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33 Potluck Recipes That Don’t Come Home Half Full and Soggy—Just Empty Pans and a Lot of Recipe Requests

Potluck season just got a whole lot better with 33 potluck recipes that won’t leave you scrambling for leftovers. These dishes are guaranteed to be the first to go, leaving you with nothing but empty pans and a handful of recipe requests. No one wants to be that person with the sad, half-eaten casserole—these recipes keep everyone coming back for more. It’s time to show up and show out without worrying about your dish making the “who forgot to bring something?” list.

Mashed potatoes with cream cheese topped with melted butter and garnished with fresh parsley.
Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Easy Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice with a slice of lime on a black bowl.
Easy Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For something simple yet flavorful, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Easy Mexican Rice is the kind of side dish that gets devoured fast, with no leftovers to spare. The flavor is bold without being overwhelming, making it the perfect complement to any meal. It’s likely to be the first dish to disappear at the potluck, and you’ll be asked how it’s made.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice

Horiatiki Salad

Horiatiki Salad with feta cheese on top served on a plate.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This refreshing Greek salad is just what you need to balance out the heavier dishes at your potluck. Horiatiki Salad is full of fresh, crisp ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making it a must-have on any potluck table. It won’t last long, and you’ll likely get requests to bring it next time.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Mexican Rice

A plate of Mexican rice garnished with chopped green onions and herbs served with a spoon.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

A classic side that’s guaranteed to satisfy any crowd. Mexican Rice is simple, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with almost anything. It’s easy to make and even easier to eat, with each bite packing a satisfying punch. Expect this dish to be wiped out before you know it, with requests for seconds pouring in.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

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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.

This dish has all the crowd-pleasing qualities for your next get-together—sweet, savory, and perfectly cooked. Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham combines flavors in a way that makes every bite irresistible. It’s a dish that disappears fast, leaving you with an empty platter and requests for the recipe. A must-have at any gathering for people who love comfort and big flavors.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters

Two Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooter halves were placed on a slate board, next to slices of bread.
Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Perfect for your next potluck, this appetizer is packed with tangy, bold flavors in every bite. Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters are unique enough to stand out but familiar enough to please everyone. They’re small but mighty, leaving your guests coming back for more. Not only will the platter be empty, but you’ll be asked for the recipe before the last shrimp is gone.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters

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.

A casserole that combines hearty flavors and easy prep for a dish that everyone will love. John Wayne Casserole has everything you want in a crowd-pleasing meal—satisfying, flavorful, and filling. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience. Serve it up and watch as the dish disappears with only a few crumbs left behind.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken

A black bowl containing egg noodles topped with Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken and garnished with parsley, accompanied by a pickled pepper.
Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is hands-off and full of flavor. Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken brings together tangy and savory notes in a simple, comforting dish. It’s one of those meals that just disappears as soon as you set it out, and it leaves you with empty pans. The best part? You’ll be asked to bring it again at the next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken

Mini Cranberry-Brie Pull-Apart Bread

A hand pulls apart a Mini Cranberry-Brie Pull-Apart Bread garnished with rosemary, on a gray plate.
Mini Cranberry-Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Looking for an appetizer that’s both easy and impressive? Mini Cranberry-Brie Pull-Apart Bread brings together creamy brie and a burst of cranberry in a simple, shareable format. This pull-apart bread will vanish quickly, leaving only crumbs and plenty of compliments. It’s always a crowd favorite that will have everyone reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry-Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Turkey Divan

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

Comfort food doesn’t get any better than this creamy casserole. Turkey Divan brings rich flavors together with minimal effort, making it the perfect dish for potlucks. It’s one of those meals that disappears before you even realize it’s gone. Expect requests for the recipe as soon as the last bite is taken.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Divan

Grilled Corn Guacamole

Corn guacamole with tortilla chips on a plate.
Grilled Corn Guacamole. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor, this dip is a potluck essential. Grilled Corn Guacamole packs a punch without being overly complicated. It’s the kind of dish that pairs well with almost anything and never lasts long. Make sure to have extra chips on hand because people will keep coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Guacamole

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.

When you need something that feels like home, this dish delivers every time. Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box is comforting and easy to make, so it’s perfect for busy potluck days. It always disappears quickly, and you won’t be surprised when you’re asked to bring it again. Full of flavor, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box

Bacon Fried Corn

Bacon Fried Corn in a serving bowl.
Bacon Fried Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple yet full of flavor, this dish is one your guests will rave about. Bacon Fried Corn brings a delicious twist to your standard corn, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that disappears fast, with only empty bowls left behind. Be prepared to give out the recipe, because everyone will want to know how to make it.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Corned Beef Hash Casserole

Corned Beef Hash Casserole in a square baking dish.
Corned Beef Hash Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A comforting, hearty dish that’s always a winner. Corned Beef Hash Casserole is the kind of meal that has everyone coming back for seconds. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a potluck favorite. After it’s gone, you can bet you’ll be asked to bring it again next time.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Hash Casserole

Reuben Sliders

Reuben sliders on a slate board.
Reuben Sliders. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These sliders are everything you love about a Reuben in a bite-sized form. Reuben Sliders pack all the bold flavors of the classic sandwich into a portable, easy-to-eat snack. They’re always the first thing to disappear, with empty trays and satisfied guests. You won’t leave with leftovers—just requests for your recipe.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

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.

This dish brings a little nostalgia to your potluck spread, with flavors everyone will love. Retro Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples is easy to make and packed with flavors that mix well. It’s the kind of dish that just goes down easy, disappearing quickly, and leaving you with nothing but empty plates. Everyone will be asking for your recipe when it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Retro Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples

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.

These bars are a hit for anyone who wants a dessert that requires zero baking. No-Bake Molly Bars combine rich flavors into a simple, no-fuss treat. Expect the plate to be emptied in no time, with everyone praising how easy they are to make. You’ll definitely be asked to make them again the next time you’re invited to a potluck.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Molly Bars

Lemon Lush

Four pieces of lemon lush on a white plate.
Lemon Lush. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

If you need a light, refreshing dessert, this is it. Lemon Lush has just the right balance of sweet and tart flavors. It’s the perfect treat for warm weather and disappears quickly, leaving everyone asking for the recipe. No potluck should be without a dish this good.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Lush

Classic Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast

Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast with slices and roasted vegetables on a plate.
Classic Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you want a tender, flavorful main dish with minimal effort, this one’s a winner. Classic Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast offers big flavors and leaves everyone satisfied. You can expect this dish to be the first to go, with people coming back for seconds. Make sure to have the recipe ready because you’ll be asked for it more than once.
Get the Recipe: Classic Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast

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.

A dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Pineapple Upside Down Cake is moist, flavorful, and a real crowd favorite. This dessert has a way of disappearing before you know it, with guests already asking for the recipe. It’s the kind of dish you’ll be asked to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Smoked Pulled Pork

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

When you want a dish that’s easy, flavorful, and will please a crowd, this one’s a winner. Smoked Pulled Pork is tender, juicy, and full of smoky flavor that’s always a hit. It’s the kind of dish that’s sure to disappear by the end of the potluck, with only empty pans remaining. You’ll be asked to bring it again next time, for sure.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork

Sweet Potato Cornbread

A piece of cornbread on a plate next to a few potatoes.
Sweet Potato Cornbread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A dish that combines the best of cornbread and sweet potatoes for a unique twist. Sweet Potato Cornbread is rich, flavorful, and perfect for potlucks. It’s sure to disappear quickly, with no crumbs left behind. Be ready to share the recipe, because people will definitely ask for it!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These stuffed shells are a cheesy, comforting option that everyone loves. Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells bring comfort food to a whole new level. They’re always a crowd-pleaser and will have people asking for seconds. Expect to leave with only empty pans and a handful of recipe requests.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A plate of tuna noodle casserole with more in a baking dish nearby.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A classic comfort dish that’s always a hit. Tuna Noodle Casserole is creamy, filling, and perfect for potlucks. It’s the kind of dish that gets devoured quickly, leaving just a few crumbs behind. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite that’s requested again and again.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Easy Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa topped with avocado, cream, grated cheese, and cilantro.
Easy Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Hearty, healthy, and full of flavor, this chili is a great addition to any spread. Easy Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa packs a punch while still feeling light. It’s one of those dishes that people will reach for over and over, leaving you with an empty bowl. Be prepared to share the recipe as soon as it’s gone!
Get the Recipe: Easy Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

A slate platter with six crab stuffed mushrooms garnished with herbs.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

These bite-sized treats are packed with flavor and always a crowd favorite. Crab Stuffed Mushrooms disappear fast, with everyone asking for more. They’re perfect for snacking, and there’s rarely anything left by the end of the night. Expect to get recipe requests after every potluck.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Smoked Salmon Spread

Bowl of smoked salmon spread garnished with chopped chives next to crackers on a slate platter.
Smoked Salmon Spread. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Perfect for spreading on crackers or toast, this spread is a potluck winner. Smoked Salmon Spread brings big flavor with minimal effort. It’s one of those appetizers that gets devoured before you know it, with requests for the recipe pouring in. Serve it up, and it won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Spread

Molly Bars

Four pieces of molly bars on a white plate.
Molly Bars. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

These no-bake bars are a simple, yet satisfying treat. Molly Bars have just the right balance of sweetness and texture to make them a crowd favorite. They’re easy to make and even easier to eat, making them perfect for potlucks. Expect the pan to be empty in no time, and requests for the recipe to start rolling in.
Get the Recipe: Molly Bars

Big Mac Tacos

Two Big Mac tacos filled with ground beef, shredded lettuce, and pickles, and drizzled with a creamy sauce, placed on a white plate.
Big Mac Tacos. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

These tacos are everything you love about a Big Mac in a portable form. Big Mac Tacos pack all the flavors of the classic sandwich into a bite-sized taco. They’re always a hit, and you’ll see empty trays before long. Be ready for guests to ask for the recipe as soon as the last bite is taken.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This pasta salad is a fun and tasty twist on pizza. Pizza Pasta Salad combines all the flavors of pizza into an easy-to-serve salad. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, with no leftovers to be found. Expect to be asked for the recipe as soon as the bowl is empty.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Pecan Pie Brownies

A close-up of two pecan brownies on a slate surface, showing the rich, chocolatey interior and a topping of chopped pecans.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

A rich, indulgent dessert that combines two favorites into one. Pecan Pie Brownies are a guaranteed hit, with their perfect balance of sweetness and richness. They disappear fast, leaving only empty plates behind. You’ll definitely be asked to bring them again the next time.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Round black dish filled with seasoned roasted potato wedges, placed on a white wooden surface alongside a white and yellow striped cloth napkin.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These potatoes are full of bright, fresh flavors that complement any meal. Greek Lemon Potatoes are a great addition to any potluck and are sure to be a hit. People will keep going back for more, and the platter will be empty before you know it. Get ready to share your recipe with everyone!
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Lemon Cake Pops

Lemon cake pops on a white plate.
Lemon Cake Pops. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

These little bites of sweetness are always a hit at potlucks. Lemon Cake Pops are perfectly sweet with just the right balance of tartness. They disappear fast, and guests will be asking for the recipe as soon as the last one is gone. Make sure to have a few extras on hand, because they’re always in demand.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pops

Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Mashed potatoes with cream cheese topped with melted butter and garnished with fresh parsley.
Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy, rich, and full of comfort, this dish is the perfect side for any potluck. Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese are smooth and satisfying, leaving guests coming back for more. You’ll be lucky if there are any leftovers, as this dish is guaranteed to go fast. Be prepared to share the recipe when it’s gone!
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

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