Below you will find easy recipes that everyone will love! Hearty main dishes, easy sides and perfect hand holding desserts for all ages!
At this stage in my life I have fed MANY crowds. Whether large family gatherings, graduation parties, sporting events, teacher luncheons and church groups. At the moment I prepare a meal once a month for about 45 young adults. So I know my way around what works for a crowd and what just falls flat.
When preparing for an event you have to think out the food layout and whether it will be a meal or a snacking style gathering. If you go with a meal, be sure to think through garnishes or toppings for the main dish and then provide 2 sides. You will also need to decide on a couple of desserts and of course your drinks.
Gatherings with a Meal - Slow Cooker Recipes!
Main Dishes
I like to have a main dish but in a portion everyone is happy with. So I make mini sandwiches vs large bun sandwiches and street tacos vs regular sized. This way it serves all ages and appetites! And the slow cooker is the best way to get this done ahead of time!
Dr Pepper BBQ Pulled Pork
This slow cooker pulled pork could not be simpler. I love that I can make it the day before and shred and store in the fridge until I need to warm it up. Serve it right out of a slow cooker or in a chafing dish. An 8 pound pork butt will serve about 18-20 guests. I love using mini rolls because so many people do not want to commit to an entire sandwich-especially if it is open house style.
Easy Slow Cooker Carnitas
This recipe is perfect if you want to set up a fun taco bar! These moist and flavorful carnitas cook low and slow all day, filling your home with the most amazing aroma. The pork becomes fall-apart tender, with perfectly crispy edges once you finish it off in the oven or skillet. And here’s the best part—they’re even better the next day, making them perfect for prep ahead party food!
Chicken Verde
Another easy taco recipe to feed a crowd are these shredded chicken tacos! Again, you can make them ahead of time! So easy and so flavorful!
Sides
Even if you decide to serve tacos you should offer a side or two. Chips are always an easy side, so be sure and make a special dip. Include another side that complements your main dish. Look below for a potato dish for the BBQ sandwiches and a dip that goes with everything!
Roasted Potatoes with Lipton Soup
If you're looking for a simple and delicious side dish, these oven roasted potatoes are a must-try! They come out perfectly golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside.
Texas Caviar
Texas Caviar is an all-time favorite side dishe and party dip! It’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavor—perfect for everything from summer cookouts to holiday potlucks.
Strawberry Fruit Dip
Adding a fresh fruit to your table is always a good idea! Add this fruit dip and watch it disappear. It is so fresh tasting and the perfect balance with any fruit.
Desserts
At a party or gathering where people are mostly on their feet you want to have desserts they can eat with their hands with a small napkin. Below are some favorites that bake up perfect for events such as this!
Magic Cookie Bars
These bars come together surprisingly fast. With a graham cracker crust and loaded with chocolate, coconut and pecans they are a crowd favorite! Let them cool completely then they slice beautifully!
Haystacks
Make life a little easier and always have a no bake treat that can be prepped the day before. These have been a favorite for decades!
Mini Brownie Bites
Brownie Bites is that dessert that is so simple, but disappears quick! My recipe starts with a mix so it is a no fail, easy recipe!
I hope you have found a great menu idea! Be sure and let me know what YOU make for your next gathering!
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