My Go-To 21 Tomato Recipes for Feeding a Crowd

Feeding a big group can be tricky, but a list of 21 tomato recipes makes it easier. Each dish works well for serving many people without extra stress. There’s enough variety to keep everyone interested and maybe even start a friendly debate over favorites. The best part is watching the serving trays empty faster than the small talk runs out.

A close-up of a dish of Tomato Rice with fresh cilantro leaves in a blue bowl.
Tomato Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

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.

You can’t miss with Mediterranean Orzo Salad for gathering-style meals. It’s loaded with fresh ingredients that come together quickly and easily. Whether served as a side or main, it’s always a hit with the crowd. Plus, it holds well at room temperature, so no stressing over last-minute prep.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo 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.

Looking for a snack that feels special? Caprese Pesto Tarts are bite-sized portions that pack a ton of flavor. They’re perfect for grazing tables or as elegant appetizers. Be sure to make extra because these tend to vanish fast!
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you want something fresh yet satisfying, try Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. It’s loaded with textures and flavors that make it filling but still light. The dressing pulls everything together perfectly in every bite. Whether as a full meal or a fancy starter, you really can’t go wrong.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Mexican Rice

A close-up of cooked Mexican rice with a wooden spoon, garnished with chopped parsley.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Keep things simple for a crowd with Mexican Rice, a flavorful dish that fits alongside almost anything. It’s an easy side that makes meals feel more complete. Cook it ahead of time, and it’s ready when you are. Whether for a buffet-style meal or potluck, this is a go-to for sure.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Cowboy Caviar

Close-up of a mixed salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, black beans, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and parsley, being drizzled with dressing.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Need something quick that feeds a crowd without extra effort? Whip together Cowboy Caviar, a fresh mix loaded with texture and crunch. It’s great as a dip or even as a side salad. This dish is so versatile, it works every time.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Tomato Chutney

A bowl filled with orange-colored chutney, garnished with mustard seeds, dried chili, and curry leaves.
Tomato Chutney. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Change things up with Tomato Chutney, a bold and versatile addition to any meal. Spread it on sandwiches, serve it with bread, or pair it with grilled dishes. The best part is that it actually tastes better the next day. You’ll love having this one on hand for quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Chutney

Taco Salad

A taco salad served in an edible tortilla bowl, topped with ground meat, lettuce, black beans, diced tomatoes, avocado, and shredded cheese.
Taco Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When it comes to one-bowl meals for a group, Taco Salad nails it every time. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and customizable for everyone’s preferences. Throw it all together and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleaser. This recipe keeps things simple without skimping on variety.
Get the Recipe: Taco Salad

Tomato Pickle

A white bowl filled with red curry and a wooden spoon with a small portion of the curry, placed on a burlap surface.
Tomato Pickle. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Add some punch to your table with Tomato Pickle, a tangy side that stands out. It pairs beautifully with rice, bread, or even as a topping for other dishes. It’s one of those dishes that gets better as it sits. Perfect for prepping ahead when you’ve got people coming over.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Pickle

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You can always count on Spaghetti Marinara to feed a hungry group with no hassle. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for last-minute plans. Pair it with garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal. Classic recipes like this never go out of style.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Keep things fresh and filling with Cobb Salad, a must-try for quick and easy group meals. It’s packed with variety to keep everyone happy, even the pickiest eaters. Prep all the pieces beforehand, and assemble when ready to serve. It’s always a reliable option for casual gatherings or busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers on a serving dish with balsamic glaze drizzled over.
Caprese Skewers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Want an appetizer that’s quick to make but still impresses? Try Caprese Skewers, a simple yet elegant party snack. They’re easy to assemble but look like you spent loads of time preparing. These handy little bites are perfect for any finger-food spread.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Skewers

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a crowd-friendly meal that’s light and colorful, go for Pasta Primavera. It’s versatile enough to work for casual meals or fancier occasions. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and it still tastes great either way. A no-fuss recipe like this is always a smart choice when feeding a group.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Tomato Pizza

Someone slicing a pizza with a pizza cutter.
Tomato Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This works great when you’re feeding a group and want something quick but enjoyable. Tomato Pizza brings fresh and bold flavors to the table that hit just right. It’s simple to make, yet perfect for sharing with friends or family. Great for casual gatherings without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Pizza

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A hearty and easy dish for gatherings always makes things smoother. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies combines bold and fresh bites that everyone digs. Perfect as a side or even a main dish for any group meal. Makes prepping for larger groups feel effortless.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Marinara Sauce

A glass jar filled with tomato sauce sits on a plate. Two spoons are beside it. A small bowl is in the background, slightly out of focus.
Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s no messing around when you need a versatile addition for a group meal. Marinara Sauce pairs well with pasta, bread, or dishes that need a comforting sauce. It’s simple and straightforward to make batch portions for guests. This is one of those kitchen staples that doesn’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Marinara Sauce

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layered dishes make serving meals to bigger groups easier. Seven Layer Salad combines fresh textures and boldness into a well-rounded dish. It looks great on the table and holds up perfectly for prepping ahead. This one’s a go-to for potlucks or gatherings where you need a standout dish.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Handheld appetizers always make mingling smoother during events. Caprese Appetizer delivers fresh bursts of flavor in bite-sized portions for any occasion. It’s easy to assemble and serves seamlessly at parties. This snack fits perfectly into a menu without adding extra steps in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

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.

Large batches need options that are quick and no-fuss. Italian Pasta Salad comes together easily and fits into casual gatherings as a side or standalone dish. It’s great for barbecues or holiday meetups with loved ones. Mix up portions as needed without any stress on your end.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Arrabiata Sauce

Arrabiata sauce in an open jar wit fresh basil on top and tomatoes and chili flakes around it.
Arrabiata Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A bold sauce can quickly change the way a meal feels at the table. Arrabiata Sauce makes it easy to add heat and boldness to pasta nights or party spreads. Large portions work well for sharing without added kitchen stress. This holds up as a reliable option for bringing something different to feed a group.
Get the Recipe: Arrabiata Sauce

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.

Quick dips or fresh toppings always go over well at larger gatherings. Pico de Gallo stands out for its simplicity and pairs perfectly as a chip dip or topping for party dishes. It’s lightweight yet bold in its role for meal spreads. Easy to adjust as needed for a growing crowd.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Tomato Rice

A close-up of a dish of Tomato Rice with fresh cilantro leaves in a blue bowl.
Tomato Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Simple and comforting dishes are ideal for family meals or group dinners. Tomato Rice brings balance and warmth to the table, fitting well with main dishes or as a standalone option. It’s quick and works for larger batches when feeding a crowd. An easy choice when you need something reliable but not boring.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Rice

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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