51 Winter Potluck Ideas That Ease the Stress of Back-to-Back Events

It feels like every winter calendar fills up with one event after another, and food always adds another layer to consider. Here, you’ll find 51 winter potluck ideas perfect for work parties, family nights, or casual gatherings. This list covers all kinds of occasions where you want something that travels well and pleases a crowd.

A plated serving of cheesy casserole with ground meat, topped with sliced green onions and parsley, accompanied by a fork. — Loaded Mexican Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hamburger Sliders

Three sesame seed buns filled with melted cheese and ground beef are arranged on a wooden board. — Hamburger Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Small burgers never last long at winter potlucks, and this Hamburger Sliders quickly proves why. Bite-sized and easy to grab, these create a relaxed vibe as soon as the tray opens. I notice people stack their plates with extras just in case. Sliders bring a little warmth to cold, busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Sliders

Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley. — Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Kicking off with this Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole always sets a cozy tone at any gathering. Layers of comfort help folks settle in and share stories while plates fill up. I have seen big crowds come back for more until the dish gets scraped clean. Casseroles like this really take the edge off winter.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole

Smoked Mackerel Pate

A white bowl filled with a creamy, light brown spread, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices. — Smoked Mackerel Pate. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Adding this Smoked Mackerel Pate to a table turns a standard spread into something a bit more exciting. Smooth and flavorful, it invites curious guests to dip or spread as they please. I serve it with plenty of bread for sharing. People often mention how much they appreciate a new classic at potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate

Amish Cinnamon Cake

Three pieces of crumbly coffee cake with a cinnamon swirl are stacked on a plate, with two white mugs partially visible around them. — Amish Cinnamon Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet scents always float through the room when this Amish Cinnamon Cake makes its entrance. Simple, warm cake becomes the hit of dessert tables every time. I enjoy watching folks lift the lid just to smell the cinnamon before grabbing a slice. Every crumb brings back memories of cozy winter get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake

Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

A plate of deviled eggs garnished with paprika and chopped parsley, with a small dish of sauce on the side. — Million Dollar Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Plates brighten with this Million Dollar Deviled Eggs, adding a punch of color and fun to any event. Creamy, cool filling makes them just the right bite for passing around. I find guests eyeing the tray waiting for a chance to have another. Egg trays come back empty without fail.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe

Baked bow-tie pasta with cherry tomatoes, creamy sauce, basil leaves, and red pepper flakes in a white dish. — Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

The TikTok craze turns into real excitement the moment this Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe lands on the buffet. Creamy, warm, and fun, it lets guests scoop up noodles while they compare notes on their favorite trends. I bring extra for winter potlucks since people love a recipe they’ve heard about online. Noodle fans always cheer for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta – TikTok Viral Recipe

Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken

Shredded chicken mixed with sliced green peppers and seasoning in a green bowl. — Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Every potluck needs a dish that works for busy schedules, and this Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken is just that. Tender bites keep folks coming back until they scrape the dish clean. I make it when I want to relax and still have something popular to share. People always hope there’s some left for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken

Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Close-up of stuffed cabbage rolls filled with rice and ground meat, topped with tomato sauce and garnished with chopped herbs. — Hearty Stuffed Cabbage. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Plates fill up quickly with this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage tucked into the potluck lineup. Savory, filling rolls offer something a little different without breaking tradition. I use this dish when I want to surprise with a classic everyone secretly loves. One taste and the cabbage wraps vanish fast.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Salisbury Steak

Several browned meat patties in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with chopped chives. — Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Parties feel a bit more like home when this Salisbury Steak hits the table. Comfort food gets people talking, especially once the plates start to empty. I notice the steaks go quickly, so making extras is never a bad idea. Sauce and all, this dish creates a crowd around the slow cooker.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak

Comforting Chicken Soup

A pot of soup with sliced carrots, potatoes, and herbs floating in a seasoned broth. — Comforting Chicken Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Stormy nights and chilly hands pair perfectly with this Comforting Chicken Soup served in big bowls. People line up for a scoop, ready to warm up as they arrive. I ladle bowls for anyone who needs a little boost. Soup like this wraps the room in a gentle calm.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Chicken Soup

S’mores Rice Krispies

Close-up of stacked dessert bars made with crispy rice cereal, marshmallows, graham cracker pieces, and chocolate drizzle. — S’mores Rice Krispies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Winter potlucks turn sweeter once this S’mores Rice Krispies squares get stacked on the treats table. Sticky hands and happy faces quickly follow. I bake these when I want everyone to reach for seconds. Crispy, gooey, and just a little nostalgic, these treats are first to go.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Rice Krispies

Easy Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies

Three mini meatloafs topped with sauce are baked on a foil-lined tray with roasted sweet potato chunks and broccoli florets, garnished with chopped parsley. — Easy Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sheet pans packed with this Easy Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies feel right at home on crowded winter buffets. Every serving offers a hearty bite without any fuss over portion size. I use sheet pan dinners like this for quick cleanup and easy serving. You can never make too many meatloaf minis.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies

Flavorful Sheet Pan Greek Chicken

Sheet pan filled with baked chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, olives, and crumbled feta cheese, garnished with herbs. — Flavorful Sheet Pan Greek Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bright flavors make this Flavorful Sheet Pan Greek Chicken a standout on tables full of comfort food. Pops of color bring life to the spread, while each bite breaks up the heavy plates. I pick this dish when someone asks for a lighter option. Vacant serving trays tell me I made the right choice.
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Sheet Pan Greek Chicken

Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Close-up of several baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with minced meat, arranged on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. — Flaky Sausage Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing draws a crowd like a basket of this Flaky Sausage Pinwheels baked just right. Puff pastry and a savory inside combine for an easy-to-share treat. I plate extra because they vanish as soon as the lid comes off. Pinwheels mean finger-food fun on busy, chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts

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

Smiles get even brighter after one look at this Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts. Glazed, sweet donuts lined up in rows become the talk of the dessert table. I grab one first, knowing they won’t last long with so many donut fans. Crunchy toppings always win a few fans.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts

Gnocchi Soup

A bowl of creamy soup with gnocchi, spinach, carrots, celery, chunks of chicken, and black pepper, with a spoon inside. — Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cold weather meets its match with this Gnocchi Soup bubbling away at winter potlucks. Soft dumplings and a rich broth keep everyone happy through long events. I serve generous bowls and hear plenty of chatter about going back for seconds. Every spoonful makes people feel at home.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi Soup

Instant Pot Spaghetti

A close-up of spaghetti topped with ground meat and tomato sauce, garnished with grated cheese and a basil leaf, served on a white plate. — Instant Pot Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pots of this Instant Pot Spaghetti fill the room with delicious aroma as soon as the lid comes off. Tangy sauce and noodles draw even the shyest guests toward the table. I like making spaghetti since kids and grown-ups fill their plates with it quickly. There’s never a lonely noodle left behind.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti

Hearty Slow Cooker White Chili Chicken

Bowl of creamy chicken soup topped with tortilla strips, sliced green jalapeños, cilantro, corn, and a dollop of sour cream. — Hearty Slow Cooker White Chili Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Every spoonful of this Hearty Slow Cooker White Chili Chicken gives a kick of warmth without being too heavy. The pale color stands out on tables lined with traditional reds and browns. I use chili like this as a cozy option that still surprises. Empty bowls are a sure sign it’s popular.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Slow Cooker White Chili Chicken

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Breaded and fried patties garnished with chopped parsley are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of creamy dipping sauce with herbs. — Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tucking into this Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes makes people want to linger at the snack table. Crunchy on the outside and soft in the center, these little bites feel like a reward after a cold walk in. I set out platters so everyone gets a taste. Croquettes go quickly among both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Ham Steaks

A cooked pork chop with brown sauce is served on a white plate alongside steamed asparagus spears. — Ham Steaks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hearty slices from this Ham Steaks have a way of anchoring every potluck plate. Mild, juicy meat fills out the buffet while letting sides and salads shine. I warm up these steaks for quick serving in big crowds. Guests often pair them with homemade rolls or warm veggies.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks

Instant Pot Chilli

A bowl of chili topped with sour cream, crispy tortilla strips, sliced green onions, and a lime wedge. — Instant Pot Chilli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bowls brim with goodness when sharing this Instant Pot Chilli during the coldest months. Spicy, rich flavors invite everyone to huddle close and share stories over dinner. I rely on chili to feed a crew without any fuss. Seconds and thirds happen with every batch.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chilli

Hearty Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Close-up of a savory biscuit with a creamy ham filling, looking like a gourmet twist on a Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, served elegantly on a plate. — Hearty Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Southern comfort shows up in a big way with this Hearty Biscuits and Gravy Casserole on the lineup. Warm, soft biscuits and a creamy sauce pull in everyone craving something cozy. I cut large squares for serving to hungry friends. Potluck tables empty fast when this casserole appears.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Baked baby potatoes topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and chopped green onions on parchment paper. — Loaded Baked Potato Bites. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Plates look brighter with this Loaded Baked Potato Bites scattered right next to the slow cooker. Poppable bites add a fun snack between spoonfuls of soup and chili. I offer these for every big meal since guests want them hot and fresh. Simple, easy sharing makes them a hit.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Juicy Marry Me Steak

Slices of steak arranged in a creamy sauce with herbs and garnished with fresh basil leaves in a black skillet. — Juicy Marry Me Steak. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Moments feel special when showing up with this Juicy Marry Me Steak at a winter potluck. Tender slices bring excitement and a little bit of flair to the buffet. I serve steak when the group is ready for something different than casserole. People remember this dish long after the party ends.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Marry Me Steak

Loaded Big Mac Sliders

Two sloppy joe sliders with melted cheese and ground beef filling stacked on a plate, with lettuce and a bowl in the background. — Loaded Big Mac Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Layers of flavor keep this Loaded Big Mac Sliders in high demand through busy potluck nights. Buns stack high and fill plates with both color and texture. I pack up lots for sharing because surprise sliders always draw a crowd. Friends circle back for seconds before sitting down.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Big Mac Sliders

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Creamy scoops from this Mashed Sweet Potatoes add color and comfort to crowded tables. Sweet and velvety, they fit perfectly alongside casserole dishes and rich meats. I find guests like to pile these high before trying other sides. Any leftovers become tomorrow’s treat.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese. — Loaded Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Spotting this Loaded Million Dollar Casserole on a potluck table tells you the host means business. Every bite brings another layer of flavor, making it impossible to stop at one scoop. I watch as people sneak back for another helping. Plates get cleaned in record time.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, carrots, potatoes, and garnished with fresh herbs in a thick, reddish-brown broth. — Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crisp air fades away once big bowls of this Slow Cooker Beef Stew start to steam up the windows. Fork-tender bites, lots of gravy, and simple satisfaction make it essential for wintertime sharing. I always return for seconds before the pot goes empty. Comfort like this never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Tender Turkey Meatballs

Close-up of meatballs covered in gravy, topped with chopped parsley, resting on mashed potatoes. — Tender Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fans of finger food always lean toward this Tender Turkey Meatballs set out next to tangy sauces. Juicy bites go quickly, especially with a full buffet to sample from. I use turkey meatballs for lighter, easy-to-serve protein. Toothpicks disappear along with every last meatball.
Get the Recipe: Tender Turkey Meatballs

Vegetarian Gravy

A ceramic jug filled with creamy mushroom gravy, sprinkled with herbs, sits on a wooden board next to a small bowl of mixed dried herbs. — Vegetarian Gravy. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pouring this Vegetarian Gravy over mashed potatoes or biscuits makes any potluck guest feel welcome. Creamy, hearty texture without the meat means everyone gets a taste. I see folks go back just for more gravy to pair with other dishes. Potluck plates always have room for an extra spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

Matcha Tiramisu

A close-up of a slice of tiramisu topped with green matcha powder, served on a ceramic plate. — Matcha Tiramisu. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Winter potlucks get a playful twist with this Matcha Tiramisu sitting among traditional desserts. Bright green brings a fresh change from all the winter browns and whites. I serve it for those hoping to try something lighter after rich food. First-timers are often surprised by how much they enjoy it.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Pineapple Cheese Ball

A round cheese ball coated in chopped nuts, garnished with a sprig of rosemary, sits on a wooden board with crackers beside it; a portion is scooped out. — Pineapple Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sharing this Pineapple Cheese Ball means breaking the ice with something sweet and tangy. Bright flavors wake up the spread while the cheeseball disappears faster than you think. I keep it near the front of the line so everyone gets a taste. The cheese ball always wins compliments for standing out.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cheese Ball

Million Dollar Pie

A close-up of a slice of creamy pie with visible cherries, nuts, and a flaky crust, being lifted from the rest of the pie. — Million Dollar Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crowd-pleasing slices from this Million Dollar Pie always draw dessert-lovers to the table. Cool, creamy filling offers a smooth way to end a meal packed with comfort food. I bring pie along when I want to offer something simple but special. Plates get scraped clean every time.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Pie

Quick Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

A plate of seasoned rice with green peas, topped with two pieces of roasted chicken and a lemon slice, served with a spoon. — Quick Instant Pot Chicken and Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Finding something reliable for a packed event feels easier with this Quick Instant Pot Chicken and Rice. Every scoop goes fast because it’s hearty, filling, and not too fancy for picky eaters. I use this as a dependable main dish for big crowds. Extra always disappears by the end of the night.
Get the Recipe: Quick Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Dessert gets brighter when this Red Velvet Cupcakes show up with their rich color and smooth frosting. Small cakes pack plenty of flavor for all ages at a winter event. I line them up so everyone can take their pick without waiting. Cupcake trays empty out before the meal even ends.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

A stack of slider sandwiches filled with shredded chicken and melted cheese, topped with herbs, on a light surface. — Buffalo Chicken Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A hint of heat lifts spirits with this Buffalo Chicken Sliders served hot at long gatherings. Bite-sized sliders wakes up the palate and get people talking. I set out extra napkins since these can be messy fun. Spicy sliders never last long, especially with football fans in the group.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

A bowl of risotto with mushrooms and parmesan cheese. — Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy rice like this Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto adds a touch of luxury to buffet tables. People pause as they spoon up a generous helping, enjoying both flavor and comfort. I love bringing risotto for adults who want something different. This dish leaves only empty bowls behind.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

White Chicken Enchiladas

Two tortilla-wrapped enchiladas filled with shredded chicken, topped with creamy white sauce, chopped cilantro, and a jalapeño slice, served on a white plate. — White Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bringing this White Chicken Enchiladas to the table marks a break from the usual winter casseroles. Creamy, rolled enchiladas give everyone a reason to try something new. I see friends grabbing slices before anything else. Fresh flavors win the crowd over with each bite.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Enchiladas

Roasted Turkey Legs

Three cooked turkey legs with herbs and chopped onions are arranged on a white oval platter, garnished with a sprig of parsley. — Roasted Turkey Legs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hearty appetites get their wish with this Roasted Turkey Legs set front-and-center. Juicy, slow-roasted meat gives guests a taste of something special. I offer plenty of napkins since turkey legs make for fun, hands-on eating. Plates quickly clear out, and guests start swapping stories.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey Legs

Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

A close-up of a spoon lifting creamy, melted cheese sauce with macaroni from a pot. — Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baked cheesy pasta like this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese calls everyone over for a scoop. Gooey noodles make a returning favorite and work for kids and grown-ups alike. I have noticed people piling it high, happy to have classic comfort food on hand. Seconds are practically guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Cookie Cake

A tray of chocolate-frosted cake squares with colorful sprinkles, featuring one piece slightly raised above the rest. — Cookie Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful frosting dots make this Cookie Cake impossible to ignore among winter potluck desserts. Crisp edges and a chewy center create just the right mix. I slice cake big so sharing feels easier for everyone. Cookie cakes mean smiles and no leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Cake

Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side. — Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Spreading this Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread onto a plate brings big flavor without the mess. Each bite delivers a spark of something new, making conversations lively. I serve muhammara for guests who love variety. Bold dips never stick around for long.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Cheerful greetings meet this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie wherever it goes. Soft, chewy centers make them easy to enjoy with hot drinks or cold punches alike. I bring cookie tins so everyone gets at least one. Even healthy eaters ask for another round.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Savory Beef and Broccoli

A plate of beef and broccoli stir-fry garnished with sesame seeds, featuring glazed beef strips and broccoli florets. — Savory Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Stir-fried favorites like this Savory Beef and Broccoli fill plates with a little green and a lot of flavor. Beef soaks up all the goodness, making each bite better than the last. I provide big spoons so everyone gets a good portion on round one. Nothing ever comes back to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Savory Beef and Broccoli

Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie

A slice of powdered sugar-dusted pie topped with a swirl of whipped cream is being lifted from a pie dish. — Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Slow, cold nights feel just right with this Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie sliced up on the dessert buffet. Streusel and creamy filling bring comfort that matches the season. I enjoy serving it warm, finished with a scoop of ice cream for anyone feeling extra festive. All that’s left behind are empty plates.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

A plate of golden-brown gnocchi garnished with rosemary, served with a black fork. — Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Soft bites from this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi make for an unexpected hit at group dinners. Their mild sweetness pairs well with saucy mains or simple salads. I plate gnocchi as a fun, filling side that still feels a bit fancy. Guests always want to know how to make it at home.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a chocolate chip cookie on a cooling rack. — Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rows of this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies usually vanish before the main dishes even show up. Melty chocolate and warm centers create lines at the dessert table. I remind people to grab two before they’re gone. Comforting cookies spread warmth and good cheer.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

A plate of chickpea salad with chopped red onion, roasted red peppers, capers, almonds, and fresh herbs, served with a spoon. — Copycat Chipotle Sofritas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Setting out this Copycat Chipotle Sofritas ensures everyone has something satisfying to dig into—even the vegetarians. Bold seasoning brings a kick without being too spicy for most. I love watching how quickly a veggie main can be popular. Dishes like this hardly ever have leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Warm Apple Fritters

Close-up of freshly baked apple cookies drizzled with icing, resting on parchment paper with part of a bowl visible to the right. — Warm Apple Fritters. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tables get cozier with this Warm Apple Fritters stacked on a platter next to the coffee urn. Soft centers and sweet apple keep everyone coming back for another. I serve them straight from the oven at winter potlucks for extra comfort. Fritters help break up heavy meals with light, sweet bites.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Fritters

Vibrant Beet Soup

A bowl of beet soup is garnished with a dollop of cream, black pepper, and fresh rosemary, with a gold spoon resting inside the bowl. — Vibrant Beet Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A swirl of color catches everyone’s eye in this Vibrant Beet Soup bowl. Silky and energizing, beet soup adds excitement to the table full of hearty fare. I enjoy serving something that gets people talking. Curious guests ladle up just to try it—and usually want more.
Get the Recipe: Vibrant Beet Soup

Loaded Mexican Casserole

Hearts (and plates) fill up fast with this Loaded Mexican Casserole bubbling in the center of a potluck table. Spicy and bright, it pairs well with cold nights and a table full of friends. I choose casseroles like this for crowd-pleasing flavor and fast cleanup. Missing out is tough, so get in line early.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Mexican Casserole

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.