Are you looking for a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 crowd-pleasing pot luck main dishes that are sure to become new favorites. From comforting classics like creamy pasta and cheesy potatoes to international inspirations like Mexican street corn casserole and Greek orzo salad, there’s something for everyone on this list.
To start, let’s take a look at some of our top picks. Our slow cooker honey garlic chicken is a staple for busy weeknights, while our beef and cheese stuffed shells offer a satisfying twist on traditional lasagna. And for those who love a good BBQ flavor, our pulled pork sandwiches are sure to hit the spot.
But don’t just take our word for it – keep reading to discover all 20 recipes and start planning your next pot luck gathering!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
A sweet and savory twist on classic chicken, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. With minimal effort, you’ll get tender and juicy chicken breasts smothered in a sticky honey garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker, ensuring they’re coated with the sauce.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and serve hot. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, cheese, and tender shells. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef mixture and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
These mouthwatering sandwiches are perfect for a casual gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. Slow-cooked pork shoulder is smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, then pulled apart and piled high on a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the pork from the heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
7. Pile the pulled pork onto hamburger buns and serve with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (or overnight)
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
These tender potatoes are loaded with the rich flavors of crispy bacon, tangy ranch seasoning, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect as a side dish or main course, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, toss potato slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Arrange potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle crumbled bacon, grated cheese, and ranch seasoning evenly over the potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and flavorful One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon recipe. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large skillet or oven-safe pan with aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the prepared pan, leaving some space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic.
5. Pour the lemon herb mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Casserole
This casserole combines the popular flavors of Mexican street corn with the comfort of a warm, cheesy dish. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, it’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy the taste of grilled corn without firing up the grill.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream cheese, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Ziti with Sausage
A classic Italian-American comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This recipe combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and creamy melted mozzarella cheese with al dente ziti pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the sausage. Bring to a simmer.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked ziti pasta, sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Meatball Skewers
Elevate your mealtime with these sweet and savory teriyaki meatball skewers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 10-12 portions and shape each portion into a meatball.
4. Place a meatball onto each bamboo skewer, leaving a small space between each meatball.
5. Brush the teriyaki sauce evenly over the meatballs and skewers.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, savory recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and feta cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, feta cheese, and garlic powder.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Get ready to level up your macaroni game with this creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious Buffalo chicken mac and cheese. This recipe combines the best of both worlds – rich macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 lb cooked chicken, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
6. In a separate pan, combine cooked chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and olive oil. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and buffalo chicken mixture; stir to combine.
8. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional cheddar cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Warm up with this creamy, comforting soup that’s packed with the flavors of a loaded baked potato. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cooked bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add diced potatoes, flour, and paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite loaded baked potato fixings (bacon, cheese, sour cream, chives).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Orzo Salad with Grilled Chicken
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Greece with grilled chicken, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, feta cheese, red onion, and olives.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and garlic. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to salad. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this sweet and spicy twist! This recipe combines the classic comfort food with a tangy kick from chipotle peppers, making it perfect for adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix in chopped chipotle pepper and egg until just combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a log.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and indulgent shrimp scampi dish, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. If using white wine and lemon juice, add to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the simplicity of rice, the earthiness of broccoli, and the richness of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups steamed broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and olive oil.
3. Mix well until the rice is coated with the oil and broccoli is evenly distributed.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Add the cheese mixture to the rice-broccoli mixture and stir until combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Glazed Ham
Pineapple Glazed Ham Recipe: A sweet and savory twist on a classic ham dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-7 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a roasting pan, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern.
5. Brush the pineapple glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
8. Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3.5 hours
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
This casserole combines the comfort of chicken enchiladas with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for greasing the dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and onion over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add enchilada sauce, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. In a separate dish, arrange tortillas in a single layer. Spoon chicken mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Top with cheese and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
A flavorful and moist turkey breast recipe infused with the aroma of herbs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna Roll-Ups
Elevate your lasagna game with these flavorful roll-ups packed with sautéed vegetables, ricotta cheese, and tender noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, bell pepper, and carrot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble roll-ups by spreading a spoonful of the ricotta mixture onto each noodle, then topping with sautéed vegetables and shredded mozzarella.
6. Place roll-ups seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your crowd with these 20 flavorful pot luck main dish recipes! From classic comfort foods like cheesy bacon ranch potatoes and buffalo chicken mac and cheese, to international-inspired dishes like one-pan lemon herb salmon and greek orzo salad with grilled chicken, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a slow cooker option like honey garlic chicken or a show-stopping dish like sweet and spicy meatloaf, this collection has got you covered.
