23 Labor Day Potluck Dishes Everyone Fights Over the Last Bite

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After years of hauling dishes to Labor Day potlucks, these are the 27 potluck dishes that disappear first. They are built for a crowd, from make-ahead salads and easy main dishes to slow cooker favorites, desserts, and appetizers. Whether you’re hosting the backyard cookout, bringing a dish to someone else’s yard, or just need something solid to hand over at the door, consider this your game plan for the last big potluck of the summer.

7 Layer Salad Recipe

Seven layer salad in a bowl.
7 Layer Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This traditional 7 Layer Salad has been a staple at barbecues, potlucks, and church suppers for generations. An elegant and popular side dish that’s sure to impress at your Labor Day gathering.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad Recipe

Cherry Salad

Cherry fluff salad in blue bowls with whipped cream.
Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Beat the summer heat at your next potluck with this classic Cherry Salad. Requiring just 6 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep time, this refreshing side dish is easy to make ahead for Labor Day.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

Coca Cola Pulled Pork

A serving of pulled pork in a white bowl with hamburger buns and bottled coca-cola in the background on a checkered cloth.
Coca Cola Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Coca-Cola Pulled Pork is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for potlucks. The unique addition of Coca-Cola adds a special touch to this classic dish.
Get the Recipe: Coca Cola Pulled Pork

Blueberry Cobbler

Blueberry cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Blueberry Cobbler. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Southern blueberry cobbler boasts a flaky biscuit topping with juicy blueberries peeking through the crust. A classic dessert that’s easy to make and transport, it’s a delightful addition to an end of summer potluck.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cobbler

Crockpot Little Smokies

Crock pot little smokies on a spoon over the slow cooker.
Crockpot Little Smokies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This 3-ingredient crockpot Little Smokies recipe is a classic appetizer that’s been a hit at parties for years. Simple and easy to prepare, it’s a go-to dish for your Labor Day potluck.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Little Smokies

Texas Caviar Dip

Texas caviar on a tortilla chip.
Texas Caviar Dip. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This classic Texas Caviar is a fresh and colorful dip that combines black-eyed peas, beans, and vegetables in a sweet and tangy mix. A hearty and crowd-pleasing appetizer, it’s perfect for Labor Day gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar Dip

Watergate Salad

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Watergate salad is an effortless 5-ingredient dish that’s perfect for a Labor Day potluck. This make-ahead recipe is a classic choice that’s sure to please everyone at your next event.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Coconut Bars with Chocolate Chips

Gooey coconut bars on a wooden cutting board with coconut.
Coconut Bars with Chocolate Chips. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These chewy coconut bars with chocolate chips are a delightful dessert that’s easy to make. Packed with coconut and a hint of chocolate, they’re a perfect addition to any potluck spread.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Bars with Chocolate Chips

Ramen Noodle Salad

Three white bowls filled with ramen noodles and vegetables.
Ramen Noodle Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Ramen Noodle Asian Salad combines cabbage and other veggies with crunchy ramen noodles, all tossed in an Asian-inspired dressing. This side dish is perfect for potlucks and cookouts, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodle Salad

Cajun Pasta Salad

Cajun pasta salad of noodles with celery and bell pepper.
Cajun Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Add some excitement to your next potluck with this Cajun pasta salad! Featuring pasta, bell peppers, celery, and onion, tossed in a creamy remoulade-style dressing, this spicy side dish is a great way to liven up any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta Salad

Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Pulled pork on a bun with sauce and cabbage.
Instant Pot Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Instant Pot pulled pork is a quick and delicious dinner option that’s perfect for potlucks. The tender, shredded pork is flavorful and can be prepared in just 2 hours, making it a convenient choice for busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Peach Caprese Salad

A platter of salad featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced peaches, basil leaves, and chopped red onions, garnished with black pepper.
Peach Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This easy peach Caprese salad is a refreshing and gorgeous no-cook dish that’s perfect for a Labor Day gathering. The addition of juicy summer peaches takes this classic salad to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Peach Caprese Salad

Broccoli Crunch Salad

A close shot of a fork full of broccoli salad.
Broccoli Crunch Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This broccoli crunch salad combines crisp raw broccoli, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon for a refreshing and flavorful side dish. Perfect for summer picnics and potlucks, it’s easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Walking Taco Casserole

Mexican casserole in a glass dish.
Walking Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Walking Taco Casserole is a fun and creative dish that combines the flavors of a walking taco into a casserole form, perfect for Labor Day potluck. With layers of ground beef, cheese, veggies, and Fritos, this dish is packed with flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Walking Taco Casserole

Sugar Cookie Bars

Frosted cookie bars with white icing and red and blue sprinkles are cooling on a black wire rack.
Sugar Cookie Bars. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Sugar Cookie Bars are a simple and delicious dessert that’s perfect for potlucks and gatherings. Soft, chewy, and topped with a thick layer of frosting and sprinkles, these bars are easy to make and sure to please any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Sugar Cookie Bars

Snowcone Oreo Balls

A plate with seven snowcone oreo balls topped with brightly colored sugar crystals sits on a table.
Snowcone Oreo Balls. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These no-bake Snowcone Oreo Balls are a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for summer potlucks, BBQs, or poolside snacks. Bursting with flavor and color, these easy-to-make treats are sure to be a favorite among both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Snowcone Oreo Balls

Crock Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Slow cooker Italian beef on a crusty roll with provolone cheese and peppers.
Crock Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These crock pot Italian beef sandwiches are a savory and tender main dish that’s perfect for any casual gathering. With rich seasonings and melt-in-your-mouth beef topped with gooey provolone, they’re sure to be a hit at your Labor Day gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Pea Salad

Pea salad in a blue bowl.
Pea Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This vintage pea salad is a creamy, tangy, and sweet side dish that’s perfect for potlucks and gatherings. This make-ahead salad is sure to be a favorite at your Labor Day gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad

Amish Cinnamon Bread

Closeup of Amish cinnamon read showing the inside.
Amish Cinnamon Bread. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Amish cinnamon bread is a sweet, aromatic treat that’s quick to make. Perfect for potlucks, this bread brings the comfort of home-baked goodness to your Labor day potluck.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Bread

Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken

Slow cooker chicken with BBQ sauce in a crock pot with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This 3-ingredient slow cooker pulled chicken is an effortless and fuss-free dish that’s great for potlucks. The result is tender, juicy chicken that can be served on rolls with coleslaw and pickles for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken

Deviled Eggs with Pickle Relish

Holding a deviled egg sprinkled with paprika.
Deviled Eggs with Pickle Relish. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These deviled eggs with pickle relish are a favorite for potlucks and gatherings. The subtle pickle flavor in the filling adds a nice tang to this classic appetizer, making it a delicious and creative addition to any party spread.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs with Pickle Relish

Lunch Lady Brownies

A pile of neatly cut chocolate-frosted brownies is displayed on a white surface.
Lunch Lady Brownies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Lunch Lady Brownies are a nostalgic and delicious treat that’s perfect for potlucks. This easy recipe allows you to recreate the classic taste of your childhood in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Lunch Lady Brownies

Blueberry Upside Down Cake

Blueberry upside down cake on a white plate before slicing.
Blueberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Blueberry Upside Down Cake is a stunning and delicious summer dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any potluck or gathering. With a moist cake base and a topping of juicy blueberries, this cake is both visually appealing and incredibly flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Upside Down Cake

anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

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