here!

Get it now, at a special introductory price of $7.99. That's over 50 pages of foodie love at your fingertips!

Buy Now!

Italian Broccoli Salad

A bowl of Italian broccoli salad with sliced olives, almonds, onions, and red peppers, served on a white plate with a fork and napkin beside it.
Italian Broccoli Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing together the robust flavors of broccoli, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, Italian Broccoli Salad is tossed in a tangy garlic vinaigrette. The addition of Parmesan cheese amplifies the tangy notes, making it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a refreshing option that holds up well at room temperature, ensuring it stays crisp. Serve it as a stand-alone salad or a side to grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Italian Broccoli Salad

Big Mac Tacos

Two Big Mac tacos filled with ground beef, shredded lettuce, and pickles, and drizzled with a creamy sauce, placed on a white plate.
Big Mac Tacos. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Combining the classic flavors of a Big Mac with the convenience of tacos, Big Mac Tacos are both innovative and delicious. Ground beef is seasoned and layered with lettuce, cheese, pickles, and a special sauce wrapped in a soft taco shell. These tacos are easy to assemble, making them perfect for a casual get-together. Expect lots of compliments when these unique tacos are on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos

Sloppy Joe Casserole

A serving of Sloppy Joe Casserole pasta with meat on a plate with a fork.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Known for its hearty, comforting quality, Sloppy Joe Casserole features ground beef in a tangy tomato sauce, topped with crusty bread or cornbread. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to serve, cutting down on clean-up time. Perfect for large gatherings where you need to feed many mouths quickly. This rendition of an American classic is always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Close-up shot of Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad on a white plate.
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A combination of fresh asparagus and tender potatoes makes Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad a standout side dish. Grilled to perfection, the asparagus adds a smoky element while the potatoes bring heartiness. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, it is both refreshing and filling. Ideal for potlucks, this salad is easy to prepare in large quantities and travels well.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Molly Bars

Four pieces of molly bars on a white plate.
Molly Bars. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

With a rich layer of chocolate and a crunchy base, Molly Bars are a treat everyone will enjoy. The combination of oats, brown sugar, and chocolate chips ensures a pleasing mix of textures. They’re easy to make in large batches, making them perfect for sharing. These bars are sure to disappear quickly at any event. Don’t be surprised if someone asks for the recipe before they’ve even finished chewing.
Get the Recipe: Molly Bars

Texas Corn Succotash

Texas Corn Succotash in a black bowl with spoon.
Texas Corn Succotash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Featuring a blissful mix of corn, bell peppers, and lima beans, Texas Corn Succotash is seasoned with herbs and butter for an extra flavor boost. It’s a vibrant and colorful side dish that is both nutritious and appealing. Suitable for large gatherings, this dish maintains its quality over a few hours. Pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

Lemon Cake Pops

Lemon cake pops on a white plate.
Lemon Cake Pops. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Combining the tangy flavor of lemon with the fun format of cake pops, Lemon Cake Pops are perfect for any special gathering. These bite-sized treats are easy to enjoy and bring a refreshing zing with every bite. Decorate them to your liking for an added touch of festivity. They’re fantastic as a standalone dessert or part of a larger sweets table.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pops

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Shrimp and Grits Casserole in a black dish.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Merging creamy grits with succulent shrimp, Shrimp and Grits Casserole offers a comforting, hearty option for any meal. Seasoned perfectly with a blend of spices, it’s both flavorful and filling. Prepared in a single casserole dish, it is convenient for feeding a large group. This dish is sure to make a memorable impression.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bursting with flavors, Mexican Street Corn Salad mixes grilled corn with tangy lime, cotija cheese, and a hint of chili powder. It’s a vibrant, delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. Each bite offers a pleasing combination of sweetness, tang, and spice. Ideal for any potluck or large gathering, it pairs well with various grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Rich and hearty, Authentic Hungarian Goulash features tender chunks of beef simmered with onions, paprika, and spices. The dish is slow-cooked to create a flavorful, comforting stew that’s perfect for feeding a large crowd. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a standout choice for any gathering, sure to warm hearts and fill stomachs.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of cold crab dip with crackers and chives.
Cold Crab Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Blending creamy and flavorful ingredients, Cold Crab Dip offers a deliciously smooth flavor profile with real crab meat as the star. This dip is perfect when paired with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies. Easy to make and serve cold, it’s a great option for potlucks. Enjoy the subtle flavors of the sea in each bite. It’s the kind of dish that quietly vanishes from the table while people pretend they’re only having “just one more scoop.”
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

A platter of Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining smoked chicken with the crunch of tortilla chips, Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites are bite-sized appetizers that pack a punch. Topped with a blend of cheese, salsa, and a hint of lime, these bites are perfect for sharing. They’re easy to make and assemble, making them ideal for larger gatherings. Expect these to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

A close-up of a dish featuring colorful tortellini mixed with meatballs, spinach, and chopped red bell peppers, topped with melted cheese, served in a white bowl.
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Featuring cheese-filled tortellini and seasoned meatballs, Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs offers a comforting meal suitable for large gatherings. Prepared on the Blackstone griddle, it has a unique, charred flavor that’s hard to resist. The meatballs are cooked to perfection, adding a hearty element to the dish. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for an extra touch.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Turtle Brownies

A piece of Turtle Brownie with ice cream on a plate.
Turtle Brownies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining chocolate, caramel, and pecans, Turtle Brownies offer a deliciously rich experience in every bite. The gooey caramel and crunchy pecans contrast perfectly with the dense chocolate brownie base. These brownies are great for sharing, easily made in large batches. Prepare them for a sweet finish to any potluck.
Get the Recipe: Turtle Brownies

Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked shotgun shells on a white plate.
Smoked Shotgun Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Filled with a creamy cheese and sausage mixture, Smoked Shotgun Shells are pasta shells smoked to perfection. Each shell absorbs the smoky flavor, creating a delicious balance of tastes. They’re both delicious and easy to serve, making them perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish with a side salad.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Containing finely chopped ham, mayonnaise, relish, and a variety of spices, Old Fashioned Ham Salad is a simple yet flavorful option. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers or making sandwiches, making it a versatile addition to any potluck. Easy to prepare, this salad is both nostalgic and delicious. Bring it to any gathering for a touch of classic comfort.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Featuring large pasta shells filled with a seasoned turkey and pesto mixture, Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto is an inviting main dish. Baked with marinara sauce and melted cheese, it’s appetizing and flavorful. Perfect for feeding a large group, these stuffed shells can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving. Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Made with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs, Shirazi Salad is lightly dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. It’s a refreshing, simple salad with vibrant flavors that pair well with a variety of main dishes. This salad is easy to prepare in large quantities and stays fresh and crisp. Perfect for adding a touch of freshness to your potluck spread.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Spinach & Brie Dip

Spinach & Brie Dip in a casserole dish surrounded by pita wedges.
Spinach & Brie Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining creamy brie with spinach, Spinach & Brie Dip is a luscious appetizer that pairs well with bread and crackers. The warm, melted brie creates a rich texture that complements the spinach perfectly. It’s easy to prepare and can be served hot from the oven or warm from a slow cooker. Ideal for gatherings, this dip is sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Spinach & Brie Dip

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with rotisserie chicken pasta salad.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Using shredded rotisserie chicken, Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad is mixed with tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a light dressing. It’s both nutritious and easy to prepare, making it perfect for potlucks. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is filling. Serve it cold for a refreshing side or main dish.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney

A chunk of oozing brie with apple chutney on a board.
Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Featuring a warm, gooey brie topped with a sweet and tangy apple-ginger chutney, Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney is an elegant appetizer. The combination of melted cheese and flavorful chutney offers a pleasing contrast. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, it pairs well with crackers or a sliced baguette. It’s a perfect addition to any cheese board.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney

Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Strawberry Upside Down Cake with a slice missing.
Strawberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A twist on the classic, Strawberry Upside Down Cake has a caramelized strawberry topping over a moist cake base. Each bite offers a burst of sweet strawberry flavor balanced by the soft texture of the cake. Perfect for potlucks, this cake can be made ahead of time and served at room temperature. It’s a colorful and inviting dessert that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Steak & Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with a pasta salad containing farfalle, steak slices, radishes, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, nuts, and crumbled blue cheese, garnished with parsley, on a wooden board next to a spoon.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Blending tender beef with al dente pasta, Steak & Pasta Salad is both flavorful and gratifying. Fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing round out this dish, making it perfect for large gatherings. It’s a hearty salad that can serve as a main course or a side. Prepare it in advance and serve cold for maximum convenience.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Cold Corn Dip

A bowl of Chilled Corn Dip with chips on a black plate.
Cold Corn Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining corn, jalapenos, cheese, and a creamy base, Cold Corn Dip is a flavor-packed appetizer. Easy to make and serve with tortilla chips, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering. The mix of sweet corn and spicy jalapenos creates a balanced taste. You can serve it cold to keep everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Cold Corn Dip

Bacon Fried Corn

Bacon Fried Corn in a serving bowl.
Bacon Fried Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Incorporating fresh corn and crispy bacon, Bacon Fried Corn is a rich and flavorful side dish. The bacon adds a smoky element that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn. This dish is easy to make in large quantities, making it ideal for potlucks. You can serve it warm as an irresistible, flavorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black dish.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining flaked salmon with pasta and fresh vegetables, Salmon Pasta Salad offers a nutritious and flavorful option. The light dressing enhances the ingredients without overpowering them. Prepared in advance, it’s perfect for serving chilled at large gatherings. Enjoy a refreshing bite of this filling and delicious salad.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Made with slow-cooked pork shoulder, Dutch oven Carnitas are tender and full of flavor. Seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked to perfection, the meat is then shredded for easy serving. Ideal for tacos, burritos, or even on its own, it’s a versatile dish. Large quantities can be made to accommodate big crowds effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

Guinness Beer Cheese Dip

Guinness Cheese Dip on a platter with soft pretzels.
Guinness Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Featuring robust Guinness beer and sharp cheddar, Guinness Beer Cheese Dip offers a rich, creamy flavor profile. Perfect for pairing with pretzels, bread, or veggies, it’s a versatile and delicious appetizer. The beer adds complexity without overwhelming the cheese. Serve it warm for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dip. Expect people to linger near the bowl, casually acting like they’re helping clean up while sneaking another dunk.
Get the Recipe: Guinness Beer Cheese Dip

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining orzo pasta with fresh basil pesto, Pesto Orzo Salad is a vibrant and flavorful side dish. Cherry tomatoes and mozzarella add texture and taste, making each bite enjoyable. This salad is perfect for potlucks as it can be served at room temperature. It’s an easy-to-make option that everyone will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Reuben Sliders

Reuben sliders on a slate board.
Reuben Sliders. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Featuring the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a convenient slider form, Reuben Sliders are ideal for potlucks. Corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing come together in small, delicious sandwiches. These sliders are easy to assemble and serve, making them perfect for feeding a crowd. Expect these to disappear quickly once served.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

A white rectangular plate with Potatoes & Cabbage garnished with parsley on a patterned surface.
Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!). Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining tender potatoes and cabbage, Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!) is a comforting side dish without the creaminess of traditional colcannon. Simply seasoned with butter and herbs, the flavors shine in their simplicity. It’s a warm, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for large gatherings. Serve it as a side to various main courses, and it will be well-received.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *