"
Potluck Parties" are all the rage--each guest brings a dish and it is also referred to as a "
Covered Dish" in the
South. It's a great way to host a party as it allows people to come together and enjoy lots of great food, without placing a lot of pressure on the hostess!
What's the difference between a "
Potluck Party" and a "
Covered Dish?"
Notsomuch...it's just that
Southerners use the term "
Covered Dish" more often. This is a photo of my hometown church in Augusta, Georgia...I have many fond memories of this church where my parents were charter members. I still prepare recipes from the cookbook authored by the
Church Ladies of National Hills:)

The "
Covered Dish" meals are a staple of church life in the
South...I can still hear mama asking friends who would call to invite her for a meal..."Is it
covered dish?"

Outside the Church, it's all about the "
Potluck Party!" Bookclubs, Bunco Groups, Bridge Clubs, and other social groups...everybody's into "
Potluck Suppers! Of course, I have to travel to my events in style y'all! This monogrammed insulated basket is perfect to carry casserole dishes. It's large enough for most casserole dishes and
tres chic!

This past weekend I prepared "
Mama's Meatloaf," a product from my
Taste of Gourmet foods. This recipe creates moise meaty morsels of meatloaf that break apart at the touch of your fork.
Mama's Meatloaf Mix is a delicious return to the comfort food of the early 1900's--the food that made us feel good and warm and safe!
The recipe calls for 2 eggs, catchup, and the meat of your choice added to the mix {I chose the heart-healthy ground turkey}. Trust me, this meatloaf was a huge hit!
The box includes two mixes and is
$9.95/box. You can order
Mama's Meatloaf from me
here.
I baked the meatloaf in a glass Pyrex dish...kinda boring presentation huh?

Then I placed the casserole dish inside a cute painted tole casserole dish holder...much better, don't you think? {I covered the dish (
duh) and took the cute dish holder along to the supper}

This is another one of my casserole carriers and is a great way to carry your dishes, while keeping them hot {It has a heated gel pack inside}

But, don't y'all think this one is waaaay cuter?!! I bought this at
ThePinkAzalea. {Not sure if they carry these anymore...got it back in the summertime}.

Now if you want some great recipes for a "
Potluck Party" or "
Covered Dish Suppers", check out this book "
Church Suppers," available at
Gooseberry Patch. It has great recipes for small and large crowds...comfort foods that we all love!

Remember to
Make it Southern...Make it Memorable!