Best Potluck Recipes

Potlucks are my favorite way to get family and friends together for special occasions, summer BBQs, holidays, and Sunday dinners. And I’ve definitely worked in offices where they loved having a potluck to celebrate just about anything. I’m always looking for something easy, budget-friendly, and delicious to bring to the next potluck, so I put together 60 of the best potluck recipes to impress at your next social gathering!

Anytime I get invited to a potluck, my brain immediately goes into overdrive, wondering what to bring. The best dishes to bring to the summer cookout are not always ideal for the office party. And what if I get put on dessert duty? Or if there are certain dietary requirements? But with this list of easy potluck ideas, I can find something delicious to make–even last-minute!

What to Bring to a Community Gathering

Community gatherings are some of my favorite events because they bring everyone together, from church dinners to school functions. The best dishes are easy to make, travel well, and feed a crowd. These recipes are made to share and are always a hit on the buffet table!

Work & Office Potluck Ideas

1. Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken is tender, juicy, tangy, and rich all at the same time! Perfect for sandwiches, nachos, salads, pizza, and more.

4.92 from 24 votes

$8.25 recipe / $1.03 serving Get the Recipe

This slow cooker shredded buffalo chicken is always a favorite at workplace potluck lunches. Ranch seasoning adds a huge burst of flavor to the sauce that everyone always loves, and it’s easy to transport!

2. Turkey Pinwheels

Turkey Pinwheels

Turkey Pinwheels are a fun and easy spin on simple sandwiches, and the perfect recipe to make ahead for lunch meal prep or take to a party or potluck.

4.20 from 5 votes

$9.91 RECIPE / $2.48 SERVING Get the Recipe

I always rely on these quick turkey pinwheels for an office potluck because they’re ready in 15 minutes and easy to store in the fridge. And pinwheels are really versatile, so I don’t have to make the same exact kind every time.

3. Three Bean Salad

Classic Three Bean Salad

Simple ingredients come together in this Classic Three Bean Salad to make a simple summer side dish, perfect for BBQs and potlucks!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

4.78 from 18 votes

$3.84 recipe / $0.77 serving Get the Recipe

Side dishes are my favorite thing to bring to work potlucks because they’re usually so much easier to make! This three bean salad is a delicious option, and it’s classic enough to please everyone.

4. Cucumber Sandwiches

Cucumber Sandwiches

Cucumber sandwiches with a dilly cream cheese spread are a light and refreshing lunch or snack to serve with tea or brunch.

4.84 from 6 votes

$4.65 recipe / $0.38 serving Get the Recipe

These simple cucumber sandwiches are easy to make in bulk then transport to the work function. It’s a totally stress-free recipe!

Church Potluck Favorites

5. Lasagna

Homemade Lasagna

This easy homemade lasagna recipe has layers of homemade meat sauce, tender flat noodles, and a rich combination of Italian cheeses!

4.79 from 19 votes

$16.19 recipe / $1.80 serving Get the Recipe

When I need a dinner-worthy potluck dish that’s easy to make, large enough for a crowd, and sure to please, I go straight to this lasagna recipe!

6. Macaroni Salad

Macaroni Salad

Macaroni Salad is an easy and inexpensive classic for potlucks, summer BBQs, or an easy side dish for dinner.

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

5 from 8 votes

$4.15 recipe / $0.52 serving Get the Recipe

A community cookout loves to see me coming with this cold macaroni salad. It’s creamy, budget-friendly, and delicious! It’s just not a potluck without this classic dish.

7. Chicken Spaghetti

Chicken Spaghetti

This creamy Chicken Spaghetti recipe is made with a cheesy, luscious, cream sauce and baked to perfection. A pasta lover’s dream!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

4.83 from 67 votes

$13.36 recipe / $2.23 serving Get the Recipe

I’ve made this chicken spaghetti more times than I can count, and it’s always a hit. It’s creamy, cheesy, and impossible to mess up.

8. Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake might be the ultimate chocolate cake. It's incredibly easy to make and has a luscious buttery richness with a pure chocolate punch!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

4.80 from 5 votes

$11.24 recipe / $0.75 serving Get the Recipe

When it’s my turn to bring a dessert, this is the recipe I turn to. This Texas chocolate sheet cake can easily feed a crowd, so it’s great for all kinds of potlucks and large family gatherings.

9. Banana Pudding

Banana Pudding

This easy, creamy banana pudding recipe has layers of vanilla wafers, bananas & pudding. A Southern classic dessert, perfect for potlucks & gatherings.

5 from 3 votes

$4.91 recipe / $1.23 serving Get the Recipe

Is it just me or does it seem like banana pudding is always the first dessert to be devoured at potlucks? I suggest making a double batch of this recipe because it’s always a crowd favorite!

School Potluck DIshes

10. Ham and Cheese Sliders

Ham and Cheese Sliders

These easy Ham and Cheese Sliders are a must-have for parties! They’re buttery, sweet, salty, gooey, and insanely delicious!

4.93 from 13 votes

$11.09 recipe / $1.84 serving Get the Recipe

Think of your favorite ham and cheese sandwich, then imagine it warm, gooey, and brushed with buttery goodness. That’s exactly what these ham and cheese sliders deliver. Kids and grown-ups love them!

11. Fudgy Brownies

Super Fudgy Homemade Brownies

These super fudgy homemade brownies are thick, rich, extra-chocolatey, and super moist. It's the ultimate homemade brownie recipe!

4.56 from 27 votes

$3.93 recipe / $0.44 serving Get the Recipe

If (like me) you’re team fudgy brownies with dense, chewy, rich chocolate, then these are just for you! It’s a great potluck idea because who can resist brownies? Plus you can slice them up as small as you need to make them crowd-friendly (or make extra!).

12. Seven Layer Dip

7 Layer Dip

This easy 7 Layer Dip is the perfect appetizer for parties, football games, and gatherings. No cooking needed and it feeds a large crowd!

4.50 from 2 votes

$16.72 recipe / $1.11 serving Get the Recipe

This 7 layer dip has all the makings of a perfect student potluck dish—cheap, easy, and a total crowd-pleaser. Plus, there’s no cooking required!

13. BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ Chicken Pizza

Get the classic BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe, plus other fun toppings you can add that pair well with BBQ and make your pizza even more flavorful.

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

5 from 8 votes

$4.87 recipe / $1.21 serving Get the Recipe

BBQ chicken pizza is always a win with kids…and honestly, adults too. It’s loaded with flavor and tastes amazing whether it’s fresh out of the oven or straight from the fridge! I love a homemade pizza where I can mix and match the toppings.

14. Fruit Dip

Fruit Dip

Make this easy Fruit Dip in 5 minutes with Greek yogurt, whipped topping, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Light, creamy, and perfect with fresh fruit.

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

5 from 1 vote

$2.28 recipe / $0.29 serving Get the Recipe

If there’s one recipe that’ll get kids excited about eating fresh fruit, it’s this easy fruit dip. I’ll slice up whatever fruit I have on hand, like apples, strawberries, grapes, or melon, and throw it all on a serving platter for a no-fuss, last-minute potluck treat.

What to Bring to a Friends & Family Gathering

I love any excuse to cook for the people I care about, and these recipes make it simple. These recipes are perfect for cookouts, backyard dinners, or any casual get-together where good food and good company come first.

BBQ Potluck Recipes

15. Turkey Burgers

Turkey Burger

Fire up the grill for a juicy, flavorful Turkey Burger! Made with soy sauce, panko, and parmesan, these burgers are so flavorful!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

5 from 5 votes

$7.15 recipe / $1.78 serving Get the Recipe

You can shape these turkey burgers in advance and cook them up on the grill at the potluck. They’re light, flavorful, and everyone loves making their own with toppings!

16. Potato Salad

Classic Southern Style Potato Salad

This classic Southern Style Potato Salad uses both mustard and mayonnaise for a super flavorful dressing that is rich, tangy, and creamy.

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

4.87 from 15 votes

$5.43 recipe / $0.68 serving Get the Recipe

This classic potato salad recipe is another summer potluck must-have! I love the mix of creamy and tangy ingredients, and it’s so easy to throw together.

17. Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is an easy way to cook the most tender and juicy pork ever. It's great on tacos, sandwiches, burritos and more.

4.58 from 14 votes

$9.48 recipe / $1.19 serving Get the Recipe

Every good BBQ potluck needs this Crockpot pulled pork, and I feel like a star bringing it in for everyone to see. I usually make it the day before, so it’s ready to go!

18. Smoky Grilled Mushroom Kebabs

Smoky Grilled Mushroom Kebabs

These Smoky Grilled Mushroom Kebabs come together fast with a bold marinade and are the perfect veggie addition to any summer grilling spread.

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

5 from 4 votes

$3.45 recipe / $1.15 serving Get the Recipe

These smoky grilled mushroom kebabs are a veggie BBQ fave! Mushrooms are much more budget-friendly than meat, so I’ll happily make a ton and know everyone will still be satisfied.

19. Elote (Street Corn) Pasta Salad

Elote (Street Corn) Pasta Salad

This easy Elote (Street Corn) Pasta Salad is made with smoky corn, zesty lime, and creamy queso fresco for a fresh BBQ, potluck, or weeknight side dish!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

5 from 4 votes

$5.53 recipe / $0.69 serving Get the Recipe

The first time I made this elote street corn pasta salad, I knew it would firmly gain a spot in my BBQ potluck repertoire! It’s made with smoky corn, creamy dressing, zesty lime, and a sprinkle of queso fresco for the perfect mix of fresh and flavorful.

Picnic-Perfect Potluck Ideas

20. Tomato Cracker Salad

Tomato Cracker Salad

This Southern Tomato Cracker Salad is creamy, crunchy, and full of summer flavor. Made with just 5 ingredients and ready in minutes!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

5 from 1 vote

$5.84 recipe / $1.17 serving Get the Recipe

I don’t think many people have tried a tomato cracker salad…but I beg you to give it a chance. It’s simple, Southern, and way more delicious than it has any right to be!

21. Cowboy Caviar

Cowboy Caviar

Cowboy Caviar is a deliciously fresh bean salad with a colorful mix of beans and vegetables, plus a zesty lime dressing.

4.52 from 101 votes

$5.54 recipe / $0.55 serving Get the Recipe

Showing up at the picnic with this cowboy caviar recipe is an easy way to steal the show. Little does anyone know, I only spent 20 minutes throwing it together on my way out the door!

22. Summer Vegetable Pasta Salad

Summer Vegetable Pasta Salad

This light and fresh Summer Vegetable Pasta Salad is perfect for summer BBQs and potlucks, or your weekly meal prep.

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

4.79 from 42 votes

$10.21 recipe / $1.02 serving Get the Recipe

This pasta salad with summer veggies is my favorite way to celebrate the summer. I can make this and throw it in the fridge in the days leading up to the party, and I know it’ll be ready to go when I am.

23. Lemon Cucumber Couscous Salad

Lemony Cucumber Couscous Salad

Lemony Cucumber Couscous Salad is a light, fresh, and vibrant pasta salad perfect for any summer meal. 

4.73 from 81 votes

$6.46 recipe / $1.08 serving Get the Recipe

This lemon cucumber couscous salad is a trusty recipe when I’m in a hurry. I usually have most of these ingredients on hand, and it’s ready to go in just 20 minutes! It’s absolutely perfect for a picnic with the whole family.

Tailgating Potluck Recipes for Game Day

24. Chili

Homemade Chili Recipe

This is the BEST homemade chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food and is made with simple ingredients like ground beef, beans, and tomatoes.

4.81 from 220 votes

$9.28 recipe / $1.55 serving Get the Recipe

Everyone loves hearty chili, and I know it’s always a favorite at tailgate potlucks. It’s easy to serve a larger gathering, and everyone can choose their own toppings.

25. Cornbread

Easy Homemade Cornbread Recipe

Toss that boxed mix and make this fast and Easy Homemade Cornbread, which makes a great side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! 

4.47 from 166 votes

$1.51 recipe / $0.19 serving Get the Recipe

If there is one thing I absolutely love, it’s definitely homemade cornbread. Ditch the box stuff and serve this easy recipe along with whatever dishes everyone else brings to the tailgate party.

26. Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

This easy Philly Cheesesteak recipe is made with tender, thinly sliced beef, sautéed peppers, onions and mushrooms and gooey, melted cheese on a toasted hoagie roll!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

5 from 12 votes

$15.54 recipe / $3.10 serving Get the Recipe

Philly cheesesteaks aren’t known to be the most budget-friendly dish, but I use shaved beef steak and load them up with mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions, to get all that classic flavor without breaking the bank.

27. Buffalo Wings

Buffalo Wings Recipe

This buffalo wing recipe has all the great flavor of classic fried wings with none of the mess of deep frying.

5 from 11 votes

$12.24 recipe / $3.06 serving Get the Recipe

Buffalo wings are a must at a tailgate potluck or game day celebration! They’re easy to make, travel well, and are the perfect finger food to enjoy while cheering on your home team.

28. Nacho Cheese Sauce

5 Minute Nacho Cheese Sauce

This rich and tangy homemade nacho cheese only takes about 5 minutes to make and uses only real, simple ingredients.

4.12 from 360 votes

$2.78 recipe / $0.46 serving Get the Recipe

Sometimes I just really don’t have the time to make anything before the party. So this 5-minute cheese sauce is my secret for every last-minute potluck, because I know no one will bat an eye at my dish once they taste it.

29. Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes

This sloppy joes recipe is a weeknight dinner classic with juicy ground beef and a tangy homemade sauce. They're kid approved!

4.61 from 41 votes

$10.20 recipe / $2.04 serving Get the Recipe

Any big party or gathering is better off with these homemade sloppy joes. The rich homemade sauce makes them extra flavorful, and I like bringing along mini slider buns so they’re crowd-ready.

What to Bring to a Holiday Gathering

I’m sure I’m not alone when I say one of my favorite things about the holidays is the FOOD! And let me tell you, we have some pretty delicious recipes for the holidays (these lists could have gone on and on), but here are a few choice options for Easter, 4th July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas potlucks.

Easter Potluck Favorites

30. Ham and Potato Casserole

Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe

This Ham and Potato Casserole is insanely delicious and absolutely perfect when you want something a little extra special for breakfast or brunch!

4.82 from 11 votes

$8.46 recipe / $1.41 serving Get the Recipe

Got some leftover baked ham or deli ham steaks? Mix it with diced potatoes, cheddar, and a creamy sauce and make this ham and potato casserole! I love this one for a breakfast or brunch holiday potluck with the family.

31. Glazed Carrots

Glazed Carrots

Five ingredients and 20 minutes is all you need to make these easy & delicious Glazed Carrots. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals!

4.86 from 7 votes

$1.65 recipe / $0.41 serving Get the Recipe

20 minutes and a few simple ingredients are all I need to make this easy, tasty, and totally Easter-ready side dish! Glazed carrots are the simple dish your holiday potluck table needs.

32. Deviled Eggs

Deviled Eggs

This easy Deviled Eggs recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks and holidays. They’re guaranteed to disappear fast!

5 from 3 votes

$4.44 recipe / $0.74 serving Get the Recipe

I don’t think I’ve ever been to an Easter potluck without deviled eggs on the table. They’re creamy, tangy, and always the first to disappear. I love that I can make them ahead of time and keep them chilled until serving.

33. Carrot Cake Muffins

Carrot Cake Muffins

These soft, fluffy, and moist carrot cake muffins are full of delicious carrot cake flavor and the perfect sweet treat any time of the day!

4.95 from 20 votes

$4.55 recipe / $0.45 each Get the Recipe

These carrot cake muffins are my favorite bite-sized dessert for spring gatherings. They’ve got all the cozy flavors of classic carrot cake—warm spices, grated carrots, and a touch of sweetness—in a perfectly portable muffin form.

Potluck Recipes for the 4th of July

34. Red, White, and Blue Trifle

Red, White and Blue Trifle

This easy and festive Red, White, and Blue Trifle is made with vanilla cake, whipped cheesecake filling, fresh berries, and homemade blueberry sauce.

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

4.67 from 3 votes

$12.97 recipe / $1.08 serving Get the Recipe

This red, white, and blue trifle looks like a showstopper but couldn’t be easier to make! It’s a delicious summer potluck dessert with a patriotic pop of color.

35. BBQ Ribs

BBQ Ribs

You don't need a big fancy grill to get juicy, tender, fall-off-the-bone BBQ ribs. Your oven can produce lip-smackingly delicious ribs too!

4 from 4 votes

$11.76 recipe / $2.94 serving Get the Recipe

Every 4th of July cookout in my family has to have BBQ ribs, and this recipe never lets me down. They’re tender, smoky, and sticky from the BBQ sauce.