Imagine a big potluck dinner catered by America's favorite super chef, Emeril Lagasse. OK, I can't promise (or even hint) that Emeril is actually going to come and cook at your function, but this book is the next best thing. In it you'll get Emeril's favorite easy to make recipes that feed a crowd. Family get togethers and church suppers never tasted so good!

Rather than fussy gourmet fare, this is rustic comfort food, kicked up a notch Emeril style. This means the food will be out of this world flavorful and you'll get all the credit. The ingredient lists are manageable and consist of (mostly) easy to find items (and when they;re not, Emeril always gives substitutions), the instructions are clear and concise and these recipes are remarkably simple to prepare, even for beginning cooks.

Keep in mind, this book focuses on cooking for a crowd. Likewise, each recipe serves between 8 to 10 people (and many can be doubled). Recipe categories include Drinks; Starters; Salads; Soups and Gumbos; Casseroles; Beyond Casseroles; Sides; Breads; and Desserts.

Chef Lagasse claims this is one of his favorite books (and he's written many) as it really works towards bringing people together. So get the book, whip up something extraordinary and be prepared to be the star at the next potluck dinner you attend.