When it comes to feeding a crowd, nothing beats a delicious buffet spread. Whether you’re hosting a party, a gathering with friends and family, or just want to keep everyone happy, having a variety of tasty dishes at your fingertips can make all the difference. But what to serve? With so many options out there, it’s hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 mouthwatering buffet recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and meatballs, to international flavors like teriyaki chicken skewers and caprese salad skewers, there’s something for everyone here. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make in large quantities, so you can focus on enjoying your guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these delicious dishes, including classic Caesar salad with homemade croutons, garlic butter shrimp scampi, and slow cooker honey glazed ham. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the world of cooking, there’s no doubt that you’ll find something to love in this collection of buffet recipes.
Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
A timeless favorite, this classic Caesar salad recipe features crispy homemade croutons and a tangy dressing made with anchovies, garlic, and lemon. This simple yet satisfying salad is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup homemade croutons (recipe below)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Croutons:
– 1/2 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss crouton ingredients together and spread on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, and salt.
5. Add the romaine lettuce and toss to coat with dressing.
6. Top with homemade croutons and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Quickly elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With only a few ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and aromatic dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add white wine (if using) and lemon juice; simmer for 1-2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
7. Stir in remaining butter until melted.
8. Serve the shrimp scampi with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham
This sweet and savory slow cooker recipe yields a tender and flavorful ham glazed with a sticky honey-based sauce, perfect for holidays or special occasions. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious centerpiece for your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves until well combined.
3. Place ham in the slow cooker and brush with the honey glaze.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove from slow cooker and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Low: 8-10 hours, High: 4-6 hours
Herb-Roasted Chicken with Lemon
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this easy recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the sliced lemons inside the chicken cavity.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb 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
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Cut the beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
5. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
6. Return the beef to the skillet and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, this creamy macaroni and cheese is a simple yet satisfying meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A classic party favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make! This creamy spinach and artichoke dip is perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a tasty addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 cup of sour cream
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.
3. Add the minced garlic and mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Meatballs in Sweet and Sour Sauce
Mini Meatballs in Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe
These bite-sized meatballs are cooked in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, and chopped onion. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat sweet and sour sauce in a separate pan over medium heat.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and add to sauce. Toss gently to coat. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the richness of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and bacon. It’s a perfect side dish for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 3 large baking potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Platter with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this vibrant and flavorful vegetable platter, perfect for warm weather entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see below)
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together balsamic glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Arrange grilled vegetables on a platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Get ready to fall in love with these tender pulled pork sliders topped with a refreshing coleslaw that’s perfect for any gathering. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces coleslaw mix (cabbage, carrots, and onion)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with barbecue sauce.
5. Split the hamburger buns in half.
6. Assemble the sliders by spooning the pulled pork onto the buns, followed by a dollop of coleslaw.
7. Drizzle with mayonnaise and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker or Dutch oven) + assembly time
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Transform ordinary bread into a savory delight with these cheesy garlic breadsticks. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they’re sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness. Cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter. Spread a small amount onto each piece of dough, leaving a 1/4 inch border.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the garlic butter mixture on each breadstick.
5. Place breadsticks on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for even cooking.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of chicken, pasta, and creamy Alfredo sauce for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken in olive oil until browned; remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add butter, garlic, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce; transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
This refreshing fruit salad is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light and healthy snack any time of the year. A tangy honey lime dressing brings out the natural sweetness of the fruits, making it a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, kiwi)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the fresh fruits into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
This classic Italian-American dish combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and tender ziti pasta. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a weekend family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked ziti pasta and sausage mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Deviled Eggs with a Spicy Twist
Elevate your deviled egg game with a kick of heat from jalapeño peppers and a tangy zip from Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Paprika or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
2. Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re mostly smooth.
3. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, horseradish, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in the chopped jalapeño peppers.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle with paprika or chives for garnish.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe only involves assembling and chilling the deviled eggs.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the juiciness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and vegetable oil.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush grill with vegetable oil and cook skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional teriyaki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or picnics with these colorful and flavorful Caprese Salad Skewers, paired with a rich Balsamic Drizzle. A classic Italian combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil gets a fun twist on toothpicks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, mozzarella piece, and basil leaf onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each component.
3. Brush the balsamic glaze over the skewers during the last minute of grilling or baking (5-7 minutes total).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chocolate Fondue with Assorted Dippers
Create a warm and inviting dessert experience by melting rich chocolate into a velvety fondue, perfect for dipping a variety of sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark or semi-sweet 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, pound cake)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
2. Once melted, add the heavy cream and butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Transfer to a fondue pot or a small ceramic bowl to keep warm.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Serve: Offer assorted dippers for guests to enjoy with the warm chocolate fondue. Encourage dipping, drizzling, and savoring!
Mini Cheesecakes with Berry Topping
Mini cheesecakes are the perfect dessert for any occasion, and adding a sweet and tangy berry topping takes them to the next level. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.) for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crumb mixture into mini muffin tin cups.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs (one at a time), and vanilla extract. Mix well.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared muffin tin cups.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before topping with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 delicious buffet recipes, perfect for every occasion! From classic Caesar salad to garlic butter shrimp scampi, slow cooker honey glazed ham to cheesy garlic breadsticks, and many more mouthwatering options in between. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game day gathering, or casual get-together, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, dig in, and enjoy!
