What's your favorite entree for a large group?

MrsRosie

DH never wants to do anything for his birthday, but this year I was able to talk him into having two other couples (with kids ranging from 18 mos to 12 yrs old) over for dinner on Friday night.  I had visions of a couple of fancy appetizers I've been wanting to try, a nice classy entree for 6, fun finger foods for the kids, a nice dessert, you get the picture.  Well, somehow over the course of the day and one Superbowl party, DH got excited about the idea and it is now us, four other couples all with kids, and his parents.  Uuuugh.  I'm happy he's excited to celebrate, but now I've got to stretch the budget a whole lot farther.

I'd like to do something different than lasagna, fajitas, or a taco bar since we always do these for bigger gatherings.  I have the day off of work and plan to send A to daycare, so I do have time to shop and prepare if that makes a difference.  Got any new/different ideas for me?