11 Halloween Mains And Sides That Travel Well For Potlucks

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Spooky Stuffed Peppers

Spooky Stuffed Peppers are a fun and festive dish perfect for Halloween potlucks. These vibrant bell peppers are hollowed and filled with a delicious mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, creating a ghoulish yet tasty treat that’s sure to make a statement at any gathering. You can customize the filling according to your taste preferences, and the peppers can even be carved to resemble jack-o’-lanterns for added spookiness!

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Peppers: Wash the bell peppers, cut off the tops, and remove the seeds and membranes. If desired, use a small knife to carve faces into the sides to mimic jack-o’-lanterns.
3. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
5. Add Other Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
6. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the filling mixture into each prepared pepper, packing it in gently and mounding it on top. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the filled peppers.
7. Bake: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Add a splash of water to the bottom of the dish to help steam the peppers while baking. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the tops are slightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm to spooky delight!

Enjoy your Spooky Stuffed Peppers at your Halloween potluck!

Witches’ Brew Chili

Witches’ Brew Chili is a hearty and spooky dish that is perfect for Halloween potlucks. This rich and flavorful chili combines beans, ground meat, and a medley of spices, all simmered together to create a delicious meal that’s sure to warm the spirits of your guests. You can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans or vegetables. Plus, the vibrant colors can be enhanced with toppings like shredded cheese and green onions to make it look even more festive.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat the Pan: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables are softened.
3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Cook while breaking it up with a spoon, for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Add Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and enhance their flavors.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, and black beans to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Simmer the Chili: Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it gets too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or broth.
7. Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasonings if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the Witches’ Brew Chili into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra flavor and festivity. Enjoy!

Creepy Cauliflower “Brains”

Creepy Cauliflower “Brains” is a fun and spooky vegetable dish that adds an eerie twist to your Halloween potluck. This dish features cauliflower florets that are seasoned, coated in a flavorful batter, and then baked until crispy. Shaped to resemble wrinkly brains, these roasted treats are perfect for a healthy yet festive option that will impress both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and cut the head into medium-sized florets. Try to shape the florets to resemble small brains.
3. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined. In another bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it lightly in the cornstarch mixture. Shake off any excess.
5. Create a Crunchy Coating: After coating in the cornstarch, dip the florets back into the egg mixture and then roll them in bread crumbs to create a crunchy exterior.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking.
7. Bake the Cauliflower: Drizzle the florets with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm for a spooky yet tasty treat!

Mummy Meatballs

Mummy Meatballs are a fun and creative twist on traditional meatballs that are perfect for your Halloween potluck. This dish features savory meatballs wrapped in strips of crescent roll dough to resemble mummies, complete with funny “eyes” made from small dollops of mustard or tiny pieces of olives. Not only are they delicious, but they also add a festive and spooky touch to your table, guaranteed to be a hit among both kids and adults!

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, bread crumbs, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, roughly the size of a golf ball. Place the formed meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough: Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it on a clean surface. Cut the dough into thin strips (about 1/4 inch wide) using a pizza cutter or knife.
5. Wrap the Meatballs: Take a strip of dough and wrap it around each meatball, leaving a small space for the “face.” You can crisscross the strips for a more mummy-like appearance. Repeat this for all meatballs.
6. Bake the Meatballs: Place the wrapped meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the dough is lightly golden.
7. Add the Eyes: Once the mummy meatballs are out of the oven, use small dollops of mustard or pieces of olives to create eyes on each mummy.
8. Serve: Transfer the mummy meatballs to a serving platter and enjoy while warm. They’re perfect for Halloween-themed parties and will surely be a fun conversation starter!

Pumpkin Pasta Salad

Pumpkin Pasta Salad is a delightful and festive dish that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and the warmth of fall spices to create a perfect side for your Halloween potluck. This colorful salad features pasta, roasted pumpkin, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing that ties all the flavors together, making it a spooky yet satisfying addition to your table!

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Roast the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, toss the broccoli florets with a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, remaining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Pour the pumpkin dressing over the salad and toss gently to make sure everything is coated evenly.
5. Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad and give it a gentle toss to incorporate.
6. Serve: Transfer the pumpkin pasta salad to a serving bowl or platter. It can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy this delightful fall-inspired dish at your Halloween potluck!

Ghostly Mac and Cheese

Ghostly Mac and Cheese is a fun and spooky twist on the classic comfort food that is perfect for your Halloween potluck. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is adorned with ghost-shaped mozzarella to bring a festive flair to your spread, making it a delightful favorite for both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
3. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir well to guarantee the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Create Ghosts: Using the mozzarella cheese slices, cut out ghost shapes or use cookie cutters to make ghost figures. Place these cheese ghosts on top of the mac and cheese, arranging them so they are evenly spaced.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the Ghostly Mac and Cheese warm at your Halloween potluck and watch it disappear as everyone enjoys this tasty treat!

Eyeball Pizza Bites

Eyeball Pizza Bites are a fun and spooky appetizer that will add a tasty twist to your Halloween potluck! These bite-sized treats are delicious mini pizzas topped with pepperoni and mozzarella, resembling creepy eyeballs that are sure to impress your guests. They are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, making them a hit at any festive gathering.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This guarantees the pizza bites will be crispy and delicious when baked.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough: On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out the pre-made pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough, aiming for about 3 inches in diameter.
3. Assemble the Pizza Bites: Place half of the dough circles on a greased baking sheet. Spoon a small amount of pizza sauce onto each circle, leaving a border around the edges. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
4. Add Eyeballs: Top each pizza with one or two slices of pepperoni. Then, place a slice of black olive in the center of each pepperoni to create the “pupil” of the eyeball. This will give your pizza bites their creepy, Halloween-themed look.
5. Top with Remaining Dough: Place the remaining dough circles on top of the assembled pizzas, pressing down gently around the edges to seal them. You can also brush the tops lightly with cooking spray for a golden finish.
6. Bake the Pizza Bites: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the Eyeball Pizza Bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Arrange them on a platter and watch your guests’ reactions as they dig in to these deliciously spooky treats!

Bone-Chilling Broccoli Salad

Bone-Chilling Broccoli Salad is a vibrant and crunchy dish that combines the freshness of broccoli with a medley of fruits, nuts, and a creamy dressing. This spooky yet delicious salad is perfect for your Halloween potluck, adding a nutritious option to balance out the indulgent treats. Its vibrant colors and ghoulish garnishes will make it a centerpiece that wows your guests while giving them a healthy choice.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli and Cauliflower: Wash the broccoli and cauliflower florets thoroughly under cold running water. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, making sure to remove any tough stems.
2. Blanch the Vegetables: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the broccoli and cauliflower florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. After blanching, immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a few minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli and cauliflower with the halved red grapes, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, chopped pecans, and crumbled bacon. Stir gently to mix the ingredients without mashing the vegetables.
4. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well-combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
5. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to toss everything together gently, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the Bone-Chilling Broccoli Salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
7. Serve: Just before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing. Transfer to a platter or bowl, and if desired, garnish with a few extra cranberries or nuts for an extra spooky touch. Enjoy this chilling and delicious salad at your Halloween potluck!

Haunted Harvest Quinoa

Haunted Harvest Quinoa is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines protein-packed quinoa with seasonal vegetables and spices, creating a delightful autumn-inspired meal. This dish not only looks wonderful on the potluck table but is also a fantastic way to showcase the flavors of fall. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a wholesome, flavorful option that encapsulates the spirit of Halloween.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Rinse the Quinoa: Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve. This helps to remove any bitterness. Set aside.
2. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and has absorbed the broth. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and bell pepper into the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Incorporate the Flavorings: Add the pumpkin puree, cooked quinoa, ground cumin, and pumpkin pie spice to the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Fold in the Greens: Once everything is well mixed, add the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt into the dish. Stir to combine and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Add Crunch and Sweetness: Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the quinoa mixture.
8. Serve: Transfer the Haunted Harvest Quinoa to a serving dish, and garnish with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature at your Halloween potluck for everyone to enjoy!

This hearty dish is sure to be a hit, bringing the flavors of the season to your gathering in a deliciously spooky way!

Black Cat Sliders

Black Cat Sliders are an adorable and spooky addition to any Halloween potluck. These mini burgers are not only fun to look at but also tasty and easy to eat, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With their delicious flavors and playful presentation, these sliders are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat the Grill or Skillet: Begin by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If you are using a grill, make sure to oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Beef: In a large bowl, season the ground beef (or turkey) with salt and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into small, round patties that are slightly larger than the burger buns. Use your thumb to create a slight indentation in the center of each patty; this helps them cook evenly.
4. Cook the Sliders: Place the patties on the preheated grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and top each patty with half a slice of cheddar cheese. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
5. Prepare the Buns: While the sliders are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster for about 1-2 minutes until golden.
6. Assemble the Sliders: Once the patties are cooked, place each patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add a dollop of ketchup and mustard to taste.
7. Create the Black Cat Face: To create the cat faces, place two slices of black olive on each burger patty to represent the eyes. If you want to get creative, you can use additional toppings like lettuce or pickles to create ears or whiskers.
8. Top and Serve: Place the top half of the bun on each slider and arrange them on a platter. Serve your Black Cat Sliders warm and enjoy the festive spirit of Halloween!

Devilish Deviled Eggs

Devilish Deviled Eggs are a classic appetizer that adds a spooky twist to any Halloween potluck. These delightful bites are both creamy and tangy, making them a favorite among guests. To give them a haunting appearance, we can garnish them with a touch of paprika and some spooky decorations if desired.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Boil the Eggs: In a pot, place the eggs and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot and remove it from the heat. Let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
2. Cool the Eggs: After the timer goes off, carefully transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water. Allow them to chill for about 5-10 minutes to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.
3. Peel the Eggs: Once the eggs are cool, gently tap them on a hard surface to crack the shell, then peel the eggs under running water to help remove any stubborn bits of shell.
4. Slice and Scoop: Slice each egg in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a bowl, leaving the egg white halves intact on a serving platter.
5. Mix the Filling: Mash the yolks with a fork until crumbly. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
6. Fill the Egg Whites: Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the hollowed egg whites. If you’d like, you can use a piping bag and a star tip for a decorative effect.
7. Garnish the Eggs: Sprinkle the filled deviled eggs with smoked paprika for a pop of flavor and a hint of spookiness. You can also place small olive pieces or parsley leaves on top to create fun designs.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the Devilish Deviled Eggs on your serving platter and enjoy the eerie yet delicious addition to your Halloween potluck!