I love hosting.

As introverted as I am, I’ve always wanted to be the type of person that invites people over to our house to share a meal, good conversation and maybe a board game. I want to be a great hostess.

My husband and I love being able to welcome others into our home. We share a vision of hopefully one day having a strong friend group we can gather often.
But.

Hosting can be e-x-h-a-u-s-t-i-n-g.

You clean your house and set out extra chairs at your table and cook the meal and make conversation (did I mention I’m an introvert?) and by the end of the evening, you’re worn out.
Hosting can be so rewarding, but also so tiring.
Thankfully, I have a list of ideas that can simplify one part of it — the food! These are super quick and easy meal (or dessert) ideas that won’t wear you out before your guests even arrive!

Simple Meal Ideas:

Tacos – just cook your desired meat and set toppings out (tortillas/chips, cheese, beans, corn, salsa, lettuce, avocado, sour cream, etc.)
Cereal bar – no cooking required! Get a couple gallons of milk and a few of your favorite cereals from your childhood! OR have each guest bring their favorite cereal to share.
Chili or any favorite soup – this is one that you can make ahead of time and just heat before serving. Look for some of my favorite chili and soup recipes below!
Banana splits – having friends over for just dessert can take a lot off your plate (ha – pun intended). Set out ice cream and toppings (whipped cream, caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, cherries, and chopped nuts are some of my favorites). And don’t forget the bananas!
Sub sandwiches – no cooking! A few deli meat choices, bread, cheese, lettuce, pickles, and condiments, and you’re good to go!
Appetizers – have each guest bring their favorite appetizer to share! Sharing the cooking burden can be so helpful when hosting.
S’mores – we have a firepit on our back porch that gets lots of use in the summertime! Invite guests over for s’mores and a backyard game, such as Spikeball, corn hole, or ladder ball.
Pasta – this one is as simple as boiling noodles and covering them in sauce and cheese! Can’t go wrong there. Add a convenient bagged salad, and you’ve got a great meal!
Grilling out – give yourself a break and let your husband do the cooking! 😉 Burgers, brats, chicken, steak, fish, corn, veggies… Endless options!
Baked potato bar – just bake potatoes and set out toppings (cheese, butter, sour cream, bacon bits, etc.). If you want something more substantial, add some pulled pork from your favorite barbecue place. Yum!

What is your favorite meal to make for guests? Do you have any others to add to our list? Let us know!

Don’t forget about my chili and soup recipes below!