When it comes to hosting parties, cooking for a crowd can be overwhelming. You want to make sure your guests are satisfied with the food, but you also don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. That’s why we’ve put together 20 delicious recipes that are perfect for feeding a crowd at your next party or gathering.
From classic comfort foods to bold and flavorful dishes, these recipes are easy to make and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal affair, we have the perfect recipe for you. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the celebration!
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a crowd, these slow cooker pulled pork sandwiches are easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy pork on soft buns in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Season the pork with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork in the slow cooker and top with sliced onion and minced garlic.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. After 6 hours, add barbecue sauce and brown sugar to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Classic Beef Chili with Beans
This hearty beef chili recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering. With a rich flavor profile and tender beans, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Mac and Cheese Bake
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this creamy, comforting casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and creamy cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes! This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and fully cooked.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and reserved pasta water in the skillet. Toss until well combined.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss with pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
BBQ Chicken Sliders
These BBQ chicken sliders are the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, packed into bite-sized portions that are sure to please. With tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and a hint of smokiness, these mini sandwiches are a game-changer for any backyard gathering or casual get-together.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, butter, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sliders by placing grilled chicken on hamburger buns and topping with lettuce, tomato, and red onion (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Satisfy your cravings with this comforting casserole that combines the best of baked potatoes and loaded toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup diced scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and salt. Toss to coat.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
4. Arrange half of the potato slices in the prepared dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, chives, bacon, and scallions.
6. Repeat layering process with remaining potatoes and toppings.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Meatball Subs
Savor the flavor of homemade meatballs sandwiched between crispy sub rolls, melted mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce. This recipe is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 4 sub rolls
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble subs by placing meatballs on sub rolls, topping with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this rich and creamy dip, perfect for any gathering or celebration! This classic spinach and artichoke combination is elevated by the addition of melted cheese and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
This simple yet flavorful recipe yields a deliciously moist chicken with a bright and citrusy twist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this one-pan wonder requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, sliced into thin wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet or roasting pan, combine chicken, lemon wedges, olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 15-20 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
A classic Italian dish gets a vegetarian twist with this flavorful lasagna recipe featuring layers of sautéed vegetables, creamy Béchamel sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Make Béchamel sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan, then whisking in flour, milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of Béchamel sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles, vegetables, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites! A perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and spicy, these bites are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup vegan ranch dressing (or regular)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup vegan mozzarella shreds (or regular)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Cut into bite-sized florets and place in a bowl.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle garlic powder, and toss to coat.
5. In a separate bowl, mix Frank’s RedHot sauce and vegan ranch dressing.
6. Add the sauce mixture to the cauliflower and toss until evenly coated.
7. Sprinkle vegan mozzarella shreds over the cauliflower and toss gently.
8. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the cauliflower bites out in a single layer.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sheet Pan Nachos with All the Fixings
Get ready for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s perfect for game days, parties, or just because! This recipe for Sheet Pan Nachos with All the Fixings is easy to make and loaded with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet pan (18×13 inches)
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Salsa (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: cooked ground beef or refried beans for added protein
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on the sheet pan.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chips.
4. Top with black beans, diced tomatoes, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and top with sour cream and salsa.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Cheese Enchiladas
Savor the rich flavors of tender beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas in this classic Mexican dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the mixture is fully browned.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble enchiladas by dipping warmed tortillas in enchilada sauce, then filling with beef and cheese mixture.
6. Place filled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with remaining enchilada sauce and shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herbed Garlic Breadsticks
These flavorful breadsticks are perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and salads. With the addition of fragrant herbs and pungent garlic, they’re sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and thyme to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Shape into 8-10 breadsticks. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Taco Bar with All Toppings
Get ready to create a taco bar that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters! This recipe is a classic for a reason, and with all the fixin’s, you’ll have everything you need to make a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– Diced tomatoes
– Sliced black olives
– Chopped cilantro
– Sour cream
– Salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your taste)
– Lettuce leaves
– Crushed tortilla chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning meat onto a tortilla, followed by desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the slow cooker.
4. Pour in the beef broth and cover the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove the meatballs from the slow cooker with a slotted spoon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta
A hearty and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Add the pasta mixture and top with the sausage and marinara sauce.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grilled Vegetable and Hummus Platter
Elevate your snack game with this colorful and flavorful platter featuring grilled vegetables and creamy hummus. Perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup hummus
– 4-6 mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Spread hummus on a large platter or board.
5. Arrange the grilled vegetables on top of the hummus in a pattern that suits your visual style.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern-Style Baked Beans
These slow-cooked baked beans are a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a comforting side dish on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine the soaked and drained navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the vegetable oil and stir until the mixture is well combined.
4. Cover the pot with aluminum foil and bake for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to caramelized the beans.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy cookie bars packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, they’re easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, followed by chocolate chips.
5. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 delicious recipes perfect for parties! From classic comfort foods like creamy mac and cheese bake and beef chili with beans, to seafood options like garlic butter shrimp pasta and BBQ chicken sliders, there’s something for everyone. Plus, veggie lovers will enjoy the vegetable lasagna and spicy buffalo cauliflower bites. And don’t forget the sweet treats – like chocolate chip cookie bars. These recipes are easy to make in large quantities and are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
