Having a crowd over for dinner can be fantastic – laughter, good company, and the joy of sharing a meal. But sometimes, the looming question of “what to cook?” can turn that excitement into a recipe for stress.
Worry no more! This post is your golden ticket to effortless entertainment. We’ve curated a collection of 35 easy dinner recipes that are perfect for feeding a crowd, without requiring hours in the kitchen.
From budget-friendly classics to exciting global flavors, there’s something here to tantalize every taste bud.
These recipes prioritize convenience. Many are quick to prepare, use adaptable ingredients, and can even be prepped ahead of time.
So ditch the takeout menus and impress your guests with delicious, homemade food that won’t leave you exhausted.
35 Easy Dinner Recipes for a Crowd
1. Ground Beef Tacos
Ground beef tacos are a crowd-pleasing favorite, featuring seasoned beef, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas.
Set up a taco bar so guests can customize their own delicious creations.
2. Build-Your-Own-Pizza Bar
A build-your-own-pizza bar is a fun and interactive dinner option.
Provide a variety of toppings, sauces, and cheeses, and let everyone create their perfect pizza masterpiece.
3. Sheet Pan Fajitas
Sheet pan fajitas are an easy and flavorful option, combining seasoned chicken or beef, bell peppers, and onions, all roasted to perfection.
Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.
4. Spaghetti and Meatballs
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic comfort food that’s sure to satisfy a crowd.
Juicy meatballs in marinara sauce served over a bed of spaghetti make for a hearty and delicious meal.
5. Baked Potato Bar
A baked potato bar offers a customizable and hearty dinner option.
Provide baked potatoes and a variety of toppings like cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives for a fun, interactive meal.
6. One Pan Chicken Dinner
One pan chicken dinners are simple yet satisfying, featuring chicken, potatoes, and vegetables all roasted together.
This dish minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.
7. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Grilled cheese and tomato soup is a comforting and nostalgic dinner choice.
Gooey, golden-brown sandwiches paired with rich, homemade tomato soup are perfect for warming up a crowd.
8. Lasagna
Lasagna is a timeless crowd-pleaser with layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for feeding a large group.
9. Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a comforting Italian-American classic, featuring pasta baked with savory tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella.
It’s a cheesy, satisfying dish that’s easy to make in large quantities.
10. Kabobs
Kabobs offer a fun and versatile dinner option, combining marinated meats and veggies on skewers.
Grill or roast them to perfection and serve with a variety of dipping sauces.
11. Shepherd’s pie
Shepherd’s pie is a hearty, savory dish with a layer of seasoned ground meat and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
12. Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender beef strips in a savory mushroom sauce, served over egg noodles.
It’s a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
13. Roasted Pork Loin
Roasted pork loin is an elegant yet easy dish, featuring tender, juicy pork seasoned with herbs and spices.
Serve with roasted vegetables or a side of applesauce for a delightful dinner.
14. Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a slow-cooked delight, featuring tender, flavorful pork that’s perfect for sandwiches or as a main dish.
Serve with coleslaw and barbecue sauce for a crowd-pleasing meal.
15. Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a messy, fun, and tasty option for a crowd. Ground beef in a tangy tomato sauce, served on soft buns, makes for a delicious and easy-to-eat meal.
16. Shrimp Boil
A shrimp boil is a festive and interactive dinner option, featuring shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage cooked together with spices.
Dump it all on a table covered in newspaper for a fun, communal dining experience.
17. Chili
Chili is a warm and hearty meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Rich and flavorful, this dish can be made with beef, beans, and a variety of spices, and served with cornbread or over rice.
18. Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish featuring tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and fettuccine.
It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to prepare in large quantities.
19. Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry
Beef and broccoli stir fry is a quick and healthy dinner option, combining tender beef strips, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce.
Serve over rice for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
20. Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a flavorful and hearty Creole dish with a mix of chicken, sausage, shrimp, and rice, all simmered in a spicy, savory sauce.
It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
21. Barbecue Ribs
Barbecue ribs are a finger-licking good option for a crowd. Slow-cooked and slathered in smoky barbecue sauce, these tender ribs are a surefire hit at any gathering.
22. Taco Salad Bar
A taco salad bar offers a fresh and customizable dinner option.
Provide a variety of toppings like seasoned beef, beans, lettuce, cheese, and salsa, and let everyone build their perfect taco salad.
23. Baked Chicken Parmesan
Baked chicken Parmesan is a comforting Italian classic, featuring crispy breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.
Serve with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal.
24. Vegetarian Chili
Vegetarian chili is a hearty and flavorful option that’s perfect for meatless Mondays or accommodating vegetarian guests.
Packed with beans, veggies, and spices, it’s a satisfying dish that even meat lovers will enjoy.
25. Beef Tacos
Beef tacos are a simple and delicious dinner choice, featuring seasoned ground beef and fresh toppings in warm tortillas. Set up a taco bar so everyone can customize their own taco creations.
26. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious dinner option, filled with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, and vegetables.
Baked to perfection, they make for a visually appealing and tasty meal.
27. Chicken Fajita Casserole
Chicken fajita casserole is a flavorful and convenient dish, combining seasoned chicken, bell peppers, onions, and cheese, all baked together.
It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and serve.
28. BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option.
Shredded chicken mixed with tangy barbecue sauce, served on soft buns, is sure to be a hit with the whole crowd.
29. Vegetarian Lasagna
Vegetarian lasagna is a hearty and satisfying dish, featuring layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a mix of veggies and cheeses.
It’s a delicious meat-free option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
30. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is a comforting and easy dinner option, featuring tender chicken, rice, and vegetables baked together in a creamy sauce.
It’s a one-dish meal that’s sure to please everyone.
31. Beef Tamales
Beef tamales are a flavorful and festive dinner option, featuring seasoned beef wrapped in corn masa and steamed in corn husks.
Serve with salsa and guacamole for a delicious Mexican-inspired meal.
32. Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Baked macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring creamy, cheesy pasta baked to golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any gathering.
33. Vegetable Stir-Fry
Vegetable stir-fry is a quick and healthy dinner option, featuring a variety of fresh vegetables sautéed in a savory sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
34. Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a comforting and hearty dish, featuring tender chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce, all baked under a flaky pastry crust.
It’s a classic favorite that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
35. Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi is a delicious and elegant dinner option, featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce, served over pasta or with crusty bread.
It’s a quick and impressive dish that’s sure to delight your guests.
Final Thoughts,
Whether you’re hosting a potluck, a family reunion, or just a casual get-together, feeding a crowd doesn’t have to be stressful.
With these 35 easy and delicious recipes in your arsenal, you’re sure to find something that everyone will love.
From slow cooker favorites to sheet-pan dinners, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or weekend entertaining.
So ditch the takeout menus and impress your guests with your culinary skills – they’ll never guess how simple these dishes were to prepare. Now grab your favorite serving platter, and get ready to feed a hungry crew!
