How To Host A Potluck Dinner

A potluck is a perfect way to gather your gang, share a great meal and connect with your people without carrying the financial burden of hosting a full-on shindig. Even better, you, as the host, are responsible for one main dish instead of everything and, if you play your cards right, can delegate the rest right down to the decor. Now that is what I call the “luck of the pot!”

“Potluck” was coined sometime in the 16th century when a guest was invited to stay for dinner at the spur of the moment. (This is how I roll man.)

As the host, you provide the venue, the main course, and some direction. With minimal control (sorry control-freaks) and organization, you can put together a little gathering that feels like a hosted party but is much more of a communal effort. This sounds like the best kind of party if you ask me. Talk about self-care for the hostess. LOL!

I have put together a small list of components you might want to consider if you decide to host a potluck. My goal is to inspire you to create a cozy experience so you can create moments with the people you love. Because that is what it is really all about anyway.

Create a theme

The sky is the limit with this aspect of the potluck dinner. You can create any theme you like: 90’s, recipes inspired by the TV Series, Outlander. OMG! OR, since winter is full throttle, you might like to make your theme a little cozier, ‘hygge’, if you will. This potluck theme screams comfort food.

Relinquish control.

Create a google doc. That way, you can make a list of specific items of which everyone is privy. Folks can pick something they are comfortable with and everyone is happy. Remember, this isn’t supposed to be stressful.

Guests can bring more than just food.

Perhaps you have a guest or two that aren’t great in the kitchen. That is okay! We all have our strengths. Designate those folks to bring plastic ware. Anything goes when everyone is involved.

Playlists matter.

The playlist is key. I like to be in control of the tunes in my house but you are the host and you can easily add playlist creation to the google list of delegated items. Your music-loving friends could have some real fun with this job.

The main course is on you.

This doesn’t have to be rocket science or fancy by any means. Create a dish that can feed a crowd, like a lasagna or a big pot of soup. Perhaps you already have a tray or large container of something in the freezer.

What is on tap?

Do you have a bartender in the group? Perhaps there is a drink you would like to serve because it goes well with everything, like hmmmm, an Aperol Spritz or glogg. Don’t forget to add those items to your Google document.

Don’t forget the H20.

This stuff is free ninety-nine. Don’t spend money on the bottle when you can serve it in a pretty pitcher with some fruit if you like.

Share your recipe.

This one is my favorite. You can share by adding a file to your Google doc, create a Facebook page or pass out old fashioned recipe cards. Encourage your friends to do it to and you just parleyed your dang potluck dinner into a weeks worth of new recipes. Yeah baby.

I hope this inspired you to go have a night with your friends and joyous laughs and stories are shared by all.

xo, Michelle