17 potluck stars that will make you shine

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Ready to be the star of the potluck? These 17 dishes will have everyone wondering how you pulled it off so effortlessly, like you’ve got some secret gourmet training no one knew about. Perfect for sharing, they’ll make you the most popular person in the room without breaking a sweat. Just wait until your friends start asking for your secrets—you might need to dodge a few texts or come up with a funny excuse!

Stack of air fryer pork belly strips in hoisin glaze.
Air Fryer Pork Belly. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Apple Galette

Overhead shot of an apple galette on parchment with fresh apples on the side.
Apple Galette. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Everyone seems to love a good slice of pie, but when you show up with an Apple Galette, you bring the charm of rustic baking to the table. It’s like bringing the warmth of a cozy, sunlit kitchen right to the potluck. The simplicity of this dish, combined with the elegance it brings, makes it a reliable choice for any gathering. Plus, it’s a fantastic way for people to enjoy a classic apple dessert without the fuss of traditional pie-making.
Get the Recipe: Apple Galette

Beef Birria

low angle shot of shredded beef in a bowl with a fork.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A pot of Beef Birria at a potluck can quickly become the center of attention, with its rich, aromatic broth and tender meat that falls right off the bone. This dish brings comfort and a level of sophistication to the table, bridging the gap between traditional home cooking and the excitement of trying something new. It’s not just a meal; it’s a conversation starter, inviting stories of family dinners and cherished recipes.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Biryani is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and aromas that promises to be the star of any potluck. It combines rice, chicken, and a medley of spices in a way that is both nourishing and deeply fulfilling. Each bite is a testament to the care and attention that goes into its preparation, making it a proud representation of its rich gourmet heritage.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Pizza Carbonara

A close-up of a pizza slice topped with a runny egg yolk, grated cheese, bacon bits, and black pepper.
Pizza Carbonara. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Imagine the intrigue when you lay down a Pizza Carbonara among the usual potluck spread, instantly drawing eyes and piquing curiosity. It’s a creative twist on two beloved classics, combining the comfort of pizza with the creamy, indulgent flavors of carbonara. It’s bound to be a hit, appealing to both pizza enthusiasts and those looking for a new taste experience.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Carbonara

Chicken Enchiladas

Low angle shot of chicken enchiladas on a plate with salad.
Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

With Chicken Enchiladas, you’re bringing a dish that’s packed with flavor, wrapped in tradition, and topped with just the right amount of cheese and sauce. They’re a hands-down crowd-pleaser, perfect for any potluck where comfort food is on the menu. This dish not only fills the room with enticing aromas but also promises a hearty, filling bite that’s hard to resist. It’s about sharing warmth and happiness, one enchilada at a time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Enchiladas

Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Low angle shot of a white bowl filled with tortilla soup. There is an instant pot in the background.
Instant Pot Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Tortilla Soup is a marvel of modern cooking, offering a deeply flavorful and comforting soup that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. This soup is proof that great food doesn’t have to take all day to prepare, making it perfect for anyone looking to impress without the stress. Plus, it’s a fun way for people to customize their servings, whether they like it hot, loaded with toppings, or just simple and soothing.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Dan Dan Noodles

A close-up of twirled dan dan noodles on a fork with herbs and bits of meat.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you introduce Dan Dan Noodles to the mix, you’re not just bringing a dish; you’re bringing an experience. It’s a bold, spicy, and deeply tangy noodle dish that promises to stand out among more familiar potluck offerings. This dish is known for its ability to balance intense flavors — spicy, nutty, and a hint of sweetness — in a way that’s utterly addictive.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip in a bowl with crackers and veggies for dipping.
Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Smoked Salmon Dip is that perfect balance between elegant and effortless, making it an instant hit at any gathering. This dip is a testament to the magic that happens when simplicity meets sophisticated flavor, offering a bit of luxury without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that encourages people to gather around, share stories, and dip into something truly special.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

Gochujang Noodles

Low angle shot of gochujang noodles with greens, mushrooms, and cheese on a grey and white plate.
Gochujang Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

With Gochujang Noodles, you’re not just contributing a dish but an explosion of flavor that’s sure to capture everyone’s attention. This Korean-inspired dish brings together the unique taste of gochujang — a rich, fermented chili paste — with the comforting familiarity of noodles. This dish is a conversation starter, drawing in those eager to explore new tastes and those who appreciate the comforting power of noodles.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles

Mexican Corn Salad

Mexican corn salad in bowls, garnished with parmesan cheese and lime wedges, with forks on the side.
Mexican Corn Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This Mexican Corn Salad is a vibrant addition to any potluck, bringing with it the freshness of summer no matter the season. It’s a colorful, tangy, and slightly spicy dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. This salad is a crowd-pleaser, capable of turning even the simplest meal into a festive occasion.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Instant Pot Black Beans

Low angle shot of two bowls of Mexican black beans garnished with crumbled cheese and lime wedges.
Instant Pot Black Beans. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Black Beans are a revelation, proving that simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with the right touch. These beans are a testament to the ease and versatility of using an Instant Pot, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and rich in flavor. They’re the perfect base for a variety of potluck dishes, from tacos and salads to being a delicious side on their own.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Black Beans

Brussels Sprouts Salad

Brussels Sprouts Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking to bring a dish that’s both wholesome and incredibly flavorful, then Brussels Sprouts Salad is the way to go. It challenges the misconceptions about Brussels sprouts by presenting them in a fresh, crunchy, and tantalizingly tangy light. It’s a guaranteed way to surprise and please potluck goers, proving that healthy options can be the star of the show.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Salad

Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole

Masshed potato casserole in a baking dish with a cracker crumb topping.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those in search of comfort food that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious, Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole is the dish to beat. It takes the beloved classic of mashed potatoes and turns it into a cheesy, golden-brown masterpiece. It’s the kind of dish that makes people feel at home, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere at any potluck.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole

Mexican Shredded Beef

Mexican beef tacos on white plates.
Mexican Shredded Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bringing Mexican Shredded Beef to a potluck ensures you have a versatile, flavorful, and heartwarming dish on the table. It’s slow-cooked to perfection, making the beef tender and infused with a blend of spices that’s hard to resist. It’s a generous offering that promises no leftovers, only satisfied smiles around the table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shredded Beef

Watermelon and Feta Salad

Low angle shot of a bowl of watermelon salad with kalamata olives and feta cheese.
Watermelon and Feta Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A Watermelon and Feta Salad is like a breath of fresh air at any potluck, combining sweet, salty, and refreshing in every bite. This salad is a symphony of contrasts that somehow harmonize perfectly on your plate, proving that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish. Bringing this salad to a gathering shows you have a keen eye for balance and enjoy sharing the joy of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon and Feta Salad

Air Fryer Pork Belly

Stack of air fryer pork belly strips in hoisin glaze.
Air Fryer Pork Belly. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Pork Belly is a dish that promises to turn heads with its irresistible combination of crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior. This method of cooking not only delivers on flavor but is also a healthier alternative to traditional frying, making it a thoughtful choice for gatherings. It’s a welcome break from the standard potluck fare, offering a rich and tangy treat that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly

Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Bowl of chili with baked tortilla strips.
Instant Pot Turkey Chili. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a hearty and comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, Instant Pot Turkey Chili is your go-to choice. It’s a no-fuss, big-flavor dish that comes together quickly, offering a nutritious yet indulgent addition to any potluck. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of a classic chili with a healthier twist, making it a thoughtful dish for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Turkey Chili

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