The potluck dinner probably started in communities via churches. In many churches, it used to be a tradition to have a potluck dinner once a month, or even every week. Every homemaker would bring her favorite signature dish, and people of all ages would flock to the tables laden with delicious food.
Whether it’s potluck dishes that are great for appetizers or ones that everyone can fill up on, this list has it all.
Potlucks are a beloved tradition, bringing friends, family, and coworkers together to enjoy a variety of homemade dishes in a warm, communal setting. This beloved custom not only generates a sense of togetherness, but also allows everyone to showcase their culinary skills and creativity. Exploring new potluck ideas and recipes can further elevate the experience, making it even more memorable and enjoyable for all attendees.
When planning for a potluck, participants often seek out unique and enticing dishes to prepare and bring. A diverse mix of options, from appetizers and main courses to sides and desserts, is key to ensuring that there is something for everyone. Discovering new potluck recipes that cater to a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions, while also incorporating seasonal ingredients or international flavors, can greatly enhance the event’s appeal.
As you gear up to attend your next potluck, consider broadening your recipe repertoire with our selection of innovative and mouthwatering potluck ideas. With these dishes at your disposal, you’ll undoubtedly make a lasting impression and contribute to an unforgettable gathering.
These are easy potluck dishes too so you don’t have to spend all afternoon getting them together.
The next time you’re wondering what to bring to a potluck you can save time racking your brain and just pick a favorite from below.
So get settled and browse the potluck dishes below so you’ll be ready to impress guests the next time you bring something over.
Give your potluck a healthier twist with this green goddess salad. It’s still delicious but it won’t weigh you down.
This recipe is made with avocado, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, yogurt, garlic, salt, and pepper. You can even add some chicken or shrimp to this salad to make it a meal.
You might not be able to keep these on the table at a potluck but that might be a good idea because then people would just eat them all.
This recipe is made with peppermint ice cream, Oreos, milk, Cool Whip, and chocolate syrup. You can even make them ahead of time and keep them in the freezer until you’re ready to serve them.
This is one of those potluck ideas you’ll be amazed at how easy it is, especially with an instant pot.
Prepping these won’t take too long so you can have enough of the party and still have time to enjoy it. You could even have them for breakfast and they’ll still taste good.
The combination of mushrooms, cheese, and pizza sauce is irresistible and makes for a great appetizer.
Nothing says fun more than this rainbow jello cake. It’s perfect for a potluck because it’s so bright and colorful.
This recipe is made with white cake mix, Jell-O, whipped topping, and fruit. The hardest part about making this cake is waiting for the layers to set in the fridge.
The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is always a hit and this potluck dish is no exception.
This recipe is made with devil’s food cake mix, peanut butter, milk, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips. You could even make your own cake from scratch if you feel like blowing people’s taste buds away.
When you want to brings something sweet to the potluck these blueberry crumble bars are the perfect choice.
This recipe is made with blueberries, sugar, flour, oats, butter, and cinnamon. Make yourself some extra for the home because you’ll definitely want to munch on them for later.
This potluck dish is easy to make and is incredibly light and refreshing. Chances are all the other food will be heavy so this is a great way to balance it out with some healthy food.
The best part is that you can make the pasta salad ahead of time which makes your life a lot easier.
People will absolutely fall in love with you for these little cheesecakes. They’re so good and they’re perfect for a potluck.
This recipe is made with graham crackers, butter, cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. You can even make them ahead of time and freeze them.
All you need are a few chips and this pineapple salsa and you’re good to go.
This dish is incredibly flavorful and has a bit of sweetness to it from the pineapple and you better believe that people won’t be able to stop going for another chip.
It’s surprising just how good strawberry lemonade is when it’s hot outside and you need something to cool down.
This recipe is made with strawberries, lemon juice, sugar, water, and ice. You can even make a big batch of it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge.
This recipe is made with Flatbread dough, olive oil, steak, gorgonzola cheese, arugula, and balsamic glaze. You can even make your own flatbread dough if you’re feeling ambitious.
Do you know how easy it is to throw all your pizza ingredients on a sheet pan and let it bake?
This is one of those perfect work potluck ideas because you can make a bunch at once and everyone will love it. Just choose your favorite toppings and you’re good to go.
Very few people can keep their hands off of popcorn shrimp when they see them so you might want to make a double batch.
This recipe is made with shrimp, flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, eggs, and milk. Go ahead and make a nice remoulade dipping sauce on the side.
Get yourself some high-quality crackers and then throw this potluck dish on the table and watch as people go crazy for it.
This recipe is made with chicken, cream cheese, blue cheese, hot sauce, and ranch dressing. You can even cut down on the cooking time using a rotisserie chicken.
One of the best potluck dishes is jalapeño poppers and for good reason. Add some ground beef to really turn them into something special.
This recipe is made with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, and jalapeños. They’re perfect for a party because they’re easy to make and they’re always a hit.
If you make these just right they will fly off the table. They’re so good people will want to eat them as soon as they see them.
This recipe is made with chicken, Greek yogurt, spices, and lemon juice. They’re perfect for a potluck because they’re fried chicken and they don’t require any special ingredients.
If you have a bunch of refined palates in the crowd then it’s definitely worth it to make this easy baked brie.
It only takes a few minutes to prepare and bake but it will definitely make an impression. Just be sure to have some crackers on hand for people to eat it with.
This pasta dish is absolutely delicious and it might take a little longer to make so you’ll want to save it for a special occasion.
The combination of tortellini, prosciutto, and vegetables makes it a well-rounded dish that everyone will love. Just be sure to make enough because it will go fast.
They don’t call it crack chicken for no reason. Once you start eating it you won’t be able to stop. It’s so good.
This recipe is made with chicken, cream cheese, bacon, ranch dressing mix, and diced tomatoes. It’s so easy to make and it only takes a few ingredients.
You’ll be surprised how well some shrimp goes in guacamole but I promise it’s delicious.
This is the perfect dish to bring to a potluck because it’s easy to make and everyone will love it. Just be sure to have plenty of chips because people won’t be able to get enough.
You won’t find a potluck idea as easy to make but as packed with flavor as these antipasto skewers.
All you need is some cured meats, cheese, olives, and vegetables and you’re good to go. You can also make them ahead of time so they’re ready to go when you are.
There’s nothing like homemade hummus and this recipe is so easy to make. You can also customize it to your liking by adding in different spices or herbs.
All you need is some chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt and you’re good to go. Be sure to have some pita bread or veggies nearby.
Make sure there are some tortilla chips nearby when you serve this because people will want to dive right in.
This 7 layer dip has all the flavors you love and it’s easy to make. You can also customize it to your liking so everyone can enjoy it. Throw some sour cream, onions, beans, tomatoes, avocados, and cheese in to really make it sing.
Here’s an incredibly simple pico de Gallo recipe to make for your next potluck. People need some chips on the side but if you make them good enough, it’s all people need.
When you want a dip to bring to a potluck party it’s hard to find one healthier and more flavorful than Cowboy Caviar, especially with some baked beans added in.
Give yourself the pleasure of this refreshing mint melon salad on a hot day. The sweetness of the melon combined with the tang of the lime and mint is an irresistible combination.
This recipe is extremely easy and only requires 4 ingredients: grape jelly, bbq sauce, pork, and beef. That’s it, and it’s the perfect comfort food for a potluck.
The Best Potluck Recipes
When you’re looking for the best pot luck dishes to impress guests with you don’t have to slave away in the kitchen. Just take one of the potluck food ideas from above and whip it up in no time. What you’ll learn is that an easy potluck dish can still be packed with flavor without it needing to be stressed over.
Our 45+ BEST Potluck Ideas (+Rainbow Pasta Salad)
These options are sure to be a hit. So, gather your family and friends and enjoy. Let us know your thoughts!
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
