Best Summer Potluck Recipes
Nothing says summer like picnics, barbecues and other casual get-togethers. To keep things low-key, a potluck might be just the thing. Not only does it lighten the hosting load, but guests can also enjoy a variety of dishes. (Someone else’s contribution just might become your new favorite!)
If you need some inspiration for a summer potluck, we’ve collected a few favorites from our recipe archive as well as options from our partners. (Fun fact: Kansas Farm Food Connection is powered by many Kansas agricultural groups. Let’s just say, these folks know food!) These dishes are suitable for every occasion from book clubs to family reunions. Dig in!
Starters and Sides
Set the stage for the festivities with a simple dish. From in-season fruits to salty and crunchy combos, starters and sides provide a lot of variety and brighten up the serving table.
From Our Partners
- Pearled Sorghum Hummus: This classic Greek dip gets a fresh makeover by using sorghum instead of chickpeas. We give this recipe from Kansas Grain Sorghum a toast. Yaisou!
- Pinto Beans with Bacon: Perfect for a barbecue potluck, this recipe — courtesy of our friends at Kansas Pork — has a nice kick thanks to the adobo sauce.
- Baked Potato Cupcakes: The flavor of a baked potato in an adorable muffin shape? Count us in! With cheese and sour cream, this recipe from Midwest Dairy is a winner.
From Our Kitchen
Finger Foods
Maybe it’s just us, but there’s something about finger foods that just seems fun. From mini sandwiches to meatballs, these bite-sized morsels are sure to perk up any gathering.
From Our Partners
- Mini Chicken Salad Sandwiches: Our friends at Kansas Living have done it again with this unique chicken salad recipe.
- Roasted Vegetable Quesadillas: Have a what-to-cook potluck problem? Midwest Dairy has the solution with this ooey-gooey, veggie-packed recipe. Perfect to showcase summer produce.
- Roast Beef Sliders: Kansas Beef has a crowd favorite with this warm and gooey slider recipe. Bonus: It’s easy to transport in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
From Our Kitchen
Entrées
If you’re looking for something a little meatier that will feed a crowd, a more traditional entrée might be in order. These main courses are sure to please.
From Our Partners
- Taco Crescent Ring: We’re pretty sure that’s all you need to hear to make you run out and create this recipe. But we’ll seal the deal by telling you this Tex-Mex treat is tried and approved by the Kansas Wheat Test Kitchen.
- Beef Kabobs with Asian Marinade: If your potluck will be by the grill, give this zesty kabob recipe from Kansas Soybeans a try. It’s completely different from the usual grill fare.
- Tex-Mex Cowboy Casserole: High temperatures aren’t the only source of summer heat with recipes like this. Kick up your potluck with this casserole from Kansas Living.
From Our Kitchen
Desserts
From Our Partners
- Bacon Baklava: From our friends at Kansas Pork comes this Greek sweet with a twist. They say everything tastes better with bacon and they just might be right!
- S’mores Cookie Bars: If a campfire isn’t in your future, but you’re craving some s’mores, this cookie recipe from the Kansas Wheat Test Kitchen will hit the spot.
- Strawberry Frozen Yogurt Squares: Although these squares from Midwest Dairy need to stay cool for serving, it shouldn’t be a problem because everyone will gobble them up so fast.
From Our Kitchen
As you relax in good company, we hope these dishes brought to you by Kansas farmers will add an extra smile. Now the only question is which one to make!
