When it comes to hosting a party or gathering, one of the biggest questions on everyone’s mind is “What should I serve?” The answer lies in creating a delicious and diverse buffet that caters to a variety of tastes. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic Caesar salad to savory meatballs, and from cheesy nachos to sweet strawberries, these dishes are sure to satisfy any hunger pangs.
Whether you’re planning a holiday party or just want to impress your friends with a quick and easy meal, these recipes have got you covered. And the best part? They’re all perfect for a buffet-style serving, so you can focus on mingling with your guests instead of slaving away in the kitchen. So without further ado, let’s dive into our 20 flavorful buffet recipes!
Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
A timeless favorite, this recipe combines the rich flavors of romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese with a tangy Caesar dressing. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously authentic classic Caesar salad in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup homemade croutons (recipe below)
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Croutons:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss crouton ingredients in a bowl until the bread is evenly coated with olive oil and salt.
3. Spread croutons on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. In a large salad bowl, combine romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-American dish that’s sure to please, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a flavorful and aromatic seafood delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. If using wine and lemon juice, add to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe, perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour in honey, BBQ sauce, and chopped onion.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and coated with the sweet and tangy glaze.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Toasted Baguette
A creamy and addictive dip that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in. This Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a classic combination of flavors, paired with the crunch of toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the dip mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
5. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
6. Serve the warm dip with toasted baguette slices for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Beef Wellington Bites
Elevate your party snacks with these bite-sized versions of the iconic Beef Wellington dish. Tender beef, mushrooms, and puff pastry come together to create an unforgettable flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a pan, sauté beef strips with mushrooms, garlic, and butter until browned.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Place a spoonful of beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold other half over filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to satisfy any mac and cheese craving, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, whisk together milk, flour, and paprika. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
5. Add cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
This classic Southeast Asian dish combines the flavors of grilled chicken, peanuts, and spices to create a delicious and easy-to-make snack or main course. With this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the authentic taste of street food from Indonesia and Malaysia in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into skewer-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and cumin. Blend until smooth.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers.
4. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with peanut sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer gatherings with these colorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. The tangy balsamic glaze adds a rich and savory depth to this simple yet impressive appetizer.
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 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a cherry tomato, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each ingredient.
3. Brush the balsamic glaze over the skewers, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cheese is slightly melted and the tomatoes are tender.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw: A Deliciously Easy Appetizer or Main Course!
These tender and flavorful pulled pork sliders are served on soft buns with a refreshing side of coleslaw, making them perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 8 slider buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices and fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, cover, and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks, then stir in barbecue sauce.
6. Split slider buns in half and toast. Assemble sliders by placing shredded pork on bottom bun, followed by coleslaw and top bun.
7. Garnish with pickle slices and fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
These Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a game-changer for anyone looking to spice up their snack or appetizer game. A perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and spicy, these bite-sized morsels are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeño peppers
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together shredded cheese and softened cream cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the cheese mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the wrapped peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
Enjoy the crispy delight of vegetable spring rolls paired with a sweet and spicy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup shredded carrot
– 1/2 cup shredded zucchini
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup chopped bean sprouts
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce:
+ 1/2 cup ketchup
+ 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (available at most Asian markets)
+ 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine carrot, zucchini, scallions, and bean sprouts.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat and place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry spring rolls until golden brown, turning occasionally (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Drain spring rolls on paper towels. Serve warm with Sweet Chili Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Roasted Potatoes with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic Aioli (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, prepare Garlic Aioli (see below).
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Lemon juice to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips:
– Adjust herb quantities to your liking.
– For an extra crispy top, broil potatoes for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Savor the flavors of this classic Chinese-inspired dish, made with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory soy sauce. This quick and easy stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, then sauté garlic and broccoli 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). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy twist, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. Fresh vegetables, cheese, and pasta come together in harmony with a zesty dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup creamy Tuscan dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and parsley.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top and drizzle with Tuscan dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta
These bite-sized quiches are perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or party appetizer. Flaky pastry, creamy spinach, and tangy feta cheese come together in a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 package mini muffin tin liners (24-30 count)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into squares, approximately 3 inches per side.
4. Place a spoonful of chopped spinach and crumbled feta in the center of each square.
5. Fold pastry squares into triangles and press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten eggs mixed with milk.
7. Place mini quiches in muffin tin liners, leaving about 1/8 inch between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Wings with Sesame Seeds
Elevate your snack game with these sticky and aromatic teriyaki chicken wings, topped with a crunchy sesame seed crust. Perfect for game day gatherings or as a tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove wings from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry wings in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Transfer fried wings to a baking sheet and sprinkle sesame seeds evenly on top.
7. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sesame seeds are toasted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on frying time)
Greek Orzo Salad with Kalamata Olives
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the brininess of kalamata olives, all tied together with a zesty Greek dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp Greek dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. Drizzle Greek dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Nacho Bar with All the Fixings
Get ready for a game-changing snack or party spread that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This loaded nacho bar is customizable to your taste, so feel free to get creative with your toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken or beef (optional)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup sliced yellow onions
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup salsa
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a large serving platter or tray.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chips.
3. Add the black beans, chicken or beef (if using), red bell peppers, and onions on top of the cheese.
4. Place the jalapeño slices around the platter for added heat.
5. Serve with sour cream and salsa on the side for dipping.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes! This loaded nacho bar is ready in no time.
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Bites
Elevate your appetizers with these delectable bites of tender salmon, infused with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
3. Place the salmon pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries with Sprinkles
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the richness of chocolate, and the fun of colorful sprinkles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Assorted sprinkles (rainbow or festive colors)
Instructions:
1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Dip each strawberry into the melted white chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
3. Place dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set.
4. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Dip the chilled white-chocolate-coated strawberries into the melted milk chocolate, coating the remaining portion of the fruit.
6. Immediately sprinkle with colorful sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
7. Refrigerate for an additional 10-15 minutes to set the chocolate and sprinkles.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 flavorful buffet recipes that are sure to please! From classic Caesar salad and garlic butter shrimp scampi, to slow cooker meatballs and baked mac and cheese, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy international flavors like chicken satay and teriyaki chicken wings, or indulge in comforting favorites like mini beef Wellington bites and cheesy jalapeño poppers. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to spice up your mealtime routine, these crowd-pleasing recipes are sure to hit the spot!
