When it comes to cooking for large groups, finding recipes that are easy to prepare and delicious can be a challenge. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering recipes perfect for feeding a crowd. From hearty casseroles to flavorful one-pot wonders, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a game day party, or just need to feed a big group of friends and family, we’ve got the recipes that’ll make your life easier. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew for a Crowd
Slow Cooker Beef Stew for a Crowd: A Hearty and Easy Recipe
This classic comfort food recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd on a chilly day. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, this slow cooker stew is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the beef cubes, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (depending on heat setting)
Baked Ziti with Sausage and Cheese
This classic comfort food recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, melted mozzarella cheese, and tender ziti pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 Italian sausages (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausages over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine cooked ziti pasta, sausage mixture, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a large bowl.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking until cheese is melted and bubbly, about an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole
This hearty, comforting casserole is a staple of home cooking. With just one pot to clean, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the oil in a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the rice, peas and carrots, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
6. Cover and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Party-Sized Taco Bar with All the Fixings
Feed a crowd of taco enthusiasts with this party-sized taco bar, loaded with all the fixings for a customizable and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 tacos shells (store-bought or homemade)
– Ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options), cooked
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– Diced tomatoes
– Sliced black olives
– Chopped cilantro
– Sour cream
– Salsa
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, shredded lettuce, diced onions, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Prepare the taco shells according to package instructions.
2. Cook ground beef (or alternative protein) until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Set up a taco bar with all the fixings on a large table or counter.
4. Assemble tacos by filling shells with cooked ground beef and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Big Batch Vegetarian Chili
Make a hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili that’s perfect for large gatherings or meal prep. This recipe yields a whopping 12 servings, so gather your friends and family to enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 cups mixed vegetables (such as kidney beans, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and tomatoes)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggies
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make sheet pan recipe, featuring succulent shrimp and colorful vegetables smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the shrimp on one half of a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with half of the garlic butter mixture.
4. Arrange the mixed vegetables on the other half of the sheet pan.
5. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter mixture over the vegetables.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Giant Meatball Sub Sandwich
Giant Meatball Sub Sandwich Recipe
Get ready to sink your teeth into a mouthwatering sandwich that’s packed with flavor! This Giant Meatball Sub Sandwich is an ultimate comfort food that combines tender meatballs, gooey melted mozzarella, and crispy sub rolls.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 homemade or store-bought meatballs
– 4 sub rolls
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading marinara sauce on each roll, followed by a few meatballs, and finishing with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and add fresh basil leaves.
6. Bake in the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Make-Ahead Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make macaroni and cheese casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. This make-ahead recipe ensures a warm, cheesy dish is always ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat pasta evenly.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before baking at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork for a Large Group
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouth-watering BBQ pulled pork recipe, perfect for large gatherings. With just the right balance of tangy BBQ sauce and tender pork, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or heavy-duty foil pan and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. After 4 hours, brush the BBQ sauce all over the pork, then continue baking for another 2-4 hours, or until the pork is caramelized and falling apart.
7. Shred the pork with two forks and serve hot on buns, with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (plus additional time for caramelization)
Buffalo Chicken Sliders for Game Day
Get ready to score with these mouth-watering Buffalo Chicken Sliders, perfect for your next game day gathering! This recipe combines the flavors of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy blue cheese crumbles with tender chicken and crispy buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot buffalo sauce
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together buffalo sauce and butter.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sliders by spreading blue cheese crumbles on each bun, topping with grilled chicken, and adding lettuce, tomato, and red onion if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crowd-Pleasing Lasagna with Layers of Goodness
This classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser, and for good reason – it’s a masterclass in layering flavors and textures. With tender lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Add marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 noodles on top, followed by half the ricotta mixture, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Pizza Bar with Unlimited Toppings
Create your own pizza masterpiece with our simple recipe, featuring a crispy crust and endless topping possibilities!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (and other toppings of your choice)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into desired pizza crusts.
7. Spread pizza sauce over the crusts, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Family-Sized Chicken Pot Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. This family-sized chicken pot pie is easy to make and serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the wet ingredients over the chicken mixture and stir until combined.
6. Roll out the pie crust and fill with the chicken mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Pasta Salad for Potlucks
This classic pasta salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, it’s the perfect dish to bring to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne, or rotini)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time for pasta)
Honey Glazed Ham for Holiday Gatherings
Perfect for special occasions, this honey glazed ham recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of ham with the sweetness of honey. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be serving a show-stopping main course that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, cloves, and pepper.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores if you’ve made them.
5. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Sausage and Peppers Sheet Pan Dinner
A hearty one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines flavorful sausage with sweet bell peppers and crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange sausage slices on one half of the pan.
4. Add bell peppers and potatoes to the other half of the pan.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Toss onion on top of the vegetables.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until sausage is cooked through and potatoes are golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Build-Your-Own Baked Potato Bar
Elevate your snack game with this customizable baked potato bar, perfect for parties or family gatherings! With a variety of toppings to choose from, everyone will find something they love.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking potatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Butter, softened (optional)
– Toppings:
+ Shredded cheddar cheese
+ Sour cream
+ Chopped scallions
+ Diced cooked bacon
+ Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
+ Sliced olives
+ Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes with a fork for steam release.
3. Rub the potatoes with butter if desired, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, prepare your toppings by slicing bacon, chopping scallions, and draining black beans.
6. Assemble the baked potato bar by setting out the toppings and letting everyone create their own perfect spud!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Classic Shepherd’s Pie for Big Groups
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for feeding a crowd. This classic recipe is easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, boil sliced potatoes until tender. Drain and set aside.
5. Transfer meat mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with potatoes, dotting with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage and Shrimp
This classic Cajun dish is a flavorful one-pot wonder that combines the smoky goodness of Andouille sausage, succulent shrimp, and the bold spices of jambalaya. Serve it over rice for a hearty meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and browned sausage. Bring to a simmer.
6. Serve over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole for Brunch
Kick-start your day with this convenient and delicious breakfast casserole that can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen hash browns, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine hash browns, cheese, milk, eggs, and parsley. Mix well until combined.
3. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and add to the bowl. Toss until bread is evenly coated with the egg mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Refrigerate overnight or for up to 24 hours.
6. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these delicious recipes perfect for large groups! From hearty stews and casseroles to flavorful sheet pans and sliders, we’ve got you covered. Discover easy-to-make dishes like slow cooker beef stew, baked ziti with sausage and cheese, and one-pot chicken and rice casserole. Plus, explore party-perfect options like a taco bar with all the fixings, giant meatball sub sandwiches, and build-your-own baked potato bars. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or a casual potluck, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
