When it comes to hosting a crowd, there’s nothing quite like a well-stocked buffet table to satisfy everyone’s cravings. But what makes a great buffet? Is it the variety of dishes on offer? The flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds? Or perhaps it’s the ease with which guests can serve themselves and socialize?
Whatever your answer may be, one thing is certain: a successful buffet requires a thoughtful selection of recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 mouthwatering buffet recipes perfect for crowds. From classic comfort foods like pasta and meatballs, to international flavors and fresh vegetable dishes, there’s something here for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting some of our favorite recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a party, gathering with friends and family, or simply looking for new ideas to spice up your mealtime routine, these delicious buffet recipes are the perfect starting point.
Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
Experience the quintessential flavors of a timeless classic with this simple recipe for a traditional Caesar salad, featuring crispy homemade croutons and a tangy, creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup homemade croutons (see below)
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Croutons:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss crouton ingredients in a bowl until evenly coated.
3. Spread on baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
4. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with garlic butter, parsley, and pasta for a flavorful and quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using white wine and lemon juice, add them to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp in the skillet. Toss to coat with garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with these sweet and tangy slow cooker meatballs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs in slow cooker. Pour in honey and BBQ sauce. Stir gently to coat.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with toothpicks, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Toasted Baguette
A classic party favorite, this creamy spinach and artichoke dip is perfect for snacking on while socializing with friends. Serve it with toasted baguette slices for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, parsley, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. While the dip is baking, toast the baguette slices by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
5. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Mini Beef Wellington Bites
Mini Beef Wellington Bites: A Bite-Sized Twist on a Classic Recipe
These mini beef Wellington bites are perfect for parties or gatherings where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and elegant appetizer. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Spoon small amounts of the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around each piece.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
6. Place the mini Wellingtons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer gatherings with these colorful and flavorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil, topped with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– Wooden skewers (10-12)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella slice, and a few basil leaves onto each skewer.
3. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Brush the balsamic glaze over the skewers during the last minute of cooking (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your comfort food cravings with this creamy and indulgent loaded baked potato casserole, packed with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and scallions.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 large baking potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
- In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole by placing the baked potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Top each potato with a spoonful of the cream-cheese mixture, crumbled bacon, and chopped scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe, featuring tender chicken breast and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and soy sauce. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Combo!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
3. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and add BBQ sauce.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with any remaining BBQ sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble the sliders by placing the pulled pork on the bun, topping with coleslaw, lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using), and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory recipe that combines the flavors of bacon, ranch, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and crumbled bacon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ranch seasoning and milk until smooth.
4. Pour the ranch mixture over the potato-bacon mixture and toss to coat.
5. Transfer the potato mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Hummus Platter with Pita Bread
A flavorful and refreshing platter perfect for warm weather gatherings or casual dining, this Mediterranean Hummus Platter is a delightful combination of creamy hummus, crunchy vegetables, and soft pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 bag pita bread, cut into wedges
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the sliced vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Arrange the pita bread wedges on a platter or serving board. Top with hummus, roasted vegetables, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Satisfy your cravings with this simple and flavorful beef and broccoli stir-fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Dip with Tortilla Chips
Get ready to kick off your snack time with this addictive buffalo chicken dip recipe, perfectly paired with crunchy tortilla chips!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
3. Add the ranch dressing and buffalo wing sauce; mix well.
4. Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken breast.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions.
7. Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Orzo Salad with Feta and Olives
This classic Greek salad gets a delicious twist by adding orzo pasta, crumbly feta cheese, and briny olives. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked orzo, olives, feta cheese, and red wine vinegar to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Cheese
These adorable quiches are packed with fresh spinach, melted cheese, and a hint of egginess. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares, approximately 3 inches per side.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and onion.
4. Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Brush edges with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a splash of water). Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Add a tangy twist to traditional meatballs with this sweet and sour recipe! Juicy beef meatballs are smothered in a zesty mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Sweet and Sour Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce by whisking together all ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with sweet and sour sauce.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts and adds a savory kick with garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the sprouts and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinner with these flavorful chicken satay skewers, served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce. This classic Southeast Asian-inspired dish is easy to make and sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut Sauce ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Serve with grilled chicken satay skewers.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Salad
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of Mexico’s popular street corn with the freshness of a summer day. With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked corn kernels
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and chopped jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with cumin and salt to taste.
3. Stir in crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chocolate Fondue with Assorted Dippers
Transform your evening into a sweet indulgence with this rich and creamy chocolate fondue, perfect for dipping an assortment of treats. This easy-to-make dessert is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Assorted dippers (e.g., strawberries, bananas, marshmallows, graham crackers, or cake cubes)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Transfer the fondue to a serving bowl or a fondue pot.
4. Arrange the assorted dippers around the fondue.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly melting time)
Summary
Get ready to feed a crowd with these delicious buffet recipes! From classic Caesar salad with homemade croutons to sweet and sour meatballs, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include garlic butter shrimp scampi pasta, slow cooker honey BBQ meatballs, and loaded baked potato casserole. Also featured are international flavors like teriyaki chicken stir-fry, Mediterranean hummus platter, and Mexican street corn salad. And don’t forget the sweet treats – mini quiches with spinach and cheese, chocolate fondue with assorted dippers, and more! These recipes are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick weeknight meal.
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