50 Dinner Recipes That Will Feed a Crowd (2024)

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50 Dinner Recipes That Will Feed a Crowd (1)Caroline StankoUpdated: Feb. 21, 2024

    Feed the whole family (and a few more!) with these delicious dinner recipes that serve 12 or more!

    1/49

    Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

    This recipe was inspired by my daughter’s favorite food—Buffalo wings! It tastes as if it came from a restaurant. —Melissa Millwood, Lyman, South Carolina

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    2/49

    Slow-Cooked Chunky Chili

    Pork sausage, ground beef and plenty of beans make this chili a marvelous meal. I keep serving-size containers of it in my freezer at all times so I can quickly warm up bowls on busy days. —Margie Shaw, Greenbrier, Arkansas

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    3/49

    Double-Duty Layered Enchilada Casserole

    Here's a heap of cozy comfort. The Taste of Home Test Kitchen took my recipe for chili without beans and turned it into a scrumptious enchilada casserole. —Molly Butt, Granville, Ohio

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    4/49

    Meaty Arugula Pizzas

    When I was growing up, my mom always made homemade pizza every Friday night. We'd watch a movie as a family or have friends over, too. Now that I'm married, I carry on the pizza tradition. —Morgan Harvey, Longview, Washington

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    5/49

    Taste of Home

    Green Chile Beef Burritos

    Recipes that are leaner in fat and calories—like this one for beef burritos—helped me lose 30 pounds! The meat is so tender and delicious. —Shirley Davidson, Thornton, Colorado

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    6/49

    Taste of Home

    Slow-Cooked Pizza Casserole

    A friend from church gave me the recipe for this satisfying slow-cooked casserole. It's always one of the first dishes emptied at potlucks, and it can easily be adapted to personal tastes. —Julie Sterchi, Campbellsville, Kentucky

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    7/49

    Southwestern Casserole

    I’ve been making this mild family-pleasing southwest casserole for years. It tastes wonderful and fits nicely into our budget. Best of all, the recipe makes a second casserole to freeze and enjoy later. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

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    8/49

    Bratwurst Supper

    After trying a few bratwurst recipes, I've found this meal-in-one is ideal for camping since it grills to perfection in a heavy-duty foil bag. Loaded with chunks of bratwurst, red potatoes, mushrooms and carrots, it's easy to season with onion soup mix and a little soy sauce. —Janice Meyer, Medford, Wisconsin

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    9/49

    Taste of Home

    Fruit-Pecan Pork Roast

    This spectacular roast was a huge hit with members of the cooking club I belong to. The sweet, tangy fruit glaze looks lovely and is a wonderful complement to the juicy pork. It's a family favorite for special occasions and holidays.-Gay Flynn, Bellevue, Nebraska

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    10/49

    Taste of Home

    Southern Seafood Gumbo

    I tasted a similar dish at a local restaurant and later duplicated it pretty closely. I trimmed it down a bit and no one in my family seemed to mind. —Susan Wright, Champaign, Illinois

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    11/49

    Taste of Home

    Chicken Burritos

    This mouthwatering chicken burrito recipe makes enough for two casseroles, so you can enjoy one today and freeze the other for a busy weeknight. They're super to have on hand for quick meals or to take to potlucks. —Sonya Nightingale, Burley, Idaho.

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    12/49

    Favorite Chicken Potpie

    This is the best chicken potpie recipe! Chock-full of chicken, potatoes, peas and corn, this recipe makes two golden pies, so you can serve one at supper and save the other for a busy night. —Karen Johnson, Bakersfield, California

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    13/49

    Best Lasagna

    Want to know how to make lasagna for a casual holiday meal? You can't go wrong with this deliciously rich meat lasagna recipe. My grown sons and daughter-in-law request it for their birthdays, too. —Pam Thompson, Girard, Illinois

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    14/49

    Pepper Sausage Pizza

    Fresh spinach gives this recipe a tasty twist. That leafy green plus yellow peppers, snow-white mushrooms and tomato sauce make this a colorful addition to your pizza buffet table. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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    15/49

    Taste of Home

    Teriyaki Pineapple Drumsticks

    We have a large family and throw big parties, so I look for ways to free my husband from the grill. Roasted drumsticks keep everyone happy. —Erica Allen, Tuckerton, New Jersey

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    16/49

    Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Shells

    This is my own personal recipe. I'm very proud of it because I am still a beginner cook and it was the first recipe I created. You can adjust it to your liking by doubling the spinach or adding some meat. —Laci Hooten, McKinney, Texas

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    17/49

    Taste of Home

    Lime-Chipotle Carnitas Tostadas

    Here's a terrific recipe for your next weeknight dinner. Set out various toppings and garnishes so your family members can customize their own tostadas with the lime-kissed shredded pork. —Jan Valdez, Chicago, Illinois

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    18/49

    Taste of Home

    Church Supper Spaghetti

    Because this recipe feeds so many, I often take it to church dinners and potlucks. This colorful dish also comes in handy when we have lots of help to feed on our farm. —Verlyn Wilson, Wilkinson, Indiana

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    19/49

    Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

    This pineapple ham glaze is straightforward and simple—just what you're looking for in a holiday main dish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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    20/49

    21/49

    Hearty Pasta fa*gioli

    Here's a convenient spin on a classic Italian favorite. Spaghetti sauce and canned broth form the flavorful base. —Cindy Garland, Limestone, Tennessee

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    22/49

    23/49

    I’ve been cooking for 50 years, and this dish is still one that guests request frequently. It is my No. 1 standby recipe and also makes amazing meatball sandwiches. The sauce works for any type of pasta. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida

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    24/49

    Honey Chipotle Ribs

    Nothing is better than having a sauce with the perfect slather consistency. Here's one that will ensure a lip-smacking feast. Go ahead and make the sauce up to a week ahead for an easier grilling experience. —Caitlin Hawes, Westwood, Massachusetts

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    25/49

    Freezer Burritos

    I love burritos, but the frozen ones are high in salt and chemicals. So I created these. They're wonderful to have on hand for quick dinners or late-night snacks—I've even had them for breakfast! —Laura Winemiller, Delta, Pennsylvania

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    26/49

    Firehouse Chili

    As one of the cooks at the firehouse, I used to prepare meals for 10 men. This firehouse chili recipe was among their favorites. —Richard Clements, San Dimas, California

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    27/49

    Baked Spiral Ham

    This is my favorite spiral ham recipe. It will feed a crowd, or use what’s remaining in two recipes. No one groans about ham leftovers when these items are on the menu. —Marilou Robinson, Portland, Oregon

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    28/49

    Looking to highlight your meal with something light, indulgent and golden on top? Turn to this Greek-style egg bake. —Gabriela Stefanescu, Webster, Texas

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    29/49

    Taste of Home

    Burrito Lasagna

    A friend showed me how to make stacked enchiladas years ago. I took it even further to create this filling casserole. I serve it with Mexican corn or chips and dip. I love the rave reviews I get every time I make it. —Deana Briggs, Maud, Texas

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    30/49

    Taste of Home

    Orange-Glazed Pork Loin

    This is one of the best pork recipes I've ever tried. My family looks forward to this roast for dinner, and guests always want the recipe. The flavorful rub, and the glaze brightened with orange juice, are also outstanding on pork chops. —Lynnette Miete, Alna, Maine

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    31/49

    Favorite Barbecued Chicken

    Is there a place better than Texas to find a fantastic barbecue sauce? That’s where this one is from—it’s my father-in-law’s own recipe. We have served it at many family reunions and think it’s the best! —Bobbie Morgan, Woodstock, Georgia

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    32/49

    Taste of Home

    Slow-Cooked Loaded Potato Soup

    I like to put twists on my grandmother's recipes, which is what I did with this one. I look forward to passing my own delicious comfort food recipes to my kids. —Jamie Chase, Rising Sun, Indiana

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    33/49

    Taco Meat Loaves

    We live in Texas and love the Southwest style of cooking. This taco meat loaf recipe spices up plain ol’ meat loaf! —Susan Garoutte, Georgetown, Texas

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    34/49

    Cabbage Roll Casserole

    I layer cabbage with tomato sauce and ground beef lasagna-style to create a hearty casserole that tastes like cabbage rolls but without all the work. —Doreen Martin, Kitimat, British Columbia

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    35/49

    Taste of Home

    Easy Stuffed Shells

    I threw this recipe together one day when we had unexpected guests. It was an immediate hit and is now a family favorite. Get the kids involved when putting together this simple, savory dish. —Dolores Betchner, Cudahy, Wisconsin

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    36/49

    Baked Balsamic Chicken

    As far as roast chicken ideas go, this baked balsamic chicken recipe is one of our favorites. When the aroma from this dish fills your house, your family will think you spent all day cooking. But this elegant Sunday-special roast chicken, flavored with rosemary, wine and balsamic vinegar, is surprisingly simple to make. —Tracy Tylkowski, Omaha, Nebraska

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    37/49

    Chicken Cordon Bleu Bake

    I got this easy chicken cordon bleu recipe from a friend years ago. I freeze several half recipes in disposable pans to share with neighbors or for when I'm pressed for time myself. —Rea Newell, Decatur, Illinois

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    38/49

    Polish Casserole

    When I first made this dish, my 2-year-old liked it so much that he wanted it for every meal! You can use almost any pasta that will hold the sauce. —Crystal Bruns, Iliff, Colorado

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    39/49

    Spicy Goulash

    Ground cumin, chili powder and a can of Mexican diced tomatoes jazz up my goulash recipe. Even the elbow macaroni is prepared in the slow cooker. —Melissa Polk, West Lafayette, Indiana

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    40/49

    Baked Beef Tacos

    This taco recipe takes classic taco ingredients and gives them a fresh approach by baking the shells upright in refried beans and tomatoes. The bottom gets soft, and the top stays crisp and crunchy. —Patricia Stagich, Elizabeth, New Jersey

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    41/49

    Eggplant Sausage Casserole

    If you want your kids to happily eat their eggplant, serve it in this lovely layered casserole. Our whole family enjoys it. Always a popular potluck item, it's a great company dish, as well. —Carol Mieske, Red Bluff, California

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    42/49

    Taste of Home

    Greek Salad Ravioli

    Turn the fresh flavors of a Greek salad into a warm dish for cold winter nights. I like to make a large batch, freeze it, then simply drop ravioli into simmering water for dinner in five minutes! —Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, Manitoba

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    43/49

    Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Bake

    This bacon cheeseburger tater tot casserole is the perfect dish to bribe your kids; homework, chores, piano practice—consider them done! —Deanna Zewen, Union Grove, Wisconsin

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    44/49

    Authentic Cajun Gumbo

    I learned to cook in Louisiana and I love to cook Cajun food. This cajun gumbo recipe is one of my favorites. —Paul Morris, Kelso, Washington

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    45/49

    Nikki's Perfect Pastit*io

    My mother used to work so hard in the kitchen to make this classic Greek dish, and the results were always well worth her effort. My recipe for pastit*io is easier, a bit lighter and every bit as great as Mom's.—Nikki Tsangaris, Westfield, Indiana

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    46/49

    Taste of Home

    Red Lentil Soup Mix

    Give your friends the gift of good health. Red lentils are protein powerhouses and are loaded with folate, iron and fiber. Oh, and this soup tastes amazing too. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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    47/49

    Taste of Home

    Garlic Bread Pasta Torte

    My kids love to stuff spiral pasta inside bread for a clever dinner torte. We save the bread crusts to make garlicky croutons for salad. —Melissa Birdsong, Waleska, Georgia

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    48/49

    Taste of Home

    Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

    When you need to feed a crowd, consider this beefy favorite loaded with both fresh and frozen veggies. —Sue Straughan, Prattville, Alabama

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    49/49

    Beef Tenderloin with Sauteed Vegetables

    This is the most elegant, tender beef. It’s made the classic French way—so easy! —cleo gonske, redding, California

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    Originally Published: February 12, 2019

    50 Dinner Recipes That Will Feed a Crowd (48)

    Caroline Stanko

    Caroline has been with Taste of Home for the past seven years, working in both print and digital. After starting as an intern for the magazine and special interest publication teams, Caroline was hired as the third-ever digital editor for Taste of Home. Since then, she has researched, written and edited content on just about every topic the site covers, including cooking techniques, buzzy food news, gift guides and many, many recipe collections. Caroline also acts as the editorial lead for video, working with the Test Kitchen, videographers and social media team to produce videos from start to finish.When she’s not tip-tapping on a keyboard, Caroline is probably mixing up a killer co*cktail, reading a dog-eared library book or cooking up a multi-course feast (sometimes all at once). Though she technically lives in Milwaukee, there is a 50/50 chance Caroline is in Chicago or southwest Michigan visiting her close-knit family.

    50 Dinner Recipes That Will Feed a Crowd (2024)

    FAQs

    What can I cook for 50 people? ›

    19 Ideas For Easy Meals For Large Groups
    • Taco Bar.
    • Meatballs.
    • Butter Chicken.
    • Lasagna.
    • Chili.
    • Homemade Pizza.
    • Baked Pasta.
    • Skewers.
    Apr 4, 2023

    What is a good meal to feed a large crowd? ›

    Hearty Chili

    A big pot of chili is a fantastic option for feeding a crowd. Whip up a batch of your favorite chili recipe, and serve it with toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, sour cream, and a basket of cornbread on the side.

    How can I feed 50 guests cheap? ›

    Feed the masses without breaking the bank with these budget-friendly dishes.
    1. Mexican Lasagne. A spicy lasagne for those of us who love Mexican and Italian food. ...
    2. Cheese Cob Dip. ...
    3. The Best Burger in Oz. ...
    4. Kangaroo Casserole. ...
    5. Sausage Casserole. ...
    6. Nanna's golden sausage casserole. ...
    7. Quiche Lorraine. ...
    8. Turkey and Pumpkin Lasagne.

    What is the cheapest food to serve at a party? ›

    Here's a look at some crowd-pleasing dishes to consider for your next gathering:
    • Chili. The most cost-efficient version of this is meat-free chili made from beans and vegetables. ...
    • Roasted Veggies. ...
    • Baked Goods. ...
    • Dips. ...
    • Apple Bruschetta. ...
    • Fruit Skewers. ...
    • Charcuterie Boards.
    Feb 24, 2023

    What to cook for lots of people? ›

    Feed-a-crowd recipes
    • Spiced salmon with traybaked sag aloo. ...
    • Chicken Provençal. ...
    • Chicken gyros. ...
    • Sharing bavette with blue cheese, beef dripping wedges & ranch salad. ...
    • Sticky tamarind tomato & spinach whirl. ...
    • Summer vegetable & flatbread platter with dill & mustard dip. ...
    • Spring sharing board. ...
    • Waste-nothing loaded potato wedges.

    What's the cheapest way to feed a crowd? ›

    Budget meals for large families
    1. Orzotto with pancetta & peas. ...
    2. Double bean & roasted pepper chilli. ...
    3. Halloumi flatbreads. ...
    4. Slow cooker ratatouille. ...
    5. Easy sausage casserole.
    6. Courgette & tomato soup. ...
    7. Mexican pulled chicken & beans.
    8. Vegetable curry for a crowd.

    What to feed 60 people? ›

    • Hearty Baked Penne Pasta. This recipe feeds an army. ...
    • Tasty Taco Bar. Everything you need to make your own Taco Bar at home. ...
    • Baked Potato Bar. ...
    • Crockpot Ham. ...
    • Killer Carnitas. ...
    • Chicken Spaghetti. ...
    • Ham and Cheese Sliders. ...
    • Shredded Beef Tacos.
    Apr 2, 2024

    What is easy to cook for a large group? ›

    When feeding the masses, think big: pastas, one-pot dishes, and food that is perfect for sharing amongst many. Frittatas and slices that are easily divided can be handy for any occasion, as can hearty salads and large bakes.

    What do you feed 50 people at a party? ›

    Typical food people love
    • Mini sliders or burgers.
    • Veggie platter or veggie skewers.
    • Mini quiches or savoury pastries.
    • Vegetable or fruit skewers.
    • Mini vegetable samosas.
    • Mini sausage rolls.
    • Mini pizzas.
    • Mini hot dogs or pigs in blankets.
    Jun 26, 2023

    How do you plan food for 50 people? ›

    A general guideline is to prepare 3-4 ounces of protein per person, 1-2 ounces of side dishes, and 1-2 servings of appetizers or snacks. It's important to consider the duration of the event and whether it's a meal or a shorter gathering when determining the quantity of food to prepare.

    How to feed 100 people cheaply? ›

    Serving budget-friendly cuisines like salads, sandwiches and pasta dishes can be a very cost-effective choice. Or, if you're looking for a more casual option, how about a barbeque? Burgers, hot dogs and other grill-oriented foods are sure to be crowd favorites, and they won't rack up a big bill.

    What do you feed 30 guests? ›

    Taco/nacho bar works, you can also premake some casserole type dishes and just warm in oven day of… say Mac & cheese, baked beans, potatoes au gratin… you can also do some pulled pork ahead that you can serve separate or with taco bar… Casseroles are good (chicken and broccoli, cottage pie, etc.)

    How to feed 30 people cheaply? ›

    Cheap tricks for the best outdoor cookouts.
    1. 1 / 7. Hot Dog Snack Board. ...
    2. 2 / 7. No-Cook Dip and Veggie Summer Board. ...
    3. 3 / 7. Instant Pot Pulled Porchetta Sandwiches. ...
    4. 4 / 7. Chicken Caesar Salad Skewers. ...
    5. 5 / 7. Chopped BBQ Chicken Salad. ...
    6. 6 / 7. Fish Tacos. ...
    7. 7 / 7. Ice Cream Sandwiches for a Crowd.
    Apr 19, 2023

    How much food do you need for a 50 person buffet? ›

    For a party of 50, you will therefore require 250-400. If there is a meal to be served, then this number can be cut back to 3-4 per person, per hour, which therefore equates to 150-200 appetizers required.

    How much finger food do I need for 50 people? ›

    If you're hosing 25 -35 guests, plan 3-4 bites per person if a full dinner is to be served afterwards, or 5-7 bites per person if a lighter meal will be served. If you're hosting a party of 50, then you can offer 6 to 9 different items.

    How many snacks do I need for 50 guests? ›

    Quantity. A good rule of thumb when working with your caterer on just how many hors d'oeuvres to choose is as follows: for 10 – 12 guests a minimum of 5 selections, 25 guests a minimum of 9 selections and for 50 guests, a minimum of 13 selections.

    How many desserts to feed 50 people? ›

    We recommend 2-4 items per guest, but don't worry, we'll help make sure you have enough servings to go around!

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