10 Recipes & Foods for Big Groups You Can Make Ahead of Time

Hosting an event for a large group comes with the responsibility of ensuring your guests are well-fed and satisfied. To make your hosting experience stress-free and enjoyable, here’s a collection of mouth-watering recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for serving a crowd.

1. Crockpot Breakfast Casserole:
   • This hassle-free recipe serves 10-12 people and is perfect for a big breakfast gathering.
   • Sautee bacon, onions, and veggies, then layer them with hashbrowns and eggs in a crockpot.
   • Set it on low for 4 hours, and you have a savory breakfast that can be reheated easily.
2. Fall Vegetable Sloppy Joes:
   • With 18 servings, this recipe is a hearty option for a larger crowd.
   • Cook ground beef with bacon, butternut squash, parsnips, and carrots in a slow cooker.
   • Simmer with cola, tomato paste, and spices for 4-5 hours, then serve on hamburger buns.
3. Chicken Salad Sandwiches:
   • A versatile recipe that can be adjusted to serve any number of people.
   • Mix cooked chicken with green onions, mayonnaise, garlic salt, and Lawry’s seasoning.
   • Ideal for making ahead, it keeps well in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
4. Spaghetti:
   • A classic and easy-to-freeze option for large gatherings.
   • Cook a large batch of pasta, freeze, and thaw as needed.
   • Serve with your favorite sauce and toppings for a crowd-pleasing meal.
5. Toasty Mac n’ Cheese:
   • This recipe serves 8 and is perfect for those who love comfort food.
   • Prepare a rich cheese sauce, mix with pasta, and bake until golden.
   • It can be made in advance, frozen, and reheated for convenience.
6. Meatball Subs:
   • A quick and simple solution using store-bought frozen meatballs and marinara sauce.
   • Cook in a crockpot for 3-4 hours, then serve in long sandwich bread.
   • Great for busy occasions and can be refrigerated and reheated.
7. Korean Beef Tacos:
   • A flavorful recipe making 12 servings, perfect for a unique and delicious taco night.
   • Make Korean beef, kimchi, and sriracha mayonnaise separately, then assemble in tortillas.
   • Prepare components ahead and heat as needed for a stress-free gathering.
8. Swedish Cinnamon Buns topped with Salted Caramel:
   • Indulge your sweet tooth with this treat serving 16-18 people.
   • A delightful combination of cinnamon buns, caramel, and chopped almonds.
   • Perfect for a sweet ending to any gathering and can be prepared in advance.
9. Lasagna:
   • A classic dish that’s perfect for preparing ahead and freezing.
   • Layer lasagna noodles with ground beef, sauce, cottage cheese, and mozzarella for a hearty meal.
10. Pasta al Forno:
    • Similar to lasagna, this Italian dish can also be frozen and reheated.
    • Prepare a delicious pasta sauce with Italian sausage, marinara, garlic, and onions.
    • Load a 13×9 pan with pasta and sauce, making it a convenient option for large gatherings.

Conclusion:

These recipes offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring your event is a culinary success. Whether you’re planning a breakfast, lunch, or dinner gathering, these dishes can be prepared ahead, making your hosting experience enjoyable and stress-free. Try them out and impress your guests with delicious and crowd-pleasing meals!