I Don’t Overthink It—I Just Bring 29 Fall Potluck Recipes That Work

Nobody needs a spreadsheet and a group chat to figure out what works at a fall potluck. Just grab one of the 29 no-nonsense recipes that actually get eaten and watch the table get real quiet real fast. Everyone else can fuss over presentation and Pinterest, but the one who brings the good stuff wins. No pep talk needed when the food does its own convincing.

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream.
Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate.
Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Some folks want dishes that surprise in a good way at a potluck. That is where Beet Salad comes in because it brings a great color and a special crunch to the table. Every bite feels fresh, which can break up all the heavier foods you usually see. People often reach for seconds after trying this one.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds.
Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

It is always great seeing something homemade among all the store-bought foods. These Sourdough Bagels show up with plenty of chew and a strong flavor that stands out. People love grabbing them to go with other dips or meats. There seems to never be enough for everyone by the end of the party.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels

Baked Chicken Thighs

Roasted chicken thighs with sliced potatoes garnished with herbs.
Baked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Every potluck needs a dish that can feed a crowd without fuss. Bringing Baked Chicken Thighs gives everyone a chance to enjoy something juicy and straightforward. They work with just about any side and stay good even if you arrive late. You will notice people coming back for more because they are just that popular.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Thighs

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese

Close-up of cake slices topped with white frosting and decorated with small, star-shaped sprinkles.
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Friends smile when sweet treats are part of the spread. Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese always catch eyes thanks to their hearty base and smooth topping. It is a dessert that makes everyone pause for a moment to enjoy something different. This one brings up lots of happy memories for people around the table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese

Loaded Potato Skins

Close-up of loaded potato skins topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and sliced green onions on a white background.
Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Whenever someone wants a snack that can double as a meal, these always get attention. Loaded Potato Skins never last long since they offer so many textures in every bite. It works as both a side and a finger food, so people can snack as they want. You hear a lot of good things about them as soon as they appear.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

A slice of apple cinnamon roll on a plate.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A crowd always gathers quicker once dessert appears. With Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie sitting on the table, people can’t wait to try something sweet with a twist. The combination in each slice draws plenty of compliments from those who like their desserts a little different. It is a sure way to start a conversation.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Slow cooker pot roast with mushrooms and carrots garnished with fresh rosemary.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It is easy to spot which main dishes friends line up for early. Slow Cooker Pot Roast never disappoints because it brings everyone together with tender bites that work with any side. People appreciate having a hearty option that can stand on its own. Seconds are almost guaranteed when this one shows up.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Best Zucchini Bread

Sliced zucchini bread on a white surface, showing a moist interior with visible green flecks of zucchini.
Best Zucchini Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes only a little comfort from baked goods can win people over. That is why Best Zucchini Bread always gets its share of attention, slicing up clean and staying soft. There’s something about seeing people happily reach for a piece as they go down the line. More than one guest will ask for the recipe later.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The moment someone brings out something with bacon, things get interesting. These Bacon Wrapped Smokies tend to vanish quickly since they are bite-sized and easy to grab. There’s no talking up needed when something this good appears at a potluck. Most guests keep a few on their plate just in case they run out.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork.
Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

More often than not, hearty sides end up being a favorite for the group. Scalloped Potatoes please just about everyone thanks to a creamy center and a baked top. They go with nearly anything else on the plate and never feel out of place. Even picky eaters nod in approval after trying a spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

A plate of five sticky buns topped with caramelized nuts and sauce, resting on a red cloth.
Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

It is always fun seeing how a twist on something classic grabs attention. Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls blend sweet and doughy in a way that people remember. Guests find themselves coming back again for a second one because they’re easy to eat. This plate almost always gets empty first at any potluck.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Easy Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.
Easy Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A plate that works for both kids and adults is always a big plus. Bringing Easy Chicken Tenders means everyone has something to eat, no matter their taste. People keep reaching back for another piece since they are easy to dip and pick up. More than a few folks will ask how you got them so crunchy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta

A plate of baked pasta with a crispy, browned topping and dollops of white sauce.
Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Every table needs something that gets people guessing and asking questions. That’s what happens with Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta, since it looks familiar but surprises with a new kind of taste. People share small bowls and often end up going back for another. There’s a real sense of fun around this one.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta

Turkey Casserole

Close-up of a plate of creamy turkey casserole topped with bread crumbs and garnished with fresh basil leaves, reminiscent of a comforting turkey casserole.
Turkey Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Right when everyone thinks they’ve seen every casserole, a special one comes along. Bringing Turkey Casserole puts something hearty onto every plate, offering plenty of comfort and warmth. It just works for people wanting a second helping after trying different dishes. Everyone likes a dish that’s easy to scoop up.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Casserole

Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Close-up of cinnamon swirl bread slices, showcasing a spiral pattern in the texture.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nothing beats the smell of something baked when you walk in. That is the magic behind Cinnamon Swirl Bread, since it always has people looking for the source of that aroma. Slices disappear quickly as guests reach for something sweet yet not too heavy. More than one person will save a piece for later if they can.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Vegetarian Chili

Two bowls of chili with onions and sour cream.
Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Potlucks sometimes need an option everyone can eat, which is where this comes in. Vegetarian Chili brings a warm bowl to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. There’s plenty for everyone, and it pairs well with bread or crackers that people bring. Folks always go back to refill their bowls at least once.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Chili

Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Close-up of three stacked blondies with chocolate chips, resembling cake mix chocolate chip cookie bars, one of which has a bite taken out of it.
Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

People keep it simple when they want something sweet that does not mess around. Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are easy to share and leave almost no mess on the plate. You often find friends reaching for seconds or packing a few to take home. This treat checks all the boxes for a casual, fun potluck dessert.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Turkey Chili

A close-up of a pot of chili with beans, avocado slices, red onion, sour cream, and garnished with chopped cilantro.
Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Big bowls of hot food stand out on the table during shared meals. For that reason, Turkey Chili gets a lot of attention, packing plenty of flavor but still light enough for more than one bowl. It fits just right with bread or chips, which people love to have handy. Everyone ends up talking about how good it is.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili

Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts Recipe

Two glazed donuts topped with crumbled cereal pieces are placed on a white surface.
Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts Recipe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Kids and adults both light up when there are donuts to be had. Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts Recipe brings a sweet and fun nod to breakfast in a new form. They are easy to share and never stick around for long. Most people agree that it is a smart way to bring something special to the table.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts Recipe

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Close-up of fluffy cheddar biscuits topped with herbs on a metal tray, with leafy greens in the background.
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There is always someone who makes a stop just for these. When you bring Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits along, you guarantee people keep coming back for another. Warm, cheesy, and easy to pull apart, these go well with every main dish. Potlucks do not feel complete unless there is a plate of these somewhere.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Close-up of a Pumpkin Dump Cake, a baked dessert topped with chopped pecans and drizzled with caramel sauce, served in a white dish on a wooden surface.
Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweets that you can serve up by the spoonful make sharing simple. The fun part with Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is how folks pile it on their plates and come back for a little extra. It is easy to love something that feels comforting and special in every bite. By the time dessert comes around, this is always nearly gone.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Beef Pot Pie

A golden-brown homemade pie with a flaky crust, garnished with a sprig of rosemary on the side.
Beef Pot Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

At every group meal, people look for dishes that fill them up and keep them happy. Beef Pot Pie does just that, serving up a good balance of everything folks like in a crust. It is easy to dish out and works well for those who want one meal that has it all. By the end of the night, there’s never a crumb left.
Get the Recipe: Beef Pot Pie

Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry cheesecake on cake stand.
Strawberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet things with something creamy always draw a crowd, no matter what. Strawberry Cheesecake sits on the dessert table and has people talking from the moment it arrives. Each slice is smooth and easy to plate for a big group. Most guests do not wait long before picking up a fork for this classic.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

A serving of creamy chicken pot pie casserole with vegetables, lifted on a fork, with a flaky crust and garnished with herbs.
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Casseroles that mix traditions always please hungry guests. Chicken Pot Pie Casserole combines everything loved about comfort food but makes it easy to scoop out for a crowd. It finds its place next to lighter dishes, offering something warm and filling. People often ask for this one at future potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing a giant dish that works for all ages never fails to impress. When someone brings Mac and Cheese to the party, everyone seems to reach for some. It is creamy, keeps well, and gives guests a dish that blends with anything. Before you know it, the pan is empty and people are asking about the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin Pie

A slice of pumpkin pie on a plate with cranberries.
Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There are always a few desserts people expect to see, and this is one of them. You can always count on Pumpkin Pie to make people happy, with smooth slices that are easy to share. The first few pieces disappear quickly as folks decide it would be a shame to wait. Potlucks just feel right when there is some on the table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie

Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy cheese dip topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, surrounded by triangular tortilla chips.
Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

No one passes up the chance to scoop something cheesy onto chips at a group event. Rotel Dip is a favorite since it is easy, warm, and keeps people coming back for more. Everyone seems to be happier as soon as this bowl shows up beside the chips. In most cases, there are lots of friendly voices suggesting you bring it again.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible.
Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sometimes the trick to feeding everyone is bringing something a little unusual that still feels familiar. Cabbage Casserole gets attention for being hearty but also a bit different from the rest. Guests take a serving out of curiosity and end up enjoying it. People chat about how it stands out every time.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

Chocolate Pie

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream.
Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who never pass up a dessert, the end of the table is always the first stop. Chocolate Pie shows up with a smooth, rich filling and a crust that people remember. Every slice gets eaten faster than you might expect, sometimes before dinner is over. It is just one of those treats everyone is glad to see.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pie

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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