When it comes to hosting a party or gathering, one of the biggest challenges can be deciding on what to serve. Do you stick with traditional finger foods like appetizers and snacks? Or do you opt for something more substantial, like a main course that everyone will love? The answer lies in pot luck recipes – delicious, easy-to-make dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering pot luck main dish recipes that are perfect for your next get-together. From classic comfort foods like lasagna and chicken casserole, to more adventurous options like jambalaya and beef stir-fry, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, grab a pen and paper, and get ready to take note of the recipes that catch your eye – we can’t wait to hear which ones you try!
Classic Beef Lasagna with Ricotta and Mozzarella
This hearty lasagna recipe combines tender beef ragù, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella for a comforting, satisfying meal. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until the mixture is no longer pink.
4. Stir in marinara sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and egg; season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of beef ragù, followed by ricotta mixture, then mozzarella cheese. Repeat for 3-4 layers.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
9. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw
Transform a humble pork shoulder into tender, fall-apart pulled pork perfection in your slow cooker, then top it off with a refreshing slaw and pile high onto soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw recipe (see below)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add beer (if using), barbecue sauce, and water to cover the meat.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns.
5. Top with Coleslaw (recipe below).
Coleslaw:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrot
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all slaw ingredients in a bowl; refrigerate until serving.
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cheddar cheese until smooth.
4. Add thyme and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked chicken mixture with cream sauce and mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils
A hearty and comforting vegetarian twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe uses lentils instead of ground meat for a protein-packed main dish. Perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lentils according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste, vegetable broth, and flour. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Combine cooked lentils with the skillet mixture.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
This classic comfort food dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese with the convenience of baked ziti pasta. A perfect weeknight dinner solution!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, sausage and marinara sauce mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of honey and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are cooking, mix together honey and garlic in a small bowl.
7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush with the honey-garlic glaze.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Jambalaya with Shrimp and Sausage
This recipe combines the spicy kick of jambalaya with the sweetness of shrimp, all cooked to perfection in one pot. This hearty dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken to pot and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add shrimp, rice, and chicken broth to pot. Stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy take on classic stuffed shells. Spinach and artichoke hearts combine for a rich, savory filling that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and egg; mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the artichoke-spinach mixture; place in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells; cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are heated through.
7. Remove foil; bake an additional 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake
Elevate your comfort food game with this indulgent twist on classic macaroni and cheese, featuring tender chicken smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup creamy BBQ sauce
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and stir in BBQ sauce.
4. In a separate pot, combine cheddar, mozzarella, and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken mixture, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Casserole
Elevate your gatherings with this flavorful casserole that combines the warmth of Mexican street corn with the comfort of a classic baked dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 cup cream-style corn
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortilla chips, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, cream-style corn, cheddar cheese, cotija cheese, milk, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
6. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve beef and broccoli over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Potato and Ham Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines the richness of ham, potatoes, and cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the diced ham and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes until tender. Drain and set aside.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked potato mixture, ham-onion mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Pour in the milk and sprinkle with paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan-inspired teriyaki chicken, served atop a bed of fluffy rice and topped with crunchy vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style rice (short-grain rice)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by teriyaki chicken, and finishing with mixed vegetables.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Bacon
Get cozy with this creamy, savory soup that combines the flavors of baked potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large baked potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add chicken broth and milk. Bring mixture to a simmer.
3. Add diced potatoes, cooked bacon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in shredded cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of succulent shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and al dente pasta is a match made in heaven. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. If using wine and chicken broth, add to skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and garlic butter sauce; toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Green Chile Sauce
This casserole combines tender chicken, creamy green chile sauce, and crispy tortillas for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped green chile peppers
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, enchilada sauce, and green chile peppers. Cook over medium heat until heated through.
3. Arrange tortillas in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon chicken mixture on top of tortillas.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped cilantro evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles
Savor the flavors of this classic Russian dish, where tender beef strips and egg noodles are smothered in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
6. Serve sauce over cooked egg noodles, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Zucchini and Eggplant
This delicious lasagna recipe combines the flavors of zucchini, eggplant, and ricotta cheese, perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal. With its creamy sauce and layered vegetables, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini, eggplant, onion, and garlic until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble lasagna by layering noodles, marinara sauce, and vegetable mixture. Top with the cheese mixture.
6. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious pot luck main dish recipes that everyone will love? Look no further! This article features 18 mouth-watering options to impress your friends and family. From classic comfort foods like lasagna and mac and cheese, to international flavors like jambalaya and teriyaki chicken, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat-lover, these recipes are sure to please. Try the slow-cooked pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw, the creamy chicken and mushroom casserole, or the cheesy baked ziti with Italian sausage. Get ready to impress with these easy-to-make main dishes!
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