62 Delicious Christmas Potluck Recipes for a Memorable Holiday Feast

Holiday potlucks bring friends and family together around one long, overflowing table. The key is choosing dishes that travel well, stay tasty at room temperature, and feel festive enough for the season. Below are 65 reliable options, ranging from savory starters to sweet finales and cozy drinks. Mix, match, and divvy up the list so everyone can arrive with a tray or thermos in hand.

1. Cranberry Brie Bites

Puff-pastry shells cradle creamy Brie and tart cranberry sauce for a two-bite appetizer that feels upscale yet packs easily. Assemble the cups at home and bake just until the cheese bubbles. The pastry stays flaky for hours, so they’re still delicious at room temp. A touch of rosemary adds an evergreen aroma that screams Christmas.

2. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Sweet dates stuffed with a sliver of almond or blue cheese get enveloped in smoky bacon, then baked until caramelized. They deliver a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and chewy textures. Transport them in a foil-lined container to keep the bacon crisp. A quick reheat in the host’s oven revives the sizzle if you like them extra hot.

3. Deviled Eggs with Smoked Paprika

Classic deviled eggs never last long at a potluck, especially with a smoky twist. Mix the yolks with mayo, Dijon, and a splash of pickle juice, then dust the tops with smoked paprika for color and flavor. Hard-boil the eggs a day ahead so assembly is quick. A deviled-egg carrier keeps them from sliding around during transit.

4. Holiday Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil mimic red, white, and green ornaments on a stick. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving so the skewers don’t get soggy. They’re light, fresh, and welcome among heavier dishes. Kids love grabbing them by the handful.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms

Button or cremini caps get packed with a mix of cream cheese, herbs, and Parmesan, then baked until juicy. The mushroom shape makes them naturally portable finger food. Use panko for an extra-crunchy topping that stays crisp. They reheat well, but taste fine at room temperature too.

6. Spinach Artichoke Dip

This creamy classic combines spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and a touch of garlic. Bake until the top browns slightly and serve with sturdy chips or baguette slices. A small slow cooker will keep it warm on the buffet. Leftovers, if any, are fabulous stirred into scrambled eggs the next morning.

7. Sausage Roll Wreath

Spiced sausage wrapped in puff pastry forms a festive ring that pulls apart into handy portions. Brush the pastry with egg wash for a deep shine. Serve with mustard or cranberry chutney in the middle for dipping. The wreath shape earns plenty of compliments before the first slice is taken.

8. Shrimp Cocktail Platter

Cooked, chilled shrimp arranged around tangy cocktail sauce feel fancy but require almost no effort. Buy shrimp already deveined and steamed, then keep them cold on a bed of ice. A squeeze of lemon over the top brightens the flavor. It disappears quickly, so make sure to bring plenty.

9. Cheddar Garlic Pull-Apart Bread

This shareable loaf relies on pre-made biscuit dough stuffed with garlic butter and sharp cheddar. Bake in a Bundt pan so pieces pull out like petals. The aroma alone will draw a crowd to the buffet. Wrap the pan in foil to keep it warm while you travel.

10. Maple-Glazed Ham Slices

A spiraled ham brushed with maple syrup, brown sugar, and a hint of Dijon can be baked ahead of time. Slice and arrange on a platter so guests can build sandwiches or eat it straight. The glaze stays glossy even after refrigeration. Pair with small dinner rolls for easy sliders.

11. Turkey & Cranberry Sliders

Layer leftover or deli turkey, a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and mild cheese in soft buns. Warm briefly so the cheese melts enough to hold everything together. They’re bite-sized versions of a full holiday sandwich. Toothpicks keep the stack intact during the drive over.

12. Swedish Meatballs

Allspice-scented meatballs simmer in a silky cream sauce that stays luscious in a slow cooker. Serve them with toothpicks for easy spearing or alongside egg noodles. The sauce thickens as it rests, so bring a small pitcher of warm broth to thin it if needed. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top brightens the dish.

13. Honey-Garlic Cocktail Meatballs

Frozen meatballs get an instant upgrade when simmered in honey, soy sauce, and garlic until sticky. The glaze clings nicely, so they won’t drip on the tablecloth. Make a double batch; they vanish in minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch.

14. Slow-Cooker Beef Chili

Ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and chili spices mingle for hours in a slow cooker, developing deep flavor. Transport the entire insert to keep heat locked in. Serve with bowls of cheddar, sour cream, and tortilla chips so diners can customize. Any leftovers freeze beautifully.

15. Chicken Alfredo Bake

Fettuccine tossed in creamy Alfredo sauce, diced chicken, and Parmesan bakes into a golden casserole. It reheats gracefully without breaking the sauce. Use rotisserie chicken for speed. A sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving revives the color.

16. Shepherd’s Pie Cups

Mini versions of the classic casserole layer seasoned ground lamb or beef, vegetables, and fluffy mash in single-serve cups. The format keeps the buffet line tidy—no scooping or mess. Bake until the potato peaks turn golden. Ramekins travel well in a muffin tin wrapped with foil.

17. Lasagna Roll-Ups

Instead of a big slab, each noodle gets spread with ricotta and spinach, rolled, and nestled in marinara. Portioning is simple—one or two rolls per person. The rolls stay intact even after a car ride. Cover with foil to keep them steamy until serving time.

18. Baked Ziti

Short pasta, robust tomato sauce, and a trio of cheeses make baked ziti the ultimate crowd comfort food. Assemble a day ahead; flavors only deepen overnight. Bake just before leaving and wrap the pot in a thick towel for insulation. A sprinkling of basil adds holiday-ready green flecks.

19. Creamy Mac & Cheese

Elbow noodles bathe in a silky cheddar sauce with a hint of smoked Gouda. A breadcrumb crust provides crunch that holds up during transit. The dish suits kids and adults alike. Reheat with a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

20. Three-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes

Thin potatoes baked with Gruyère, Parmesan, and sharp cheddar form a creamy, decadent side. The edges get irresistibly crispy. Bake in a ceramic dish that stays warm long after removal from the oven. A little nutmeg in the cream underscores the holiday vibe.

21. Classic Green Bean Casserole

Creamy mushroom sauce blankets tender green beans, while fried onions add a crunchy finish. It’s the side everyone anticipates each December. Use fresh beans for better texture. Bake until the topping is golden and bubbly around the edges.

22. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

High-heat roasting caramelizes Brussels sprouts and renders bacon into savory bits. A drizzle of maple syrup right after roasting balances the bitterness. They’re terrific warm or at room temperature. Transport in the same sheet pan covered with foil to preserve those crispy leaves.

23. Brown-Sugar Glazed Carrots

Carrot slices simmer in butter, brown sugar, and a splash of orange juice until tender and shiny. The glaze thickens as it cools, coating each bite. Kids gravitate to their candy-like sweetness. Garnish with parsley for fresh color.

24. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Velvety mashed sweet potatoes meet a crunchy pecan streusel in this holiday staple. A hint of cinnamon and vanilla deepens the flavor. It travels well and reheats without losing the crunchy lid. Marshmallow lovers can dot a corner so every preference is covered.

25. Wild Rice Pilaf

Nutty wild rice mingles with cranberries, almonds, and diced celery for texture and color. Cook the rice in vegetable broth for extra depth. The pilaf holds heat surprisingly well, but still tastes great at room temp. A squeeze of orange juice before serving wakes up the flavors.

26. Quinoa Cranberry Salad

This light salad balances protein-packed quinoa with sweet cranberries and a lemon vinaigrette. It’s a welcome option for vegetarian or gluten-free diners. Make it the night before so flavors meld. The grains won’t clump, ensuring a fluffy texture throughout the party.

27. Old-Fashioned Potato Salad

Yukon Gold potatoes, celery, and hard-boiled eggs get dressed in a tangy mayo-mustard sauce. A sprinkle of fresh dill adds brightness. Chill thoroughly before heading out so it stays food-safe. It feels nostalgic next to the fancier sides on the table.

28. Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Pasta tossed in olive oil, lemon, feta, and loads of veggies stays vibrant for hours. Omit mayo so it’s safe at room temperature. The red, green, and white colors suit the season. Serve in a big clear bowl to show off the hues.

29. Winter Kale Salad with Pomegranate

Massage kale with olive oil so it softens, then stud it with pomegranate seeds and crunchy walnuts. A maple-Dijon dressing ties it all together. The sturdy greens won’t wilt, making it ideal for a buffet. Feta crumbles add a creamy contrast if desired.

30. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine coated in garlicky dressing offers a refreshing break from heavy dishes. Keep dressing and croutons separate during transport, then toss right before serving. A shower of fresh-shaved Parmesan seals the deal. Anchovy lovers can add filets on top for extra umami.

31. Cornbread Muffins

Individual muffins bake faster than a full skillet and reduce slicing mess. A touch of honey in the batter lends subtle sweetness. They stay moist when wrapped in a clean towel. Serve with whipped honey butter on the side for spreading.

32. Cheddar Biscuits

Sharp cheddar and chives make these drop biscuits deeply savory. The high-heat bake yields crisp edges and tender centers. Pack them in a lined basket to retain warmth. A quick brush of garlic butter elevates them even more.

33. Soft Dinner Rolls

Pillowy yeast rolls invite gravy mopping and ham stacking. Bake them close together so the sides stay extra soft. Brush with melted butter and a pinch of flaky salt. Transport wrapped in foil inside a cloth-lined basket for maximum warmth.

34. Cranberry Orange Relish

Fresh cranberries, segmented oranges, and a little sugar pulse into a bright, uncooked relish. The tart sweetness cuts through rich meats. Make it up to three days ahead; flavors improve as it sits. Serve chilled for a crisp contrast on the plate.

35. Homestyle Turkey Gravy

Slowly whisking stock into a butter-flour roux yields lump-free gravy every time. A splash of soy sauce deepens color and flavor without tasting exotic. Pour the finished gravy into a thermos to keep it piping hot. A few thyme sprigs dropped in during transport add subtle aroma.

36. Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

These creamy bars blend eggnog, cream cheese, and a graham cracker crust for fuss-free slicing. Nutmeg on top hints at the traditional drink. Chill overnight so they set firmly. They stack neatly in a storage container lined with wax paper.

37. Gingerbread Cookies

Molasses and warm spices fill the kitchen with that unmistakable scent while baking. The cookies hold their shape, making them ideal for decorative icing or leaving plain. Pack layers between parchment to avoid chipping. Little ones love decorating any extras at the party.

38. Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs

Buttery sugar cookies offer a blank canvas for royal icing, sanding sugar, or sprinkles. Chill the dough so shapes stay sharp. Once iced, let them dry before stacking. They’re as much a table decoration as a dessert.

39. Peppermint Brownies

Fudgy brownies flavored with peppermint extract and topped with crushed candy canes feel instantly festive. The mint pieces melt slightly, creating a pretty stained-glass effect. Cut them small; they’re rich. A parchment sling makes removal from the pan painless.

40. Chocolate Yule Log

The classic Bûche de Noël combines airy chocolate sponge, whipped cream filling, and ganache frosting. A fork makes easy bark lines before the ganache sets. Despite its looks, the cake is light, leaving room for other treats. Slice and serve straight from the log for dramatic effect.

41. Mini Fruitcakes

Baking fruitcake batter in muffin tins turns a divisive dessert into a charming, portion-controlled bite. Soaking the dried fruit in brandy softens it and infuses flavor. A quick apricot glaze keeps each cake moist. They last for weeks, so feel free to make them well ahead.

42. Sticky Toffee Pudding Cups

Moist date-based cakes soak up warm toffee sauce like sponges. Bake them in ramekins for neat single servings. Reheat gently just before dessert service so the sauce turns molten. A light spoonful of whipped cream offsets the richness.

43. Apple Crumble

Sweet-tart apples bake under a cinnamon-oat topping until the juices thicken and the house smells like a holiday candle. The crumble stays crisp for hours. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream if there’s a freezer handy. Otherwise, it’s lovely on its own.

44. Pecan Pie Squares

All the gooey goodness of pecan pie rests on a shortbread crust for easier slicing. Corn syrup and brown sugar create that signature chewy layer. The squares hold together better than traditional wedges. Cool completely before cutting to get sharp edges.

45. Lemon Bars

Bright citrus curd atop a buttery crust offers a tart contrast to richer desserts. Chill thoroughly so the filling sets. A light snow of powdered sugar just before serving looks like fresh snowfall. They’re sturdy enough to stack between parchment layers.

46. Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies

Chewy blondies get holiday flair from tart dried cranberries and creamy white chocolate. Brown butter in the batter adds depth. They stay soft for days, making them ideal make-aheads. Slice while slightly warm for cleaner edges.

47. Rice Krispies Treat Trees

Melted marshmallow and cereal shape into festive trees with a little green food coloring. Mini M&Ms act as ornaments, and a pretzel stick forms the trunk. Kids can help assemble, then proudly place them on the dessert table. They’re light, so a lidded tin is all you need for transport.

48. Rum Balls

Crushed cookies, cocoa, and rum roll into bite-size confections that don’t require baking. Let them rest overnight so the flavors meld. Coat in cocoa, powdered sugar, or sprinkles for variety. Keep them chilled until serving to maintain firmness.

49. Chocolate Truffles

Silky ganache firms up in the fridge, then rolls into decadent spheres. Flavor with espresso powder, peppermint, or orange zest for a surprise center. They look elegant arranged in mini paper cups. A cool pack in the carrier prevents melting en route.

50. Panettone Bread Pudding

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover panettone, turn it into a custardy pudding. The sweet loaf’s dried fruit adds flavor without extra work. Bake until puffed and lightly browned. A drizzle of vanilla sauce before serving takes it over the top.

51. Cinnamon Rolls

Soft yeast dough swirls around brown sugar-cinnamon filling, topped with tangy frosting. Proof the rolls overnight in the fridge for an easy morning bake. Pack them snugly so they don’t slide around. Warm for five minutes in the host’s oven to revive that fresh-baked aroma.

52. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

Salty pretzels meet sweet chocolate for an addictive sweet-savory nibble. Use candy melts for a quick-setting coating. Arrange them upright in a jar for a decorative centerpiece. They keep well for up to two weeks.

53. Caramel Corn

Popcorn coated in buttery caramel bakes until crisp, then cools into crunchy clusters. Sprinkle in peanuts or pretzel bits for extra texture. Package in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for easy gifting. It doubles as a centerpiece and a snack.

54. Spiced Nuts

Almonds, pecans, and cashews roast with brown sugar and warming spices until glossy and fragrant. They cool into caramelized clusters perfect for nibbling. Make them days ahead; the flavor only improves. Set a small scoop alongside the bowl for tidy serving.

55. Mulled Wine

Red wine simmers gently with citrus, cloves, and cinnamon, filling the house with holiday perfume. Keep it warm in a slow cooker set to low so guests can ladle their own mugful. A splash of brandy intensifies the flavor. Provide orange peel twists for garnish.

56. Hot Apple Cider

Fresh cider heated with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice offers a non-alcoholic option that still feels festive. A slow cooker keeps it steaming without scorching. Add thin apple slices just before serving for a pretty touch. Leftovers refrigerate well for reheating later.

57. Festive Sparkling Punch

Combine cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and ginger ale for a fizzy, jewel-toned punch. Add cranberries and citrus wheels for color and flavor. Keep the ginger ale separate until serving so the bubbles stay lively. Offer optional vodka on the side for those who want to spike their glass.

58. Sparkling Cranberry Mocktail

Equal parts cranberry juice and sparkling water create a light, refreshing sip. A squeeze of lime balances the sweetness. Rosemary not only looks elegant but perfumes each glass. Kids and drivers appreciate a special drink of their own.

59. Peppermint Mocha

Hot coffee blends with cocoa, milk, and peppermint syrup for a winter classic. Brew a strong concentrate and transport it in a thermal carafe. Guests can doctor their mugs with whipped cream and candy cane sprinkles. The aroma alone draws people over.

60. Hot Chocolate Bar

Rich cocoa made with whole milk anchors a DIY topping station. Offer marshmallows, cinnamon, and flavored syrups so everyone can customize. Keep the cocoa warm in an insulated dispenser. Tiny holiday mugs complete the cozy setup.

61. Classic Eggnog

Silky eggnog made from milk, cream, eggs, and sugar gets a gentle hint of rum or bourbon. Chill it thoroughly so the flavors meld. Grate fresh nutmeg over each cup for authenticity. Offer a nut-free version if allergies are a concern.

62. Gingerbread Latte

Espresso, steamed milk, and ginger-molasses syrup form a cozy seasonal drink. Make the syrup ahead by simmering ginger, cinnamon, and cloves with brown sugar. Bring a jug of the syrup and let guests stir it into fresh-brewed coffee. A touch of whipped cream seals the deal.

63. Cranberry Mimosas

Swap classic orange juice for cranberry juice and watch the bubbles pick up a jewel tone. A curl of orange zest adds fragrance without extra sweetness. Assemble glasses as guests arrive so the fizz stays energetic. Offer a sparkling water version for those skipping alcohol.