When it comes to hosting a crowd, having plenty of tasty options is key. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 delicious pot luck recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to flavorful dips and savory casseroles, these ideas are perfect for feeding a crowd at your next gathering.
Whether you’re planning a holiday party, picnic, or just a casual get-together with friends, having a variety of options will ensure that everyone leaves full and happy. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and can be adapted to fit any occasion.
In this article, we’ll explore some of our favorite pot luck recipes, from comforting classics to creative twists on old favorites.
Classic Mac and Cheese
A comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s a staple of childhood memories.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add milk, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl.
7. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe
Get ready to serve up tender, juicy pulled pork sliders that are perfect for a crowd! This easy recipe uses your slow cooker to do all the work, resulting in deliciously flavorful and tender pork.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in barbecue sauce.
4. Shred pork with two forks and place onto hamburger buns.
5. Top with coleslaw and pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
A creamy, cheesy twist on the classic baked potato, this casserole is perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large baking potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup crushed bacon bits
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, green onions, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until potatoes are well coated with the mixture.
4. Transfer the potato mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Get ready to spice up your game day with this creamy and addictive buffalo chicken dip! This easy-to-make recipe combines the flavors of buffalo wings, ranch dressing, and melted cheddar cheese for a deliciously spicy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken
– 1 tablespoon buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
3. Add chopped cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or serving bowl.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seven-Layer Taco Dip
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouthwatering seven-layer taco dip! A perfect combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup of sour cream
– 1/2 cup of salsa
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
– 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes
– Tortilla chips or crackers for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in the salsa, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, black beans, and diced tomatoes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian-American comfort food, homemade meatballs in marinara sauce are a staple for any meal or gathering. This recipe yields tender and flavorful meatballs coated in a rich and tangy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 38-40 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Bread
A classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly onto each bread slice, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the garlic-butter mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A classic party favorite, this spinach and artichoke dip is a flavorful and addictive treat that’s sure to please any crowd. With its creamy texture and rich flavor profile, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 cup of sour cream
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a serving bowl.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Baked Beans
Perfect for backyard gatherings or family dinner, these sweet and smoky BBQ baked beans are a crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-make recipe combines the classic flavors of barbecue with the comfort of slow-cooked beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Deviled Eggs with a Twist
Elevate the classic deviled egg recipe by adding crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a kick of heat from diced jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until smooth.
3. Add the mayonnaise, chives, Dijon mustard, horseradish, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Stir in the crumbled bacon, grated cheese, and diced jalapeños.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
This refreshing pasta salad is a perfect side dish for any gathering, featuring al dente pasta, crunchy veggies, and tangy Italian dressing. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, carrots)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or turkey, diced
– 1/4 cup Italian dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, cooked chicken or turkey, and cooked pasta.
3. Pour Italian dressing over the top, followed by olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornbread Casserole
This classic Southern-style casserole combines the comforting warmth of cornbread with the savory flavors of creamed corn, cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup creamed corn
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and creamed corn; stir until combined.
4. Pour batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Bake
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy chicken alfredo bake, loaded with fettuccine noodles, juicy chicken, and a rich alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
– 2 cups cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook fettuccine noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through; set aside with noodles.
4. In the same skillet, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, chicken, and alfredo sauce; stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Veggie Tray with Ranch Dip
Create a colorful and healthy snack or appetizer with this easy-to-make veggie tray paired with a creamy ranch dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Arrange the mixed vegetables on a serving platter or tray.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing until smooth.
3. Pour the ranch dip over the vegetables and sprinkle with shredded cheese if using.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley for added freshness.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, no cooking required.
Mini Quiches
Quickly satisfy your snack cravings with these bite-sized quiches perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust, thawed (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced ham or bacon
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into squares, approximately 3 inches per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place a small spoonful of cheese, ham or bacon, and bell pepper onto one half of each square.
6. Fold the other half over to form a triangle and press edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with remaining egg mixture and sprinkle with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chili con Carne
Classic Chili con Carne Recipe
Get ready for a hearty and flavorful chili dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. A perfect side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange potatoes in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Skewers
Elevate your salad game with this easy and colorful recipe for Caprese skewers. By threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves onto toothpicks, you’ll create a beautiful and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10-12 toothpicks
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a few basil leaves onto each toothpick.
3. Season the skewers with salt and pepper.
4. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peach Cobbler
Peach Cobbler: A Classic Summer Treat
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this warm and comforting peach cobbler recipe, perfect for a summer evening or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together peaches, granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Dot the top with melted butter.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit the baking dish. Place over the peach mixture.
6. Mix milk, egg, and brown sugar in a bowl. Brush this mixture onto the pie crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these gooey and indulgent cookie bars, packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown around edges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these 20 delicious pot luck recipe ideas that are perfect for crowds! From classic comfort foods like Mac and Cheese and Cheesy Garlic Bread, to flavorful twists on traditional dishes like Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders and Buffalo Chicken Dip. You’ll also find a variety of dips, casseroles, and finger foods that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need some inspiration for a weeknight meal, these recipes have got you covered.
