Get ready to impress your friends and family at this year’s holiday gathering! We’ve rounded up 20 delicious and easy-to-make Christmas potluck recipes that are sure to be a hit. From classic comfort foods like creamy garlic mashed potatoes and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, to sweet treats like pumpkin spice cheesecake bars and chocolate peanut butter buckeyes, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for ideas for your office party, family gathering, or neighborhood potluck, these recipes are perfect for the holiday season. And the best part? They’re all easy to make in large quantities, so you can focus on enjoying the celebration rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these tasty dishes and provide you with the ingredients, instructions, and tips you need to make them shine. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy, and let’s dive into our list of 20 festive Christmas potluck recipes!
Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory slow cooker ham recipe that’s sure to impress! This honey glazed ham is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in 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
Instructions:
1. Place the ham in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
3. Pour the glaze over the ham, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove from slow cooker and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: Low: 8-10 hours, High: 4-6 hours
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
A rich and creamy twist on classic mashed potatoes, this recipe adds a depth of flavor with roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, roasted (see notes)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped 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 roasted garlic, butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy, cheesy dip is a crowd-pleaser perfect for parties or game days. Made with spinach, artichokes, and a blend of cheeses, it’s easy to make and always a hit.
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 grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Green Bean Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender green beans, creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping for a satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 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. In a large skillet, sauté the green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the cooked green bean mixture to the soup mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Add a homemade touch to your holiday meals with this easy-to-make cranberry sauce recipe. With just a few ingredients and some simple cooking, you’ll be enjoying the perfect accompaniment to your turkey or pork chops in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the cinnamon and remove from heat.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts by roasting them with crispy bacon and a hint of seasoning. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, this flavorful combination is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Top the sprouts with bacon pieces.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Warm up with the perfect fall treat – these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars! A shortbread crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a hint of pumpkin spice come together to create a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press into prepared pan.
3. Make the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set.
5. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner table with these scrumptious garlic butter dinner rolls, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Mix until well combined.
3. Add warm water and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or rounds).
6. Place rolls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with minced garlic.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with a crispy breadcrumb topping and creamy pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Festive Peppermint Bark
Brighten up your holiday season with this refreshing and festive treat! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create beautiful and delicious peppermint bark perfect for gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (30g) crushed candy canes (about 6-8 canes)
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the top of the white chocolate.
6. Melt the dark chocolate chips and drizzle over the top of the candy cane layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
8. Break into pieces and dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required!)
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
A sweet and savory twist on a classic casserole, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fluffy delight of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the sweet potato mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with marshmallows and chopped pecans (if using).
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Carrots
Elevate your carrot game with this autumnal twist on a classic side dish. The sweetness of apple cider perfectly balances the natural earthiness of carrots, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons apple cider
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the carrot slices in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeyes
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with a creamy twist, perfect for parties or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Optional: chopped peanuts or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add oats and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of dough into the palms of your hands. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each buckeye.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Dip cooled buckeyes into melted chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly. If desired, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or sea salt before chocolate hardens.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your turkey breast with this simple yet impressive herb-roasting technique.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the turkey.
4. Roast the turkey for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Eggnog Cupcakes with Rum Frosting
Warm up your holiday celebrations with these rich and creamy Eggnog Cupcakes topped with a decadent Rum Frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in eggnog and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and rum; beat until combined.
Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized appetizers combine the creaminess of brie cheese with the tanginess of cranberries, perfect for your next gathering or holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 package of frozen 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 a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into 1-inch squares, making sure to cut through both layers of pastry.
4. Place a small spoonful of softened brie cheese in the center of each square.
5. Top with a few cranberries and a sprinkle of honey and thyme.
6. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash
Maple Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash: Sweet and savory flavors come together in this delightful fall side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Brush both sides of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with the maple glaze mixture.
5. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Get into the holiday spirit with this show-stopping Christmas tree pull-apart bread! Made with flaky buttery dough, green and red sprinkles, and a hint of citrus, it’s the perfect centerpiece for your festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Green and red sprinkles for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape into a Christmas tree shape.
6. Brush the top of the bread with beaten egg and sprinkle with green and red sprinkles.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
As the winter nights draw in, a warm and spicy mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fire. This recipe combines rich red wine with aromatic spices and sweet citrus to create a delicious and comforting drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Combine wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and citrus slices in a large saucepan.
2. Add brown sugar, water, and honey to the mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let mulled wine warm through for at least 30 minutes.
5. Strain the spices before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
This recipe yields a batch of soft, spicy gingerbread cookies that pair perfectly with a sweet and tangy royal icing. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
Whisk together ingredients until smooth and adjust consistency as needed.
Summary
Get ready to impress at your next Christmas potluck with these delicious and festive recipes! From classic green bean casserole to sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, there’s something for everyone. Try slow cooker honey glazed ham, creamy garlic mashed potatoes, or cheesy spinach and artichoke dip. Impress with pumpkin spice cheesecake bars, garlic butter dinner rolls, or baked mac and cheese with breadcrumbs. And don’t forget the sweet treats like festive peppermint bark, apple cider glazed carrots, and chocolate peanut butter buckeyes. These recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gathering!
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