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8 Perfect Potluck Main Dishes

These potluck dishes can be made ahead of time and need little or no attention when it’s time to serve the group

Angela Brassinga
1 /8 Thomas J. Story

Poached Orange-Fennel Salmon with Dill Crème

Made the day ahead and served at room temperature, Chef Kristen Murray’s salmon recipe is perfect for your next potluck. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Recipe: Poached Orange-Fennel Salmon with Dill Crème

2 /8 Thomas J. Story

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a time honored picnic and potluck favorite. We love this recipe loaded with tips from "Fry Queen" Julia Lee.

Recipe: Fried Chicken

3 /8 Alex Farnum

Enchiladas Suizas

Creamy tomatillo sauce and Mexican cheese top chicken- and cheese-stuffed enchiladas for an unbeatable combination. The recipe for these crowd-pleasing enchiladas comes from Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza of Phoenix.

Recipe: Enchiladas Suizas

4 /8 Annabelle Breakey

Lemongrass Ginger Chicken in Lettuce Cups

The combo of crunchy vegetables, juicy chicken, and Southeast Asian flavors adds a bright note to any potluck table. Serve the filling and lettuce leaves separately and diners can build their own lettuce cups.

Recipe: Lemongrass Ginger Chicken in Lettuce Cups

5 /8 Annabelle Breakey

Three-Onion Quiche

Quiche is a great choice when the potluck is a brunch or lunch. We like this vegetarian option because it’s easy to make and comes out beautiful every time.

Recipe: Three-Onion Quiche

6 /8 Jim Franco

Ultimate Mac ’n’ Cheese

Mac ‘n’ cheese may be the quintessential potluck dish, but why go with the old standby? Give this reader favorite a try. It’s rich and more complex than a traditional macaroni and cheese recipe.

Recipe: Ultimate Mac ’n’ Cheese

7 /8 Annabelle Breakey

Baked Ham with Sticky Meyer Lemon-Spice Glaze

A big, beautiful ham is welcome at most potlucks because it can be served at room temperature and will feed lots of people. The fresh citrus glaze makes this dish a standout.

Recipe: Baked Ham with Sticky Meyer Lemon-Spice Glaze

8 /8 Dan Goldberg

Easy Chicken Adobo

Whenever the Sunset food team holds a potluck, Food Editor Margo True often brings Chicken Adobo. You’ll love the ease of this quick version of a favorite Filipino dish.

Recipe: Easy Chicken Adobo