Get ready to wow your friends and family with these 20 delicious and festive Christmas potluck recipes! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or bringing a dish to share, we’ve got you covered. From savory turkey and ham dishes to sweet treats like cheesecake bars and cookies, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Start the season off right with our Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey recipe, complete with a flavorful herb rub and a side of creamy mashed potatoes. Or, try your hand at Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple, a sweet and sticky take on the classic holiday ham. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – our Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are sure to be a hit.
Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this aromatic and flavorful roasted turkey recipe, featuring a blend of garlic, herbs, and butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 4-4 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Sweet and savory, this honey glazed ham with pineapple is a perfect centerpiece for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 1 fresh pineapple ring, sliced into wedges
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover every surface.
5. Place pineapple wedges on top of the ham, slightly overlapping each other.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the pineapple.
7. Roast the ham for 2-3 hours or until caramelized and tender.
8. Baste with pineapple juice every hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or as a standalone main course. With its velvety texture and savory gravy, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, heavy cream, whole milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
4. In a separate pan, whisk together flour and broth over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly.
5. Combine gravy with mashed potatoes and stir until well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Elevate the classic Green Bean Casserole recipe by adding a crunchy, sweet, and savory crispy onion topping. This comforting casserole is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until caramelized. Set aside.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper. Stir in cooked green beans and sautéed onions.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
A creamy, comforting classic that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the slow cooker and stir until coated in the cheesy sauce.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Cranberry Orange Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this unique combination of sweet cranberries and tangy orange, perfect for the holiday season. These bite-sized treats are sure to impress at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup cranberry orange glaze (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Cranberry Orange Glaze:
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with cranberry orange glaze and sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual meals, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a simple and satisfying side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Arrange half of the potato mixture in the prepared dish.
6. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining potatoes, then the remaining cheese mixture.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Add a savory twist to this cruciferous vegetable by pairing it with crispy bacon for a delicious and healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
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 in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While sprouts are roasting, cook bacon pieces in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove Brussels sprouts from oven and toss with cooked bacon, garlic, and any remaining bacon fat.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Stuffing with Sage and Sausage
This savory stuffing recipe combines the earthy flavor of sage with the richness of sausage and classic bread, perfect for a holiday turkey or chicken. With its bold flavors and comforting texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread, cooked sausage mixture, melted butter, and dried sage. Mix well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff the mixture loosely into a turkey or chicken cavity, or bake in a 9×13-inch baking dish at 350°F (180°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping: A Classic Southern Delight
This sweet potato casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. The addition of a crunchy pecan topping adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor to this classic dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add heavy cream and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with pecan halves and brown sugar.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A classic party favorite, this spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and always a hit. With its creamy texture and delicious blend of flavors, it’s the perfect accompaniment to crackers, chips, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Impress your guests with this elegant and flavorful appetizer that combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the cranberry sauce over the brie, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the honey and thyme evenly over the cranberry sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat to enjoy during the fall season. The combination of creamy cheesecake, pumpkin puree, and warm spices will have you craving more.
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 granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these refreshing peppermint chocolate chip cookies. With a perfect blend of cool and sweet, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint bark for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Eggnog Bread Pudding
A warm and comforting dessert perfect for the holiday season. This Eggnog Bread Pudding recipe combines moist bread with creamy eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, granulated sugar, brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture and stir until well coated.
4. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the bread is evenly moistened.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gingerbread Trifle with Whipped Cream
A classic holiday dessert, this Gingerbread Trifle with Whipped Cream combines the warmth of gingerbread cake with the creaminess of whipped topping. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gingerbread cake mix
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the gingerbread cake according to package instructions.
2. Allow the cake to cool completely.
3. In a large bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Add granulated sugar and salt; mix until combined.
4. Cut the cooled gingerbread cake into cubes.
5. Begin assembling the trifle by layering half of the cake cubes in a large serving dish.
6. Top with half of the whipped cream mixture.
7. Repeat layers, ending with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
8. If using, sprinkle chopped crystallized ginger over the whipped cream.
Cook Time: None (assemble just before serving)
Apple Cinnamon Streusel Pie
Start your day with a warm slice of this comforting pie, filled with tender apples and a crunchy streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup streusel topping (see below)
– 1 pie crust, homemade or store-bought
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill pie crust with apple mixture and top with streusel topping.
5. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pecan Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
Pecan Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust: A Twist on a Classic
These rich and gooey pecan pie bars are elevated by a buttery shortbread crust, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare shortbread crust: Whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Make pecan filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and corn syrup. Stir in pecans. Pour over shortbread crust.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
5. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Festive Christmas Punch
Add some holiday cheer to your gathering with this delicious and refreshing Festive Christmas Punch. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– Slices of orange, lemon, lime, and apple for garnish
– Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for added festive touch
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice, apple cider, and ginger ale.
2. Stir in pineapple and orange juices until well combined.
3. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, garnish with slices of citrus fruits and add fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for a pop of color and fragrance.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board
Transform your cozy nights into a delightful experience with this hot chocolate charcuterie board, perfect for cold winter evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup hot chocolate mix
– 2 cups milk or dairy-free alternative
– Assorted marshmallows (mini and large)
– Whipped cream
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint bark
– Fresh mint leaves
– Gourmet cookies or wafers (e.g., chocolate chip, peanut butter, or snickerdoodle)
– 1 block of creamy milk chocolate, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Brew the hot chocolate mix according to package instructions using the milk or dairy-free alternative.
2. Set up your charcuterie board by arranging the marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes or peppermint bark in a visually appealing way.
3. Place the gourmet cookies or wafers on one side of the board.
4. Melt the chocolate block in short increments in the microwave, stirring between each interval until smooth. Pour into small bowls or ramekins.
5. Assemble the hot chocolate by pouring the brewed mix over a marshmallow or two, then top with whipped cream and a piece of melted milk chocolate.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on brewing time)
Summary
This holiday season, impress your friends and family with these delicious Christmas potluck recipes. From savory dishes like Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey and Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy to sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars and Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to try some festive favorites like Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple and Cranberry Orange Glazed Meatballs. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a dish to share, these 20 recipes are sure to make your holiday gathering merry and bright.
