Potluck tables and poolside hangouts both have one thing in common: food that can survive the trip without falling apart. That’s where 19 Southern recipes come in handy, offering dishes built to handle a ride in the car or a wait on the patio. No one wants to show up with something that melts, spills, or gets soggy faster than you can say “pass me a plate.” Even if the pool is cold, the food will hold up just fine.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Green tomatoes are perfect for dishes that need to hold up during travel or sharing at potlucks. The crunch of Fried Green Tomatoes makes them a Southern classic for gatherings. They’re easy to pack and keep fresh, making them a reliable choice for almost any occasion. Whether by the poolside or at an event, they effortlessly bring people together over a familiar favorite.
Get the Recipe: Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Perfect for casual gatherings, garlic-infused bites offer a mix of crispy and tender textures. With Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, you get plenty of flavor, and they’re a simple dish that travels well. They hold up even after sitting out during a potluck or being passed around by the pool. Whether served hot or slightly warm, they stay solid and delicious no matter the location.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Pineapple Casserole
A dish that blends sweetness with a layer of creamy richness is ideal for gatherings like this. Pineapple Casserole is proof that unexpected combinations can turn into something people won’t forget. Easy to transport and share, it’s a perfect bridge between dessert and side dish. Bring this unique option that’s guaranteed to have guests talking at your next event.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole
Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Bite-sized snacks are always a winner at potlucks and outdoor gatherings. Southern Sausage Cheese Balls are a convenient option that’s easy to transport and even easier to serve. They hold up well when traveling and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. These flavorful bites are a crowd-pleaser that’s portable and party-ready.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
Big, hearty meals are perfect for sharing at larger gatherings. Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast delivers on convenience since it can cook while you focus on other tasks, making it great for pre-event prep. Transporting it is easy as it stays tender and warm, ready for serving. It’s an effortless option that turns heads at both indoor potlucks or outdoor poolside meals.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
Chicken Roll-Ups
For something easy to eat and serve, rolled dishes offer unbeatable simplicity. Chicken Roll-Ups are exactly what you need for a dish that can travel easily and provide individual portions for guests. Their portability makes them idea for gatherings, and they stay fresh even if enjoyed later. These hand-friendly servings bring ease and flavor together in one wrap.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll-Ups
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
A versatile side dish is always welcome whether at a pool party or potluck. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower provides a lighter alternative to heavier potato-based options while holding its own in flavor. It transports well, and its consistency stays smooth and intact wherever it’s served. It can complement almost any other dish on your table, making it a great choice for variety.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Biscuit Dough Donut Holes
Bite-sized treats are essential when you need easy-to-share desserts, especially outdoors. Biscuit Dough Donut Holes check every box for portability, snackability, and crowd appeal. They’re simple to pack in a container while staying fresh and flavorful during travel. Perfect for casual snacking, they’re great for both kids and adults at relaxed gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Biscuit Dough Donut Holes
Scrambled Eggs with Cream Cheese
Packing up for breakfast gatherings or brunch is a breeze with dishes like this. Scrambled Eggs with Cream Cheese offer a soft, rich texture that’s travel-friendly and quick to prepare. Even after sitting out for a while, they hold their flavor and appeal, making them perfect for sharing with friends or family. It’s a cozy yet convenient choice for morning potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Scrambled Eggs with Cream Cheese
Southern Corn Grits
When you want a dish that feels timeless and comforting, this one fits in perfectly. Southern Corn Grits carry rich flavors with a creamy texture that works well for sharing at events. They’re easy to transport and maintain their consistency whether served warm or at room temperature. A reliable side that connects people over love for classic tastes.
Get the Recipe: Southern Corn Grits
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Desserts that travel well are a must for parties and casual outdoor gatherings. Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines softness and sweetness in a way that keeps every bite delicious even after sitting out. It’s easy to pack and share, making it ideal for both poolside hangouts and indoor events. A dessert like this fits perfectly into any festive table spread.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Baked Oatmeal
Crowd-friendly breakfast staples are a go-to when bringing dishes to events. Baked Oatmeal offers hearty texture and warm flavor that holds up well after travel or sitting out. Its simplicity makes it easy to serve, even at outdoor setups like pool parties. The balance between convenience and flavor makes it a dependable choice for any gathering setting.
Get the Recipe: Baked Oatmeal
Country Sausage Gravy
A rich, satisfying addition to biscuits or other breads always fits in at potlucks and casual gatherings. Country Sausage Gravy is an easy-to-carry option that stays fresh and comforting even after the journey. It works well for breakfast events or as a hearty side for any meal. Wherever you serve it, it’s bound to make everyone feel at home.
Get the Recipe: Country Sausage Gravy
Crunchy Green Bean Salad
Light yet filling dishes are ideal when you need something to pass around and share. Crunchy Green Bean Salad delivers freshness and texture while being easy to package and take to gatherings. It keeps its crispness intact, making it a solid choice for outdoor meals by the pool. A salad like this adds variety to the table without weighing anyone down.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Green Bean Salad
Fried Burrata
When creamy meets crispy, it creates a dish that’s hard to resist at any event. Fried Burrata transforms into a travel-friendly appetizer that’s simple to share and serve. Even after transport, it retains its crunchy shell and soft interior, making it a standout option for any gathering. Whether poolside or at a potluck, this dish always sparks interest.
Get the Recipe: Fried Burrata
Southern Ham Salad
A spreadable option is great for both variety in flavor and ease of sharing. Southern Ham Salad works as a dip or topping that’s simple to pack and serve at casual gatherings. Designed to travel well, it can be stored in a container and remains fresh after arriving. It’s an affordable classic that guests will appreciate anywhere.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Baked Turkey Zucchini Boats
For a wholesome dish that feels satisfying without being too heavy, this one fits the bill. Baked Turkey Zucchini Boats offer well-portioned flavor that’s easy to share at gatherings or bring along to outdoor events. They travel well while staying fresh and ready to serve. It’s the kind of dish that adds variety without overpowering the table.
Get the Recipe: Baked Turkey Zucchini Boats
Italian Herbed Chicken and Veggie Bake Foil Pack
Italian Herbed Chicken and Veggie Bake Foil Pack combines portability with freshness, making it ideal for shared meals. Packing everything neatly in foil ensures it arrives intact and ready to enjoy. It’s a dependable choice for outdoor cooking or potluck gatherings that need no hassle.
Get the Recipe: Italian Herbed Chicken and Veggie Bake Foil Pack
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Messy dishes are always a hit when made easy-to-serve like this version. Sloppy Joe Casserole turns a classic dish into a travel-friendly option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Its layered texture holds up well during transport, and it’s simple to reheat if needed. Whether indoors or outdoors, this hearty offering is appreciated by all ages.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole