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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    39 Make-Ahead Potluck Recipes That Travel Well

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on October 12, 2025, updated September 24, 2025 - Leave a Comment

    These 39 make-ahead potluck recipes are perfect for any gathering and travel well, ensuring you arrive with delicious dishes ready to share. From hearty casseroles to sweet treats, these options are easy to prepare in advance, making your potluck planning so much easier.

    Sweet Potato Pudding with Meringue Topping

    Sweet Potato Pudding with Meringue Topping.
    Photo Credit: FoodnService.

    Sweet Potato Pudding is a delightful dessert that features soft, baked sweet potatoes blended into a creamy pudding base. Topped with a light meringue and finished off with crunchy walnuts and a sprinkle of cocoa powder, this dish is a great choice for Fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or any family get-together. It's a comforting treat that everyone will enjoy.

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    Quinoa Salad with Chili Lime Dressing

    Quinoa Salad with Chili Lime Dressing.
    Photo Credit: Beet of the Wild.

    This Quinoa Salad is perfect for summer lunches or as a side dish. It's mixed with a zesty chili lime dressing, fresh veggies, tender kale, roasted chickpeas, and creamy goat cheese. This salad is a favorite at potlucks, barbecues, picnics, and summer gatherings.

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    Raw Vegan Carrot Cake

    Raw Vegan Carrot Cake.
    Photo Credit: Refresh My Health.

    This Raw Vegan Carrot Cake is a simple, no-bake treat that's both wholesome and satisfying. It's gluten-free, dairy-free, and doesn't contain any refined sugar. The cake has a naturally sweet base with a great mix of textures, all topped off with a rich chocolate frosting.

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    Tortellini Pasta Salad with Pesto

    Tortellini Pasta Salad with Pesto.
    Photo Credit: Mrs G's Recipes.

    Tortellini Pasta Salad with Pesto is a quick and easy dish that feels fancy but only takes about twenty minutes to prepare. This salad is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a great option to bring to potlucks or gatherings, and you'll find yourself wanting to make it again and again.

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    Panzanella Toscana

    Panzanella Toscana.
    Photo Credit: Peanut Butter & Julie.

    Panzanella Toscana is a classic Italian bread salad that combines stale or toasted bread with fresh tomatoes, vegetables, and basil, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. This version includes creamy mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and two kinds of olives, making it even more delicious. It's a great side dish for grilled meats and is sure to be a favorite at potlucks.

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    Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

    Chicken pasta bake.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish features plenty of chicken and broccoli, making it a hearty meal that will definitely fill you up. It's perfect for potlucks, as it travels well and can be made ahead of time. Plus, you'll likely have some leftovers to enjoy later.

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    Chocolate Pumpkin Dump Cake

    Chocolate Pumpkin Dump Cake.
    Photo Credit: My Suburban Kitchen.

    This chocolate pumpkin dump cake is simple to make and really tasty, quickly becoming a favorite for pumpkin desserts. It combines rich chocolate and pumpkin flavors in a way that's sure to please everyone. Perfect for gatherings, this dessert is easy to prepare and transport, making it a great choice for potlucks.

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    Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad

    Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad.
    Photo Credit: My Suburban Kitchen.

    Broccoli and cauliflower salad combines sweet, crunchy, and chewy elements for a delightful dish. The fresh veggies, sweet cranberries, and salty bacon, all tossed in a poppyseed dressing, create a salad that will have everyone wanting more. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this tasty salad, perfect for your next gathering.

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    Butter Chicken Naan-chos

    Butter Chicken Naan-chos.
    Photo Credit: Masala and Chai.

    Butter Chicken Naan-chos combine the best of Indian and Mexican flavors in a fun snack. Crispy garlic naan is cut into chips and topped with gooey cheese, flavorful butter chicken, and all the classic nacho toppings. This dish is great for game day and can be ready in less than half an hour.

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    Corn Dip

    Corn Dip.
    Photo Credit: The Almond Eater.

    This creamy and tangy Corn Dip is perfect for gatherings. In just 15 minutes, you can turn basic ingredients like grilled corn, Greek yogurt, sautéed onions, and cotija cheese into a delicious snack that everyone will enjoy. It's a great option for potlucks and travels well, making it easy to share with friends.

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    Chicken Taco Pinwheels

    Chicken Taco Pinwheels.
    Photo Credit: Budget Delicious.

    Chicken pinwheels filled with taco flavors are a simple and tasty appetizer that works well for any gathering. They're easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a great choice for potlucks or parties. These bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit with everyone.

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    Mashed Potato Casserole

    Mashed potato casserole.
    Photo Credit: always use butter.

    This mashed potato casserole is creamy and cheesy, perfect for any gathering. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, making it a great option for busy days. You can easily make it ahead of time, so it's ready to go when you need it.

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    Bean and Barley Tabbouleh

    Bean and Barley Tabbouleh.
    Photo Credit: Vegan Huggs.

    Bean and Barley Tabbouleh is a colorful salad that adds a refreshing touch to any meal. It's light but filling, packed with crunchy vegetables, hearty barley, and flavorful herbs. This dish is great for potlucks or gatherings, as it holds up well during travel and can be made ahead of time.

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    Smoked Salmon Pâté

    Smoked salmon pâté.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Smoked salmon is a great choice for a quick and easy spread that you can prepare in no time. This dish is perfect for gatherings, as it travels well and can be enjoyed by everyone. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious addition to any potluck.

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    Antipasto Pasta Salad

    Antipasto Pasta Salad.
    Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate.

    This Antipasto Pasta Salad is a highlight of any potluck. It's packed with flavor and is filling enough that guests might skip the main dish for another serving. Perfect for gatherings, this salad is easy to prepare ahead of time and travels well, making it a great choice for sharing.

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    Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese

    Southern Baked Mac and Cheese.
    Photo Credit: Grits and Pinecones.

    Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic Southern dish that brings all the comfort you need. It's rich and creamy, loaded with cheese, and topped with a crunchy layer of buttery Ritz crackers. This dish is perfect for gatherings and is sure to please a crowd.

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    Chocolate Cake with Berries

    Chocolate Cake with Berries.
    Photo Credit: Refresh My Health.

    This chocolate cake is soft and has a nice hint of cacao along with a strong berry flavor. It's packed with healthy ingredients, low in sugar, and completely gluten-free. This cake is perfect for a meal replacement or a sweet treat that won't weigh you down.

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    Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

    Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.
    Photo Credit: Trop Rockin.

    Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a delicious blend of creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors that brings a popular street food right to your table. It features charred corn, a zesty chili-lime sauce, cotija cheese, and tender pasta, making it a great choice for summer BBQs, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal. This dish is sure to please a crowd and is easy to prepare ahead of time.

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    Taco Ring

    Taco Ring.
    Photo Credit: Little Sunny Kitchen.

    The Taco Crescent Ring is a fun and tasty twist on traditional tacos. It's simple to prepare and works great for a weeknight meal, a snack for gatherings, or a dish to bring to a potluck. With its eye-catching shape and familiar flavors, this dish is sure to please everyone.

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    Classic Southern Seven-Layer Salad

    Classic Southern Seven-Layer Salad.
    Photo Credit: Grits & Pinecones.

    Classic Southern Seven-Layer Salad is a great choice for spring and summer picnics or holiday get-togethers. This dish is not only easy to prepare ahead of time, but it also offers a mix of flavors and textures that everyone enjoys. It's a crowd-pleaser that you can count on to impress your friends and family.

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    Raspberry Lemon Loaf

    Raspberry Lemon Loaf.
    Photo Credit: The Short Order Cook.

    This raspberry lemon loaf is a delicious treat perfect for spring. It's great for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With fresh berries and a bright citrus flavor, it's hard to say no to a slice. Plus, it's a simple one-bowl recipe that tastes even better than what you'd find at a coffee shop.

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    Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole

    Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole.
    Photo Credit: My Rad Kitchen.

    A Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole combines all the classic flavors of a Big Mac into a simple and cheesy dish. It features seasoned ground beef, crispy tater tots, gooey cheddar cheese, and a generous amount of tangy Big Mac sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a fun twist on a beloved favorite.

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    Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

    Southern Baked Mac and Cheese.
    Photo Credit: Chenee Today.

    Creamy southern baked mac and cheese is a favorite for gatherings and special occasions. This dish is rich and comforting, perfect for Sunday dinners or holiday celebrations. With a little twist in the recipe, it stands out as a crowd-pleaser that everyone loves.

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    Skillet Baked Beans and Bacon

    Skillet Baked Beans and Bacon.
    Photo Credit: Dutch Oven Daddy.

    Skillet Baked Beans and Bacon are a classic Southern dish that combines the rich flavor of molasses with crispy bacon on top. These beans are baked in a cast iron skillet, giving them a hearty and comforting feel. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and travels well, making it a great choice for potlucks.

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    Eggplant Caponata

    Eggplant Caponata.
    Photo Credit: Vegan Huggs.

    Eggplant Caponata is a flavorful mix of roasted eggplant and peppers, combined with sweet raisins, zesty olives, capers, and a splash of tangy sherry vinegar. This dish is great for potlucks, as it can be prepared in advance and the flavors get even better after sitting overnight. It's a tasty option that everyone will enjoy.

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    Bubble Up Pizza

    Bubble Up Pizza.
    Photo Credit: Comfort Cooks.

    This Bubble Up Pizza is a fun and easy take on traditional pizza. It combines biscuit dough, gooey cheese, tasty sauce, and your choice of toppings, all baked until golden and bubbly. It's a great option for busy families or when you're hosting friends for a game night. Everyone will love it, and it's sure to be a hit at the table.

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    Rainbow Pasta Salad

    Rainbow Pasta Salad.
    Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate.

    Pasta salads are a staple at potlucks and summer gatherings because they're so simple to prepare. You can whip one up in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to choice for many. These salads are not only easy to make, but they also travel well, so you can bring them along without any fuss. They're perfect for sharing and always a hit with the crowd.

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    Creamy Vegan Potato Salad With Dill

    Creamy Vegan Potato Salad With Dill.
    Photo Credit: Joyful Balance.

    Creamy Vegan Potato Salad With Dill is perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks. Soft potatoes are mixed with a flavorful vegan mayo dressing, and the addition of crunchy pickles and celery adds a nice texture. This dish is easy to prepare ahead of time and travels well, making it a great choice for any outdoor event.

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    Marinated Cauliflower Salad

    Marinated Cauliflower Salad.
    Photo Credit: Big Delicious Life.

    This dish features crunchy raw cauliflower, salty olives, roasted red bell peppers, red onion, and fresh herbs all mixed together with a light Italian dressing. It's a great option for potlucks, as it can be prepared in advance and actually gets better after sitting overnight. The flavors blend nicely, making it a refreshing side that everyone will enjoy.

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    Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

    ©Provided by Pups with Chopsticks

    These smoky grilled chicken skewers are marinated in ginger, garlic, coconut cream, and soy sauce, and finished with a sweet coconut cream glaze. Served with a simple peanut sauce, they are big on flavor and super easy to throw together!

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    Walking Taco Casserole

    Walking taco casserole.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This casserole brings all the delicious flavors of tacos into one easy dish. It's packed with ground beef, salsa, and plenty of cheese, making it a satisfying meal. Perfect for potlucks or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

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    Easy Pea Salad

    Easy Pea Salad.
    Photo Credit: Recipes from a Pantry.

    Creamy Pea Salad is a delicious and simple dish to prepare. It's a low-carb side that works well for busy weeknight dinners. This salad is easy to throw together and is great for potlucks or gatherings.

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    Kalakand Recipe with a Caramel Twist

    Kalakand Recipe with a Caramel Twist.
    Photo Credit: Cookilicious.

    This Instant Caramel Kalakand is a fresh take on a traditional Indian dessert. Using ricotta cheese and condensed milk, this sweet treat is ready in just 30 minutes with only six simple ingredients. It's rich, creamy, and has a fudgy texture, making it a great choice for Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, or any festive occasion.

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    Jalapeño Popper Phyllo Cups

    Jalapeño Popper Phyllo Cups.
    Photo Credit: A Wicked Whisk.

    Jalapeño Popper Phyllo Cups are a simple and cheesy appetizer that combines cream cheese, jalapeños, and bacon all wrapped up in a crispy phyllo shell. They're great for parties and game day gatherings, offering a tasty bite that everyone will enjoy. These little cups are easy to prepare and travel well, making them a fantastic choice for potlucks.

    Get the Recipe

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

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