Are you tired of bringing the same old boring dishes to potlucks and parties? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 20 mouthwatering main dish recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, these recipes offer something for everyone.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a party planner seeking unique options for your next gathering, our pot luck main dishes have got you covered. With ingredients ranging from familiar favorites like chicken, beef, and pork to more exotic choices like lamb and shrimp, there’s something on this list to satisfy every taste bud.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting some of the most delicious and crowd-pleasing main dishes you can make. From slow-cooked comfort food to quick and easy one-pot wonders, our recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready for tender, flavorful pulled pork sandwiches with minimal effort! This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a stress-free weekend or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 onion, sliced
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the pork, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and sliced onion.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, shred the pork with two forks.
5. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by spooning the pulled pork onto the buns.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
This classic Italian-American dish combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, melted mozzarella cheese, and tender ziti pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying meal to fuel your day.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Brown Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Combine cooked sausage, marinara sauce, and chopped parsley in the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
Quickly cook a flavorful and aromatic chicken dish with the ease of using only one pan. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add rice and stir to combine with the chicken and garlic mixture.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Cover skillet or Dutch oven with a lid and transfer to preheated oven.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Sesame Seeds
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the flavors of beef, broccoli, and sesame seeds for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and stir-fry for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy chicken dish, infused with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the boldness of garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and basil.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Heat over medium until warm and smooth.
7. Serve chicken breasts with the creamy Tuscan sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and spicy meatballs that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar to make the glaze.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the spicy honey glaze. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole is a creative take on the traditional baked potato, loaded with cheese, sour cream, and chives. It’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and salt. Toss to coat.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Layer half of the potato slices in the prepared dish. Top with half of the cheese and sour cream mixture.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle chives over the cheese.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe combines the sweetness of Mexican street corn with the savory flavor of chicken, wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked chicken, corn kernels, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is heated through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the chicken-corn mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Roll up the tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Lemon Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic roasted turkey breast, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and garlic for a deliciously moist and aromatic main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) turkey breast
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the breast.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Spinach and Mushrooms
A delicious and nutritious twist on the classic Italian dish, this vegetable lasagna is packed with sautéed spinach and mushrooms. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. Sauté mixed vegetables, spinach, mushrooms, and garlic until tender.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles, followed by half of the vegetable mixture, half of the ricotta cheese mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Jambalaya with Shrimp and Andouille Sausage
This classic Louisiana dish combines the flavors of sausage, shrimp, and rice for a hearty one-pot meal. This recipe is a twist on the original, adding spicy kick from hot sauce and cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, thyme, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in rice and cook for 1 minute.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Skewers
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these mouthwatering teriyaki pineapple chicken skewers. This simple and flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken and pineapple chunks to the bowl; toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Thread 3-4 pieces of chicken and pineapple onto each skewer.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beef Bourguignon with Mashed Potatoes
This iconic French dish is a hearty stew made with tender beef, rich vegetables, and aromatic spices, served with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and heavy cream (if using). Serve with Beef Bourguignon.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (slow cooker) + 30 minutes for mashed potatoes.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. Tender chicken, crispy buffalo sauce, and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheese come together in a rich, velvety macaroni dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add buffalo wing sauce and stir until combined.
4. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese mixture in a baking dish. Mix well.
5. Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all infused with the exotic spices of Morocco. This dish is perfect for a cozy evening or as a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sweet potato, chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Salad with Grilled Chicken
A flavorful and refreshing summer salad that combines the creaminess of pesto with the juiciness of grilled chicken, all tossed with tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine pesto, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
6. Add cooked tortellini and toss gently to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste; top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Black Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of smoky black beans, quinoa, and roasted peppers for a nutritious and filling meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the skillet. Stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce and stir to combine.
7. Combine cooked shrimp with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if desired).
8. Serve immediately over cooked fettuccine pasta.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Lamb Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
Experience the flavors of Greece with this classic street food recipe, featuring tender lamb gyros and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add lamb slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill lamb gyros for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating on grill for a few minutes.
6. Assemble gyros by placing lamb slices onto pita bread and topping with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and savory tart featuring sweet caramelized onions, creamy Gruyère cheese, and flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize the onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. If using white wine, add it to the onions and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Roll the pastry onto a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. Place the pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Spread the caramelized onions over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
8. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the onions.
9. Fold the edges of the pastry up to form a crust and brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these 20 mouthwatering pot luck main dish recipes! From classic comfort food like cheesy baked ziti and buffalo chicken mac and cheese, to international flavors like Moroccan chickpea stew and Greek lamb gyros, there’s something for everyone. These crowd-pleasing dishes are sure to disappear quickly at any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a slow cooker recipe or something that can be prepared in just one pan, this collection has it all. So go ahead, get creative, and make some unforgettable memories with these flavorful recipes!
