How many main dishes should you have for a potluck?

You should have about 1/5 as many main dishes as people attending a potluck. For example, if your work potluck event will have 20 people, there should be 4 main dishes. Other people should bring side dishes, appetizers, salads, soups, desserts, and beverages, so that there's a variety of options for everyone to try.

If everyone brings main dishes, there will be far too much food overall, and there won't be as varied and enjoyable of a mix of foods that can be eaten together in one meal. Additionally, the main dishes should themselves be varied. For example, there should be at least one vegetarian option and possibly a vegan option, depending on the potluck attendees. You should also keep other dietary restrictions in mind when planning for a potluck event, to make sure everyone can participate and enjoy some dishes.