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17 Dishes Your Guests Won’t Stop Talking About

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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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Bacon wrapped jalapenos on a white plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Potatoes au Gratin

Overhead shot of potatoes au gratin cooked in an oval baking dish.
Potatoes au Gratin. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Smoked salmon dip in a bowl with crackers and veggies for dipping.
Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Overhead shot of an apple galette on parchment with fresh apples on the side.
Apple Galette. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Roasted turkey legs on a cutting board with a knife.
Air Fryer Turkey Legs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Cooked shrimp in a green and white striped bowl, garnished with parsley.
Instant Pot Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes with whipped cream stars on top.
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Masshed potato casserole in a baking dish with a cracker crumb topping.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Sliced ham with oranges and mint.
Instant Pot Ham. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Overhead shot of a phyllo pie cooked in a bundt pan.
Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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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

Bacon wrapped jalapenos on a white plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Overhead shot of dulce de leche cookies.
Dulce de Leche Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Pommes duchesse on a white plate wiht parsley.
Pommes Duchesse. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Low angle shot of an air fried whole chicken.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Cranberry sauce in a white bowl garnished with orange zest and star anise pods.
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Low angle shot of green bean salad with fried onions and dry ricotta on a white plate.
Green Bean Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

A loaf of bread with garlic and onions on a cutting board.
Swirled Garlic Bread. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Stack of hot cocoa cookies on a plate.
Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Founder, Writer, Recipe Developer at All The Noodles

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

By on December 19th, 2024

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