Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen to feed a crowd? Look no further! In this article, we’re sharing 20 hearty recipes that are perfect for large groups. From classic comfort foods to bold international flavors, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, a sporting event gathering, or just a casual dinner with friends and family, these recipes are designed to be easy to make and serve. Many can be prepared in advance, leaving you more time to focus on enjoying the company of your guests. And best of all, they’re all delicious and satisfying, so you don’t have to worry about sacrificing flavor for quantity.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of our favorite recipes for large groups, including slow-cooked pulled pork sandwiches, baked ziti with sausage and spinach, classic beef chili with cornbread, and many more. So grab a pen and paper, and get ready to plan your next big gathering!
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a crowd or a weeknight dinner. Tender, flavorful pork falls apart with ease and is easily piled onto soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in barbecue sauce.
4. Shred pork with two forks and pile onto hamburger buns.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Baked Ziti with Sausage and Spinach
A classic Italian-American dish gets a boost from spicy sausage and wilted spinach, making this comfort food perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add garlic and spinach to skillet; cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef Chili with Cornbread
Classic Beef Chili with Cornbread Recipe
Warm up with a hearty bowl of classic beef chili, topped with a crumbly cornbread crust and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This comforting recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 cups beef broth
– Cornbread ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes or until beef is tender.
5. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread according to package instructions.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Get ready to spice up your weeknight dinner routine with this simple and flavorful sheet pan recipe. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for a busy family or a quick solo dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the bowl; toss to coat.
4. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper; arrange the mixture in a single layer.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven for 5 minutes.
7. Assemble fajitas with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
One-Pot Jambalaya with Shrimp and Sausage
This hearty one-pot dish is a classic Louisiana-inspired recipe that combines the flavors of spicy sausage, succulent shrimp, and savory rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the rice and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
6. Add the shrimp during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Brisket with Coleslaw
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouth-watering combination of tender BBQ brisket and crunchy coleslaw. This classic American duo is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
For the Brisket:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
For the Coleslaw:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the brisket with BBQ rub, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and beer (if using). Let it sit for 30 minutes.
3. Place the brisket in a slow cooker or Dutch oven and cook for 8-10 hours.
4. Meanwhile, mix coleslaw ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) or 2-3 hours (Dutch oven).
Garlic Butter Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of garlic butter with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, bell pepper strips)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add roasted vegetables to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with garlic butter and vegetable mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Blue Cheese Dressing
Elevate your game-day gatherings or casual get-togethers with these addictive Buffalo Chicken Sliders topped with creamy Blue Cheese Dressing. This mouthwatering combination is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 4 slider buns
– 8 oz blue cheese crumbles
– 1 head of lettuce
– 1 tomato
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together hot sauce and butter.
3. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing cooked chicken on buns, topping with lettuce, tomato, and blue cheese crumbles.
6. Drizzle with additional Blue Cheese Dressing (see below) if desired.
Blue Cheese Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon blue cheese crumbles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Mushroom and Cheese Lasagna
A classic comfort food dish that’s sure to please. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in layers of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by noodles, mushroom mixture, and cheese.
6. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with cheese on top.
7. Beat egg in a small bowl and brush edges of noodles to prevent sticking.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Boil
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy shrimp boil recipe that’s perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or party appetizer. This classic Southern dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 pound smoked sausage, such as Andouille or kielbasa, sliced
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the shrimp, sausage, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot.
3. Pour in the water and add kosher salt.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve with lemon slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
A classic holiday dish gets a sweet twist with this honey mustard glaze, adding a tangy and caramelized flavor to your baked ham. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, and cloves until smooth.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scored diamond-style if desired.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the crevices.
5. Bake for 1 hour per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-4 hours
Vegetable Stir Fry with Teriyaki Sauce
This Asian-inspired stir-fry is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a variety of colorful vegetables, all tied together with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper strips
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Pour in teriyaki sauce; stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek-Style Lemon Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Brighten up your meal with this vibrant Greek-inspired dish, featuring tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange potato wedges in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place on the prepared baking sheet with potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Bean Burrito Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of beef, beans, and tortillas in a single dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 6-8 tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. Stir in black beans, enchilada sauce, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble casserole by layering cooked beef mixture, tortillas, and shredded cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with cilantro and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This homemade mac and cheese is elevated by a crunchy breadcrumb topping that adds a satisfying texture.
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
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with breadcrumbs and chopped parsley (if using). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chipotle Lime Carnitas Tacos
Transform your taco game with this recipe that combines the rich flavor of slow-cooked pork with the bright, zesty punch of chipotle and lime. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, and chipotle pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with shredded pork, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of cilantro (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Savory Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of herbs with a crispy, roasted exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the turkey breast.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Vegetables and Tofu
This classic Thai dish is a flavorful and spicy combination of tender tofu, crisp vegetables, and rich red curry paste, all simmered together in coconut milk. Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add curry paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
6. Return tofu to the pan and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over steamed jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Potato and Sausage Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines crispy sausage, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese – perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 pound cooked sausage (such as chorizo or Italian sausage), casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Arrange the sliced potatoes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top the potatoes with the cooked sausage mixture, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Pour in the milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these flavorful and colorful skewers! Perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck, this recipe is quick to make and packed with citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Are you looking for recipes that can feed a crowd with ease? Look no further! This collection of hearty dishes is perfect for large groups. From slow cooker pulled pork sandwiches to classic beef chili and cheesy potato and sausage bake, these recipes are sure to please. You’ll also find one-pot wonders like jambalaya and chicken fajitas, as well as international-inspired dishes like Thai red curry and Greek-style lemon garlic chicken. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a meal that will satisfy a big appetite, this list has got you covered.
