13 crowd-pleasers so tasty, there won’t be leftovers

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When you’re hosting a party, choosing the right food can make all the difference. Everyone loves those go-to dishes that are so good people can’t help but go back for more. These meals hit the spot for all kinds of tastes, whether they’re looking for something delicious. And when you pick just the right 13 crowd-pleasers, you can be sure there won’t be leftovers at the end of the night.

A bowl of taco casserole topped with melted cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and green onions, with a creamy dip in the background.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pasta Alla Norma

Pasta alla Norma in a Dutch oven.
Pasta Alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You’re in for a treat with this dish that brings a bit of the Mediterranean right to your home. Everyone at the table will enjoy the hearty yet light feel of this meal, making it a standout option. This is the type of dish that makes a regular dinner feel special. You’ll be fielding questions about how to cook Pasta Alla Norma after you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Alla Norma

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

A serving of creamy chicken pot pie casserole with vegetables, lifted on a fork, with a flaky crust and garnished with herbs.
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you serve up this casserole, expect it to get gobbled up in no time because it’s just that cozy and satisfying. That golden pastry top leads to a rich and creamy middle – everything a Chicken Pot Pie Casserole should be. It’s the kind of meal that makes a regular night feel like a special occasion. And when the meal is over, don’t be surprised if everyone’s asking when they can have it again.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s a colorful meal that’ll brighten up the table and bring a smile to faces. The vibrancy of this dish isn’t just visual; those who eat Pasta Primavera will be talking about the flavors long after they’re done. It’s usually the star of the show at gatherings, thanks to its appetite-pleasing charm. You’ll likely have a few guests requesting your recipe by the end of the night.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Eggplant Casserole

A plate of eggplant casserole with sauce and cheese.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Eggplant Casserole has a way of making both vegetarians and meat lovers ask for more, thanks to its cheesy, savory goodness. It’s a comforting choice on those nights when you just want a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. The dish tends to vanish quickly, so make sure you scoop yourself a serving early. You’ll be getting nods of approval all around the table as everyone enjoys their portion.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Chicken Tamale Pie

A serving of chicken tamale pie topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.
Chicken Tamale Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s a dish packed with flavor and it’s a real crowd-pleaser when you’re in the mood for something hearty and a bit different. The layered textures in this Chicken Tamale Pie make every bite enjoyable and satisfying. With everything cooked in one pan, you won’t have to stress about the cleanup afterwards. Be prepared for requests for seconds, as plates often come back clean.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamale Pie

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With its light and refreshing taste, this pasta dish has a way of making a meal feel brighter. It’s the kind of dish that’s ideal for when you need something impressive but effortless. The fresh twist that Best Lemon Pasta brings to the dinner table is always a hit with guests. Expect the memories of this refreshing pasta to linger well into your next meal.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Get ready for a rave with this burger – one that’s bound to make everyone ask you how you nailed the taste so perfectly. At your next BBQ, Copycat Smash Burger will be causing all the buzz, and you might just find yourself flipping more to keep up with demand. This is a surefire way to showcase your grill skills and impress the crowd. The praise will be flowing for this burger long after the last bite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

A dish of seasoned chicken breasts garnished with parsley, surrounded by carrots and potatoes in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love a dish that’s practically ready as soon as you walk in the door? This Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken fills the home with a welcoming aroma that hints at the delicious meal to come. Even though it’s a breeze to put together, don’t be fooled – the flavors run deep. And once it’s time to eat, the slow cooker magic will make it look like you’ve worked on it all day.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something about the creaminess of this pasta that just hits the spot every single time. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to serve when you’re looking to make an evening extra special. Expect Penne Alla Vodka to disappear fast, as everyone will be reaching for more. By the end of the meal, your friends will be completely won over by this creamy creation.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Thai Yellow Curry

Thai Yellow Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.
Thai Yellow Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you’re looking to switch things up and go for something a bit exotic, this curry won’t disappoint. The creamy spiciness of Thai Yellow Curry will win over your guests and have them coming back for more. It’s just the right option for those chillier nights when a warm dish is what you crave. You’ll find friends and family cozying up for another helping in no time.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry

Taco Casserole

A bowl of taco casserole topped with melted cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and green onions, with a creamy dip in the background.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This is like having taco night; only way easier and just as delicious. Taco Casserole is perfect for those nights when you need something quick and satisfying. The ease of serving it up makes this a weeknight favorite. Expect all the flavors of a taco in a form that leaves everyone reaching for another scoop.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Close-up of a pasta dish with corn, bacon, and herbs, seasoned with a creamy yellow sauce.
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing together creaminess and comfort, this pasta dish makes for an all-around winner at any family gathering. It’s a combination that ensures Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta will have everyone chatting and chewing happily. You might want to make a bit more than usual as second helpings are a common occurrence. This is comfort food that leaves a lasting impression of warmth and satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Easy Thai Peanut Curry

Easy Thai Peanut Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Get ready for a break from the routine with this nutty, rich curry that’s as easy as it is tasty. The uniqueness of Easy Thai Peanut Curry is sure to jazz up dinner and might even tempt you to skip take-out next time. It’s a dish that’s comforting, full of flavor, and could easily become a mainstay in your dinner rotation. When the meal is over, don’t be surprised to find everyone asking when they can have it again.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry

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