The best part is, this low price isn't going anywhere!
The Real Reason Costco’s Hot Dogs Cost $1.50
Every devout Costco shopper knows their favorite superstore has more than great deals on home goods. It sells delicious food at a ridiculously cheap price.
One of the go-to choices in the Costco food court is the hot dog and soda combo, which gets you a jumbo dog and 20 oz. soda for $1.50. In 1984, Hebrew National, the store’s hot dog supplier at the time, set up a cart outside a San Diego warehouse. Its initial success spurred Costco’s entire food court business, but the combo price hasn’t changed in over 30 years.
The reason lies in the company’s business philosophy. Costco could easily rake in millions more in annual profits by raising prices, but maintaining low prices for hot dogs and other food court eats works as a proven incentive for shoppers. For people that need to make weekly shopping trips, knowing they can buy a cheap, ready-to-eat meal when cooking is the last thing they want to do is a huge perk. That includes Costco’s other notoriously cheap item, their $4.99 rotisserie chickens.
The convenient meal options also help justify the cost of a yearly membership, especially when $1.50 buys shoppers more food than ever. The original hot dog/soda combo included a 12 oz. can of soda and a quarter-pound hot dog. Today, it comes with a 20 oz. soda, plus free refills, and a dog that’s 10 percent bigger. That’s because Costco replaced the Hebrew National hot dogs with their own Kirkland brand product in 2009.
Since the cheap hot dogs are a win for the company and its shoppers, you don’t need to worry about those prices going up any time soon. And that’s not the only novelty reason to stop in this famous superstore. Check out these other reasons to love Costco.
This all begs the hotly debated question: Is the hot dog a sandwich? Next, find out if Costco’s or Sam’s Club hot dogs are cheaper.
Stock Up and Try These Popular Potluck Recipes
Need to bring a dish to pass this weekend? This make-ahead strawberry pretzel salad will disappear quickly at any potluck. —Aldene Belch, Flint, Michigan
Baked Spaghetti with Cream of Mushroom SoupBeing cheesy is a good thing when you're talking about baked spaghetti with cream of mushroom soup. It's cozy, cheesy and promises lots of leftovers.
Beer DipBeer dip combines all the best things for party food: a creamy dip, ranch dressing, lots of cheese and, of course, beer. What else could you possibly need?
Lemon BarsThese delightful lemon bars have a wonderful tangy flavor, and they're always a hit. As a bonus, the color and shape make them a nice addition to a dessert platter.
Chocolate Chip Cookie DelightIncluding the hands-off time it spends chilling in the fridge, chocolate chip cookie delight is a low-lift layered dessert of chocolate chip cookie crust, cream cheese filling and creamy pudding.
Special Sesame Chicken SaladWith its delicious mix of crunchy peanuts, tangy dried cranberries and mandarin oranges, this colorful Asian chicken salad is a definite crowd-pleaser. Water chestnuts and a teriyaki dressing give this main dish its Asian flare. —Carolee Ewell, Santaquin, Utah
Ham Balls with Brown Sugar GlazeThese smoky-sweet meatballs are a Pennsylvania Dutch specialty. I like setting them out when folks come to visit. —Janet Zeger, Middletown, Pennsylvania
Snickers SaladSnickers salad may not be a traditional green salad, but it is a midwestern specialty. Bring this easy one-bowl dessert to your next potluck and watch it disappear!
Taco Meatball RingWhile it looks complicated, this attractive meatball-filled ring is really very easy to assemble. My family loves tacos, and we find that the crescent roll dough is a nice change from the usual tortilla shells or chips. —Brenda Johnson, Davison, Michigan
Pistachio SaladFluffy, creamy, sweet pistachio salad isn't exactly what you expect from a salad—but it is delicious. Here's how (and when) to make this vintage side dish.
Macaroni ColeslawMy friend Peggy brought this coleslaw to one of our picnics, and everyone liked it so much, we all had to have the recipe. —Sandra Matteson, Westhope, North Dakota
Peanut Butter Chocolate Poke CakeWhen my family is planning a get-together, I can count on three or four people to ask if I'm bringing this dessert. If you don't have a chocolate cake mix, use a white or yellow one and stir in 3 tablespoons baking cocoa. —Fay Moreland, Wichita Falls, Texas
Fried Prosciutto TortelliniMy take on Italian street food, these fried tortellini are crunchy, gooey good. For the sauce, use the best quality tomatoes you can find. —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey
Butter Pecan FudgeThis butter pecan fudge recipe is one you'll return to again and again. It is delicious and relatively easy to make.
Pasta Fagioli SoupFilled with fresh turkey sausage, beans and pasta, pasta fagioli soup is a powerhouse of nutrients and flavor.
Tortellini & Shrimp Skewers with Sun-Dried Tomato SauceThese fresh skewers and tasty sauce will have guests nibbling all night! —Cacie Biddle, Bridgeport, West Virginia
Super Chunky CookiesChocolate lovers will go crazy over these cookies that feature loads of chocolate! When friends ask me to make "those cookies," I know exactly what recipe they mean. —Rebecca Jendry, Spring Branch, Texas
Beer-Braised Pulled HamTo jazz up ham, I slow-cooked it with a beer sauce. Buns loaded with ham, pickles and mustard are irresistible. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Chocolate Bavarian TorteWhenever I take this eye-catching torte to a potluck, I get so many requests for the recipe. —Edith Holmstrom, Madison, Wisconsin
Chicken PotpieLearning how to make chicken potpie from scratch is 100% worth it. This chicken potpie recipe features a flaky, buttery crust packed with chicken, vegetables and a creamy sauce.
Rhubarb CrispMake rhubarb crisp with strawberries in spring and apples in fall to enjoy a simple, year-round dessert.
Orange-Glazed Pork LoinThis is one of the best pork recipes I've ever tried. My family looks forward to this roast for dinner, and guests always want the recipe. The flavorful rub, and the glaze brightened with orange juice, are also outstanding on pork chops. —Lynnette Miete, Alna, Maine
Mini Hot BrownsHere's my take on the famous Hot Brown sandwich. Guests quickly saddle up for juicy turkey slices and crispy bacon piled on toasted rye bread and then topped with a rich cheese sauce. —Annette Grahl, Midway, Kentucky
Easy Ice Cream Sundae DessertIn summer, nothing's better than ice cream sundaes. We kids couldn't wait to dig into this tempting dessert. It's cool and smooth with a ribbon of fudge inside. Whenever I make it for my family, I think of Mom. —Anne Heinonen, Howell, Michigan
Church Supper SpaghettiBecause this recipe feeds so many, I often take it to church dinners and potlucks. This colorful dish also comes in handy when we have lots of help to feed on our farm. —Verlyn Wilson, Wilkinson, Indiana
Fudge-Topped BrowniesIf you love brownies and fudge, why not combine the two? Mix up a pan of these exquisite brownies for any holiday or special gathering—or just when you want to treat yourself to the ultimate chocolate dessert.
—Judy Olson, Whitecourt, Alberta
Swiss Cheese BreadThis bread will receive rave reviews, whether you serve it as an appetizer or with a meal. For real convenience, you can make it ahead of time and freeze it! —Karla Boice, Mahtomedi, Minnesota
Nutty Cheesecake SquaresI grew up on a farm and have had a lot of good recipes handed down to me. This is one of my favorite desserts to serve when guests come over or at family gatherings and church suppers. —Ruth Simon, Buffalo, New York
Chicken Tater Tot CasseroleThis yummy chicken Tater Tot casserole makes a filling dinner everyone in the family will enjoy.
Mini Phyllo TacosFor a winning appetizer, serve crispy phyllo cups filled with taco-seasoned ground beef and shredded cheese. These handheld bites will be a surefire hit with a hungry crowd. —Roseann Weston, Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Orange CookiesSoft, tender and filled with bright, zippy orange juice and zest, our orange cookies with a homemade icing are sure to please—and pucker!
Slow Cooker Shredded Turkey SandwichesThis easy and simple slow-cooked sandwich gets its flavor from bottled beer and onion soup mix. In total, it only takes five ingredients to make the recipe! —Jacki Knuth, Owatonna, Minnesota
Caramel Peanut BarsRich chocolate, crunchy peanuts and gooey caramel peek out from between golden oat and crumb layers. Delicious!—Ardyce Piehl, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Make Once, Eat Twice LasagnaOur family loves this recipe along with a green salad and garlic bread. It's so handy to have an extra pan in the freezer when unexpected guests drop in or you need to take a main course to a charity event. —Geri Davis, Prescott, Arizona
Tzatziki Shrimp Cucumber RoundsI created this recipe with what I had on hand one night, and now it’s one of my husband’s favorites! The bacon-wrapped shrimp, garlicky sauce and burst of cool cuke flavor make this a crowd pleaser. —Shannon Rose Trelease, East Hampton, New York
Chicken Cordon Bleu CasseroleChicken cordon bleu casserole is made with all the same great flavors of the classic dish but with half the fuss. It'll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Southwestern CasseroleThis southwestern casserole is a riff on chili mac, with the added spice of green chiles and sliced jalapenos, all underneath a melted layer of Monterey Jack cheese.
Pork, Bean & Rice BurritosGet ready for tailgate season with these slow-cooker pork burritos, featuring tender spice-rubbed pork wrapped up with rice, beans, and your choice of toppings. They're an easy and satisfying meal well-suited for any casual occasion.
Savory Potato SkinsFor a simple hot snack that really hits the spot on a cool fall evening, put together a plate of these crisp potato skins. —Andrea Holcomb, Torrington, Connecticut
Almond-Coconut Lemon BarsGive traditional lemon bars a tasty twist with the addition of almonds and coconut. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Cabbage Roll CasseroleLayer cabbage with tomato sauce and ground beef lasagna-style to create a hearty casserole that tastes like cabbage rolls but without all the work.
Cornbread Pizza WheelsThis hearty, colorful snack looks like you spent a lot of time, but it's simple to make. —Patrick Lucas, Cochran, Georgia
Garlic Bread Mini MuffinsThese little garlic bread bites make a terrific addition to any buffet spread. We make sure to serve them warm. —Kathy Yarosh, Apopka, Florida
Nuts-About-You Cookie SticksThese cookies make a fancy meal finale that couldn’t be quicker to whip up. Start with purchased Pirouette cookies, dip in a rich creamy chocolate and peanut-butter coating, and dust with nuts or sprinkles. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Bacon-Cheddar Potato CroquettesInstead of throwing out leftover mashed potatoes, use them to make this potato croquette recipe. The little baked balls are yummy with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce or Dijon mayonnaise for dipping. —Pamela Shank, Parkersburg, West Virginia
Bacon-Colby LasagnaMy grandmother added bacon to her cheesy lasagna—something she borrowed from carbonara-style pasta. I learned so much by her side. —Cathy McCartney, Davenport, Iowa
Cranberry-Orange BarsMy mother has had this recipe for years. I love it! These bars make great snacks, but can also be served for dessert. —Margaret Adelman, Bellingham, Minnesota
Chicago-Style Beef RollsI have fond memories of eating these big, messy sandwiches at a neighbor's house when I was growing up. Freeze any extras and save for another meal! —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Chocolate Maple BarsMy family runs a maple syrup operation, and I'm always looking for new ways to incorporate maple syrup into my cooking and baking. These bars are delicious! —Cathy Schumacher, Alto, Michigan
Apple Red-Hot Slab PieThis dessert is my family’s favorite because it brings back so many fond memories. Red Hots give the filling a pretty color that makes this pie an instant hit at parties. —Linda Morten, Somerville, Texas
Eggplant Sausage CasseroleIf you want your kids to happily eat their eggplant, serve it in this lovely layered casserole. Our whole family enjoys it. Always a popular potluck item, it's a great company dish, as well. —Carol Mieske, Red Bluff, California
Turkey Sloppy JoesThese turkey sloppy joes take the classic comfort food in a bun and tweak it, swapping the ground beef for turkey, and adding fresh bell peppers and onions for wonderful flavor and crunch.
Crispy Sriracha Spring RollsWhile in the Bahamas, friends suggested a restaurant that served amazing chicken spring rolls. When I got home, I created my own version. Such a great appetizer to have waiting in the freezer! —Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Baked Beef TacosUpgrade your usual Tuesday night taco with this clever (and tasty!) oven baked tacos recipe.
Bacon-Wrapped ShrimpYou might want to make a double batch because these bacon-wrapped shrimp will disappear as soon as you bring out the platter!
Chunky Blond BrowniesEvery bite of these chewy blondies is packed with chunks of white and semisweet chocolate and macadamia nuts. It's a potluck offering that stands out. —Rosemary Dreiske, Lemmon, South Dakota
Turkey Rice CasseroleGetting a comforting meal on the table in no time couldn't be any easier thanks to this nourishing turkey rice casserole dish, which is ready in just over 30 minutes from start to finish.
Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce MeatballsEasy and delicious are the two main characteristics of any good appetizer, and these grape jelly and chili sauce meatballs fit the bill. From Superbowl gatherings to Oscar parties, these meatballs are sure to hit the spot.
Layered Chocolate Marshmallow Peanut Butter BrowniesA friend gave me the recipe for these layered brownies, but I added my own touch--chunky peanut butter. Every time I take these to a group gathering, I get requests for the recipe. It's a real crowd-pleaser! —Judy Sims, Weatherford, Texas
Stromboli SandwichI've made this Stromboli sandwich many times for parties, and it gets great reviews. You can add ingredients and spices to suit your taste. The recipe is so good I just had to share it with you! —Leigh Lauer, Hummelstown, Pennsylvania
Artichoke Dip BitesLove artichoke dip? This recipe gives you the dip and dippers together in one appetizer. My friends can’t get enough of the yummy baked bread cups and creamy filling. —Nikkole Vanyo, West Fargo, North Dakota
Browned Butter Cereal BarsCrispy rice treats were one of the first recipes I ever made as a kid. For this version, I wanted to make something similar but more special. Friends and family think using Cap'n Crunch and browned butter is genius, but I just call them delicious.—Kelly Krauss, Lebanon, New Jersey
Green Chile Beef BurritosRecipes that are leaner in fat and calories—like this one for beef burritos—helped me lose 30 pounds! The meat is so tender and delicious. —Shirley Davidson, Thornton, Colorado
Olives and CheeseThis elegant marinated olives and cheese platter is a perfect appetizer for any occasion, especially one with an Italian-inspired menu. The arrangement is visually appealing and temptingly delicious, and it can be made entirely ahead of time.
Applesauce CakeThis applesauce cake recipe is moist, delicious and perfect for any day. The cake features plump raisins, as well as walnuts and the perfect combination of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon to spice things up.
Taco Tater SkinsI wanted to make a version of these with ingredients most people have on hand. We make a meal out of these skins, but they're also great for parties as appetizers. —Phyllis Douglas, Fairview, Michigan
Almond Cherry FudgeCooked in the microwave, this fast fudge is a sweet addition to any holiday gathering. I make it when I need a quick treat for a school party or to take to a neighbor. —Shellie Tucker, Hendersonvlle, Tennessee
Four-Tomato SalsaThe variety of tomatoes, onions and peppers makes this chunky salsa so good. Whenever I try to take a batch to a get-together, it's hard to keep my family from finishing it off first! It's a super snack with tortilla chips or as a relish with meat. —Connie Siese, Wayne, Michigan
M&M Oat BarsThese irresistible bars can sweeten any holiday. —Renee Schwebach, Dumont, Minnesota
Slow-Cooked Turkey SandwichesThese sandwiches have been such a hit at office potlucks that I keep copies of the recipe in my desk to hand out. —Diane Twait Nelsen, Ringsted, Iowa
Artichoke Phyllo CupsI wanted to create a bite-sized version of rich, creamy artichoke dip. These adorable phyllo cup appetizers were a total success! —Neel Patel, Champaign, Illinois
Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot BakeHuge on flavor and not too big in terms of hand-on effort, this bacon cheeseburger tater tot casserole is a meal the chef and the diners alike will always agree on.
Spicy-Good Chicken WingsWe enjoy eating these chicken wings while watching football on TV, but make them for any special occasion for a crowd favorite! The pepper sauce gives just the right amount of heat.—Della Clutts, New Tazewell, Tennessee
Raspberry Custard KuchenBack where I grew up in Wisconsin, people have been baking this German treat for generations. We love it for breakfast or as a special dessert. It's no fuss to fix and impressive to serve. —Virginia Arndt, Sequim, Washington
Mini Rosemary-Roast Beef SandwichesRoast beef sandwiches never last long at a party, especially if you dollop them with mayo, mustard, horseradish and pickled giardiniera relish. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Brat & Bacon Appetizer PizzaChopped bratwurst and maple bacon are a fabulous way to start a pizza. I jazz up this treat even more with apricot preserves and honey mustard. The snack-sized slices win over even the toughest critics. —Colleen Vrooman, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Mini Corn Muffins with Spicy Cheddar FillingI’m an Iowa gardener and I like to feature sweet corn in my recipes. These cute, easy-to-eat bites are a fun change from the usual appetizers. —Margaret Blair, Lorimor, Iowa
German Apple CakeBursting with pieces of juicy apple, warmly spiced with cinnamon and crowned with a sweet cloud of cream cheese frosting, this German apple cake is perfect for fall.
Grilled Shredded Pork SandwichesPork shoulder roast is rubbed with seasonings and grilled, creating a crispy exterior that's lip-smacking good! The meat is delicious by itself but can also be topped with your favorite barbecue sauce. —Amanda McLemore, Maryville, Tennessee
Avocado Goat Cheese TrufflesGive guests the VIP treatment with luxurious truffles you can make in your own kitchen. The goat cheese is mild, and red pepper heats up each bite just a bit. Crackers are the perfect accompaniment. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Cherry Cheese CupcakesThese pretty cream cheese cups that look like cupcakes are always my home-baked contribution to our church's Christmas party. The holidays inspired the cheery garnish of cherries, and I often add mint leaves for even more seasonal color. —Leanne Beagley, Rochester, New York
Teriyaki Salmon BundlesIf you're bored with the same old appetizers, give this one a try. I serve the little salmon bundles on skewers for easy dipping. Standing the skewers in a small vase filled with table salt creates a festive presentation. —Diane Halferty, Corpus Christi, Texas
Apple BarsCheck out our classic apple bars recipe in time for fall baking season.
Chicken & Cheese Noodle BakeThis is the recipe my daughters and I often make for new parents when they come home from the hospital. With its creamy spaghetti filling and melted cheese topping, this casserole holds a nice cut and comforts hungry tummies. —Fancheon Resler, Bluffton, Indiana
Stuffed Mini PeppersLooking for a tasty snack or quick appetizer? Try these stuffed mini peppers with a mouthwatering filling of cream cheese, chives and fresh broccoli.
Chewy Salted Peanut BarsMy rich bars are studded with the all-American peanut. I like to think famed peanut farmer Jimmy Carter would approve. —Ann Marie Heinz, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
Cuban SlidersThese Cuban sliders are packed with ham, cheese and pickles and baked with a buttery, Dijon mustard topping.
Sensational Crabmeat FondueWe entertain a lot, and luxurious crab fondue makes guests feel indulged. —Debbie Obert, Middleburg, Florida
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake BarsThese irresistible chocolate chip cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of chewy chocolate chip cookie and creamy cheesecake. They're the ideal treat for any occasion and easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Pizza CasseroleBaked pasta meets oven-ready pizza in our pizza casserole that provides a delicious dinner for tonight and an effortless freezer meal for later. We'll show you step-by-step how to make this freezer-friendly casserole recipe.
Reuben RoundsFans of the classic Reuben sandwich will go crazy for baked pastry spirals of corned beef, Swiss and sauerkraut. They're so easy to make, and bottled Thousand Island dressing makes the perfect dipping sauce. —Cheryl Snavely, Hagerstown, Maryland
Candy Bar BrowniesThe two kinds of candy bars baked into these brownies make them an extra-special treat. —Sharon Evans, Clear Lake, Iowa
Slow-Cooker Pizza DipI created this dip for my daughter's pizza-themed birthday party. It was an instant hit and I've continued to take it along to other gatherings. Everyone loves it! —Stephanie Gates, Waterloo, Iowa
Pecan Pie BarsCome for the pecan pie-like flavors, stay for the milk chocolate toffee bits. Our pecan pie bars might be tastier than their pie inspiration!
Greek Pita SpreadI first tried this at a family gathering and was blown away! I have since made it for my co-workers, and they just love it. I've gotten many requests for the recipe. —Joyce Benninger, Owen Sound, Ontario
Raspberry-Rhubarb Slab PieSlab pie is a pastry baked in a jelly-roll pan and cut into slabs like a bar cookie—or a pie bar, if you will. My grandfather was a professional baker and served pieces of slab pie to his customers back in the day. Here is my spin, featuring rhubarb and gorgeous red raspberries. —Jeanne Ambrose, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Wagon Wheel Pasta SaladSummertime gatherings aren't complete without a refreshing pasta salad. This tasty version features a mayonnaise and picante dressing. It may become one of your favorite side dishes for tacos, too! —Kathryn Donahey, Oil City, Pennsylvania
Bacon Cheeseburger SlidersDive into this comfort food staple: bacon cheeseburger sliders are bursting with flavor, thanks to gooey, melty cheese, loaded burger, and crispy, savory bacon. They're a mini version of your favorite bacon cheeseburger, but better.
Italian Beef HoagiesYou'll need just five ingredients to feed a crowd these tender and tangy Italian beef sandwiches. On weekends, I start the roast the night before, so I can shred it in the morning. —Lori Piatt, Danville, Illinois
Pineapple Sheet CakeThis sheet cake is perfect for serving to a crowd. It keeps so well that you can easily prepare it a day ahead and it will stay moist. I often bring it to church potlucks, and I have yet to take much of it home. —Kim Miller Spiek, Sarasota, Florida
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed ShellsWhen chicken Parmesan meets stuffed shells, it's love at first bite. The texture of the chicken holds up in the deliciously creamy and cheesy mixture. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
Party Appetizer MeatballsThese are a favorite at parties and gatherings. The recipe is easy, and the meatballs can be made well ahead of time and frozen until needed. I think what makes them taste so good is the sauce. —Nathalie Guest, Caledon, Ontario
Peanut Butter Caramel BarsWhen my husband and our three sons sit down to dinner, they ask, "What's for dessert?" I have a happy group of guys when I report that these rich bars are on the menu. They're chockfull of yummy ingredients. —Lee Ann Karnowski, Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Double-Crust Pizza CasseroleAfter my husband and I got married, this biscuit pizza solved the what’s-for-dinner problem. As our family grew, I just made bigger and bigger batches. It never disappoints!—Pat Crane, Pine City, New York
White Texas Sheet CakeThis classic white Texas sheet cake is delicious, and surprisingly quick and easy to make. You won't even need to wait for the cake to cool completely before icing it!
Hamburger Macaroni CasseroleThe definition of hearty comfort food, this hamburger macaroni casserole recipe couldn't be easier to whip up.
Shrimp & Cucumber RoundsI always make these appetizers for our get-togethers. They're easy to prepare and a snappy addition to any party. —Kelly Alaniz, Eureka, California
Oreo BrowniesThese Oreo brownies are a perfect mashup of rich brownies and a cheesecake-like topping, with your favorite childhood cookie thrown in. What's not to like?
Chipotle CarnitasThese chipotle carnitas are a great way to feed a crowd with minimal effort. Though the cooking time is long, the hands-on prep time is brief, and clean-up is a breeze. The tender, slow-cooked pulled pork can be used for tostadas, tacos, burritos and more.
Lattice-Topped Pear Slab PieA lattice top serves as a charming frame for this special holiday dessert filled with fresh pears and candied fruit. Add a dollop of whipped cream if you like. —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Three-Bean Baked BeansI got this recipe from my aunt and made a couple of changes to suit my taste. With ground beef and bacon mixed in, these satisfying beans are a big hit at backyard barbecues and church picnics. I'm always asked to bring my special beans. —Julie Currington, Gahanna, Ohio
Kahlua Dream BarsI always double this recipe so everyone gets a piece. For a glaze with deeper flavor, use 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate and 2 ounces semisweet.—Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario
Cranberry-Beef Mini BurgersCranberry tapenade brings a deep red color and sweet-sour zing to these fun little bacon cheeseburgers. Serve them for parties or any time you want to treat your family. —Priscilla Yee, Concord, California
Two-Bean Tomato BakeParmesan cheese, basil and garlic spice up this mouthwatering medley of beans, mushrooms, onion and tomatoes. It's even more flavorful when you use your garden harvest. We love the cheesy crumb topping because it adds a fantastic crunch.—Dorothy Rieke, Julian, Nebraska
Lemon Bars with Cream Cheese FrostingI won a baking contest at Purdue University with this recipe for lemon bars with cream cheese frosting. I think you’ll love the dreamy topping. —Michael Hunter, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Pizza SaladA fun summer dish, this is a different salad that tastes as good as it looks. I love to take it to parties—the wonderful zesty flavor really complements a barbecue! —Debbie Terenzini-Wilkerson, Lusby, Maryland
Brussels Sprouts with BaconBrussels sprouts with bacon are roasted on a sheet pan in a 450°F oven and finished with a sticky-sweet balsamic glaze. The crispy edges and smoky bacon take Brussels sprouts to the next level.
Cubano Pork SandwichesWhen a hungry crowd is coming over, we plan to make our juicy pork a day ahead. I call the sauce "Mojo" because it’s loaded with zingy flavors. —Theresa Yardas, Sheridan, Indiana
Honey Garlic Green BeansGreen beans are a reliable standby, but they can seem ordinary on their own. Just a couple of extra ingredients give them a sweet and salty attitude. This is definitely my family's favorite way to enjoy them. —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta
Potluck Banana CakeI found this recipe more than five years ago and have been making it for family gatherings ever since. The coffee-flavored frosting complements the moist banana cake. —Kathy Hoffman, Topton, Pennsylvania
Chicken Sliders with Sesame SlawEveryone loves barbecue chicken sliders. My version has an Asian twist, with spicy, tangy flavors. At our potlucks, they quickly vanish. —Priscilla Yee, Concord, California
Loaded Smashed PotatoesIf mashed potatoes are a must at your family Thanksgiving, then why not go all out with the works? I love garlic, onions and bacon, and this dish has all three! —Kathy Harding, Richmond, Missouri
Seven-Layer CookiesDulce de leche plays a starring role in this new take on seven-layer cookies. Our seven-layer cookie recipe also uses sandwich cookies for the crust, paired with layers of crispy rice cereal, coconut and pecans. Yum times seven!
Slow-Cooker Potato SoupThis slow-cooker potato soup takes all the flavor of a loaded baked potato—butter, bacon and onion—and turns it into an easy Crockpot potato soup you can serve any day of the week.
Southern DressingThis homemade Southern dressing is a marvelous side dish for both holiday and everyday dinners. Crumbled cornbread is mixed with seasonings, vegetables, cream of chicken soup and broth to create a dish that can easily serve a crowd.
