46 Recipes That Will Make You Potluck Famous (2024)

Home Recipes Meal Types Appetizers

46 Recipes That Will Make You Potluck Famous (1)Sue StetzelUpdated: Apr. 19, 2018

    Need potluck recipes that stand out from the rest? This collection is just what the home-cook ordered. Whip up one of these tried and true potluck superstars for your next get-together.

    1/46

    Taste of Home

    Picadillo Sliders

    When I’m pressed for time, these beefy sliders are my go-to. Any leftover picadillo makes for great nachos or queso dip. It freezes well, too! —Patterson Watkins, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    Go to Recipe

    2/46

    Taste of Home

    Spectacular Overnight Slaw

    To come up with this dish, I used a number of different recipes, plus some ideas of my own. It's great for a potluck because it's made the night before and the flavor keeps getting better. Whenever I serve it, I'm inundated with recipe requests. —Ruth Lovett, Bay City, Texas

    Go to Recipe

    3/46

    Favorite Baked Spaghetti

    This is my grandchildren's most-loved dish. It feels like a special dinner and is so cozy for cooler months. —Louise Miller, Westminster, Maryland

    Go to Recipe

    4/46

    Taste of Home

    I couldn’t say who loves this recipe best, because it gets raves every time I serve it! Occasionally I even get a phone call or email from a friend requesting the recipe, and it's certainly a favorite for my grown children and 15 grandchildren. —Maryalice Wood, Langley, British Columbia

    Go to Recipe

    5/46

    Berry Nectarine Salad

    I've been making this recipe for years. Whenever my family has a summer get-together, everyone requests it. The nectarines and berries look beautiful together, and the topping is the perfect accent. —Mindee Myers, Lincoln, Nebraska

    Go to Recipe

    6/46

    Taste of Home

    Party Spinach Spread

    This appetizer is delicious, easy and pretty, too! Everyone who tries it asks for the recipe. The spread keeps for several days, so it's great for making in advance for a party. But once you put it out, it won't last long! —Maire Macy, Fort Collins, Colorado

    Go to Recipe

    7/46

    Chiles Rellenos Squares

    My family requests this chiles rellenos dish regularly—it's easy to prepare and makes a nice hors d'oeuvre or complement to a Mexican or Spanish meal. A friend I worked with shared the recipe with me several years ago. —Fran Carll, Long Beach, California

    Go to Recipe

    8/46

    Sausage Lasagna

    The idea for this sausage lasagna recipe comes from my mother-in-law, who always makes it for my three boys on special holidays. I've put an easy twist on Carole's classic dish, and it's become one of my go-to dinners as well! —Blair Lonergan, Rochelle, VA

    Go to Recipe

    9/46

    Taste of Home

    Chunky Blond Brownies

    Every bite of these chewy blondies is packed with chunks of white and semisweet chocolate and macadamia nuts. It's a potluck offering that stands out. —Rosemary Dreiske, Lemmon, South Dakota

    Go to Recipe

    10/46

    Judy's Macaroni Salad

    After finding this vintage macaroni salad recipe years ago, I tweaked the flavor and bumped up the pickles. Tuck this dill pickle pasta salad inside your picnic basket. —Elizabeth Kirchgatter, Maysville, Kentucky

    Go to Recipe

    11/46

    Taste of Home

    Spicy Shredded Beef Sandwiches

    If you like your shredded beef with a little kick, then this recipe is for you. For an even zestier version of this recipe, add another jar of jalapenos or use hot peppers instead of the pepperocinis. —Kristen Langmeier, Faribault, Minnesota

    Go to Recipe

    12/46

    Skillet Rolls

    My family constantly requests this cake is constantly. I don’t mind making it because it’s surprisingly low-cal. —Eileen Travis, Ukiah, California

    Go to Recipe

    13/46

    Taste of Home

    Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip

    Everyone will simply devour this savory and delicious dip with shredded chicken throughout. The spicy kick makes it a perfect football-watching food, and the recipe always brings raves. —Janice Foltz, Hershey, Pennsylvania

    Go to Recipe

    14/46

    Everyone has a favorite potato salad, and this is mine. As a young bride, I was eager to learn how to cook and make things that my husband would love. I combined my mom's and his mom's recipes, and this potato and egg salad the delicious result. —Angela Leinenbach, Mechanicsville, Virginia

    Go to Recipe

    15/46

    Taste of Home

    Greek Pita Spread

    I first tried this at a family gathering and was blown away! I have since made it for my co-workers, and they just love it. I've gotten many requests for the recipe. —Joyce Benninger, Owen Sound, Ontario

    Go to Recipe

    16/46

    Lemon Pudding Dessert

    After a big meal, folks really go for this light lemon treat. The shortbread crust is the perfect base for the fluffy top layers. I've prepared this sunny dessert for church suppers for years and I always get recipe requests.—Muriel DeWitt, Maynard, Massachusetts

    Go to Recipe

    17/46

    Grilled Loaded Potato Rounds

    My go-to recipe for outdoor potlucks is an awesome potato side. I prep everything beforehand, then assemble and grill at the party. Serve with sour cream, cheese, bacon and chives. —Fay Moreland, Wichita Falls, Texas

    Go to Recipe

    18/46

    Taste of Home

    Cheesy Sausage Stromboli

    I've had a hundred requests for this recipe over the years. Perfect for brunch or as an evening snack, this sausage-filled bread is not tricky to make—and I never have to worry about storing leftovers! —Vada McRoberts, Silver Lake, Kansas

    Go to Recipe

    19/46

    Taste of Home

    Vibrant Black-Eyed Pea Salad

    My black-eyed pea salad reminds me of a Southern cooking class my husband and I took while visiting Savannah, Georgia. People go nuts for it at picnics and potlucks. —Danielle Lee, Charleston, South Carolina

    Go to Recipe

    20/46

    Can't-Eat-Just-One Cinnamon Rolls

    My cinnamon rolls have been known to vanish quickly. Once I dropped off a dozen rolls for my brothers, and they emptied the pan in 10 minutes. —Regina Farmwald, West Farmington, Ohio

    Go to Recipe

    21/46

    22/46

    Giant Molasses Cookies

    My family always requests these soft molasses cookies. These chewy cookies are also perfect for shipping as holiday gifts or to troops overseas. —Kristine Chayes, Smithtown, New York

    Go to Recipe

    23/46

    24/46

    Marbled Cappuccino Fudge Cheesecake

    I came up with this recipe because I love the frozen cappuccino drinks at coffee shops and wanted a cheesecake with the same goods. If you try it, don't hold the whip. The creamy mocha-infused topping is the best part! —Becky McClaflin, Blanchard, Oklahoma

    Go to Recipe

    25/46

    I always like to bring this healthy option to parties and potlucks, and people seem to really appreciate that. No oil is necessary for this salad; the lemon juice combines with the feta to lightly coat the bright, fresh ingredients. —Camille Parker, Chicago, Illinois

    Go to Recipe

    26/46

    Slow-Cooked Pork Burritos

    I have been making these slow-cooker burritos for as long as I can remember, changing the recipe now and then to add variety. This is the version we serve for casual get-togethers with friends. —Sharon Belmont, Lincoln, Nebraska

    Go to Recipe

    27/46

    Apricot Ham Balls

    My family requests these ham balls for our annual Christmas Eve open house.

    Go to Recipe

    28/46

    Deluxe Strawberry Shortcake

    This tasty shortcake is perfect for the Fourth of July. I love the moist texture and from-scratch flavor. It's foolproof and always brings lots of compliments. —Janet Fant, Denair, California

    Go to Recipe

    29/46

    Jalapeno Bean Dip

    This is the snack my family usually requests. We especially like to make this zippy dip on camping trips because it travels so well. —Lorene Goodwin, Belle Fourche, South Dakota

    Go to Recipe

    30/46

    Peanut Butter-Filled Brownie Cupcakes

    I have made this outstandingly delicious recipe for years. These rich cupcakes are sure to delight everyone you make them for. —Carol Gillespie, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania

    Go to Recipe

    31/46

    Taste of Home

    Peach Gelatin Salad

    My mother always asked our family what we wanted to eat for holiday dinners. Without exception, our requests included this refreshing gelatin. Toasted walnuts give it a little crunch. —Dennis King, Navarre, Florida

    Go to Recipe

    32/46

    Caraway Coleslaw with Citrus Mayonnaise

    The combination of caraway and orange keeps this slaw from being anything but run-of-the-mill. I always get requests to bring a big batch to potlucks; proof positive that it's a keeper! I also like to make it a day ahead so the flavors can truly blend. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

    Go to Recipe

    33/46

    Taste of Home

    No-Bake Chocolate-Pecan Tartlets

    At the last minute, I frantically came up with this treat for a holiday tea. The tartlets were quickly gobbled up. Now, I make them for our annual Teacher Taster's Choice and special family gatherings. —Joy Johnson, Culbertson, Montana

    Go to Recipe

    34/46

    Slow Cooker Calico Beans

    With so many folks moving to meatless or healthier food choices, I decided to remove the meat from the original recipe but turn up the flavor. The savory veggie blend balances the sweetness of the baked beans. —David Dixon, Shaker Heights, OH

    Go to Recipe

    35/46

    Beer Cheese in a Bread Bowl

    My entire family loves this cheese dip. I often get requests to bring it to gatherings with friends. Chopped scallions make a pretty optional garnish. —Julie Koch, Delaware, Ohio

    Go to Recipe

    36/46

    Taste of Home

    Chicken Salad Party Sandwiches

    My famous chicken salad arrives at the party chilled in a plastic container. When it’s time to set out the food, I stir in the pecans and assemble the sandwiches. They’re a hit at buffet-style potlucks. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho

    Go to Recipe

    37/46

    Taste of Home

    The combination of green beans and red potatoes, sometimes known as green beans Pierre, is one of my go-to side dishes. It's terrific with chicken.— Preci D'Silva, Dubai

    Go to Recipe

    38/46

    Fresh Tomato Bruschetta

    The topping for this simple Fresh Tomato Bruschetta appetizer can be put together ahead of time and refrigerated. We also love it on top of grilled chicken sandwiches, hamburgers and homemade pizza. —Samantha Cass, Swartz Creek, Michigan

    Go to Recipe

    39/46

    40/46

    Taste of Home

    Layered Curried Cheese Spread

    Pretty and tasty, this layered dips has become my signature appetizer. We make this for almost every party and family occasion we attend.—Melody Kieffer, Kirkland, Washington

    Go to Recipe

    41/46

    Noodle Pudding

    Whenever I bring this creamy dish to gatherings, it always prompts recipe requests. The surprising sweetness comes from apricot nectar, and everyone enjoys the golden buttery topping. —Eileen Meyers, Scott Township, Pennsylvania

    Go to Recipe

    42/46

    Taste of Home

    Marinated Chicken Wings

    I've made these nicely flavored chicken wings many times for get-togethers. They're so moist and tender—I always get lots of compliments and many requests for the recipe. —Janie Botting, Sultan, Washington

    Go to Recipe

    43/46

    Taste of Home

    New Orleans Gumbo

    I’ve been making this New Orleans gumbo for at least 30 years. I’m originally from New Orleans, and I think it’s a nice taste of the Vieux Carre (French Quarter). Everyone who tastes this gumbo wants the recipe. It’s an old standby for my family, who requests it frequently. —Dolores M. Bridges, Danville, Kentucky

    Go to Recipe

    44/46

    Taste of Home

    Coconut Poppy Seed Cake

    This moist coconut cake is definitely one of my most-requested desserts. Use different cake mixes and pudding flavors for variety. —Gail Cayce, Wautoma, Wisconsin

    Go to Recipe

    45/46

    Taste of Home

    Bacon-Pimiento Cheese Corn Muffins

    Cornbread is essential at family dinners, and with the addition of bacon and pimiento cheese, you'll have requests for more long after the get-together! —Holly Jones, Kennesaw, Georgia

    Go to Recipe

    46/46

    Taste of Home

    Potluck Spareribs

    When I want to bring home an empty pan from a potluck, I turn to this recipe. The ribs disappear in minutes! —Sheri Kirkman, Lancaster, New York

    Go to Recipe

    Originally Published: April 19, 2018

    46 Recipes That Will Make You Potluck Famous (45)

    Sue Stetzel

    Sue has been working with Taste of Home since 2011. When she isn’t writing, she’s answering your burning cooking questions and working with our team of Community Cooks. She spends her free time cooking, crafting, and volunteering for various organizations in her home town.

    46 Recipes That Will Make You Potluck Famous (2024)

    FAQs

    What is a good finger food to bring to a potluck? ›

    Easy Finger Food Recipes to Make Ahead
    • Fried Pickles. Treat your guests to fried pickles for fun finger food ideas. ...
    • Fried Mac and Cheese Rolls. ...
    • Deviled Eggs. ...
    • Honey Garlic Meatballs. ...
    • Garlic Breadsticks. ...
    • Salted Soft Pretzels. ...
    • Whipped Ricotta Crostini. ...
    • Vietnamese Spring Rolls.
    3 days ago

    What is the meal where everyone brings a dish? ›

    A potluck dinner party is where you and your friends get together at one of your houses, and you all bring a home-cooked dish for everyone to share.

    What to bring to a potluck last minute? ›

    Last-Minute Appetizers
    • Ham and Cheese Tortilla Roll Ups. You can put anything in tortilla pinwheels, like this recipe with ham and ranch seasoning. ...
    • 5-Minute Taco Dip. ...
    • Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese. ...
    • Crockpot Meatballs with Grape Jelly Sauce. ...
    • 5-Minute Black Bean Dip. ...
    • Pimento Cheese. ...
    • Antipasto Platter. ...
    • Homemade Salsa.
    Nov 29, 2023

    What's the easiest thing to bring to a potluck? ›

    Pasta Salad: A simple pasta salad with veggies and Italian dressing is quick and budget-friendly. Vegetable Tray: Bring a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables with dip. Deviled Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs filled with a flavorful mixture are always a hit.

    What is the easiest thing to bring to a work potluck? ›

    Most food stores sell prepared vegetable trays with dips. This is simple, easy, and usually goes quickly at parties. Fruit tray. Similar to the vegetable tray, most food stores have some kind of combination of fruit salad or fruit trays that you can use for your potluck event.

    What is a one dish meal? ›

    One-dish literally means just one pot. And one cooking dish means very little clean up during and after the meal. Saving time on clean up frees even more time to spend as you wish.

    What is potluck menu? ›

    Potluck dinners are events where the attendees bring a dish to a meal. The only traditional rule is that each dish be large enough to be shared among a good portion of the anticipated guests. Guests may bring in any form of food, ranging from the main course to desserts.

    How do you make a successful potluck? ›

    How to host the perfect potluck party: 8 tips from a pro
    1. Control your inner control freak.
    2. Keep your guests in the loop about dietary restrictions.
    3. Pick a theme, or don't.
    4. Think about the flow and label the food.
    5. Don't forget plates, cups, napkins and utensils.
    6. Make sure your kitchen is as clean as you can manage.
    Aug 11, 2016

    How do you make a potluck interesting? ›

    1. Set a theme. Create excitement by setting a theme for your potluck. ...
    2. Picky eaters can be found in any group of kids. If guests are bringing children, think ahead and have easy, no-fuss foods that kids will enjoy. ...
    3. Consider dietary needs and allergies. Have a guest that is gluten-free or vegetarian? ...
    4. Plan for variety.

    How to make food ahead of time for a party? ›

    Freezing helps preserve the items, so they taste great on party day. This doesn't have to be done weeks in advance, either. Instead, make sauces, breads, pie crusts and other items that freeze well a few days before the party. Store them in the freezer until the night before.

    What is a good meal to feed a large crowd? ›

    Gather, Share, and Eat: Easy Meals for Large Groups That Won't Break the Bank
    • The Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs. ...
    • Tantalizing Tacos. ...
    • Perfectly Baked Potatoes. ...
    • Pizza Extravaganza. ...
    • Mouthwatering Pulled Pork. ...
    • Fabulous Fajitas. ...
    • Hearty Chili. ...
    • Build-Your-Own Sandwiches.
    Oct 19, 2023

    What are the most popular finger foods for parties? ›

    Best Finger Foods
    • Pigs in a Blanket.
    • Antipasto Skewers.
    • Pepperoni Pizza Rolls.
    • Fried Mac and Cheese Balls.
    • Deviled Eggs.
    • Jalapeño Poppers.
    • Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites.
    • Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms.

    Top Articles
    Latest Posts
    Article information

    Author: Fr. Dewey Fisher

    Last Updated:

    Views: 6320

    Rating: 4.1 / 5 (42 voted)

    Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

    Author information

    Name: Fr. Dewey Fisher

    Birthday: 1993-03-26

    Address: 917 Hyun Views, Rogahnmouth, KY 91013-8827

    Phone: +5938540192553

    Job: Administration Developer

    Hobby: Embroidery, Horseback riding, Juggling, Urban exploration, Skiing, Cycling, Handball

    Introduction: My name is Fr. Dewey Fisher, I am a powerful, open, faithful, combative, spotless, faithful, fair person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.