20 Vintage Recipes From Church Cookbooks and Potlucks

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Melissa Goff

Only the best of the best recipes are printed in church cookbooks—because who would risk their reputation by attaching their name to something that isn't guaranteed to impress? Over the years, our community members have submitted tons of church cookbook recipes. We've rounded up a few of our favorites (and thrown in some recipes that are popular at church potlucks, for good measure).

01
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'Ugly' Chicken Casserole

AllRecipes/Qi Ai

This 9×13 casserole recipe, from my own grandma's 60-year-old church cookbook, isn't much to look at—but, what it lacks in beauty, it makes up for in deliciousness. The mix of modern and vintage ingredients result in the perfect comfort food dinner for busy weeknights. 

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02
of 21

Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs

Pat Bernitt

This Southern twist on classic deviled eggs is "a staple at every potluck, church picnic, backyard BBQ, or family get-together," says Allrecipes community member Pat Bernitt.

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03
of 21

Mom's Parsley Potatoes

"My mother loved potatoes, and she was always on the lookout for ooey-gooey potato recipes. Here is one from my treasure trove of her recipes. This one, I'm sure, actually came from a church potluck, and I actually have it written in her handwriting!" —Bibi

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04
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Ground Beef Spinach Casserole

Grocery Addict

This hearty casserole, made with a filling ground beef-spinach mixture and flavorful seasonings, got rave reviews when Allrecipes community member JNAMCD brought it to a church potluck.

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05
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Slow Cooker Belgian Chicken Booyah

"This booyah recipe was adapted from a 50-gallon recipe that was cooked in large 55-gallon cast iron kettles over a wood fire, most often at church picnics in northeastern Wisconsin." —Bill Bartelme

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06
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Choco-Coconut Bar Cookies

Allrecipes community member debbthebee says this recipe, passed down from her Gramie Watson, is one of the most requested treats at church gatherings and school events.

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07
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Martie's Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese

"This broccoli salad with bacon and cheese recipe is from my mother-in-law Martie. It is always a crowd-pleaser at family events and church picnics. The combination of bacon, cheese, and raisins gives it a sweet and salty taste." —Kevin Gorton

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08
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Pulled Pork, Y'all

"This pulled pork is a favorite at our church. I made it for a fundraiser, and now every time we have a potluck, my inbox is full with people asking me to make it." —jesscman

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09
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Yia Yia's Baklava

Passed down from generation to generation, this baklava recipe is welcome at any get together. "One time, my mother donated a small tin of baklava to a church charity auction," says Allrecipes community member Jacolyn. "It was very competitive, but the price was driven up to $40!"

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10
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Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Meredith Food Studios

Allrecipes community member Angela got this biscuits and gravy casserole recipe at a church potluck: "All the flavors blend really well. I've made it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So far every time I've served it, I haven't had any leftovers."

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11
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Mamaw's Chicken and Rice Casserole

Melissa Goff

This classic 9×13-inch casserole, from Allrecipes community member katiefbenham, is one of our most popular recipes of all time: "I grew up with this chicken and rice casserole recipe. My Grandmother got it from a lady from church at a potluck a long time ago! She passed it down to my mom and it's always been a family favorite."

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12
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Vanilla Wafer Cookies That Are Better Than Storebought

Deb C

"This recipe comes from my favorite cookbook from a church. It is simple, easy, inexpensive and delicious! Not to mention it tastes better than the vanilla wafers you can buy at the store!" —usmcwifey

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13
of 21

Good Ol' Alabama Sweet Tea

"This sweet tea is found in houses, churches, and cafes all over the great state of Alabama. If you're north of the Mason-Dixon, you've NEVER had tea this good! Fresh-squeezed lemon, lime, or orange juice can be added for an extra flavor." —LOVECATS2001

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14
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Chocolate Trifle

DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS 

"This chocolate trifle has layers of brownies, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping. It's so easy to make and delicious! Folks line up for this dessert at church functions." —Wayne

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15
of 21

Mrs. Sigg's Snickerdoodles

Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

With nearly 6,000 5-star reviews, this beloved cookie is an Allrecipes icon. "These snickerdoodle cookies have become very popular with my friends at church—and my pastor loves them," says recipe creator Beth Sigworth. "You will too!"

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16
of 21

Zippy Egg Casserole

Allrecipes Magazine

"This egg casserole recipe has a little zip to it due to the pepper Jack cheese! It's a big hit at church brunches." —ANY14TNS

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17
of 21

White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies

Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Recipe submitter Mary was served these bakery-worthy cookies at a restaurant in Missouri, then went home to serve up her take at church gatherings—it's been a hit ever since (and this version is even better than the original, according to Mary).

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18
of 21

Pecan Crackers

"I got this sweet pecan cracker recipe from a lady at church. It is great finger food and is easy to prepare." —Angie

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19
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Country Style Green Beans with Red Potatoes

KGora

"These green beans with smoked turkey and potatoes are a spectacular dish. I have been making them for years in large quantities for special events at my church. The smoked turkey tails make an excellent broth that is seasoned beyond words." —Faye Hughes

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20
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Cashew and Swiss Cheese Salad With Poppy Seed Dressing

"This cashew and Swiss cheese salad with poppy seed dressing is another church function favorite." —tglatz

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21
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More Inspiration

DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS

  • 20 Cheap Vintage Recipes We Come Back to Again and Again
  • 15 Tried-And-True Recipes from Vintage Cookbooks
  • 30 Vintage Dinner Party Recipes That’ll Never Go Out of Style

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