We’ve all been there. You get invited to a potluck and you have no idea what to bring. You want to impress your friends with something yummy and creative, but you’re low on time and energy.
Fear not! We’ve got you covered with 37 easy last-minute potluck ideas that are sure to wow your friends. These dishes are quick, easy, and delicious- perfect for any potluck occasion!
37 Easy Last-Minute Potluck Ideas
1. Caprese Skewers
This super easy recipe only requires cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls. Simply skewer them onto a toothpick, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and you’ve got a tasty and visually appealing appetizer.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms
Mix together cream cheese, bacon bits, chives, and garlic, then stuff it into mushroom caps and bake. These are savory and always a crowd-pleaser.
3. Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dip is the perfect mix of spicy and creamy. Simply mix together shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and cheddar cheese. Serve with tortilla chips and you’re good to go.
4. Bruschetta
Cut up some fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic and mix with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Serve mixture on top of toasted bread for a flavorful appetizer.
5. Garlic Bread
Who doesn’t love garlic bread? This classic dish can be made in minutes and will always be a crowd pleaser. Just toast up some bread and add butter and garlic for a savory side dish.
6. Deviled Eggs
These are always a hit at potlucks and so easy to make. Hard boil some eggs, cut them in half, and mix together the yolks with mayo, mustard, and paprika. Add the mixture back into the egg whites and voila!
7. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
There’s a reason this dip is a classic favorite. Mix together spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Serve with tortilla chips or pita bread for a delicious appetizer.
8. Fruit Salad
Sometimes simple is best. Cut up some fresh fruit and mix together for a refreshing side dish.
9. Guacamole
This creamy and flavorful dip is always a crowd pleaser. Simply mix together mashed avocado, lime juice, garlic, and salt. Serve with tortilla chips for an easy appetizer.
10. Easy Taco Salad
Brown some ground beef and mix with a packet of taco seasoning. Serve on a bed of lettuce and top with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and sour cream.
11. Pasta Salad
Cook some pasta and mix together with olive oil, Italian dressing, and your favorite veggies. This can be served warm or cold and is always a hit.
12. Cheese Plate
This doesn’t require any cooking at all! Simply buy a variety of cheeses, meats, crackers, and fruits and place on a platter for an easy and visually appealing appetizer.
13. Meatballs
These savory bites can be made in a crockpot or baked in the oven. Mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and your favorite spices. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
14. Quesadillas
These are so easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Just add cheese, shredded chicken, and veggies to a tortilla and cook on the stove top for a delicious and easy dish.
15. Chicken Salad
Mix together chicken, mayo, grapes, and almonds for a sweet and savory side dish.
16. Baked Beans
These can be made in minutes using canned beans and BBQ sauce. Simply heat in a pot on the stove and you’re good to go.
17. Mini Tacos
Fill mini taco shells with seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken, and offer a variety of toppings like cheese, lettuce, and salsa for a fun and customizable dish.
18. Ratatouille
Cut up some veggies like eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes. Bake in the oven with herbs and olive oil for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
19. Mini Quiches
These can be made in mini muffin tins using eggs, cheese, and veggies. This is a perfect option for anyone who wants to avoid carbs.
20. Sausage Rolls
Simply roll puff pastry around some cooked sausage and bake in the oven for a delicious and filling appetizer.
21. Hummus Platter
Place hummus in a bowl and surround with veggies, pita chips, and olives for a healthy and easy appetizer.
22. Cucumber Sandwiches
Make bite-sized sandwiches by spreading cream cheese and dill on slices of cucumber. They’re a refreshing and low-carb option.
23. Cucumber Salad
Slice up some cucumbers, onion, and tomatoes. Mix together with olive oil and vinegar for a fresh and easy side dish.
24. Deviled Ham Sandwiches
Create deviled ham salad using ham, mayo, mustard, and seasonings, and spread it on small sandwich rolls or crackers for a tasty finger food.
25. BBQ Meatballs
Combine frozen meatballs with BBQ sauce, grape jelly, and some spices in a slow cooker for sweet and tangy meatballs that are easy to transport and serve.
26. Antipasto Platter
Assemble an array of marinated vegetables, olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a colorful and flavorful appetizer.
27. Seven-Layer Dip
Layer refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, lettuce, and olives for a delicious dip that pairs well with tortilla chips.
28. Caprese Pasta Salad
Toss cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic vinaigrette for a simple yet delightful salad.
29. Mexican Street Corn Salad
Combine corn, cotija cheese, mayo, chili powder, and lime juice for a tasty and refreshing side dish.
30. Hawaiian Pizza Sliders
Layer Hawaiian ham, pineapple, cheese, and marinara sauce on slider buns and bake for a tropical twist on pizza.
31. Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Mix together cream cheese, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan, then stuff the mixture into mushroom caps and bake until golden and gooey.
32. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Wrap dates in bacon and secure with toothpicks, then bake until crispy and serve for a sweet and savory treat.
33. Teriyaki Meat Skewers
Marinate cubes of meat (chicken, beef, or pork) in teriyaki sauce, skewer, and grill or bake for a flavorful appetizer.
34. S’mores Dip
Melt chocolate and marshmallows in a skillet in the oven or on the grill, and serve with graham crackers for a fun and indulgent dessert.
35. Bruschetta Pasta
Combine cooked pasta with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar for a pasta dish inspired by classic bruschetta.
36. Lemon Bars
Make a sweet and tangy lemon bar dessert with a buttery crust and lemon filling that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
37. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
Dip fresh strawberries in melted chocolate and let them cool for a simple, elegant, and sweet treat.
Final Thoughts,
There you have it, 37 easy and quick last-minute potluck ideas that are sure to impress your friends and family. With this list, you’ll never be caught off guard at a potluck again.
Remember, the key to a successful potluck contribution is all about keeping things simple and easy. Have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the party!
