Next time you’re planning a gathering, make sure you’ve got one of these 17 showstoppers on the menu. They’re easy enough to pull off, but fancy enough to make you look like a pro in the kitchen. The only downside? You might have to host more dinners to keep everyone coming back for seconds.
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Potatoes au Gratin
This classic French dish is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Potatoes au Gratin combines thinly sliced potatoes with a creamy sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting side dish that pairs well with almost any main course.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes au Gratin
Smoked Salmon Dip
Looking for an impressive appetizer? Smoked Salmon Dip is a great option that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers or fresh bread and can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip
Apple Galette
This rustic dessert is a simpler alternative to traditional apple pie. Apple Galette features a flaky crust filled with sweet, spiced apples. It’s a beautiful dessert that looks like it came from a French bakery but can be easily made at home.
Get the Recipe: Apple Galette
Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Want to enjoy fair food at home? Air Fryer Turkey Legs bring that experience to your kitchen. They’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and cook much faster than in a traditional oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Instant Pot Shrimp
For a quick and easy seafood dish, try Instant Pot Shrimp. This method ensures perfectly cooked shrimp in minutes. It’s versatile enough to be used in pasta dishes, salads, or as a standalone appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
These individual desserts are perfect for fall gatherings. Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes combine the flavors of pumpkin pie with the creamy texture of cheesecake. They’re easy to serve and portion-controlled, making them ideal for parties.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
This dish takes comfort food to the next level. Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole is a hearty side that’s sure to be a hit at potlucks and family dinners. It’s creamy, cheesy, and can be prepared in advance for easy entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
Instant Pot Ham
Cooking a large ham has never been easier thanks to the Instant Pot. Instant Pot Ham comes out tender and flavorful in a fraction of the time it takes in the oven. It’s a great option for holiday meals or when you’re feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ham
Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie
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This unique dish combines savory and sweet flavors in a crispy package. Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie features a flaky phyllo crust filled with creamy butternut squash. It’s a vegetarian-friendly option that’s impressive enough for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Perfect for a gathering or a game night, Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers bring a little heat to the table in a fun, bite-sized form. Guests will love the combination of a crispy exterior and soft filling. These poppers are sure to become a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Dulce de Leche Cookies
When it comes to desserts, Dulce de Leche Cookies are unforgettable. These cookies are filled with creamy, caramel goodness that will have everyone asking for more. They’re great for any occasion and will definitely leave a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Dulce de Leche Cookies
Pommes Duchesse
If you want a sophisticated side dish, Pommes Duchesse is an excellent choice. These beautifully piped mashed potatoes offer a perfect blend of smooth and crispy textures. Every bite gives that special touch, making your meal feel a bit more upscale.
Get the Recipe: Pommes Duchesse
Air Fryer Whole Chicken
When you need a dinner that impresses you, Air Fryer Whole Chicken is the answer. It comes out perfectly roasted with a crispy skin and juicy interior. Your guests will be talking about how delicious and well-cooked it is long after the meal is over.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
For a side dish that’s quick but unforgettable, Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce delivers. It’s an excellent complement to many meals and will add a nice touch to your dinner. Friends and family will appreciate the homemade feel with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
Green Bean Salad
If you’re searching for a refreshing side, Green Bean Salad is a go-to. It’s light and has a satisfying crunch, making it a hit at any gathering. The salad is versatile and sure to receive plenty of compliments.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Salad
Swirled Garlic Bread
For a bread that’s more than just a side, Swirled Garlic Bread steals the show. Every slice is filled with a rich, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist. This bread will be the star of your meal, enticing everyone to reach for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Garlic Bread
Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies
This is an easy way to surprise your guests with a comforting treat that’s both unique and delicious. For a cozy dessert, Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies are ideal. They offer a perfect combination of textures that pair well with a cup of hot cocoa.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies
Robin Donovan is an AP syndicated writer, recipe developer, food photographer, and author of more than 40 cookbooks including the bestsellers Ramen Obsession and Ramen for Beginners. Her work is featured by major media outlets including Huffington Post, MSN, Chicago Sun-Times, Orlando Sentinel, Buzzfeed, Cooking Light, Mercury News, Seattle Times, Pop Sugar, and many others. More about Robin