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Potluck side dishes are the unsung heroes of every gathering. While the main course gets the spotlight, it’s often the sides that people go back for seconds—and sometimes thirds.
I’ve found that the best potluck sides are easy to make, hold up well after sitting out, and pair with just about anything on the table.
From cheesy casseroles to fresh salads and roasted veggies, these 19 yummy potluck side dish ideas are tried-and-true favorites that are sure to impress a hungry crowd.
1. Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
I combine cooked pasta with all the creamy, tangy flavors of deviled eggs—mayo, mustard, paprika, and chopped eggs. It’s a fun twist that always gets compliments.
Get the Deviled Egg Pasta Salad recipe
2. Loaded Baked Potato Salad
I take classic potato salad up a notch with sour cream, cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and crispy bacon. It’s like all the best parts of a loaded baked potato in one creamy, crave-worthy dish.
Get the Loaded Baked Potato Salad recipe
3. Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This casserole blends cooked rice, tender broccoli, and lots of melty cheese into one comforting bite. I like to top it with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a little crunch.
Get the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe
4. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
I use a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for a mac and cheese that’s rich and smooth. It bakes up bubbly and golden on top and stays warm in a slow cooker if needed.
Get the Creamy Macaroni and Cheese recipe
5. Sweet Cornbread Muffins
These little muffins are lightly sweet and perfectly moist, with just the right hint of cornmeal. I serve them warm with honey butter on the side for an easy, crowd-pleasing bite.
Get the Sweet Cornbread Muffins recipe
6. Classic Coleslaw with a Tangy Twist
I shred cabbage and carrots, then toss them in a creamy dressing with a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. It’s crunchy, cool, and a great side to balance out heavier mains.
Get the Classic Coleslaw with a Tangy Twist recipe
7. Baked Beans with Bacon and Brown Sugar
I mix canned baked beans with brown sugar, mustard, and chopped bacon, then bake until thick and caramelized. It’s a little sweet, a little smoky, and always gets rave reviews.
Get the Baked Beans with Bacon and Brown Sugar recipe
8. Italian Pasta Salad
With rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, diced bell peppers, and Italian dressing, this cold pasta salad is colorful, flavorful, and great for warm-weather potlucks.
Get the Italian Pasta Salad recipe
9. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes made with roasted garlic and a bit of sour cream always hit the spot. I serve them in a warm dish with a sprinkle of chives or a drizzle of melted butter.
Get the Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe
10. Deviled Eggs with Paprika and Pickles
I go classic with my deviled eggs but add a little chopped pickle for crunch and tang. They’re easy to prep ahead, and I always bring extra—they vanish fast.
Get the Deviled Eggs with Paprika and Pickles recipe
11. Honey Glazed Carrots
These carrots are roasted until tender, then tossed in a light glaze of honey and butter. A sprinkle of parsley on top makes them look just as good as they taste.
Get the Honey Glazed Carrots recipe
12. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
I thread cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella balls on toothpicks, then drizzle with balsamic reduction. These mini skewers are fresh, fun, and easy to grab and go.
Get the Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze recipe
13. Garlic Butter Green Beans
Sautéed green beans in garlic butter with a pinch of salt and pepper make a quick, flavorful side that goes with just about any main dish on the table.
Get the Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe
14. Creamed Corn Casserole
I mix whole-kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and a little cornmeal into a casserole that bakes up sweet, creamy, and golden. It’s especially good alongside BBQ or roasted meats.
Get the Creamed Corn Casserole recipe
15. Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onion
I toss sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes with a thin red onion and a simple vinegar dressing. It’s refreshing and light—ideal for balancing out richer potluck dishes.
Get the Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onion recipe
16. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside—these roasted potatoes are tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and then baked until golden. They’re one of the easiest sides I make and always go fast.
Get the Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes recipe
17. Hawaiian Pasta Salad
This sweet and tangy pasta salad is made with ham, pineapple, bell peppers, and a light creamy dressing. It’s colorful, fun, and different in the best way.
Get the Hawaiian Pasta Salad recipe
18. Southwest Black Bean and Corn Salad
Black beans, corn, red onion, and bell pepper tossed in a lime-cilantro vinaigrette. It’s zesty, bright, and doubles as a side or chip dip—super versatile for potlucks.
Get the Southwest Black Bean and Corn Salad recipe
19. Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers
I fill mini peppers with a mix of cream cheese, herbs, and shredded cheese. They’re colorful, creamy, and perfect for guests who want a handheld, no-mess option.
