Planning a potluck and don’t know what to bring? Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, office party, family reunion, or holiday gathering, potluck dishes are all about sharing the love through food. From hearty mains to colorful salads, finger-friendly apps to sweet treats, these dishes are made to travel well, serve plenty, and earn you compliments.
We’ve gathered the ultimate list of easy, delicious, and crowd-approved potluck recipes that will make sure your dish disappears first. Let’s dish it out!
Comforting Casseroles & Main Dishes
1. Baked Ziti
Layered with ricotta, marinara, mozzarella, and ground beef, this pasta bake is hearty, cheesy, and totally satisfying.
2. Chicken Alfredo Bake
Creamy Alfredo sauce, pasta, shredded chicken, and parmesan all baked to golden perfection.
3. Pulled Pork Sliders
Slow-cooked pork on mini buns with slaw—easy to transport and even easier to eat.
4. Mac & Cheese Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, and topped with golden breadcrumbs. Make it classic or spicy with jalapeños.
5. Taco Lasagna
Layered tortillas, seasoned beef, cheese, and salsa—perfect for serving a crowd.
6. Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Sticky, saucy, and packed with smoky flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature.
7. Meatball Marinara Bake
Tender meatballs covered in marinara and melted mozzarella—delicious with or without bread.
8. Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole
Layers of tortillas, black beans, corn, peppers, and enchilada sauce, baked for a zesty vegetarian favorite.
9. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful peppers filled with rice, beef or turkey, and veggies. They’re healthy and transport beautifully.
10. Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake
A nostalgic classic made with egg noodles, tuna, peas, and a crispy topping.
Salads That Steal the Show
11. Loaded Pasta Salad
Pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, and Italian dressing—it’s a summertime essential.
12. Classic Potato Salad
Creamy, tangy, and studded with chopped eggs and pickles. Bonus: even better made the day before.
13. Broccoli Bacon Salad
Crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds in a creamy dressing.
14. Caprese Salad Skewers
Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on toothpicks—drizzled with balsamic glaze.
15. Asian Slaw
Shredded cabbage, carrots, and crunchy noodles tossed in a sesame ginger dressing.
16. Corn & Black Bean Salad
Fresh, zesty, and colorful—this one’s perfect with tortilla chips or as a side dish.
17. Greek Orzo Salad
Orzo pasta, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta in lemon-oregano vinaigrette.
18. Watermelon Feta Salad
Juicy watermelon, tangy feta, mint, and lime juice—refreshing and unexpected.
19. Deviled Egg Potato Salad
A mash-up of two classics: deviled eggs meet creamy potato salad.
20. Roasted Veggie Quinoa Salad
Packed with roasted veggies, quinoa, and lemony dressing. A great gluten-free option.
Appetizers & Finger Foods
21. Spinach Artichoke Dip
Warm, cheesy, and rich—serve with pita or baguette slices.
22. Deviled Eggs
Classic, smoky, or spicy—these crowd-favorite bites are always welcome.
23. Mini Meatballs
Served with toothpicks and marinara or BBQ sauce for dipping.
24. Veggie Tray with Hummus
Colorful, healthy, and perfect for dipping.
25. Stuffed Mushrooms
Bite-sized mushrooms stuffed with herbs, breadcrumbs, and cheese.
26. Caprese Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes filled with mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle.
27. Jalapeño Poppers
Stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon—crispy and spicy.
28. Cheese & Cracker Platter
Simple, sharable, and always appreciated.
29. Fruit Skewers
Threaded grapes, melons, strawberries, and pineapple for a juicy grab-and-go treat.
30. Baked Brie with Jam
Wrap brie in puff pastry with fruit preserves, bake, and serve with crackers or fruit.
Sweet Treats for Every Crowd
31. Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Soft, chewy, and easy to cut into squares for sharing.
32. Brownie Bites
Fudgy brownies in mini cupcake liners—easy to grab and go.
33. Lemon Bars
Tangy, sweet, and topped with powdered sugar—great for warm weather.
34. Rice Krispie Treats
Childhood favorite alert. Make them classic or mix in sprinkles or chocolate chips.
35. Mini Cheesecakes
Individual cheesecakes topped with berries or chocolate sauce—super cute and tasty.
36. Cupcake Assortment
Bring a dozen (or two) with colorful frosting and flavors for everyone.
37. Apple Crisp Squares
Cozy and spiced, with oats and brown sugar topping. Great with or without ice cream.
38. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Elegant, sweet, and easy to prep ahead of time.
39. Sheet Cake with Frosting
Make it festive with sprinkles, fruit, or themed toppers.
40. No-Bake Cheesecake Cups
Mason jars or clear cups filled with layers of cheesecake filling and graham crust.
Drinks & Bonus Ideas
41. Iced Tea or Lemonade Pitcher
Add fresh lemon slices, mint, or berries for a splash of summer.
42. Fruit-Infused Water
Keep everyone hydrated with pretty dispensers filled with citrus, cucumber, or melon.
43. Sangria (for adult potlucks)
Red or white wine, chopped fruit, orange liqueur—make ahead and chill.
44. Party Punch
Make a big batch of citrus soda and juice blend—add sherbet for fun fizz.
45. DIY Ice Cream Sundae Bar
Bring a cooler with ice cream and toppings—kids and adults will love it.
46. Nacho Bar Kit
Tortilla chips, shredded cheese, salsa, beans, and jalapeños—let guests build their own.
47. Hot Dog or Burger Condiment Station
Chopped onions, pickles, sauces, and buns—turn your grill into a party hit.
48. Mini Sandwich Tray
Ham, turkey, veggie—stacked on mini rolls for easy munching.
49. Breakfast Potluck Idea: Egg Muffins
Whisk eggs with cheese, veggies, or bacon and bake in muffin tins.
50. Holiday-Ready: Cranberry Meatballs or Stuffing Muffins
Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas-style potlucks—savory and seasonal.
Final Tips for Potluck Success
- Use disposable containers or bring your name-labeled dish
- Bring serving utensils
- Keep hot foods hot and cold foods chilled with insulated bags or coolers
- Make sure your dish can sit out for a while without wilting or melting
- Include a little label or sign, especially for allergens or dietary needs
Whether you’re feeding 10 or 50, these potluck dishes are made to impress and easy to share. Pick your favorite, prep ahead, and get ready for some seriously happy taste buds.