35 Christmas Potluck Ideas That Bring a Cheerful Bite to Any December Gathering

December tends to fill up with gatherings, big and small. These 35 Christmas potluck recipes offer options that work for casual events, office parties, or family meals. Each one brings a simple, festive touch without adding extra stress to your day. Choose what fits the moment, and you’re ready to share something homemade.

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.

Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of layered tiramisu cake with cream, coffee-soaked sponge, and dusted cocoa powder on top, served on a white plate. — Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Few desserts bring elegance to the table like this Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake. It’s where creamy indulgence meets the bold flavor of coffee. Whether you’re hosting holiday guests or looking to treat yourself, this dessert delivers layers of flavor that feel irresistible. Everyone will want a slice before the day is over.
Get the Recipe: Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

Fresh Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate. — Fresh Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

A colorful dish always livens up the table, and this Fresh Beet Salad does so beautifully. The vibrant red beets bring flavor and health together, making it a refreshing addition to heavier holiday spreads. Whether you’re serving guests or sharing at a potluck, this dish is sure to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

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

Holiday desserts should spread joy, and these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies are as cheerful as they come. Decorating them is half the fun, making it a great activity before the celebration. Their light sweetness is loved by all, and they’ll quickly become your go-to cookie for Christmas gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

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.

Comfort food gets a creamy upgrade with this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese. Warm, cheesy, and so irresistibly fulfilling, it’s the dish that disappears fastest on the table. Ideal for pairing with hearty mains or serving solo, it’s a guaranteed hit for any holiday crowd.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet and creamy, this Mashed Sweet Potatoes dish captures comforting holiday vibes in every spoonful. It’s the perfect balance to heavier casseroles and meaty mains, bringing a lighter touch to your spread. From potlucks to family dinners, this side dish always brings warmth to the table.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Candy Cane Cookies

Add a touch of whimsy to your dessert spread with this Candy Cane Cookies recipe. Twisted red and white dough brings that unmistakable holiday nostalgia. They’re as eye-catching as they are delicious, making them a fun addition to cookie exchanges or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork. — Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you want something warm and irresistibly comforting, this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes dish answers the call. The creamy layers of potatoes and melted cheese fit perfectly on holiday tables. Guests will keep coming back for more, proving just how much everyone loves this classic casserole-style creation.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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.

For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, look no further than these Million Dollar Deviled Eggs. Balanced, creamy, and just a little indulgent, they’re guaranteed to vanish the moment they hit the table. They’re a perfect way to kick off the holiday meal with style and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

Mini Cheesecakes

Individual-sized desserts never fail to impress, and this Mini Cheesecakes recipe does just that. Rich, creamy bites make them perfect for holiday sharing, potlucks, or gifting. Dress them up with toppings or leave them simple, either way, they’ll be a crowd favorite in no time.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cheesecakes

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.

If your festive table needs bold, sophisticated flavors, this Smoked Mackerel Pate delivers beautifully. Smooth, smoky, and ready to pair with crackers or fresh bread, it’s a standout appetizer for gatherings. Guests will love its depth of flavor and the elegance it adds to holiday spreads.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate

Cheesy Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole being served. — Cheesy Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A great side dish holds its own, and that’s exactly what this Cheesy Potato Casserole offers. Creamy and hearty, it’s the kind of comforting crowd-pleaser everyone goes back for. It’s easy to share at potlucks and pairs perfectly with all your favorite holiday flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

A close-up of Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies, elegantly coated in white chocolate and adorned with colorful candy lights, red sprinkles, and chocolate pieces on top. — Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Get creative this year with Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies that bring whimsical charm to your dessert lineup. Whether they’re decorated with friends or prepared ahead, they’re cute enough to impress and delicious enough to delight. Fun, festive, and perfect for just about any holiday dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped bacon, crispy onions, and melted cheese, featuring visible green peppers and a creamy sauce. — Green Bean and Bacon Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Holiday meals deserve variety, and this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole offers the perfect balance of freshness and smoky flavor. A filling mix of textures keeps guests coming back for spoonful after spoonful. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with any holiday main dish.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops

Three chocolate cake pops shaped like reindeer, with pretzel antlers and red candy noses, on wooden sticks. — Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Kids and adults alike will smile at these Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops. Perfect for adding some holiday charm to dessert tables, these treats always stand out. The first bite brings joy and sweetness, while the festive look makes them unforgettable. Serve these for a touch of whimsy that everyone will adore.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops

Christmas Salad

A close-up of a salad with chopped romaine lettuce, diced white cheese, pecans, and pomegranate seeds on a blue plate. — Christmas Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pack a seasonal punch with this Christmas Salad, where crisp greens meet holiday flair. It’s light, fresh, and colorful, perfect for balancing out heavier dishes at your potluck. Guests love the way it complements everything on the table. Make it the centerpiece for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

Classic Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail with peeled shrimp arranged on the rim of a glass filled with cocktail sauce, garnished with parsley. — Classic Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Few appetizers are as timeless as this Classic Shrimp Cocktail. It’s elegant and irresistibly tempting, bringing a touch of sophistication to your holiday spread. When served in a beautiful dish, it’s sure to turn heads. The perfect start to any festive gathering, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Cocktail

Christmas Prime Rib Roast

Close-up of a sliced roast beef garnished with herbs on a blue plate. The meat appears medium-rare and juicy. — Christmas Prime Rib Roast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a spectacular main dish, this Christmas Prime Rib Roast rises to the occasion. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for cozy December evenings. People are guaranteed to come back for seconds, savoring every bite. A true centerpiece for any Christmas potluck that commands attention.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Prime Rib Roast

Loaded Potato Skins

Potato skins with sour cream and sliced scallions. — Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Packed with flavor and just the right amount of crunch, this Loaded Potato Skins recipe is always a hit. They’re great for sharing, and easy to grab while mingling. Pair them with dips, and watch them disappear fast. Everyone loves the combination of creamy filling and crispy edges.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Hearty Beef Pot Pie

A golden-brown homemade pie with a flaky crust, garnished with a sprig of rosemary on the side. — Hearty Beef Pot Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm, rich, and oh-so-comforting, this Hearty Beef Pot Pie feels like a hug on cold winter nights. Perfect for potlucks, it’s an easy way to satisfy guests with a single dish. The flaky crust contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. Bring this for guaranteed smiles and empty plates.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Pot Pie

Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Chocolate cupcakes with white frosting and small pastel-colored marshmallows on top, arranged in a group against a neutral background. — Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turn up the holiday sweetness with these Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes, sure to charm guests with every bite. Soft, chocolatey goodness meets a festive twist that screams December delight. Perfect for dessert tables, they’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. Simple treats like these bring cozy joy to the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Fresh Greek Salad

A bowl of Greek salad with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, green bell peppers, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. — Fresh Greek Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bright, crunchy, and light, this Fresh Greek Salad adds a burst of freshness to your Christmas potluck. The mix of vegetables feels like a refreshing break from heavier holiday meals. It’s colorful enough to stand out and simple enough that everyone will reach for seconds. Perfect for balancing the season’s indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek Salad

Christmas Donut Wreath

A wreath made of powdered and glazed donut holes, garnished with fresh raspberries, pomegranate seeds, and rosemary sprigs, displayed on a burlap ribbon. — Christmas Donut Wreath. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bring some holiday magic to your dessert table with this Christmas Donut Wreath. Its festive design turns ordinary donuts into a stunning centerpiece. Guests will love the creative presentation and sweet bites throughout the gathering. Perfect for adding charm and fun to your Christmas potluck spread.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Donut Wreath

Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots, and peas in a brown broth, garnished with chopped parsley. — Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Perfect for warming up after chilly December days, this Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is full of comfort. Each spoonful feels fulfilling, making it ideal for gatherings where flavor matters. Guests appreciate the balance of wholesome veggies and rich broth. Serve it to bring warmth to your holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Christmas Brownies

Several brownies decorated with candy eyes, red candy noses, and pretzel antlers are arranged on a white surface to resemble reindeer faces. — Christmas Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Desserts don’t get easier or more fun than these Christmas Brownies, dressed up for the season. Perfectly fudgy with a festive touch, they’re the kind of treat people love to snack on during holiday parties. They’re simple to make and even better to share. Add these for a sweet finish to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Brownies

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.

Everyone will love this Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls recipe, which is ideal for adding a festive touch to your holiday table. The playful design makes them stand out while offering a creamy, flavorful bite. They’re perfect as a shareable snack. Bring these to your next gathering for extra holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls

Cosmic Brownies

Close-up of a thick, fudgy chocolate brownie topped with colorful candy sprinkles on a light blue surface. — Cosmic Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The rich, chocolaty flavor of this Cosmic Brownies recipe is sure to win over the crowd. A soft, fudgy texture and colorful toppings give them a nostalgic appeal that’s hard to resist. They’re simple to prepare but feel indulgent with every bite. Add these to your dessert table for guaranteed smiles.
Get the Recipe: Cosmic 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.

Few dishes capture the cozy feeling of winter like this Clam Chowder, perfect for holiday gatherings. It offers a creamy and hearty texture that’s ideal for warming up cold nights. Serve it alongside crusty bread for an easy and fulfilling option. Guests will appreciate its comforting, classic flavor.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

A baked pull-apart bread ring with melted cheese and cranberries on a gray plate, garnished with rosemary sprigs. — Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Holiday potlucks feel extra special with this Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread at the table. Its mix of tangy cranberries and melty, gooey brie is truly irresistible. This shareable appetizer doubles as a centerpiece that’s fun to tear apart. It’s both festive and deliciously easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

A plate of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with cheese, secured with toothpicks, next to a small dish of dipping sauce. — Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Guests will keep coming back for this Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers recipe, a bold appetizer packed with flavor. The spiciness of the jalapeño pairs perfectly with the smoky, crispy bacon wrap. It’s the kind of bite-sized snack that disappears almost as quickly as you serve it. Add it to the lineup for a great kick.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

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 fun holiday gathering isn’t complete without this Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board displayed on the table. It’s an elegant way to serve an array of meats, cheeses, veggies, and other snacks. The festive tree shape adds personality while offering something for everyone. Guests will love grazing while catching up.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

Colorful Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. — Colorful Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re looking for a vibrant and easy dish, this Colorful Antipasto Salad is a smart choice. It combines a mix of textures and bold flavors that fit perfectly on any festive table. Served as either a side or main, it never fails to impress. Potluck spreads feel more complete with it included.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

A slice of festive Christmas Poke Cake with red swirls and pink frosting, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry, sits elegantly on a plate with a fork. — Sweet Christmas Poke Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A slice of this Sweet Christmas Poke Cake is guaranteed to add joy to the dessert table. Behind its cheerful decorations lies a moist, fluffy cake with flavors sure to delight. It’s easy to make and brings a festive surprise when you cut into it. Potluck guests of all ages will enjoy digging in.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

Chicken Cutlets

Potluck tables need reliable crowd-pleasers like this Chicken Cutlets recipe to round out the meal. They’re crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and simple enough to pair with any holiday favorites. Whether served warm or room temperature, they’re always a popular choice. This dish never feels out of place.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cutlets

Creamy Hummus

A bowl of hummus garnished with whole chickpeas, chopped parsley, paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil. — Creamy Hummus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A fresh dip like this Creamy Hummus makes a great addition to any potluck table during the holidays. It’s a smooth, versatile favorite that pairs well with crisp veggies, crackers, or pita. Guests love its simplicity and rich flavor. For a snack that feels light yet satisfying, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Hummus

Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

Sweet, savory, and undeniably festive, this Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham is perfect for the main event. Its combination of juicy meat and sweet glaze creates holiday magic in every bite. The aroma alone will make your guests hungry before it’s even served. This dish ensures your table feels complete and celebratory.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham