Saved Time With Make-Ahead 47 Vegan Fall Potluck Ideas

Make-ahead dishes are the secret weapon of every host who wants to actually enjoy the party. With 47 vegan fall potluck ideas, prep work gets done before the doorbell rings, leaving more time to chat instead of stir. These dishes hold up well, look great on the table, and keep guests coming back for seconds. It’s the kind of lineup that turns “who brought this?” into the most-heard question of the night.

A bowl of chocolate hummus topped with chickpeas and coarse salt, surrounded by sliced peaches, apples, biscuits, and rolled wafers. — Chocolate Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Party Crostini

Slices of toasted bread stacked together. — Party Crostini. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Everyone loves bite-sized dishes when sharing food at gatherings. Party Crostini is easy to make ahead and perfect for any group setting. You can mix and match toppings with different flavors to keep it interesting. Prepping them ahead of time means less stress and more time to enjoy the event.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

Decadent Raw Vegan Chocolate Cake

Close-up of a chocolate mousse cake in a pan, showing a creamy, textured top layer and a rough, crumbly base. — Decadent Raw Vegan Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Whether you’re hosting or attending, this go-to dessert is always a win. Decadent Raw Vegan Chocolate Cake is rich, creamy, and doesn’t require baking, making prep simple. The no-bake approach saves time and energy, especially when juggling other recipes. It’s also a crowd-pleaser for those with specific dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Raw Vegan Chocolate Cake

Breakfast Casserole

Potlucks that cover all meal brackets are always a hit. Breakfast Casserole fits in perfectly for any time of day, especially if you’re looking for something filling. The best part is you can assemble it ahead and just heat before serving. It’s also versatile, so you can tweak it to fit your guest list or diet goals.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Casserole

Vegan Pumpkin Bread

A close-up of a sliced pumpkin loaf cake with white icing and pumpkin seeds on top, showing its moist and crumbly texture. — Vegan Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Seasonal recipes do well at events, and this one fits the vibe effortlessly. Vegan Pumpkin Bread is an easy make-ahead option for anyone who enjoys a baked dish with warm tones. It pairs perfectly with spreads, drinks, and can even double as a dessert. Prepping it earlier means you’re ready to serve without rush.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Bread

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Finger foods are always favorites during fall potlucks. Buffalo Cauliflower Wings make for a bold, shareable snack that’s easy to prep in advance. Being plant-based, they’re ideal for guests who avoid traditional wings yet want something with a kick. Load them onto a platter, and they’ll be a hot topic throughout the meal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

A bowl of creamy pasta garnished with herbs, with a slice of bread on the side; a skillet and a small bowl of roasted vegetables are in the background. — Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hosting just got better with an alternative for a classic comfort dish. Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese provides the coziness of pasta while adding a seasonal twist. Making it ahead is time-efficient, especially for large groups. It’s creamy and unique enough to stand out on a busy table filled with potluck dishes.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

Dips are must-haves at gatherings for easy sharing and snacking. Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip is simple to prepare and saves you time before hosting. You can serve it warm, cold, or room temp, making it extremely versatile. Pair it with chips or veggies, and it’ll quickly become a favorite among guests.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

Cauliflower Nuggets

These bite-sized snacks are great for both kids and adults looking for a healthier munch. Cauliflower Nuggets are quick to prep, and since they’re plant-based, everyone can grab a handful. They’re kid-friendly, finger-friendly, and a great option to get creative with sauces. Making them ahead means less chaos on the day of the potluck.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Vegan Pumpkin Soup

Many potlucks lack warm options, but soups bring an essential twist to the table. Vegan Pumpkin Soup is heartwarming, simple to store, and quick to heat later. It’s a smart addition to any fall event by adding cozy variety alongside dips and entrées. Whether serving as an appetizer or main, it works perfectly for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Soup

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

A plate of chickpea salad with chopped red onion, roasted red peppers, capers, almonds, and fresh herbs, served with a spoon. — Copycat Chipotle Sofritas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Protein-packed dishes always balance out any potluck spread. Copycat Chipotle Sofritas is the make-ahead vegan option that’s customizable for tacos, bowls, or salads. It’s flavorful and filling, making it suitable for both small and large groups. Preparing it ahead ensures less hassle and flexibility when you’re ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Vegan Sugar Cookies

Close-up of six sugar-coated cookies on parchment paper. — Vegan Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Throwing together a batch of Vegan Sugar Cookies ahead of time can be a game-changer for your fall potluck. They are a breeze to make and store well, making them perfect for those busy days. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy, even kids. Save yourself some time and stress with these make-ahead treats, and enjoy more of the party with less fuss.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sugar Cookies

Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

A bowl of cooked rice mixed with kidney beans, garnished with chopped herbs on top, placed on a light-colored surface with fresh greens on a wooden board in the background. — Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you’re looking for a convenient dish, Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans is the way to go. This dish is simple to prepare and can be made ahead, making it ideal for a potluck. It’s a quick and hearty option that guests will appreciate for its filling nature. The best part is that it tastes great even when reheated, so no need to worry about compromise.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Marry Me Tofu

A bowl of creamy pasta salad with cubed noodles and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with fresh basil leaves and black pepper, served in a rustic dish on a brown cloth. — Marry Me Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Need a vegan option that can be made in advance? Marry Me Tofu is your answer. This dish is perfect for potlucks because it holds up well over time and maintains its flavors. Just whip it up beforehand, and you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free addition to your fall spread. No mess, no fuss, just a tasty dish.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tofu

Pumpkin Pie Bars

Close-up of dessert bars with a crumbly base, pumpkin filling, whipped topping, dusted with cinnamon, and garnished with pumpkin seeds. — Pumpkin Pie Bars. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Pumpkin Pie Bars are a fantastic make-ahead option for fall potlucks. They’re easy to prepare and serve, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family. The great thing about these bars is that they taste just as good the next day, keeping their deliciousness intact. It’s a convenient dessert that saves time and effort while bringing seasonal vibes to the table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Bars

Marry Me Lentils

A pan of lentil dish with spinach, fresh basil, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, garnished with lemon wedges. — Marry Me Lentils. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Impress your guests with Marry Me Lentils at your next potluck. This dish can be prepared in advance, making it a real time-saver for busy cooks. It’s packed with plant-based protein and is comforting and hearty, ideal for the fall months. Conveniently, it warms up nicely, maintaining its deliciousness without a hitch.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

Vegan Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu sits on a white plate, showing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder on top. — Vegan Tiramisu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Looking for a dessert that can be prepped ahead? Vegan Tiramisu fits the bill perfectly. This dessert is great for potlucks and is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. You can make it a day early and simply keep it refrigerated until it’s time to serve, ensuring it stays fresh and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tiramisu

Egg Rolls

For a handy appetizer, consider Egg Rolls as your go-to choice. These tasty bites are perfect for making ahead, giving you more time to enjoy the potluck without stress. They reheat wonderfully, keeping their great texture and taste intact for your guests to enjoy. Your guests will appreciate this convenient and crispy snack option.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Vegan Apple Pie

Close-up of a baked pie with a golden brown lattice crust, revealing a caramelized filling underneath. — Vegan Apple Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A crowd-favorite, Vegan Apple Pie is excellent for a fall potluck. The beauty of this pie is that it can be baked ahead of time and still warms up beautifully for the event. This classic dessert is easy to serve and always enjoyed by a group, making it a reliable choice. Save yourself the rush and make it beforehand, and you’ll have more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Apple Pie

Marry Me Chickpeas

Skillet with creamy chickpeas, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with herbs. — Marry Me Chickpeas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hosting a potluck can be stress-free with Marry Me Chickpeas. This crowd-favorite dish is ideal for prepping in advance, making your life easier on the day of the event. Chickpeas hold up well and are super tasty when reheated, ensuring they are just as delicious as when fresh. It’s a solid option for a hearty, plant-based dish that everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

Vegan Fruit Tart

A fruit tart topped with sliced peaches, strawberries, and yellow kiwi sits on a beige napkin, with a few whole fruits nearby. — Vegan Fruit Tart. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Treat your guests with a Vegan Fruit Tart that can be made ahead. Perfect for potlucks, this dessert is easy to prepare and store in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed fresh out of the fridge, making it convenient for serving without any last-minute hassle. Your friends will love this gorgeous and refreshing option, offering a touch of sweetness to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Fruit Tart

Moussaka

A pan of cooked lasagna topped with melted cheese, black pepper, and chopped parsley. — Moussaka. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Prepping ahead can save so much stress when hosting or attending a potluck. Moussaka is a hearty dish that can easily be made the day before and reheated for serving. Its layers make it a crowd-pleaser, especially at fall gatherings. Just assemble and bake ahead of time to free up your schedule and focus on other things.
Get the Recipe: Moussaka

Baked Vanilla Donuts

Desserts that can be made early are key for keeping things simple. Baked Vanilla Donuts are a great example of something easy to bake ahead and leave ready for serving. They keep well and are perfect for potlucks, adding a bit of homemade sweetness to the lineup. No last-minute baking means you can stay relaxed and enjoy the event.
Get the Recipe: Baked Vanilla Donuts

Mushroom Pie

Four individual pot pies with flaky crusts on a round tray, one open to reveal a mushroom filling. — Mushroom Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

There’s nothing like offering a warm, savory dish that’s ready to go. Mushroom Pie fits perfectly into make-ahead plans, with its hearty filling and satisfying crust. It can be baked and stored without losing any appeal, making it ideal for gatherings. Simply warm it up when the time comes, and it’s good to serve.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Vegan Spam

Preparing dishes ahead of time doesn’t have to be complicated. Vegan Spam is a standout option for those who want something unique but simple. Make it ahead, and it’s ready to slice and serve when needed. This dish always sparks conversation and makes hosting a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Spam

Banana Chocolate Cake

Baking something ahead lets you skip the stress on the day of the event. Banana Chocolate Cake is a rich dessert that can be prepared hours or even days before and still be delicious when served. Its sweet flavors make it a great complement to any potluck spread. By using make-ahead techniques, your dessert table will be ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Banana Chocolate Cake

Vegan Breaded Mushrooms with Garlic Aioli

A white bowl filled with breaded and fried mushroom pieces, with a fork holding one piece above the bowl. — Vegan Breaded Mushrooms with Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Simple, crowd-pleasing appetizers are a potluck staple. Vegan Breaded Mushrooms with Garlic Aioli work well because they can be prepped in advance and reheated before serving. The crispy coating and dipping sauce make them really popular with guests. You’ll have a dish ready to share with minimal effort on the day of the gathering.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Breaded Mushrooms with Garlic Aioli

Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Having a warm, hearty dish that can be made early is always helpful at busy events. Vegetable Casserole ticks all those boxes and works well for serving a crowd. Its ingredients blend together over time, making it even better when prepared ahead. Reheat it for your potluck and enjoy peace of mind knowing it’s already done.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Baked Tofu

Crispy tofu cubes piled on a plate with a dish of green dipping sauce in the background. — Baked Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Easy protein options are an essential part of planning any make-ahead meal. Baked Tofu delivers just that and is perfect for a main or side dish at group gatherings. The baked tofu holds up well when made early and reheats quickly without losing texture. It’s a smart solution for when you want to focus on other dishes or tasks.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

A baked casserole with Brussels sprouts and a crispy, golden-brown topping, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Warm side dishes that can transfer straight from fridge to oven simplify things so much. Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole is a fall favorite offering convenience and flavor for any meal. It’s easy to assemble a day ahead and requires minimal effort when reheating. Add it to your lineup, and you’ll see how low-stress hosting can be.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Red Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream, with a spoon in the bowl. — Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Soup is one of the easiest dishes to batch-cook ahead of time. Red Lentil Soup shines as a crowd-friendly option that only improves after resting overnight. Just reheat it on the stove before serving, and it’s ready to enjoy. You’ll love how this choice simplifies your prep while keeping everyone happy and full.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Vegan Tikka Masala

A skillet filled with chickpea and tofu curry in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. — Vegan Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

You don’t have to make every dish last-minute for your potluck. Vegan Tikka Masala is perfect for prepping ahead, letting the flavors blend together even more as it chills. The dish is hearty enough to keep everyone full and happy, making it a reliable main course for sharing. Plus, it reheats beautifully without losing its texture, so you can focus on enjoying the event instead of worrying about the food.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tikka Masala

Vegan Spiced Pumpkin Pie

Got a crowd to impress? Vegan Spiced Pumpkin Pie is a potluck game-changer with its deep flavors that get better as it sits. You can whip this up a day or two ahead of time and take some stress off your plate before the big gathering. It’s an easy dessert that holds up well, even after traveling to the event, so you can bring it along confidently without any last-minute issues.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Spiced Pumpkin Pie

Baked Mushroom Rice

A plate of mushroom baked rice served next to a cast iron skillet. — Baked Mushroom Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Meal prep just got better with this dish. Baked Mushroom Rice is the kind of dish that cooks in one go and saves you loads of hassle, especially when you have other dishes to manage. The texture stays consistent even after reheating, so it’s ideal for potluck dinners and long gatherings. It’s also a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with other dishes easily, making it versatile for a variety of setups.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal

Planning ahead for desserts doesn’t have to be complicated. Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal are an easy option you can make in bulk and have ready the day before, cutting down on last-minute stress. They stay moist and are great for sharing with groups, whether at a casual get-together or a more formal potluck. You can pack them up and transport them with zero issues, giving you one less thing to worry about during prep.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal

Best Vegan Chili

Close-up of a bowl of chili, topped with chopped cilantro, sliced red onions, and a dollop of sour cream. The chili contains beans, tomatoes, and other visible vegetables. — Best Vegan Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Need something you can make ahead without worrying? Best Vegan Chili is not only convenient but also better when it has time to sit, as resting lets the spices blend together for maximum flavor. It’s a big pot dish that keeps everyone happy without too much prep work, and it’s easy to serve in big or small portions depending on the group.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Chili

Vegan Pecan Pie

Slice of pecan pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate, accompanied by two spoons. — Vegan Pecan Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Desserts that travel well and taste just as good later are a smart option for busy hosts. Vegan Pecan Pie fits the bill and can be made ahead with ease, letting you focus on other parts of the meal plan. It’s simple to store and keep fresh for the gathering, so there’s no need to compromise. You get all the deliciousness without worrying about last-minute baking, making it a dependable choice for any kind of potluck event.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pecan Pie

Best Vegan Nut Roast

Close-up of a nut roast topped with cranberry sauce and garnished with fresh herbs, served on a white plate. — Best Vegan Nut Roast. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Anything that can go straight from the fridge to the oven is a win when prepping for a gathering. Best Vegan Nut Roast is easy to prepare ahead of time, saving you hours on the day and simplifying your meal routine. It’s hearty and holds its shape even after reheating, making it an excellent centerpiece dish for a vegan crowd or mixed group.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Nut Roast

Vegan Pizza

Close-up of vegetable pizza with artichokes, mushrooms, zucchini, and red peppers on a baked crust, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegan Pizza. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Entertaining a group doesn’t mean you have to scramble on the day. Vegan Pizza is perfect because you can prepare the components ahead of time, like the crust and sauces, and assemble it at the potluck for fresh servings. It’s customizable, meaning people can pick toppings they like without too much effort or hassle. It reheats well and works as a crowd-favorite, adding a fun twist to your potluck spread.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pizza

Homemade Ratatouille

A close up of food. — Homemade Ratatouille. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Potluck dishes that soak up flavor as they sit are ideal for large gatherings. Homemade Ratatouille is excellent for prepping ahead and gets even deeper in taste after resting overnight in the fridge. It’s versatile enough to pair with breads or grains, making it a solid all-around side dish or even a light main. Plus, it’s just as good served cold or reheated, meaning you don’t have to stress about timing.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Vegan Onion Dip

Dips are easy make-ahead snacks that don’t take up much time but still turn heads at the table. Vegan Onion Dip is one of those dishes you can whip up quickly and store in the fridge until the gathering, giving you extra prep time for bigger dishes. It’s perfect with chips or veggies, so you have options for serving, whether you’re entertaining a large group or a smaller crowd.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Onion Dip

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

A salad with arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a drizzle of creamy dressing on a white plate. — Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Making something in advance can save a lot of hassle for get-togethers. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad is a hearty option to prep ahead since it holds up well in the fridge. It’s a versatile dish that can work as a side or main. Plus, it’s easy to transport and perfect for group settings.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Vegan Amaretti Cookies

A white cup of coffee on a saucer sits next to several powdered sugar cookies on a pink cloth, with one cookie partially eaten. — Vegan Amaretti Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hosting a crowd is a breeze when desserts are made ahead. Vegan Amaretti Cookies are the kind of treat that stays fresh for days without much fuss. These cookies bring a chewy texture that pairs well with coffee or tea at the table. They’re great for sharing, and you won’t be stuck baking on the day of the potluck.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

Close-up of a vegan pot pie with a flaky crust, featuring visible corn, peas, carrots, and a creamy filling. A sprig of fresh herb and a sprinkle of black pepper garnish the pie. — Homemade Vegan Pot Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Putting together a warm dish doesn’t have to be last-minute. Homemade Vegan Pot Pie is one of those recipes that’s built for prepping the night before. It reheats beautifully and offers that classic comfort food vibe everyone loves. You get a dish that feels special without a rush to prepare right before guests arrive.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

Vegan Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

Desserts can be made ahead to keep things stress-free. Vegan Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies are compact enough to transport easily while tasting great even after a couple of days. They’re reliable and hold together well, which is great for sharing. Plus, they don’t require any fresh topping or added fuss when serving.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

Spicy Thai Peanut Curry

A bowl of Thai peanut curry with carrots, beans and kale. — Spicy Thai Peanut Curry. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A make-ahead main dish can be a lifesaver for group events. Spicy Thai Peanut Curry is perfect because it’s even better after sitting overnight. All the elements combine for a rich dish that heats up quickly before serving. It’s a crowd-pleaser and works well over rice or noodles if you need something extra to stretch for bigger gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Thai Peanut Curry

Vegan Rasta Pasta

A close-up of penne pasta mixed with red and green bell peppers, onions, grated cheese, and sprinkled with chili flakes. — Vegan Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Pasta dishes aren’t just for last-minute cooking. Vegan Rasta Pasta seems to deepen in taste when made ahead of time. It’s a fantastic option if you’re aiming for a dish that reheats well and travels easily. Plus, it’s filling and works as a main instead of just being a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Rasta Pasta

Chocolate Hummus

Every potluck needs a surprising dessert option. Chocolate Hummus is one of those recipes that’s quick to make but still feels special when shared. It stays fresh for days and works as a dip, which makes it great for pairing with fruit or snacks. It’s different enough to stand out while being simple to prep and serve in advance.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Hummus