It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! The season of joy, giving, and of course, delicious food. When it comes to holiday gatherings, one of the best ways to bring everyone together is with a mouthwatering spread of dishes at your fingertips. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 festive Christmas potluck recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings. From classic comfort foods like creamy garlic mashed potatoes and green bean casserole, to sweet treats like peppermint chocolate bark and pumpkin spice cheesecake bars, we’ve got you covered.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
A rich and creamy side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or as a comforting accompaniment to your favorite soup.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, stirring until the potatoes absorb most of the cream.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Ham
Transform a classic ham into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy recipe. A perfect combination of sticky honey glaze and tender ham, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, cloves, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Place ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
5. Brush glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Green Bean Casserole
A classic comfort food dish, this Green Bean Casserole is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
5. Add the cooked onion mixture to the green bean mixture and stir.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the onions are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Deviled Eggs
Elevate your party game with these creamy, tangy deviled eggs that never go out of style.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and horseradish to the yolks. Mix until smooth.
4. Season the yolk mixture with salt and pepper.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle with paprika or chives for a pop of color (if desired).
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in no time, perfect for your next gathering.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
This classic comfort food dish gets a boost from the slow cooker, allowing you to come home to a warm, cheesy masterpiece with minimal effort. Perfect for a busy day or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked macaroni, butter, and milk to the slow cooker. Mix until a smooth, cheesy sauce forms.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese and paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Cranberry Brie Bites
Elevate your party appetizers with these sweet and savory Cranberry Brie Bites. A perfect combination of creamy brie cheese, tangy cranberries, and flaky pastry, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 package 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 floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. Place a tablespoon of softened brie cheese in the center of each square. Top with a few cranberries and a drizzle of honey.
4. Fold the pastry squares into triangles, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with a little water and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A delicious twist on a classic side dish, these roasted Brussels sprouts are packed with flavor and texture thanks to the addition of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast the sprouts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, red pepper flakes (if using), and any accumulated juices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
Get ready to delight your taste buds with the perfect fall treat! These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the creamy richness of cheesecake.
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 canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar, pumpkin puree, and spices; 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.
6. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe
Elevate your dinner table with these soft, buttery rolls infused with the savory flavor of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, garlic, and salt. Mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Cut into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Get ready to delight your senses with this invigorating peppermint chocolate bark recipe, perfect for a sweet treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed candy canes (optional)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (e.g., Crisco or vegetable shortening)
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and crushed candy canes (if using).
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Allow it to set at room temperature for about 10 minutes or until slightly firm to the touch.
6. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Spread the melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate layer, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: 30 minutes)
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Savor the rich flavors of spinach and artichokes with this classic dip, perfect for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 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
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe
This sweet and savory casserole is a delicious twist on traditional marshmallow treats, featuring roasted sweet potatoes, gooey marshmallows, and a crunchy pecan topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the heavy cream, beaten eggs, and melted butter to the sweet potato mixture. Mix until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mini marshmallows and chopped pecans.
7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe featuring tender carrots glazed in a rich apple cider sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into sticks or coins
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together apple cider, honey, and butter until well combined.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrot sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
Get ready to elevate your potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory recipe that combines the flavors of bacon, ranch dressing, and melted cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with melted butter, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing.
4. Add the potato mixture to the cheese-bacon mixture and stir until the potatoes are well coated.
5. Transfer the potato mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eggnog Cookies
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these moist and flavorful Eggnog Cookies, perfect for the holiday season!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (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 in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by eggnog and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
Elevate your holiday gathering with this aromatic herb roasted turkey breast recipe, perfect for a stress-free and flavorful main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey breast and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the turkey breast on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the turkey breast.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Pecan Pie Bars
Rich and gooey pecan pie filling atop a shortbread crust, these bars are the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Pour the pecan mixture over the shortbread crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Orange Bread
A sweet and tangy bread filled with the flavors of cranberries and orange, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp orange zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, cranberries, orange juice, and zest. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory combination of creamy brie cheese, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
• 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Roll out the brie cheese wheel to about 1 inch thickness.
3. In a bowl, mix together cranberries, brown sugar, and orange zest.
4. Spread the cranberry mixture evenly over the brie cheese, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the cranberry mixture.
6. Dot the top with softened butter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm up with a classic winter drink that’s perfect for cozying up by the fire or sharing with friends at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Combine the wine, orange and lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger in a large pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it mulled for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes mulling time)
Summary
Get ready to impress at your next Christmas potluck with these 20 delicious recipes! From savory sides like Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Green Bean Casserole, to sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars and Eggnog Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss the show-stopping main courses, including Honey Glazed Ham and Herb Roasted Turkey Breast. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these festive recipes are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
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