20 Must-Know Meals That Feed a Crowd
Throwing a party? Hosting a family reunion? Don’t let the thought of feeding a horde of hungry guests stress you out! We’ve compiled a list of 20 crowd-pleasing meals that are easy to make, delicious to eat, and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to become the ultimate party host, because these recipes are about to become your new best friends.
From classic comfort food to exciting new takes on old favorites, this list has something for everyone. So ditch the takeout menus and get ready to unleash your inner chef. Let’s get cooking!
Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili is always a winner. It’s easy to customize with different beans, meats, and spices to suit your crowd’s preferences. Serve with cornbread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Taco Bar
Let your guests build their own perfect tacos! Provide a variety of fillings, toppings, and shells, and watch the fun unfold. It’s interactive, customizable, and always a hit.
Lasagna
A classic for a reason! Lasagna is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for feeding a large group. Make it ahead of time and simply reheat before serving.
Pasta Salad
A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad is a great option for a summer gathering. Choose your favorite pasta, veggies, and dressing for a customized dish that’s both delicious and easy to make.
BBQ Pulled Pork
Slow-cooked pulled pork is incredibly tender and flavorful. Serve it on buns with your favorite BBQ sauce and coleslaw for a truly satisfying meal.
Mac and Cheese
The ultimate comfort food. You can’t go wrong with a big batch of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. Make it extra special with added ingredients like bacon or breadcrumbs.
Chicken Pot Pie
A warm and comforting classic, chicken pot pie is a perfect choice for a chilly evening. The flaky crust and creamy filling will leave everyone satisfied.
Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty and satisfying dish, shepherd’s pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in large quantities. The mashed potato topping adds a comforting touch.
Pizza
Homemade or store-bought, pizza is always a good idea. Set up a pizza bar with various toppings to allow guests to customize their own pies.
Baked Ziti
Similar to lasagna, baked ziti is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead of time. The cheesy, saucy goodness will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Chicken Fajitas
A fun and interactive meal, chicken fajitas allow guests to customize their own wraps with various fillings and toppings.
Grilled Burgers
A classic summer BBQ staple, grilled burgers are always a hit. Offer a variety of toppings and sides to make it a complete meal.
Roasted Chicken
A simple yet elegant option, a roasted chicken is easy to prepare and serves a large group. Pair it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Soup and Bread
A simple yet satisfying meal, a hearty soup paired with crusty bread is perfect for a casual gathering. Consider a tomato soup or a creamy potato soup.
Sausage and Peppers
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish, sausage and peppers can be served as an appetizer or a main course.
Tacos al Pastor
Bring a taste of Mexico to your gathering with these delicious tacos. The marinated pork is incredibly flavorful.
Meatloaf
A classic comfort food that’s perfect for a family gathering. Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy for a complete meal.
Tuna Noodle Casserole
A nostalgic favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make and feeds a crowd. The creamy sauce and noodles are a comforting combination.
Paella
This Spanish rice dish is a showstopper that’s perfect for a special occasion. It’s packed with seafood, chicken, and vegetables.
Pot Roast
Slow-cooked to perfection, a pot roast is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy.