Planning a Halloween potluck at work or with friends and want to actually impress this year? Skip the tired mummy dogs and witch guac.

These 9 spooky dinner food ideas are wildly creative, make-ahead friendly, and guaranteed to stand out on any Halloween potluck table.

Whether you’re feeding picky coworkers, need a spooky-themed food that travels well, these dishes are loaded with flavor and fright.

From a bubbling “zombie guts” bake to a flaming skull centerpiece, this list is packed with Halloween potluck dishes that are both eerie and unforgettable.

Glow‑in‑the‑Dark Thai Noodle Salad Cups

Why It Shines (and Tastes Amazing)

• Not just a gimmick: These noodle cups glow under UV thanks to riboflavin (Vitamin B₂)—a safe, food-fluorescent ingredient. Riboflavin glows without affecting flavor and is considered non-toxic even in high amounts.
• Bite-sized brilliance: Individual cups are clean, convenient, and portable—perfect for a work potluck setting.
• Flavors that wow: A Thai-inspired peanut-lime dressing, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs ensure this dish is as delicious as it is visually striking.

Supplies & Equipment

• Mini black or dark paper cups (2–3 oz size). Get them on Amazon. (affiliate link)
• Rice noodles (vermicelli or glass noodles)
• Vitamin B₂ (riboflavin) tablets. Get them on Amazon. (affiliate link)
• Mixing bowls, pot, strainer
• UV/blacklight lamp (battery-powered for easy setup). Get them on Amazon. (affiliate link).
• Serving tray for presentation

Ingredients (Makes ~12 Cups; Serves 4–6)

• 8 oz rice noodles
• 4–6 Vitamin B₂ tablets (crushed into fine powder)
• 2 cups boiling water + extra for soaking
• Peanut‑Lime Dressing:
  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • Water to thin, if needed
• Add-ins:
  • 1 small carrot, julienned
  • ½ cucumber, julienned
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: fresh cilantro or mint leaves
  • Optional: chopped peanuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Infuse the glow
   Crush the Vitamin B₂ tablets into a powder. Dissolve in 2 cups boiling water until fully dissolved.
2. Cook and glow
   Cook the rice noodles until just tender. Drain and immediately soak them in the riboflavin water so they fluoresce.
3. Prep noodles for salad
   After soaking, rinse noodles briefly in cold water and drain well.
4. Make the dressing
   Whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Thin with a splash of water if needed for drizzling.
5. Assemble the cups
   Gently toss the noodles with dressing and veggies. Spoon into the cups, topping with fresh herbs and peanuts if desired.
6. Serve with style
   Place cups on a dark tray. At the potluck venue, switch on the UV lamp—watch the noodles glow magically!

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Pre-infuse noodles (up to 4 hours ahead)—keep chilled in the riboflavin water, then rinse before assembling.
• Transport smart—store dressing and noodles separately to prevent sogginess. Assemble shortly before serving.
• UV play—use a compact, battery-powered UV lamp. Subtle lighting gives maximum effect with minimal fuss.