Unveiling Grandma's Recipe Secrets to Winning Over Potluck Crowds  (2024)

We’re thrilled to share a collection of grandmas’ favorite recipes. Each one has made its mark at many gatherings, and now we’re passing them onto you. We hope you use them to win over all the potluck crowds in your life. From hearty corn casserole to sweet red velvet cake, these recipes bring back fond family memories and add warmth to any table. Whether you’re preparing for a family reunion or a neighborhood party, these dishes will make you the potluck hero.

Corn Casserole

Corn Casserole is a version of a simple old-fashioned spoon bread that uses Jiffy corn muffin mix. The result is a delicious and simple casserole that is easy to take to any potluck or holiday party. Sometimes you might hear it called corn pudding, but it is really the same recipe. Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad

Summer potlucks and backyard BBQs call for this delicious Macaroni Salad. It’s packed with everything you want in a picnic classic – creamy goodness, the satisfying crunch of fresh veggies, and tender macaroni. Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Baked Beans

Sweet, smoky, and loaded with bacon, this recipe is great for picnics and potlucks, Baked Beans are a classic for a reason! You can easily change this up to add more variety, but we think it’s already perfect. Get the Recipe: Baked Beans

Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Classic Cucumber Tomato Salad – a quick and easy recipe with a sweet and tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, and potlucks. Enjoy the abundant flavors of summer with this refreshing salad that doesn’t require refrigeration. Vegan-friendly too! Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Corn Salad

Corn Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish. It is perfect for picnics and barbecues. It is a hidden gem from the deep south. Try it, and you will be hooked! Get the Recipe: Creamy Corn Salad

Southwestern Salad

Southwestern Salad, with garbanzos, and chipotle, lime and roasted garlic dressing has a bit of a kick from the chipotle in the dressing. Load it up with fresh veggies and you have a colorful, delicious summer salad! Get the Recipe: Southwestern Salad

Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped Potatoes have stood the test of time. Their creamy feel and cheesy goodness make them a favorite. Easy to whip up on a hectic weekday yet equally suitable for a leisurely weekend feast, holiday meal, or potluck side. Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Green Beans with Bacon

Easily turn canned green beans and bacon into a side dish that will remind you of grandma’s home cooking. If snapping beans with her are part of the tradition, no worries, this recipe works just as well with fresh green beans. Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Bacon

4 Bean Baked beans

This 4 Bean Baked Beans dish tastes the best of any I have ever had! They are one of the most requested side dishes for summer picnics and potlucks! This vintage recipe has been in my family for over 40 years! Everyone loves it! Get the Recipe: Four Bean Baked Beans

Hashbrown Casserole

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect cheesy potato dish that’s a breeze to make. This classic side dish is perfect for feeding a group and it’s ready in less than an hour. Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Fruit Cobbler

This Fruit Cobbler recipe is a cinch to make and can be made with many types of fruits, making it a great last-minute dessert choice. With all the ingredients usually on hand, you can whip up a homemade dessert in just an hour. Our grandma’s secret is to use frozen blackberries, she swore it always went the fastest. Get the Recipe: No-Fail Fruit Cobbler

Fresh Fruit Salad

What is the secret to making Fresh Fruit Salad? Why fresh fruit, of course. Learn all of my secrets to having perfectly ripe fruit salad year-round! This is less of a “recipe” and more of a how-to. Why add sugar or honey or anything else to fresh, seasonal produce, when the fruit is sweet enough already and bursting with flavor! Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad

Bread Pudding

If you love Bread Pudding, you’ve got to try it New Orleans-style. It’s super creamy, not too eggy, and doesn’t have those big, awkward chunks of bread. Give it a go and see if it’s your new go-to dessert. Get the Recipe: Bread Pudding

Cherry Coffee Cake

You’ve got to try this amazing Cherry Coffee Cake! It’s super easy to make and guaranteed to brighten up anyone’s morning. I’ve been bringing this everywhere for years, and it’s always a hit. You only need some pantry ingredients, yummy cherry pie filling, and a delicious streusel topping. Trust me; it’s the perfect way to start Dad’s Day! Get the Recipe: Cherry Coffee Cake

Pineapple Coleslaw

Whether you need a dish to pass for a potluck or you are enjoying some delicious seafood tacos, this Pineapple Coleslaw is just what you need. It’s very easy and will be a hit every time. Get the Recipe: Pineapple Coleslaw

Pineapple Sheet Cake

Pineapple Sheet Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings a tropical twist to your table. Its bright and fruity flavor make it a hit for gatherings or as a delicious treat. Get the Recipe: Pineapple Sheet Cake

Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake is Southern classic and is adaptable to various baking pans, from Bundt to a simple 9X13. Its appeal doesn’t end there: choose between ermine frosting or cream cheese icing. Despite its rich color, making this cake is as easy as any other homemade cake. Want to get creative? Swap the classic red for blue, green, or even turquoise. No matter which color you choose, your guests will be asking for more. Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake

Chocolate Cake

While this is “Mom’s” recipe for Chocolate Cake. It is actually Hershey’s “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake. It has been on the back of the Hershey’s Chocolate container for 27 years, at least. This cake is moist, light and fluffy and so very chocolatey all at the same time! It’s no wonder it is highly requested for birthday cakes, even today. Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cake

Carrot Cake

This easy and delicious Carrot Cake is made with real carrots, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, so you can be sure that it’s full of flavor. The cake is light and fluffy, and the cream cheese frosting is rich and delicious. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

Lemon Bars

Here’s a simple recipe for Classic Lemon Bars with a buttery shortbread base. They’re like a burst of sunshine in your mouth. The sweet, tangy lemon filling sits on the crisp crust, giving just the right balance. It’s not overly sweet or too tangy – just perfect! Try these for a delightful treat. Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Pretzel Salad

Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a lovely dessert that’s easy to put together. With its crunchy pretzel layer, smooth creamy middle, and a fresh topping of strawberries, it’s a dish that’s sure to catch the eye and please everyone. It’s the kind of treat that’s perfect for sharing, whether you’re at a family dinner or a party. Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Cherry Rhubarb Crisp

Cherry Rhubarb Crisp is the perfect mix of sweet and tart, light and fluffy. More than just an awesome dessert or an occasional treat – it’s become a favorite of summer! From picnics on the beach to barbecues in your backyard, sharing this dish with family and friends is always delightful. If you’re searching for an easy but impressive end-of-summer recipe that will make everyone happy, then look no further because this cherry rhubarb crisp will do the trick! Get the Recipe: Cherry Rhubarb Crisp

Butter Pound Cake

Southern Butter Pound Cake recipe bursting with buttery goodness! No need to add extra butter sauce – this cake already has it all! As if that’s not enough, it also serves as the perfect foundation for strawberry shortcakes! And the best part? You can take it with you to picnics without worrying about refrigeration. Say goodbye to boring frozen Sara Lee pound cakes because this homemade beauty takes the cake any day! Get the Recipe: Butter Pound Cake

Not Your Grandma’s Meatloaf: Sunday Dinner Ideas That Aren’t Boring

Sunday dinner – the perfect time to unwind and refuel for the week ahead. But let’s be real, the same old routine can get a little dull. That’s why we’ve rounded up 18 show-stopping recipes to shake things up and bring excitement back to your Sunday table. From creative twists on classic comfort foods to international flavors and fresh new ideas, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy bee looking for a quick and easy meal, a foodie seeking inspiration, or simply someone who loves good food and good company, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, take a break from the usual suspects like Grandma’s meatloaf, and try something new. SEE THE RECIPES

Editor: Oliver Baysinger