It’s the most wonderful time of the year… for food! The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a flurry of festive gatherings and get-togethers. Whether you’re attending a friend’s annual holiday party or hosting your own celebration, finding delicious and easy-to-serve dishes that please even the pickiest palates can be a challenge.
That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 festive Christmas potluck recipes to help make your holiday cooking a breeze. From savory main courses to sweet treats and everything in between, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings. So go ahead, get cozy, and let the holiday magic begin!
Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized appetizers combine the creaminess of brie cheese with the tanginess of cranberries, perfect for a holiday party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into 12 equal pieces, about 3 inches square.
4. Place a tablespoon of softened brie cheese in the center of each piece.
5. Top with a few cranberries, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of thyme.
6. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with a little water and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham
Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham Recipe
A sweet and savory twist on a classic ham recipe, this slow cooker honey glazed ham is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With its sticky glaze and tender meat, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless ham
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, cloves, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Place the ham in the slow cooker and score the surface with a sharp knife, making diamond shapes about 1 inch apart.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these flavorful roasted potatoes infused with garlic and herbs. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a snack on their own!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the potato mixture in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
These creamy bars combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the richness of cheesecake, perfect for fall gatherings and parties. With a shortbread crust and caramelized sugar topping, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Caramelized sugar topping (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into prepared dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Cool completely before topping with caramelized sugar (1/4 cup granulated sugar melted in a skillet over medium heat).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Dip with Pita Chips
Get ready to dip into a rich and satisfying snack! This classic spinach artichoke dip is elevated by the crunchy texture of pita chips, perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix well until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
5. Serve with pita chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the richness of maple syrup and crispy bacon. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are cooking, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup until well combined.
7. Toss cooked Brussels sprouts with maple-bacon mixture and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Trifle
This Peppermint Chocolate Trifle is a show-stopping dessert perfect for the holiday season. Layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy peppermint custard, and crushed candy canes create a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9-inch) chocolate cake, crumbled
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 8 ounces good-quality dark chocolate chips, melted
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, vanilla, and peppermint extracts.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the sugar mixture until combined.
4. Cut the cake into 1-inch cubes and layer half in a serving dish.
5. Pour half of the peppermint custard over the cake.
6. Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
7. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping: A classic Southern side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for holidays and gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in heavy cream and beaten egg until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the pecans.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread
Moist and buttery bread filled with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and melted butter. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and roll into a 12×15-inch rectangle.
7. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
8. Roll the dough into a tight log, cut into 16 equal pieces, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Holiday Meat and Cheese Platter
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this impressive yet effortless meat and cheese platter. A mix of savory meats, creamy cheeses, and crunchy accompaniments will satisfy any crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 block cheddar cheese, sliced
– 1 block gouda cheese, sliced
– 4 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 4 oz salami, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup figs, chopped
– 1/4 cup almonds, toasted
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheese slices on a large platter or board.
2. Add the prosciutto and salami slices around the cheese.
3. Scatter the grapes, figs, and almonds over the meats.
4. Drizzle the honey over the fruit and nuts.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This platter is ready in just a few minutes.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform your mashed potatoes into a rich and flavorful side dish with this simple recipe. A combination of roasted garlic, butter, and heavy cream gives these spuds a decadent twist.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, roasted (see note)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic by placing it on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzling with olive oil, and folding the foil into a packet. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
4. Add roasted garlic, butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Cookie Dough Dip
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this creamy and flavorful gingerbread cookie dough dip, perfect for snacking or serving at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until creamy.
4. Stir in the ground ginger and vanilla extract.
5. Fold in the chopped crystallized ginger.
6. Chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
None! This dip is ready to serve once chilled.
Enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Cookie Dough Dip!
Buffalo Chicken Slider Bites
These bite-sized morsels combine the flavors of buffalo chicken with the convenience of sliders, perfect for game-day gatherings or snacking on the go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 8 slider buns
– 1 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Ranch dressing or sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and butter until coated.
3. Place chicken mixture onto slider buns.
4. Top with chopped lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled blue cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately, or keep warm in the oven for up to 30 minutes.
6. Offer ranch dressing or sour cream on the side for added creaminess.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Breast
This recipe combines the rich flavors of apple cider and spices with a tender and juicy turkey breast, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal. A simple glaze made with apple cider, brown sugar, and mustard adds a sweet and tangy flavor to this delicious main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, brown sugar, mustard, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the turkey breast, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Orange Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this tangy and flavorful recipe, perfect for parties or casual gatherings. The combination of cranberries, orange zest, and brown sugar creates a rich and fruity glaze that complements the savory beef perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and brown sugar.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until glaze thickens, about 5 minutes.
7. Brush glaze over meatballs during the last 10 minutes of baking (15-20 minutes total).
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Rosemary Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Elevate a humble vegetable with the earthy flavor of rosemary and the salty richness of parmesan cheese. This simple recipe yields a deliciously aromatic side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until coated.
3. Spread carrot mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the carrots and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Eggnog French Toast Casserole
Eggnog French Toast Casserole: A Creamy Holiday Treat
Looking for a decadent breakfast or brunch dish that’s perfect for the holiday season? Look no further! This Eggnog French Toast Casserole is a rich and indulgent treat that combines the flavors of eggnog, cinnamon, and nutmeg with crispy French toast.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 cup eggnog
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggnog, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Dip each bread slice into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the bread and sprinkle with heavy cream.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies combine the richness of chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint, all wrapped up in a crinkly package.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines juicy sausage, melted cheese, and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a crowd or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (any variety)
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cooked sausage, mounding slightly in the center.
4. Top with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Winter Citrus Salad with Pomegranate
Brighten up your winter days with this refreshing salad featuring the sweetness of citrus and the tartness of pomegranate. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 blood orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup pomegranate arils (seeds)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the orange, blood orange, and grapefruit segments.
2. Sprinkle the pomegranate arils and chopped mint leaves over the citrus mixture.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and honey over the salad, then season with salt to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
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