53 Easy Potluck Ideas For Work - Zippia (2024)

Potlucks are popular gatherings at offices where everyone gets to bring in their signature meal. While they can be a great opportunity to get to know your coworkers better, it can be difficult to decide what to bring to a work potluck event.

Whether you’re an extraordinary chef or a kitchen novice, we’ve put together some tips on how to decide what to bring to your office potluck, as well as a list of 53 potluck ideas for work to help inspire you. From easy homemade potluck ideas to last-minute potluck ideas to buy, we’ll cover exactly what to bring to a potluck at work.

Key Takeaways

• When deciding what to bring to an office potluck, consider the environment, the available equipment, and the number of people at the potluck.

• Your coworkers’ dietary restrictions and the time and date of the potluck can help you decide what to bring to your work potluck.

• Three of the easiest potluck ideas for work are chips and dip, meatballs, and brownies.

How to Decide What to Bring to an Office Potluck

First, there are a few considerations you might want to make before you decide on your dish:

• Environment. Is your potluck being held outside? Indoors? Is it a barbeque setting, or something more formal? The environment can play a big factor in what you decide to make for your potluck.

  If it’s hot outside, a cold dish won’t travel or sit well. If it’s indoors, you may want to choose something that doesn’t have too strong of a smell, and so on.

• Equipment. Depending on where the potluck is held, you may have different equipment available, such as a grill, an oven, or a stove. Be sure to ask before you decide on your dish if you need access to kitchen equipment to finalize your dish.

  Be aware that you may not be the only one using this equipment.

• The number of people. How big is your office? This will help you understand how much food you should make. A general rule of thumb is to make enough food that feeds six to eight people, but this number can change depending on if you have a much smaller or much larger office.

• Dietary concerns. Does anyone in your office have a serious food allergy that should be taken into consideration before the potluck is held?

  It’s certainly not necessary to create every single dish around one allergy, but it’s important to understand if someone is allergic to anything, so that if you do use it in your recipe, you can warn them to stay away.

  See Also

  50 Best Finger FoodsHow to Organize a Successful Potluck, According to Chefs and Entertaining ExpertsWhat to Serve at a Funeral Reception?Our Best Tips for Organizing a Church Potluck

• Time and date. Depending on when the potluck is held, you might want to take the time and date into consideration. If it’s a holiday potluck, you may choose to do a themed dish. If it’s a summer celebration, your dishes might be different than if it were a winter celebration.

53 Easy Potluck Ideas for Work Gatherings

As mentioned above, there are a few different ways to go about thinking about your potluck dishes. Below, we’ll separate them into categories that can help you choose, depending on your event and skill level.

Easy Work Potluck Dishes

If you’re not a natural cook, potluck gatherings might seem like a nightmare. However, it’s perfectly accessible to grab something at your local grocery store.

If you have a local market, you can even find prepared dishes there that typically serve a decent amount of people. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Chips and dip. Chips and dips are always safe options. You can choose from salsa, guacamole, hummus, ranch, french onion, queso, and more. These are typically available in resealable containers and keep well during travel and long events.

2. Vegetable tray and dip. Most food stores sell prepared vegetable trays with dips. This is simple, easy, and usually goes quickly at parties.

3. Fruit tray. Similar to the vegetable tray, most food stores have some kind of combination of fruit salad or fruit trays that you can use for your potluck event.

4. Sandwich platter. Depending on the store, you might be able to find a sandwich tray or order one from the local sandwich shop. Try getting a variety of meats and cheeses for a variety.

5. Cheese tray. Cheese trays are another easy option. Be sure to get a good variety of cheeses and don’t forget to bring knives for cutting.

6. Cookies. Cookies are an easy staple at any potluck. Try getting a variety of 2-3 different kinds, just in case anyone has any allergies or food preferences.

7. Cupcakes. Typically sold at the grocery store, you can usually find pre-packaged cupcakes that are an easy addition to any potluck. A bonus can be that if you have a themed party, typically, these types of dishes are already themed.

8. Drinks. Every party needs drinks, and a potluck is no different. See if you can be the person who picks up the drinks for the event. Remember to get a good selection and understand if your company permits alcohol.

9. Snacks. Other snacks like pretzels, cheese doodles, different flavored chips, popcorn, and others can also make for an easy dish and a quick snack for individuals to grab. To make things even more convenient, you can consider purchasing individual chip bags.

Cold Work Potluck Dishes

Cold foods are a great option if you have access to a refrigerator and your event takes place indoors or in a cooler environment. In warmer climates, these dishes might not hold up as well as if they would under other circ*mstances.

1. Potato salad. Potato salad is a relatively easy recipe to tackle and is a staple at most potlucks and picnics. Since it’s a heavy recipe, it’s a good idea not to make too much.

2. Pasta Salad. Pasta salad can be interpreted in many different ways. There are pasta salads that incorporate vegetables, cheeses, and different sauces. For a potluck, it’s best to stay somewhat simple.

3. Coleslaw. Another easy recipe, you can purchase everything you need quickly at the grocery store and put it together quickly before you leave.

4. Deviled Eggs. Deviled eggs can be a little tricky but are a great option if you feel confident making them. Many people enjoy eating deviled eggs; just be sure you have a cool place to store them.

5. Antipasto tray. Antipasto includes meats, cheeses, and different types of vegetables. This is a great option for a party as it includes a variety of things that people can choose from.

6. Layered dips. Layered dips are popular and can sometimes even be found premade at the grocery store. Consider this option when you’re shopping, but don’t forget the chips.

7. Salad. Salad can be created easily, and you can bring a few different dressings for your colleagues to choose from. If you’re willing to go through the extra effort, consider a salad bar so that people can choose what they like.

8. Cakes. If you enjoy baking, making a cake is a great option. Everyone loves cake, and if there’s a place to keep it cool until dessert time, you’re all set.

9. Pies. Pies are a little harder to create, but a great option for a potluck. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even try two different flavors, depending on people’s preferences.

10. Vegetable salad. Consider a green bean, broccoli, or corn salad. You can treat the greens just like lettuce in a regular salad and add other vegetables, cheese, nuts, and even fruit.

11. Fruit and dip. Fruit and caramel, chocolate, or whipped topping is a great option for a potluck. Just be sure to cut up the fruit into bite-size chunks.

12. Shrimp co*cktail. Shrimp co*cktail ingredients are typically sold at the grocery store for easy access. Arrange simply on a platter, and you’re all set.

Hot Work Potluck Dishes

1. Meatballs. Meatballs are easy to make and travel well. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, BBQ, or even Asian-inspired.

2. Potatoes. Potatoes are an easy food to work with, and you can make a variety of dishes with them. From bacon to sour cream, to garlic and onions, you can go any type of way with potatoes.

3. Dips. Hot dips are a great option. Be sure you have a suitable container to keep it warm or that there is an oven to use when you get to your gathering.

4. Pasta. Warm pasta and sauce or warm pasta salad are also good options to choose from. There are a variety of recipes out there, but pasta and sauce are always a safe choice.

5. Macaroni and cheese. There are a ton of mac and cheese recipes out there as well as casseroles and other forms like fried mac and cheese, lobster mac and cheese, and more.

   See Also

   Is It Rude to Not Bring Food to a Potluck?

6. Baked beans. An easy dish you can pick up straight from the supermarket and heat up on your stove or in the oven at your gathering. Some people might pair this dish with cheese, so be sure to do your research.

7. Pulled pork or chicken. If you have a crockpot, this is a perfect dish to consider. You can cook pulled pork or chicken overnight or early in the day, then pull it apart in the sauce before you get to your gathering. Pair with buns and coleslaw for a full meal.

8. Pierogies. These dough-filled treats are a great bite-sized option for your potluck. Fill with potatoes, cheese, or vegetables.

9. Lasagna. Although lasagna can seem complicated, it’s just a layered pasta dish that can be cooked in the oven. Cut into squares for easy serving.

10. Sliders. Small sliders are a good bite-sized option for potlucks. Consider burgers, chicken, or even veggie sliders.

11. Rolls. Rolls are a great option, as many people might want to pick one up as a side for their potluck meal. Bring butter and spreading knives to finish the dish.

12. Quesadillas. Quesadillas are also bite-sized dishes that can be easily cooked and served at any potluck. Pair with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a finished dish.

13. Pizza. Pizza is an easy option that you can never go wrong with. Consider traditional pizzas or even flatbreads.

14. Nachos. Consider either making your nachos to serve or create a nacho bar with cheese, salsa, and other toppings that people can put together themselves.

15. Chili. A chili is a great option for the office potluck as it’s a relatively easy dish to make and travels and reheats well. Pair with cornbread and cheese.

16. Grilled cheese. Grilled cheese is so easy to make and can pair well with other dishes at the potluck. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using more than one cheese.

17. Samosas. These delicious crispy pockets of meat are delicious and easy to serve at potlucks. Each samosa is small enough to be bite-sized and can be filled with a variety of different flavors.

18. Wings. Wings can be ordered or prepared at home with a variety of different sauces. Consider hot, barbeque, or even dry rubs for your wings.

19. Tacos. Meat or beans, tortillas, and a variety of toppings can go a long way in feeding a group of coworkers. Each person can make their own, which can allow you to accommodate allergies or dietary preferences as well.

20. Soup. Most soup recipes can feed a crowd, making them a great option for an office potluck. Plus, you can leave it in the crockpot all day, cutting down the amount of work you have to do.

Work Potluck Desserts

1. Fruit parfaits. This dish is easily created with yogurt, fruit, and any other toppings your heart desires. You can even serve these in individual containers to make it easier for your co-workers to grab and go.

2. Brownies. Everyone loves brownies, and they can be made easily. If you are looking to add nuts, be sure to poll your colleagues to make sure nobody has a nut allergy.

3. Jello. Jello can be made straight from the package with hot and cold water. Just be prepared to let it sit overnight in the fridge.

4. Cheesecake. Cheesecake is a fairly popular dessert liked by many. There are a ton of flavors to choose from when it comes to cheesecake, or consider picking up a prepared cheesecake at the grocery store.

5. Tarts. Fruit tarts are a nice option for a dessert potluck. Choose something colorful, and be sure there are no nuts in it if anyone in your office has an allergy.

6. Candy. Easy to scoop up at the grocery store, consider making a mix of candy to put out for an easy grab-and-go snack.

7. Ice cream and sundaes. Ice cream is a great option if you have a freezer available to you. If you’re feeling ambitious, consider an ice cream sundae bar.

8. Ice cream sandwiches. Ice cream sandwiches can be made with simple cookies and ice cream. They can also be purchased at the grocery store. Just be sure you have an accessible freezer.

9. Chocolate dips. Melted chocolate goes with almost everything. Pair melted chocolate with bite-sized cake pieces, cookies, fruit, and even bacon.

10. Chocolate-covered fruit. You can also make or purchase chocolate-covered fruit like strawberries, bananas, and more.

11. Cake pops. Cake pops can also be purchased or made. If you’re making them, be sure you have all the supplies necessary, including decorations and sticks.

12. Cookies. There is no shortage of cookie recipes, so try a few out on your coworkers, or purchase some from your local grocery store or bakery.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to work events, office potlucks are fairly common group events. These gatherings are typically either loved or hated by most employees. For one, it’s a great way to get to know your colleagues outside of a work environment.

On the other hand, it can be tricky to know what to bring, and you may not enjoy being stuck spending time with your co-workers for an entire afternoon.

Whatever the case, potlucks are part of office culture. They provide a cost-efficient way for the organization to hold an event for their employees to spend some time together outside of work.

Work Potluck FAQ

1. What can I bring to a potluck if I don’t cook?

   You can bring store-bought food, make a simple fruit salad, beverages, or non-food necessities, like plates, cups, napkins, or cutlery, to a potluck if you don’t cook. Chips, rolls, and baked goods are acceptable store-bought foods to bring to a potluck, and beverages are always appreciated (be sure to check if alcohol is allowed before bringing a six-pack to a work event).

   Bowls of mixed berries and pre-cut pineapple or watermelon are always appreciated, as are the extra non-food items that make the meal more manageable. Just because you don’t cook, doesn’t mean you can’t make meaningful contributions to a potluck event. Even just showing up early and helping set up can go a long way.

2. How do you make a work potluck fun?

   You can make a work potluck fun by making it a themed event. For example, you can have everyone bring a favorite dish from their childhood, make it a tailgate-themed party (BBQ and such), tapas night, or Tex-Mex items.

   You can also keep your work potluck fun and easy by just doing appetizers and desserts, skipping the more time-consuming main course dishes.

3. What potluck food doesn’t need refrigeration?

   Pasta salads without mayonnaise, grain salads that use quinoa, couscous, or the like, hard cheeses, and cured meats are potluck foods that don’t need refrigeration. All of these can be served at room temperature without losing quality or being dangerous to leave out for an extended period.

   Other than that, baked goods like brownies or cookies and simple store-bought sides like chips and salsa, can also be served at room temperature and don’t require refrigeration.

4. Is it rude to not bring anything to a potluck?

   Yes, it is considered rude to not bring anything to a potluck, as it can seem that you’re taking advantage of other people’s contributions without giving anything in return. It might also disrupt the balance of the meal availability and potentially leave some people hungry.

   If you’re unable to cook a dish yourself, it’s perfectly acceptable to bring a side dish or baked goods pre-prepped from the grocery store, bring beverages, or bring disposable plates and utensils. All of these offerings show that you made an effort to contribute, which will make you look more considerate than bringing nothing at all.

5. How many main dishes should you have for a potluck?

   You should have about 1/5 as many main dishes as people attending a potluck. For example, if your work potluck event will have 20 people, there should be 4 main dishes. Other people should bring side dishes, appetizers, salads, soups, desserts, and beverages, so that there’s a variety of options for everyone to try.

   If everyone brings main dishes, there will be far too much food overall, and there won’t be as varied and enjoyable of a mix of foods that can be eaten together in one meal. Additionally, the main dishes should themselves be varied. For example, there should be at least one vegetarian option and possibly a vegan option, depending on the potluck attendees. You should also keep other dietary restrictions in mind when planning for a potluck event, to make sure everyone can participate and enjoy some dishes.