35 Christmas Party Food Ideas That Feel Right for the Week Before Christmas

Whether you’re hosting or pitching in with the holiday spread, having 35 Christmas party food ideas makes planning much easier. Friends and family usually expect something memorable at festive get-togethers. There’s no need to overdo it, since a little inspiration can go a long way. When the food fits the season, it’s often what people end up talking about most.

Smashed potatoes on parchment paper, with dollops of sauce and sprigs of dill. — Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Turkey Wings

A plate of cooked chicken wings garnished with chopped herbs, accompanied by two small bowls of dipping sauces. — Turkey Wings. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

There’s something about serving these Turkey Wings during Christmas week that just feels right. The aroma alone makes people gather around the table a little faster. Extra always gets made, since these tend to vanish quickly at parties. Anyone looking for cozy flavors will want a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Wings

Classic Strawberry Cheesecake

A slice of strawberry-topped cheesecake is being lifted above the rest of the cake, showing a graham cracker crust and creamy filling. — Classic Strawberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Few desserts turn heads at a holiday party quite like this Classic Strawberry Cheesecake. A slice promises creamy richness with a sweet, fruity touch that looks stunning on the buffet. When this dessert comes out, the table suddenly gets very busy. Don’t be surprised if people request the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Classic Strawberry Cheesecake

Smoked Mackerel Pate

A white bowl filled with a creamy, light brown spread, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices. — Smoked Mackerel Pate. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bite-sized starters like this Smoked Mackerel Pate always spark conversation. A spoonful on crackers adds a little something special to the spread, especially for those craving savory bites over sweets. This tends to be one of the first appetizers to disappear. Even folks new to mackerel come back for more.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate

Sweet French Toast Casserole

A person taking a portion of French toast casserole. — Sweet French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Waking up to this Sweet French Toast Casserole in December just feels extra comforting. It’s warm, fluffy, and perfectly suited for an indulgent brunch or festive breakfast-for-dinner gathering. Guests love uncovering the golden, syrupy layers. Making it ahead allows more time to enjoy the company.
Get the Recipe: Sweet French Toast Casserole

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

A close-up of a serving of baked macaroni and cheese being lifted from a casserole dish, topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs. — Four Cheese Mac n Cheese. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

That creamy, cheesy bite from this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese makes it impossible for people to resist at parties. Even those who skipped dinner want a little scoop. Lightly crispy on top and gooey inside, this dish brings warmth and smiles to holiday tables. Seconds are practically a guarantee.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Christmas tree shaped cookies on a baking sheet. — Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Glistening sprinkles and fun shapes give these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies their instant appeal. Watching folks reach for these cookies, it’s clear they capture the playful holiday spirit. Whether hosting adults or kids, these always vanish quickly. Decorating is almost as fun as eating them.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

A plate of deviled eggs garnished with paprika and chopped parsley, with a small dish of sauce on the side. — Million Dollar Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Holiday platters feel incomplete without these Million Dollar Deviled Eggs front and center. They look extra fancy, yet rarely last more than a few minutes. Serving these always prompts people to ask what makes them so special. Rich and creamy, each bite feels like a party by itself.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Christmas cookies with cherries and icing on a baking sheet. — Adorable Snowman Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No Christmas treat tray is truly complete without a batch of these Adorable Snowman Cookies. Their playful look draws everyone in, while sweet flavors keep people reaching back for one more. The charm of these little snowmen always brings smiles. Decorating them turns into a tradition for many guests.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Chocolate Pudding

Creamy and rich, this Chocolate Pudding brings a nostalgic comfort to winter gatherings. A cool, velvety spoonful often sparks happy memories from childhood celebrations. This dessert appeals to both adults and kids; no one wants to be left out. There’s always a request for just one more serving.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pudding

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed, fluffy, and full of warm color, these Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a natural fit for December feasts. The subtle sweetness makes each forkful taste special alongside all the savory dishes. Whenever these are served, they add something wholesome to the meal. Guests usually hope there’s enough for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree with cheese stars, meats, olives, tomatoes, grapes, and breadsticks on a wooden board, garnished with rosemary. — Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A beautifully arranged Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board becomes the centerpiece of any gathering. Friends love nibbling from a spread that feels both cheerful and elegant. The festive design makes it almost too pretty to eat, but that never stops the crowd for long. No two boards ever look exactly alike.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

Pecan Pie Brownies

Close-up of several chocolate brownies topped with pecans on a parchment surface. — Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Fudgy layers with a nutty crunch make these Pecan Pie Brownies stand out from ordinary desserts. Holiday guests swarm the dessert table when these are out, whispering about the gooey surprise inside. Making extra every year is the only regret. These brownies have that sweet-meets-rich flavor people crave.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Clam Chowder

A bowl of creamy soup with clams, bacon, chopped green onions, and parsley, placed on a pink surface next to a spoon and some fresh herbs. — Clam Chowder. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Serving this Clam Chowder during cold December nights is an instant comfort move. Warmth fills the kitchen as people gather near the pot, bowls in hand. Even those who don’t usually eat chowder ask for a small taste. The whole room tends to quiet down with the first spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

S’mores Muffins

Close-up of chocolate chip muffins with crumb topping in paper liners, cooling on a wire rack. — S’mores Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Chewy, chocolaty, and a touch toasty, these S’mores Muffins transport guests back to cozy fireside memories. Reactions are fun to watch when people spot the gooey centers and marshmallow topping. These go so fast, everyone will wish for an extra batch. Every bite offers a little taste of winter magic.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Muffins

Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls

Cheese balls coated with chopped nuts, topped with cranberries and pretzels, arranged on a white plate near a small artificial pine tree. — Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Holiday parties turn playful with these Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls on the snack table. Their cute shapes encourage everyone to grab one before they’re gone. People always ask how they’re made, then take a second to admire how fun they look. These little bites put everyone in a festive mood.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top. — Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bringing these Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes to the meal guarantees a rich, comforting side. Creamy inside with a hint of golden crust, this holiday favorite steals the show beside any main dish. More guests always sneak back to scoop up seconds. There’s something about those potatoes that keeps people talking.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Santa Cupcakes

Chocolate cupcakes with red frosting swirled to resemble Santa hats, topped with powdered sugar and a small marshmallow, with miniature decorative trees in the foreground. — Santa Cupcakes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Attention never drifts far from these Santa Cupcakes once they land on the dessert table. Each cupcake’s playful design brings a giggle or two, even before the first bite. Joy comes with desserts shaped like holiday icons. These always run out long before the night ends.
Get the Recipe: Santa Cupcakes

Tender Roast Beef

Sliced roast beef served on a bed of mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh rosemary. — Tender Roast Beef. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Slicing into this Tender Roast Beef during the Christmas week feels especially comforting. People nearby can’t help but lean closer for that first whiff. Hearty and flavorful, this becomes the star of any winter spread. Year after year, plates clear quickly whenever roast beef is on the table.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roast Beef

Festive Christmas Casserole

A close-up of a spoon scooping a portion of creamy baked casserole topped with herbs, with a dish of the casserole and a spoon in the background. — Festive Christmas Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hearty, cheesy, and bubbling hot, this Festive Christmas Casserole fills the house with inviting scents. Everyone tends to hover near the oven in anticipation. Bringing out this casserole makes breakfast or brunch feel extra special. The golden top draws plenty of oohs and aahs at first glance.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole

Ambrosia Salad

Light, sweet, and a little nostalgic, this Ambrosia Salad always adds a traditional touch to the holiday meal. The bright blend never sticks around long once people get a taste. Newcomers usually ask for a small serving, then come back for more. This salad brings a bit of brightness to every table.
Get the Recipe: Ambrosia Salad

Rich Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes. — Rich Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

On chilly nights, this Rich Beef Bourguignon offers the kind of comfort people remember all year. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, this dish fills the room with heartwarming aromas. Any dinner feels special when this is served. The first spoonful always feels like a celebration.
Get the Recipe: Rich Beef Bourguignon

Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

Glazed ham layered with pineapple slices and a hint of brown sugar, garnished with rosemary sprigs. — Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A glazed Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham is a crowd-pleaser at December gatherings. The dazzling color draws attention, while every slice delivers sweet and savory flavors. Guests linger by the serving platter, hoping for just one more piece. This ham always finds a way to steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

Layered Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise. — Layered Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No holiday potluck table looks complete without this Layered Seven Layer Salad and its bright, eye-catching layers. Each ingredient promises a fresh and colorful bite. Bringing this makes people peek to see what’s inside. Sometimes, the empty bowl sparks more comments than the full one.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A close-up of a spoonful of chicken stuffing, showcasing croutons, shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and sprinkled herbs. — Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nothing sets the stage for comfort like this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole during the winter holidays. Each scoop helps the stress of busy days fade away. It works for both casual gatherings and big celebrations. Guests often sneak back for a little more when no one’s looking.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Close-up image of several chocolate brownies featuring a slightly crumbly texture and a sprinkling of coarse salt on top. — Chewy Chocolate Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fudgy and chewy, these Chewy Chocolate Brownies never fail to disappear fast at Christmas parties. There’s something irresistible about a classic treat done well. Empty plates where the brownies sat aren’t uncommon. Chocolate fans in particular go wild for them.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Savory Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce. — Savory Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Party snack tables get lively once these Savory Sausage Balls make an appearance. People enjoy popping these little bites while catching up and swapping stories. These are especially popular for grazing between bigger courses. Guests expect them every year, leaving none behind.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sausage Balls

Layered Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil. — Layered Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few things say comfort quite like this Layered Homemade Lasagna bubbling out of the oven. The aroma alone pulls everyone toward the kitchen, eager for a serving. Bringing this to gatherings turns it into an instant classic. Slices disappear from the pan faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Layered Homemade Lasagna

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Close-up of seasoned and roasted meat with crispy edges. — Copycat Honey Baked Ham. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

At Christmas potlucks, a platter of this Copycat Honey Baked Ham gets attention for all the right reasons. Each slice delivers juicy, sweet, and savory perfection. So many compliments come in about how it brings back holiday memories. Leftovers never last long after parties.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs

Close-up of Deviled Eggs topped with a red currant and garnished with fried leeks. Fresh red currants are in the background. — Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A tray of these Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs adds a little luxe to the appetizer spread. Their subtle, festive look catches everyone’s eye before a single bite is taken. Even those who rarely choose eggs end up reaching for these. The combination just feels right for celebrating the season.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs

Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

A roasted turkey stuffed with vegetables is served on a platter, surrounded by various side dishes including rolls, salad, and stuffing. — Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bringing this Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing to the table always signals that Christmas week has truly arrived. Carving into juicy slices gets the whole group excited. Making plenty is the best move, since it’s usually everyone’s favorite. A burst of cranberry makes this holiday classic pop.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

Classic Meatloaf

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery. — Classic Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Stateside comfort food like this Classic Meatloaf finds its place at Christmas week gatherings, too. There’s an old-school charm about offering hearty slices to holiday guests. This dish often sparks conversation about favorite home-cooked meals. Extra gets made for sandwiches the next day.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatloaf

Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side. — Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Festive spreads shine a little brighter when this Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread lands on the table. Vibrant colors and bold flavors offer a fresh surprise among traditional dishes. Guests get curious, then stick around for second and third tastes. This dip quickly becomes a party talking point.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

A bowl of golden-brown, crispy fried arancini served in a white dish on a plain background. — Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If party snacks could win awards, these Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites might just take the prize. They’re crispy, cheesy, and always grab attention from guests wanting something bold. Sharing them sparks friendly competition for the last bite. Every year, making twice as many seems like a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board

A holiday-themed platter with bowls of hummus, yogurt dip, nuts, grapes, breadsticks, and crackers, decorated with festive greenery and red ribbons. — Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Arranging a vibrant Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board turns snack time into something special and merry. The colors alone bring holiday cheer to the table. Health-conscious eaters appreciate the variety, and even kids nibble more veggies. By the end of the night, only crumbs are left.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

When the buffet line appears, these Crispy Smashed Potatoes earn plenty of fans. Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, these potatoes invite second helpings. Happy exclamations seem to follow every bite. No one wants to miss out when these are served at a Christmas party.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes