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17 Dishes That’ll Have You Leaving the Potluck as a Hero—Or at Least Without Leftovers

Bringing a forgettable dish to a potluck is a mistake, but one that disappears in minutes? That’s how you leave with an empty dish and a solid reputation. These 17 bold, crowd-pleasing recipes are the ones people go back for, hoping for just one more bite. If your dish has ever been ignored, this lineup makes sure that never happens again.

A Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is placed on a wooden board, garnished with sprigs of rosemary.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box

Close-up of a cheesy broccoli and rice casserole in a baking dish, with a serving removed, showing melted cheese, rice, broccoli, and garnished parsley.
Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Who says comfort can’t be shared in a dish? Expect smiles and maybe even a story from those who recognize this classic from their own family gatherings. Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box has a way of bringing back memories while creating new ones. It’s that dish everyone will ask about, wondering how something so simple tastes so right.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box

Retro Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples

Sliced slow cooker pork roast with sweet potatoes & apples on a white plate.
Retro Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Remember when meals used to simmer all day and greet you with unmatched flavors? We’ve got something that brings that feeling right to the potluck table. Retro Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples is more than just a dish; it’s a time machine. The blend of sweetness with succulent pork will have folks lining up before you’ve even set down the serving spoon.
Get the Recipe: Retro Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A pineapple upside-down cake with cherry toppings in a cast iron skillet.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Ever look for that showstopper dessert that’s as fun to reveal as it is to eat? Look no further. Pineapple Upside Down Cake not only turns heads when you flip it over but its sweet, tangy flavor locks in that wow moment. It’s the dessert that ends the meal on a high note, making sure you leave with fewer leftovers and plenty of compliments.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

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Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon

A black bowl filled with Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon with a spoon on the side.
Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Ever thought about the perfect side dish that goes with everything? Well, it might just be this. Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon mixes hearty with salty in a way that complements any main dish. Plus, its simplicity is what wins the crowd – easy to enjoy, and even easier to come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon

John Wayne Casserole

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Are you up for something that’s as bold as its namesake? Here, we have a dish that packs flavor without pulling any punches. John Wayne Casserole serves up a comforting yet hearty experience that will have everyone asking for the recipe. It’s the kind of meal that proves potlucks aren’t just for the faint of heart.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

No-Bake Molly Bars

A rectangular baking pan filled with molly bars and melted chocolate drizzle.
No-Bake Molly Bars. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

In need of a dessert that comes together without the oven? We’ve got you covered. No-Bake Molly Bars are the answer for anyone looking for that quick, delicious fix that satisfies without any hassle. This is the kind of treat that disappears first on the dessert table, no matter how many options there are.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Molly Bars

Classic Meatballs

A plate of spaghetti topped with two meatballs, marinara sauce, grated cheese, and basil garnish.
Classic Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Sometimes, going back to basics is the best way to stand out. Classic Meatballs offer just that – a simple, beloved favorite that goes with just about anything. Whether they’re standing alone as an appetizer or paired with a side, these are sure to bring content smiles and nods of appreciation from the room.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatballs

Turkey Divan

A serving of Turkey Divan from a baking dish onto a black plate.
Turkey Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Looking for something a bit more refined but without all the fuss? Turkey Divan marries elegance and simplicity in a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It’s the kind of entrée that makes a statement without trying too hard, proving that sometimes, less really is more.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Divan

Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings

Chicken wings with garlic and Parmesan on a white plate.
Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ready to wing it with something that will have folks talking long after the potluck’s over? Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings bring that bold flavor with a smoky twist. They’re not just wings; they’re conversation starters, the kind that might just overshadow the main courses.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings

Sloppy Joe Casserole

A serving of Sloppy Joe Casserole pasta with meat on a plate with a fork.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re in the mood for a twist on a childhood classic, then this is for you. Sloppy Joe Casserole takes the beloved sandwich filling and gives it a comforting, casserole form. It’s the perfect merger of nostalgia and novelty, proving that some flavors are timeless.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There’s something to be said for dishes that take you places. Authentic Hungarian Goulash offers a flavorful escape to Eastern Europe without the need for a passport. The rich, hearty stew promises warmth and conversation as folks take a trip with every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Shrimp and Grits Casserole in a black dish.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever thought about bringing a Southern favorite to the potluck? Here’s your chance to shine. Shrimp and Grits Casserole combines coastal flavors with down-home comfort, offering the best of both worlds. It’s a dish that brings a bit of Southern hospitality to any table it graces.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a pasta dish that breaks from the norm? Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto is your ideal ticket to a potluck stand-out. It’s the perfect marriage of rich Italian tradition and creative flair, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters happily come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Sweet Potato Casserole

A close-up of Sweet Potato Casserole on a white dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

In a sea of rich flavors, who doesn’t love a dish that plays both sides? Sweet Potato Casserole is that crowd-pleaser that serves up sweetness with a hint of comfort. It’s as much at home on the dessert table as it is alongside the main courses, making it a versatile favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

Smoked Pulled Pork

Two cast iron skillets with smoked pulled pork in them.
Smoked Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who believe that slow and steady wins the race, here’s proof. Smoked Pulled Pork requires patience, but the result is worth every minute. It’s the main dish that silently steals the show, with flavors so deep and rich, you’ll find it hard to walk away.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork

Over the Top Chili

Over the Top Chili in a black cast iron bowl.
Over the Top Chili. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When the conditions outside are less than welcoming, or you simply crave something wonderfully comforting, here’s your ultimate choice. Over the Top Chili has a way of leaving you fully content and bringing warmth to your soul. It’s the dish that settles any discussion about who contributed the most memorable meal to the gathering.
Get the Recipe: Over the Top Chili

Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

A Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is placed on a wooden board, garnished with sprigs of rosemary.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Imagining a dish that perfectly blends a touch of sweetness with rich, flavorful depth? Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham delivers that ideal balance. It’s the centerpiece that vanishes almost instantly once served, leaving everyone hoping for just one more slice.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

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