25 Best Recipes for Winter Potlucks to Warm Your Crowd

Winter is the perfect season for cozy gatherings, and nothing warms the heart and soul better than a hearty meal shared with loved ones. Whether it's a holiday celebration, a family reunion, or just a friendly get-together, the chilly weather outside calls for dishes that bring warmth and comfort.

That's why I've put together a list of the "25 Best Recipes for Winter Potlucks to Warm Your Crowd." These recipes are not only delicious but also crowd-pleasers that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds). From savory soups to decadent desserts, here are some of my go-to winter potluck recipes that are sure to make your gathering memorable.

1. Classic Beef Chili

A must-have for any winter gathering, beef chili is hearty and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded cheese and sour cream for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat.
2. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, and cumin.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese and sour cream.

2. Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Rich and comforting, this soup is perfect for a chilly day.

Ingredients:

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 1 cup wild rice
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, wild rice, carrots, celery, and onion.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice and vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in shredded chicken and heavy cream.
4. Continue to cook on low heat until the soup is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm with crusty bread.

3. Baked Ziti

This cheesy, saucy pasta bake is always a hit at potlucks.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions and drain.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, sausage, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
5. Pour into a baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
7. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.

4. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Tender, juicy pulled pork that's perfect for sandwiches or sliders.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 large onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the pork shoulder.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is very tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir into the sauce.
6. Serve on rolls or buns with extra barbecue sauce if desired.

5. Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

All the flavors of a loaded baked potato in a comforting casserole.

Ingredients:

• 6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup bacon bits
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Boil the potatoes in a large pot until tender. Drain and mash.
3. Mix in sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
6. Serve warm.

6. Spicy Sausage and Bean Casserole

A hearty and flavorful casserole with a bit of a kick.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened.
4. Stir in cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
5. Transfer to a baking dish and top with the cooked sausage.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and heated through.
7. Serve warm.

7. Butternut Squash Soup

This creamy, velvety soup is perfect for warming up on a cold winter's day.

Ingredients:

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine butternut squash, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the squash is very tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve warm, possibly garnished with a drizzle of cream and fresh herbs.

8. Chicken Pot Pie

A classic comfort food, chicken pot pie is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 pre-made pie crusts
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and potatoes; cook until softened.
3. Stir in flour and cook for another minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add shredded chicken and frozen peas and carrots. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour the mixture into a pie dish and cover with the top crust. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

9. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Creamy, cheesy, and delicious, this dip is great with bread or crackers.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 package (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, artichokes, spinach, and garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with bread or crackers.

10. Sweet Potato Casserole

A sweet and comforting dish that's perfect for winter potlucks.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Boil sweet potatoes in a large pot until tender. Drain and mash.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs.
4. Spread the mixture into a baking dish and top with chopped pecans and mini marshmallows.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
6. Serve warm.

11. Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This creamy soup is packed with cheese and veggies, making it an undeniable crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Stir in flour and cook for another minute.
3. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth or leave it chunky if preferred.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until melted and well-combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve warm, possibly garnished with extra cheese and croutons.

12. Shepherd's Pie

A classic British dish that's equally popular across the pond, Shepherd's Pie is filling and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground lamb or beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground lamb or beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onions and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the mixture thickens.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes on top.
7. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Serve warm.

13. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful, nutritious, and deliciously satisfying, these stuffed peppers are a potluck favorite.

Ingredients:

• 6 bell peppers
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture and place them in a baking dish.
7. Top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
9. Serve warm.

14. Macaroni and Cheese

This classic comfort food is a creamy and cheesy delight that pleases both kids and adults.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan until melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve warm.

15. Sausage and Sauerkraut Bake

A twist on classic comfort food, this bake combines savory sausage with tangy sauerkraut.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb kielbasa or smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 cups sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
• 1 apple, peeled and sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp caraway seeds (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sliced sausage over medium heat until browned. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and apple; cook until softened.
4. Stir in sauerkraut, brown sugar, and caraway seeds. Cook until heated through.
5. Transfer the sauerkraut mixture to a baking dish and top with cooked sausage.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is browned and bubbly.
7. Serve warm.

16. Beef Stroganoff

Rich and creamy, this beef stroganoff is perfect for any winter potluck.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cups cooked egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until softened.
3. Stir in flour and cook for another minute.
4. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in sour cream and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Cook until heated through and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve the beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles.

17. Green Bean Casserole

A holiday favorite that’s always welcome at a winter potluck.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups green beans, fresh or frozen
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. If using fresh green beans, cook in boiling water until tender-crisp. If using frozen, thaw and drain.
3. In a large bowl, combine green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer to a baking dish and top with crispy fried onions.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve warm.

18. Ham and Cheese Sliders

These mini sandwiches are both fun and delicious, perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 1/2 lb deli ham, thinly sliced
• 1/2 lb Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp poppy seeds
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half; place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
3. Layer the ham and Swiss cheese over the bottom halves. Place the tops of the rolls back on.
4. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture evenly over the sliders.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned.
6. Serve warm.

19. Beef and Barley Soup

A hearty soup full of beef, barley, and veggies, perfect for a winter potluck.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup barley
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add beef stew meat and cook until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Cook until softened.
3. Stir in carrots, mushrooms, beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, barley, and bay leaves.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until barley is tender.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot and heat through.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm, removing the bay leaves before serving.

20. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce—comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes and onion. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the top.
6. Repeat the layer with remaining potatoes, onion, and cheese sauce.
7. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Serve warm.

21. Holiday Meatballs

These sweet and tangy meatballs are a massive hit at any winter potluck.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 jar (12 oz) chili sauce
• 1 jar (10 oz) grape jelly
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, diced onion, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, combine chili sauce and grape jelly. Heat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, stirring to coat.
7. Serve warm with toothpicks or over rice.

22. Cornbread Stuffing

A Southern classic, this cornbread stuffing is the ultimate side dish for your potluck.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups cubed cornbread (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tbsp dried sage
• 1 tbsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine cubed cornbread, cooked onion mixture, dried sage, and dried thyme.
4. In a separate bowl, mix chicken broth and beaten eggs. Pour over the cornbread mixture and mix well.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
6. Serve warm.

23. Chocolate Peppermint Brownies

Rich chocolate brownies with a hint of peppermint—perfect for the holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter, melted
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, peppermint extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool before cutting into squares.
7. Serve at room temperature.

24. Pumpkin Roll

A festive dessert featuring a spiced pumpkin cake rolled with sweet cream cheese.

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Line a 15x10-inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease the paper.
3. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick. Add pumpkin puree.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt; fold into the pumpkin mixture.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
7. Immediately turn cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off parchment paper and roll up the cake in the towel, starting with the short end. Cool completely.
8. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
9. Unroll the cake and spread with cream cheese mixture. Roll it up again and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

25. Mulled Wine

Warm, spiced wine perfect for sipping and socializing at any winter potluck.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar
• 1 orange, sliced
• 5 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 star anise
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine red wine, brandy, honey or sugar, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and nutmeg.
2. Heat over low heat until just simmering. Do not boil.
3. Let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain to remove the orange slices and spices.
5. Serve warm in mugs or heatproof glasses.

Conclusion

My collection of the 25 Best Recipes for Winter Potlucks to Warm Your Crowd. These dishes are sure to bring comfort and joy to your gatherings, making cold winter days a little bit cozier. Whether you're planning a festive holiday meal or just a casual get-together, I hope these recipes inspire you to serve up some warmth and love. Enjoy!