All you need is a list.
People will tell you all sorts of ways to confirm everyone brings enough food to apotluck.
For me, there is really only one way:apotluck sign-up sheet.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez
Its not as restrictive as telling someone what to make, but still encourages a good mix of dishes.
Credit:Frederick Hardy II, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley