Ep 13. Make Ahead Potluck

In season 6 episode 13 of The Pioneer Woman, titled Make Ahead Potluck, host Ree Drummond shares some of her best recipes and tips for preparing dishes ahead of time for potluck gatherings.

In the first segment, Ree shows viewers how to make her delicious Italian Meatball and Pasta Salad, which features juicy meatballs, tender pasta, and plenty of vegetables in a tangy dressing. She explains how to cook and store the meatballs in advance so that they can be quickly tossed with the other ingredients when it's time to serve.

Next, Ree whips up a hearty Slow-Cooker Chili that's perfect for feeding a crowd. She walks viewers through the process of browning the beef and onions, adding the spices and beans, and letting everything simmer for several hours in the slow cooker. She also offers some helpful suggestions for serving the chili, such as setting up a toppings bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, and jalapenos.

For a sweet treat that can be made ahead of time, Ree demonstrates her recipe for Caramel Apple Dip with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips. She starts by making a simple caramel sauce on the stove and then adds cream cheese and apple pie filling to create a rich, decadent dip. She also shows how easy it is to make the accompanying tortilla chips by brushing them with butter and sprinkling them with sugar and cinnamon before baking.

Finally, Ree reveals some of her favorite tips for planning and executing a successful potluck. She stresses the importance of coordinating with guests to avoid duplication, providing a variety of dishes for different dietary needs, and labeling everything clearly so that guests know what they're eating. She also shares some of her favorite potluck dishes, such as deviled eggs, macaroni and cheese, and baked beans.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse into Ree's beautiful ranch home and the stunning Oklahoma landscape that surrounds it. With her warm and friendly personality and easy-to-follow recipes, Ree makes it easy to feel like part of her extended family. Whether you're hosting a potluck or just looking for some new ideas for family meals, Make Ahead Potluck is sure to inspire and delight.