29 Summer Potluck Recipes I Trust To Feed A Crowd

There’s a fine line between potluck success and everyone pretending they’re full. These 29 options have earned their place on crowded tables where competition is fierce and seconds are a sport. They’re bold enough to be remembered, simple enough not to scare anyone, and reliable enough to survive a cross-town drive in questionable summer traffic.

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background.
Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Blueberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake topped with glossy blueberry sauce on a white plate, with two black spoons beside it.
Blueberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

A creamy dessert with a fruity twist that’s perfect for sharing. Blueberry Cheesecake blends sweetness with a smooth texture in every slice. It’s always a showstopper on dessert tables and tends to be the first to go. A great choice when you want something rich but not overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spicy snacks rolled up into bite-sized portions that are easy to grab. Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel balances heat and creaminess in a way that keeps everyone coming back for more. Perfect for potlucks when you want something a little bold. These small, flavorful bites always make an impression.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs.
French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Rich, baked goodness full of familiar flavors that feel comforting and filling. French Onion Casserole is easy to scoop and works beautifully as a side or main dish. Guests love the warm layers that feel both hearty and flavorful. A reliable option when you need to feed a group without much effort.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Chickpea Nuggets

A plate of chickpea nuggets with a bowl of sauce.
Chickpea Nuggets. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A plant-based option that feels light but still packs lots of flavor. Chickpea Nuggets are great for dipping and perfect for guests looking for something different. They’re filling without being too heavy, and they go well with a variety of sauces. A creative dish that suits plant-based or mixed gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Nuggets

Lemon Brownies

Close-up of a square piece of yellow cake with a smooth white icing layer on top, sitting on a light-colored surface.
Lemon Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bright flavors with a soft texture make this dessert refreshing but indulgent. Lemon Brownies offer a fun twist on the usual chocolate version and feel perfect for sharing. They tend to stand out because they’re a little unexpected. Keep these in mind when you want a dessert that’s easy to grab and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Brownies

Veggie Sliders

Close-up of a Veggie Burger Slider with a fried patty, sliced cucumber, shredded purple cabbage, greens, and mayonnaise in a bun. In the background, a blurred portion of another slider and a dish are visible.
Veggie Sliders. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hearty enough to satisfy but loaded with fresh flavors to keep things light. Veggie Sliders are small, portable, and great for guests looking for a lighter option. They’re easy to put on the table and disappear quickly. A great way to add variety to the potluck menu.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Sliders

Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized snacks that combine flaky pastry with savory flavors. Pigs in a Blanket are quick to serve and loved by everyone, young or old. These are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering and are often one of the first trays to empty. A simple favorite that works every time.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cool and creamy side that pairs perfectly with heavier dishes. Macaroni Salad is failproof for large gatherings because it’s easy to make and loved by all. It adds a lighter touch to the table without being boring. Great for prepping in advance and serving chilled.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Red Velvet Brownies

Stack of four chocolate brownies with visible white chocolate chunks.
Red Velvet Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bold and vibrant dessert that combines rich flavors with a soft bite. Red Velvet Brownies catch attention with their colors but win over crowds with taste. They’re perfect for dessert trays when you want something visually appealing and easy to share. A good option for impressing guests without too much work.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Brownies

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A smaller take on a classic favorite, packed with flavor in every bite. Mini Tacos are great for potlucks because they’re easy to handle and fun to eat. They’re versatile and go well on their own or with dips. Always a hit when variety is key.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Italian Pasta Salad

Bowtie pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a green bowl.
Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cold salad loaded with bold flavors that make it feel like a complete dish. Italian Pasta Salad is versatile and works well alongside most mains. It’s easy to portion out for big groups and tastes even better when prepped ahead. Perfect for balancing out the table with something refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Pizza Pinwheels

A plate of golden-brown pinwheel pastries filled with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of sauce is in the background.
Pizza Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rolled-up bites of pizza goodness that are perfect for kids and adults alike. Pizza Pinwheels pack the classic flavors everyone loves into a smaller, snackable form. They’re fun to make, easy to eat, and always disappear fast. A reliable option for feeding a crowd with minimal stress.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels

Rhubarb Muffins

Close-up of three muffins with crumbly streusel topping, each wrapped in white parchment paper, arranged on a wooden surface.
Rhubarb Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet with a hint of tart, these muffins are great for casual get-togethers. Rhubarb Muffins are soft, flavorful, and feel a little different than typical potluck treats. They’re a good choice for adding something unexpected to the table. These are perfect for breakfast or dessert spreads.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Muffins

Tzatziki

A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce garnished with chopped dill and a swirl of olive oil. Fresh dill and garlic are nearby.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A light and refreshing dip that pairs well with bread, veggies, or chips. Tzatziki is a dependable choice when you need something creamy and cool. It’s simple to serve and adds a fresh touch to heavy potluck dishes. Always a hit for snacking between bites of mains.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy appetizer topped with shrimp flavors that feels just fancy enough. Shrimp Toast is easy to pass around and works well as a starter at any potluck. It’s great for seafood lovers and adds a nice touch of variety to the table. These little bites are always in demand.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Blueberry Pie

A slice of blueberry pie with a lattice crust is being lifted from a white ceramic pie dish.
Blueberry Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A fruity, baked dessert that brings a classic to any potluck table. Blueberry Pie offers a burst of berries in every slice and pairs well with a scoop of something creamy. It’s loved for being both refreshing and satisfying. A staple dessert for balancing sweet and fruity flavors.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Pie

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful dessert that mixes fresh flavors on a sweet, crispy base. Fruit Pizza catches everyone’s eye and adds a lighter touch to the potluck lineup. It’s quick to serve and perfect for warm-weather gatherings. A fun dessert that’s versatile and shareable.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Dense Bean Salad

A spoonful of chickpea salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, and feta cheese being served from a bowl.
Dense Bean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hearty salad packed with texture and flavor to keep everyone happy. Dense Bean Salad is great for feeding a group because it can stand alone or pair with mains. It’s easy to make ahead and travel with, making it potluck-friendly. A dependable choice no matter the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, topped with strawberry sauce and fresh strawberry pieces, sits on a serving tray.
No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dessert that skips the oven but still feels indulgent and rich. No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake is creamy and topped with fruity flavors that make every bite special. Perfect for gatherings when you need a quick but impressive dessert. It’s always one of the first trays to be emptied.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Close-up of sliced chicken wraps with lettuce, cheese, and a creamy sauce, next to an open jar of mustard on a wooden surface.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A portable version of a classic salad, rolled up for easy eating. Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap combines crispy elements with creamy dressing in every bite. It’s filling enough to be a main but light enough to pair with other options. Perfect for handling with no fuss at potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Kool Aid Pie

A slice of cream pie on a white plate, topped with whipped cream. An orange slice and a drink are in the background.
Kool Aid Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

No-bake dessert that’s colorful, fun, and surprisingly refreshing. Kool Aid Pie adds a touch of fun to traditional dessert spreads. It’s quick to make and always grabs attention with its bright appearance. Great for keeping things simple but exciting.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie

Yellow Squash Casserole

Squash casserole being served with a wooden serving spoon.
Yellow Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baked dish that combines creamy textures with a hint of crunch. Yellow Squash Casserole keeps things warm and comforting while offering a lighter option. It’s great for balancing out heavier mains on the table. Always a dependable crowd-feeder.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Strawberry Crunch Cake

A slice of crumb-topped strawberry coffee cake sits on a white plate with a spoon beside it; additional cake and plates are in the background.
Strawberry Crunch Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Layers of texture and sweetness make this dessert a crowd favorite. Strawberry Crunch Cake blends a creamy middle with a crunchy topping for something unique. It’s perfect for larger gatherings where you want something both fun and flavorful. A great pick for easy slicing and sharing.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Crunch Cake

Grilled Hot Dogs

Four hot dogs in buns topped with crispy fried onions are arranged on parchment paper in a basket.
Grilled Hot Dogs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A casual favorite that works for everyone, no matter the group. Grilled Hot Dogs are simple, easy to serve, and customizable with a variety of toppings. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a solid go-to for potlucks. Always reliable when feeding a crowd quickly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs

Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby.
Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet snack coated in a shiny layer for crunch with every bite. Tanghulu is a fun dessert option that brings a little excitement to the table. It’s great for adding variety and works well as a grab-and-eat snack. A different kind of treat that stands out at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack.
Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light, citrusy cookies that brighten up any dessert table. Lemon Cookies offer a simple sweetness with a refreshing twist in every bite. They’re easy to pass around and feel lighter compared to richer desserts. Always a nice addition to any lineup of potluck sweets.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A creamy, shareable dip that always makes an appearance at group events. Guacamole pairs perfectly with chips or as a topping for other dishes. It’s easy to scoop and keeps things simple yet flavorful. A must-have for tables with lots of snackers.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Two glass cups filled with layers of sliced strawberries, chocolate, granola, and chopped pistachios, with a blurred bowl of nuts in the background.
Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layered dessert that blends chocolate richness with fruity freshness. Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup is quick to portion and has an elegant touch. This dessert always feels just a little special while being easy to enjoy. Perfect for adding sophistication to a potluck spread.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background.
Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm, tender sliders with a balance of sweet and savory in every bite. Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders are easy to handle and packed with flavor. They’re a great option for potlucks where you need something filling but shareable. These sliders tend to vanish as soon as they arrive.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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