The 10 Best Casseroles For Summer Potlucks, According To Our Readers

Southern Living Cabbage Casserole in the dish to serve with a serving scooped out
Photo:

Will Dickey

When it comes to backyard potlucks and picnics, picking the right recipe that's tasty, easy to transport, and serves a crowd can be a challenge. But then you remember your trusty 13x9 can do it all. Even in the summer months when it can feel too hot to turn on the oven, many of us will take the heat to whip up a family-favorite recipe. We recently asked our readers to share their favorite casseroles for summer potlucks, and these were the most popular responses.

01 of 10

Old-School Squash Casserole

Southern Living Old School Squash Casserole in the dish after baking ready to serve

Fred Hardy II; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Christina Brockman

The truth is, when we poll our readers, some form of squash casserole tops every list. Why wouldn't it? This delicious recipe is simple, creamy, and freezes beautifully so you can enjoy that summer bounty all year long.

02 of 10

Homemade Baked Beans

Southern Living Homemade Baked Beans in the dish ready to serve

Fred Hardy II; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Stylist: Christina Brockman

Would it even be a summer get-together if baked beans were not there? This homemade recipe takes only 15 minutes of hands-on time and a simple list of ingredients that includes bacon, Worcestershire sauce, and more.

03 of 10

Pineapple Casserole

Southern Living Pineapple Casserole serving on a plate

Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

If you know, you know. The super short ingredient list of this recipe makes it a go-to anytime of year, but in the summer there is something magical about this recipe. Perhaps it's the surprising combination of canned pineapple chunks, Cheddar cheese, and crispy Ritz cracker crust.

04 of 10

Chicken Spaghetti

Southern Living Chicken Spaghetti Casserole in the dish to serve

Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Karen Rankin, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

While many of you noted that you don't love turning on the oven in summer, others said it would not be a potluck without the famous Chicken Spaghetti on the spread. Starring chicken, vegetables, and pasta in a creamy sauce, this casserole is a Mama-approved recipe.

05 of 10

Best Macaroni and Cheese

Best-Ever Macaroni and Cheese
Photographer: Stacy K. Allen. Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

In the South, there is always a place for Macaroni and Cheese at our gatherings. While there are many ways to make this dish, our simple homemade recipe will never disappoint.

06 of 10

Macaroni Corn Casserole

Macaroni Corn Casserole
Will Dickey; Prop Styling: Christina Daley; Food Styling: Rishon Hanners

Can't decide between bringing Corn Casserole or Macaroni and Cheese? Bring the best of both recipes together in this tasty dish that will be gone in minutes.

07 of 10

Cabbage Casserole

Southern Living Cabbage Casserole in the dish to serve with a serving scooped out

Will Dickey

Pair cabbage with Parmesan cheese, butter, and breadcrumbs and you'll have a summer casserole that the entire family will request again and again.

08 of 10

Hashbrown Casserole

hashbrown casserole

Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox

Surprise the crowd with a 20-minute casserole that starts with frozen hashbrowns. What makes it so comforting? It's creamy perfection that comes together from the combination of cream-based soup, sour cream, and Cheddar cheese.

09 of 10

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole - Southern Living

Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Even in the summertime we love our potatoes. Creamy mashed potatoes combine with butter, heavy cream, and sour cream, and then finished off with bacon, crisp potato skins, and a layer of Cheddar cheese.

10 of 10

Party Potatoes

Party Potatoes - Southern Living

Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Where's the party? Wherever that pan of homemade party potatoes is sitting. This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes thanks to the simple ingredient list that includes frozen hash browns, canned cream of chicken soup, and a crunchy cornflake topping.

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