Potluck Party Calculator
Organize the perfect potluck and ensure a balanced meal for all guests
Hosting Tip: A successful potluck balances variety with clear organization. Assign categories to ensure a complete meal.
Pro Tip: Create a shared sign-up sheet (digital or physical) to avoid duplicates and gaps in menu.
Potluck Categories
Serving Size: 6-8 people
Serving Size: 8-10 people
Serving Size: 10-12 people
Serving Size: 12-15 people
Serving Size: 15-20 people
Quantity: Full set
Potluck Organization Summary
Main Dishes:
Side Dishes:
Salads:
Desserts:
Drinks:
Utensils/Plates:
0 of 3 assigned
0 of 4 assigned
0 of 2 assigned
0 of 3 assigned
0 of 2 assigned
Host providing
Total Guests Participating: 0
Guests Not Assigned: 0
Potluck Planning Tips:
- Assign specific dishes to avoid duplicates and ensure variety
- Provide serving utensils and labels for each dish
- Plan for 10-15% more food than your guest count
Potluck Planning Guide
By Guest Count
- Small (5-15 guests): 3-4 main dishes, 3-4 sides, 2 desserts
- Medium (15-30 guests): 5-6 main dishes, 5-6 sides, 3 desserts
- Large (30-50 guests): 7-8 main dishes, 7-8 sides, 4 desserts
- Very Large (50+): Divide into themed stations with coordinators
By Event Type
- Casual: Finger foods, simple dishes, minimal coordination
- Work Event: Pre-portioned items, easy cleanup
- Holiday: Traditional dishes, themed decorations
- Family Reunion: Generational favorites, heirloom recipes
Serving Quantities Guide
- Main Dishes: Should serve 6-8 people per dish
- Side Dishes: Should serve 8-10 people per dish
- Salads: Should serve 10-12 people per dish
- Desserts: Should serve 12-15 people per item
- Drinks: Plan for 2 drinks per person in first hour
"Potlucks with assigned categories have 40% better food variety and 25% less food waste than unorganized ones."
Essential Potluck Components
Main Dishes
The heart of your potluck. Include a variety of proteins and vegetarian options. Casseroles, lasagnas, and slow cooker dishes work well. Plan for 1-2 main dishes per 10 guests beyond the minimum.
Pro Tip: Assign specific proteins (chicken, beef, vegetarian) to ensure variety.
Side Dishes
Starches, vegetables, and complementary items. Include both hot and cold options. Popular choices include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and pasta salads. Plan for 1 side dish per 6-8 guests.
Pro Tip: Assign different types (starch, veggie, salad) to balance the meal.
Salads
Green salads, pasta salads, or fruit salads. Provide dressing on the side when possible. Leafy salads should be prepared close to serving time. Plan for 1 salad per 12-15 guests.
Pro Tip: Assign one green salad and one starch/pasta salad as minimum.
Desserts
Cakes, cookies, pies, or individual treats. Include some fruit-based options. Plan for 1 dessert item per 15 guests, with variety in types and flavors.
Pro Tip: Assign specific types (cake, cookies, fruit dessert) to prevent duplicates.
Drinks
Non-alcoholic options like lemonade, iced tea, and water. Consider coffee/tea for brunch events. For alcohol, specify BYOB or provide a signature drink. Plan for 2 drinks per person for first hour.
Pro Tip: Assign one person to bring ice and coolers if needed.
Coordination Tip: Create a shared sign-up sheet (Google Sheets works well) that shows what's being brought to avoid duplicates and gaps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I organize a potluck sign-up sheet?
Create categories (mains, sides, desserts) with specific quantities needed. Use a shared Google Sheet or potluck organizing website. Assign specific dishes to avoid duplicates. Include columns for guest name, dish name, and serving size.
What should the host provide at a potluck?
Typically the host provides: venue, basic serving utensils, plates/cups/utensils, napkins, ice, and non-alcoholic drinks. The host may also provide 1-2 main dishes. Clearly communicate what you'll provide so guests know what to bring.
How much food should each guest bring?
Each dish should serve approximately: mains (6-8), sides (8-10), salads (10-12), desserts (12-15). Adjust quantities based on how many people are bringing each category. For smaller potlucks (under 20), dishes should serve closer to half the guests.
How do I handle food allergies at a potluck?
Ask guests to label dishes with ingredients. Have some allergen-free options (assign specifically). Consider color-coded labels for common allergens. For severe allergies, consider having those dishes prepared in a controlled environment.
What are some good potluck themes?
Popular themes include: International (assign countries), Decade (50s, 60s, etc.), Color-themed, Seasonal (summer BBQ, winter comfort), Movie/TV show inspired, or Regional cuisine. Themes help guide dish selection and create cohesion.