These 29 Summer Potluck Recipes Are Perfect for Sharing and Smiling

Summer gatherings usually come with one challenge: what to bring that won’t come back home half-eaten. These 29 potluck picks are the kind of dishes that clear out fast and leave people asking who made them. They’re easy to bring, even easier to enjoy, and made for groups that don’t all agree on one thing.

A close-up of a blueberry scone with a light glaze, resting on brown parchment paper.
Blueberry Scones. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tuna Salad

A bowl of tuna salad mixed with chopped herbs, likely parsley or chives, with a spoon resting inside the bowl.
Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This recipe makes a dish that’s perfect to bring to your next potluck. Tuna Salad is easy to make, portable, and loved by so many. It’s versatile and works great on its own, in a sandwich, or even topped on crackers. Share it with friends, and it’s sure to disappear quickly off the table.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

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.

You can’t go wrong with Grilled Hot Dogs at a casual gathering. They’re simple, fun, and everyone customizes them with their favorite toppings. Perfect for a laid-back vibe, they add crowd-pleaser food everyone enjoys. It’s a no-fuss option that brings big smiles to both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs

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.

Add something refreshing to the mix with Tzatziki, a cool and creamy dip that pairs with so many sides. Serve it alongside veggies, bread, or grilled meats, and you’ll see it gone in no time. It’s flavorful and balances rich dishes perfectly. Plus, it’s a lighter option people love adding to their plates.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Egg Salad

A bowl of creamy egg salad topped with chopped parsley and paprika, set on a light-colored surface.
Egg Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy, classic, and always a hit, Egg Salad is a great choice for sharing. It can be served as a side or pressed between bread for wholesome sandwiches that are easy to grab. Its comforting style always brings a nostalgic smile to gatherings. A potluck table feels complete when this dish is present.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, pickles, green olives, blue cheese, breadsticks, baguette slices, grapes, a jar of honey, and a round cheese topped with a dollop of jam.
Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Charcuterie Board is the kind of dish that feels both effortless and fancy. Loaded with meats, cheeses, and extras, it offers variety so everyone finds something they like. It’s a potluck centerpiece that encourages people to graze and mingle. With its inviting setup, it’s sure to spark conversation.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re looking for something crisp and shareable, Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a great selection for your potluck. It balances crunch with a touch of creaminess, making it satisfying without being too heavy. Plus, it holds up well if you make it ahead of time. It’ll stand out as a reliable and unique side dish.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies

A close-up of a brownie square topped with a swirl of cheesecake and cherry filling.
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for a dessert everyone will want a piece of? Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies blend rich sweetness with a fruity twist in every bite. These bars are the perfect way to end the meal on a high note. It’s sure to become the dish everyone asks about and remembers.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A casserole dish with zucchini and cheese on it.
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hot, melty, and shareable, Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is perfect for potlucks. It’s comforting, filling, and highlights fresh produce while being rich enough to please the crowd. This dish is great for feeding larger groups and sits well on the buffet table. Everyone loves grabbing a scoop of something warm and cheesy.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bring something bold to the table with Shrimp Burrito Bowls, a lively and customizable dish. They’re easy to personalize, letting everyone make their plate unique. The shrimp adds a touch of flair that stands out at a gathering. It’s a memorable option that goes beyond the basics.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Strawberry Cookies

Stacks of red sugar cookies, one with a bite taken out, are arranged next to a glass of milk and whole strawberries.
Strawberry Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A sweet treat you can’t overlook, Strawberry Cookies bring a pop of color and flavor to your potluck. Their soft texture and fruity taste make them a crowd favorite for guests of all ages. Best of all, they’re easy to share and great in bite-sized portions. Consider these for something cheerful and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cookies

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, grated cheese, and dressing.
Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A classic side dish everyone loves, Caesar Salad is a must-have at any gathering. Crisp greens combined with the right amount of dressing and a sprinkle of crunch make it timeless. It complements other potluck staples beautifully without taking the spotlight. This is that dependable dish that people keep coming back for.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For something creative yet approachable, consider Caprese Pesto Tarts for your next gathering. These handheld bites combine fresh elements with a balanced, savory twist. Their smaller size makes them convenient for sharing and loved by everyone. They’re perfect for potlucks and stand out on the buffet.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

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.

Add heartiness to the table with Dense Bean Salad, a dish full of flavor and filling textures. Served cold, it’s refreshing while still being nourishing enough to round out the meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled items or stands on its own. At a potluck, it’s the option that adds variety to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright and aromatic, Cilantro Lime Rice is a bold side dish that everyone will enjoy. It pairs well with so many main dishes and adds a light, satisfying option to the mix. Easy to prepare ahead of time, it’s a dependable pick to bring. This is a crowd-favorite choice when you want something simple yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Guacamole

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

Add some creamy goodness to the table with Guacamole, a dip that needs no introduction. Great with chips or as a topping, it’s a hit wherever you bring it. This dish is all about sharing, and it’s especially perfect with other crowd-friendly items. You know it’s a success when it vanishes before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Easy Caprese Salad

Caprese salad in a serving bowl, with tomatoes, oil and balsamic glaze nearby.
Easy Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A light and refreshing option at any potluck, Easy Caprese Salad brings together vibrant flavors that everyone enjoys. Its simplicity makes it both delicious and effortless to prepare beforehand. All the colors and textures offer a dish that looks as good as it tastes. Share this salad with friends and family, and it’s sure to get an enthusiastic thumbs-up.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When it comes to fresh and flavorful salsas, Pico de Gallo is always a crowd-pleaser. This dish pairs well with chips or as a topping for other dishes, making it a versatile addition to any gathering. Its tangy kick leaves people going back for seconds. Prepare it for your next potluck, and it’ll quickly become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

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.

Bringing together crisp textures and savory ingredients, Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap is an easy dish to share. It’s portable and mess-free, making it simple for guests to enjoy. Perfect for lovers of classic Caesar flavors, the wrap format makes it a bit unique for gatherings. Ideal for anyone looking for a fresh and manageable option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfect for sharing, Ham and Cheese Sliders offer a warm, comforting bite-sized option. They’re easy to grab, packed with hearty flavors, and great for feeding a hungry group. The combination works for just about everyone, and their size is ideal for sampling other potluck dishes, too.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown Maryland crab cakes garnished with herbs on a white plate, complemented by a fresh parsley garnish.
Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A seafood classic, Maryland Crab Cake is an impressive dish to bring to the table. Its flavor stands out among other potluck options, and it’s sure to grab attention from seafood lovers. Prepared thoughtfully, this dish can become a memorable highlight. If you’re looking to offer something special, this is a fantastic pick.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with mixed vegetables, including olives, tomatoes, and spinach, garnished with herbs.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light yet flavorful, Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a dish that shines in group settings. It’s refreshing and full of textures, making it a popular choice among guests. Easy to prepare and serve, it fits well into any potluck spread. If you’re after something versatile, this salad checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad

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.

Fun to eat and easy to make, Pigs in a Blanket never fail to bring a nostalgic touch to the table. Ideal for guests of all ages, these bites are both portable and mess-free. They make a great finger food option for casual gatherings. With their universal appeal, they’ll disappear from the buffet line in no time.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

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.

A fresh, plant-based twist for potluck tables, Veggie Sliders offer something a bit different. These compact burgers provide familiar comfort while being a great choice for vegetarians or anyone seeking variety. Their size and flavor make them an easy grab-and-go snack. Add them to your list if you’re on the hunt for a wholesome sharing option.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Sliders

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.

An instant hit with potluck guests, Pizza Pinwheels borrow the flavors of a classic dish but in a bite-sized, portable form. Their cheesy layers and fun spiral shape are hard to resist. Perfect for both kids and adults, they’re an approachable option that feels a little creative. Prepare to see these disappear quickly once people dig in.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels

Shrimp Tacos

Close-up of a shrimp taco with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of sauce in a toasted tortilla.
Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bursting with flavor, Shrimp Tacos bring a fun, shareable dish to any potluck. Their small, hand-held size makes them perfect for mingling while eating. With a balance of textures and flavors, these tacos will be a hit with both seafood fans and newcomers alike. A thoughtful choice for gatherings, they’re sure to be appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Yellow Squash Casserole

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

Made for sharing, Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and inviting potluck dish. Its rich and creamy texture makes it stand out on the table, offering a comforting balance to other light or portable items. Perfect for bringing a homey vibe to your gathering, this casserole can please a wide range of guests. It’s an easy option for potluck success.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Buffalo Chicken Salad

A croissant sandwich filled with buffalo chicken and blue cheese, served on a white plate with celery sticks in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A little bit bold and full of flavor, Buffalo Chicken Salad is ideal for spicing up your potluck spread. Portable and easy to enjoy, it works as both a side or a dish on its own. Its appeal lies in being both hearty and vibrant at the same time. Guests looking for something with a kick will thank you for bringing it along.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Spinach Artichoke Dip

A bowl of creamy spinach dip garnished with herbs, surrounded by slices of crusty bread on a blue patterned cloth.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Always a favorite, Spinach Artichoke Dip adds creamy, shareable goodness to your potluck table. This warm, savory dish pairs well with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies for dipping. A classic appetizer, it’s an easy crowd-pleasing option no matter who’s attending. If you want to guarantee smiles, this is a solid go-to.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Blueberry Scones

A close-up of a blueberry scone with a light glaze, resting on brown parchment paper.
Blueberry Scones. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet and perfect for a lighter dessert, Blueberry Scones offer something a little different for potlucks. Their crumbly, tender texture pairs well with coffee or tea, making them a favorite for those who love baked goods. Balancing sweetness with a hint of fresh flavor, these scones offer an easy, portable treat.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Scones

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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