Baked Potato Bar

Our girlfriend Stephanie organized a get together of some of our favorite girls at her new house last month. It was under the guise of “bunko” but in reality, we just ate, drank and giggled. It was a fantastic time – we don’t get to see those girls as often as we’d like!

We were eager to help Steph in planning the bash (it was kind of her housewarming and G’s going away party too). She let us bring some yummy food to complement her already impressive display of food.

Steph had already planned to make some delicious pulled pork, but was stuck on ideas for any vegetarians in our bunch. G had a great idea to have a baked potato bar, so guests could customize to their hearts content – vegetarians or not.

Here’s what was on the menu:
Meats – Cooked/Crumbled Bacon, Cubed Prosciutto
Dairy Products – Goat Cheese, Shredded Cheddar, Sour Cream, Herbed Butter (store bought) and an assortment of Laughing Cow wedges
Veg and other – Chives, Artichoke Dip (store bought), Salsa, Steamed Broccoli

Things were a bit crazy in both our households, so we divided and conquered. I brought the baked potato bar fixings while G brought some yummy munchies. Remember her post about party foods in a pinch? She brought a lovely assortment of popcorns (perfect bunko food in my book!). She cleverly served them in some simple kraft gift bags with simple labels to tell guests which was which.

I definitely took the convenient route as well when I picked up the fixings for the baked potato bar. Every topping was picked up at my local natural foods market or grocery store. All I did was cook the bacon and steam the bag of frozen broccoli in the microwave.

Never underestimate the pleasure of mixing and matching your own toppings – everyone was able to customize their dinner yet Steph could enjoy her guests and wasn’t stuck in the kitchen all night. The best of both worlds!

What are your tricks for making your summer parties more convenient?