55 Backyard BBQ Potluck Ideas to Ensure Your Summer Parties Are on Point
Krista Marshall
·11-min read
When you plan a summer party, do you take on the entire menu yourself, or do you go potluck style and ask each guest to bring something to share? There is definitely a completely different stress level for the host if some of the side dishes, salads and desserts are provided by others; it can really make for a diverse menu, too! These 55 BBQ potluck recipe ideas are sure to inspire you to summer greatness, both if you are hosting or are a guest looking to share something extra special.
Potlucks are such a wonderful way to entertain but still enjoy the party yourself and save a little money, too. Most of the time, if I'm doing a potluck barbecue-style, I will provide one or two grilled proteins and ask everyone else to bring a side dish or dessert to share. Be careful, though! You don't want 25 bowls of macaroni salad and nothing else.
To help prevent that, be honest when your guests ask, "What should I bring?" Or, if they are close friends and family, I feel comfortable enough to assign certain dishes to certain people—especially if they're ones they are famous for. For example, if my mom is coming to a BBQ potluck, I make sure she is bringing her baked beans because they are my absolute favorite and always a hit!
In this collection of 50+ backyard BBQ potluck ideas, you will find terrific recipes for every course of the meal! A classic shrimp cocktail or warm corn and bacon dip take care of the appetizers. The salad course is covered with the frito corn salad, cobb salad, or Italian pasta salad. Delicious grilled beer brats and marinated hot dogs will taste so good hot off the grill.
For dessert, you will love all the no-bake options I've gathered, like my cookies 'n' cream or cherry limeade fluff and monster no-bake cookies. Oh, and just in case Mother Nature ruins your outdoor plans, but you still want to party, our favorite slow cooker BBQ brisket is a lifesaver!
Don't for one second think a backyard BBQ potluck isn't perfect for your July 4th celebration, too! Holidays are a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, and asking everyone to pitch in to make a huge spread of food makes them extra special.
If you're planning a backyard barbecue this summer or attending one, these potluck inspirations are sure to make your dish the favorite one of the party!
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