Cheese is basically the most expensive of the ingredients here, and even without especially savvy pre-ordering in bulk, I am able to make this and a side vegetable for 140 people for under $200, which is not too shabby.
Mexican
Faith’s St. Patrick’s Day Tamale Pie
Ground meat combines with tomatoes, spices, raisins, olives, chilis, corn, wine and cheese, then it’s topped with cornbread.
Chris Prosperi’s Chicken, Bacon and Cheese Enchilada
Why not put a platter of enchiladas out for a party or bring them to your next potluck? The enchiladas are easy to make, you can use any meaty filling you like—or black beans, corn, and avocado for a vegetarian filling—and a saucy platter of enchiladas is always a crowd-pleaser.
Conga Cooler
The Conga Cooler was one of the many potions created by head barman Pancho Morales at Tommy’s Place in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, in the early 1940s. Signs over the bar advertised drinks to “Hemingway types” and soldiers who were living in the moment.
Eric Greenspan’s Mole Melt
The sweet and spice of the mole in this grilled cheese sandwich plays off the richness of the chorizo and black beans, and the spicy marinated onions bring all of the flavors together.
Gulf Coast Shrimp Tacos
The confluence of lightly charred shrimp with crunchy cabbage slaw and an audacious amount of hot sauce is my idea of the perfect warm-weather meal.