Planning a festive Christmas buffet can be a breeze with a little creativity! We’ve gathered over 51 + tasty buffet ideas to help you spread holiday cheer with delicious dishes that are sure to please a crowd. From savory appetizers to delightful desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Classic Stuffing with Sage
Classic stuffing with sage is a staple at holiday gatherings. This dish brings warmth and comfort to any Christmas buffet. The image shows a bowl filled with golden, crispy stuffing cubes, perfectly seasoned and garnished with fresh sage. The inviting look makes it hard to resist.
To make this stuffing, you’ll need ingredients like bread cubes, sautéed onions, celery, and, of course, sage. Start by toasting the bread cubes until golden. Then, sauté the onions and celery until soft. Mix everything together with broth and sage, and bake until crispy on top.
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with turkey or can be enjoyed on its own. It’s a dish that adds a homey touch to your festive table. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra herbs on top for that fresh flavor!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are a fantastic addition to any Christmas buffet. These little green gems are not only tasty but also bring a pop of color to your table. The combination of crispy bacon and tender sprouts creates a delightful contrast that everyone will love.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start by preheating your oven and preparing the sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Add chopped bacon on top, and roast until everything is golden and crispy.
This dish is simple yet impressive. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, and it pairs well with other festive foods. Plus, the savory aroma will make your kitchen feel like a holiday haven!
Honey Glazed Ham
Honey glazed ham is a classic centerpiece for any Christmas buffet. Its shiny, sweet exterior draws everyone in. The combination of honey and spices creates a delightful flavor that pairs well with many sides.
To make this dish, you’ll need a fully cooked ham, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a few spices like cloves and cinnamon. Start by mixing the honey, sugar, and mustard to create a glaze. Brush this mixture over the ham and bake it until it’s heated through and caramelized.
Serve slices of the ham on a festive platter, surrounded by fresh greens and seasonal decorations. This dish not only tastes great but also adds a beautiful touch to your holiday table.
Herb-Crusted Prime Rib
Herb-crusted prime rib is a showstopper for any holiday buffet. This dish features a beautifully roasted cut of beef, coated in a mix of fresh herbs and spices. The crust adds a burst of flavor that complements the tender, juicy meat inside.
To make this dish, you’ll need a prime rib roast, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Start by seasoning the roast generously, then roast it to your preferred doneness. Let it rest before slicing to keep all those delicious juices locked in.
Serve the slices on a wooden board, garnished with extra herbs for a festive touch. This prime rib pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, making it a perfect centerpiece for your Christmas feast.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a must-have for any Christmas buffet. They are rich, smooth, and bursting with flavor. The image shows a bowl of these delicious potatoes, topped with fresh chives for a pop of color. The setting is cozy, with a festive tablecloth and some garlic and cheese nearby, hinting at the ingredients used.
To make these mashed potatoes, start with peeled and chopped potatoes. Boil them until tender, then drain. In a bowl, mash the potatoes with butter, cream, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra touch, add some grated cheese or roasted garlic for depth.
These potatoes pair well with almost any main dish, making them a versatile addition to your holiday spread. They are creamy, comforting, and sure to please everyone at the table. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear!
Maple Roasted Carrots
Maple roasted carrots are a delightful addition to any Christmas buffet. Their vibrant orange color and glossy finish make them visually appealing on the table. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of maple syrup, creating a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
To make these tasty carrots, you’ll need fresh carrots, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and trim the carrots, then toss them in a bowl with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, until they are tender and caramelized.
These carrots can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for a buffet setting. You can even sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor. They’re sure to impress your guests and add a touch of sweetness to your holiday spread!
Savory Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a fantastic addition to any Christmas buffet. They’re bite-sized, easy to eat, and packed with flavor. The image shows a beautiful platter of mushrooms filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture, topped with fresh parsley. This dish is sure to impress your guests!
To make these savory treats, you’ll need some large mushrooms, cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and your choice of cheese. Start by cleaning the mushrooms and removing the stems. Then, mix the cream cheese with minced garlic, chopped herbs, and cheese. Stuff the mixture into the mushroom caps and bake until golden.
These stuffed mushrooms can be customized with different ingredients. Consider adding crumbled sausage, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. They’re a versatile option that fits well with various tastes, making them a must-try for your holiday spread!
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spinach and artichoke dip is a classic favorite for holiday gatherings. This creamy, cheesy dip is perfect for spreading on bread or dipping fresh veggies. It’s rich in flavor and always a hit at parties.
The image shows a delicious bowl of spinach and artichoke dip served in a bread bowl. The dip is creamy and packed with spinach and artichokes, topped with a sprinkle of spices. Surrounding the bowl are colorful veggies like celery and carrots, adding a nice crunch to the dish.
To make this dip, you’ll need ingredients like fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Start by sautéing the spinach and artichokes, then mix them with the cream cheese and other ingredients. Bake until bubbly and golden. Serve it warm for the best experience!
Cheesy Potato Casserole
Cheesy Potato Casserole is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any holiday gathering. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect addition to your Christmas buffet.
To make this casserole, you’ll need ingredients like potatoes, cheese, sour cream, and some spices. Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes, then boil them until tender. Mix them with cheese, sour cream, and seasonings. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top it with more cheese for that gooey finish.
Bake until golden and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. This dish pairs well with ham or turkey, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Christmas Fruit Salad
Christmas fruit salad is a colorful and refreshing addition to any holiday buffet. This dish brings together a mix of vibrant fruits that not only look good but taste amazing too. Imagine a bowl filled with juicy oranges, tart cranberries, and sweet blueberries, all tossed together for a burst of flavor.
To make this festive salad, you’ll need some fresh ingredients. Start with oranges, blueberries, and cranberries. You can also add blackberries for a deeper flavor. A touch of mint on top adds a nice pop of color and freshness.
Simply chop the fruits into bite-sized pieces, mix them in a bowl, and garnish with mint leaves. For an extra twist, consider adding a splash of honey or a squeeze of lime juice. This salad is not just tasty; it’s also a healthy option for your holiday spread.
Mulled Wine with Spices
Mulled wine is a warm, spiced drink that brings a cozy feeling to any holiday gathering. The image shows a beautifully crafted mug filled with steaming mulled wine, garnished with orange slices and cinnamon sticks. The spices, including star anise and cinnamon, add a delightful aroma that fills the room.
To make your own mulled wine, you’ll need a bottle of red wine, some orange slices, a few cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and a bit of sugar or honey for sweetness. Simply combine all the ingredients in a pot, heat gently, and let the flavors meld together.
This drink not only warms you up but also sets a festive mood. Serve it in your favorite mugs and watch as your guests enjoy the comforting flavors. It’s a perfect addition to your Christmas buffet, inviting everyone to gather around and share stories.
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Cranberry sauce is a classic holiday dish, and adding orange zest takes it to the next level. The bright, tangy flavor of the orange perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries. This combination not only enhances the taste but also adds a lovely aroma to your holiday table.
To make this simple yet delicious sauce, you’ll need fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and an orange for zest. Start by rinsing the cranberries and then simmer them with sugar and water until they burst and soften. Stir in the freshly grated orange zest right at the end for that extra zing!
This cranberry sauce is not just a side; it can be a delightful topping for desserts or even a spread for sandwiches. It’s versatile and adds a pop of color to your buffet spread. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, freeing you up for other holiday preparations.
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Chocolate peppermint bark is a festive treat that’s perfect for your holiday buffet. It combines rich chocolate with the refreshing crunch of peppermint, making it a delightful addition to any dessert table.
The image shows a stack of chocolate bark pieces, topped with crushed peppermint candies. The vibrant red and white of the peppermint contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate, creating an eye-catching display.
Making chocolate peppermint bark is simple. You’ll need just a few ingredients: chocolate, peppermint extract, and crushed peppermint candies. Melt the chocolate, mix in the extract, spread it out, and sprinkle the candies on top. After it cools, break it into pieces for serving.
This treat is not only tasty but also easy to package as gifts. Just wrap it up in festive paper, and you have a sweet present for friends and family!
Pecan Pie Tartlets
Pecan pie tartlets are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. These mini treats pack all the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie into a bite-sized form. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they add a touch of elegance to any buffet table.
Each tartlet features a flaky crust filled with a sweet, gooey pecan filling. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra pecans, they look as good as they taste. The combination of textures makes them irresistible.
Making these tartlets is simple. Start with a pre-made pie crust or make your own. Cut the crust into small circles and press them into a muffin tin. Fill each crust with a mixture of eggs, sugar, corn syrup, and chopped pecans. Bake until golden brown, and let them cool before adding your toppings.
These tartlets are not just tasty; they are also a fun way to serve dessert at your holiday buffet. Guests can easily grab one (or two) without needing a fork. They are sure to be a hit!
Mini Quiches with Seasonal Vegetables
Mini quiches are a fantastic addition to any Christmas buffet. They are bite-sized, easy to serve, and can be filled with a variety of seasonal vegetables. Imagine a platter filled with golden, flaky crusts, each one bursting with flavor.
To make these delightful treats, consider using ingredients like spinach, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. These veggies not only add color but also bring a fresh taste that complements the richness of the eggs and cheese.
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the crusts in small tart pans. Whisk together eggs, milk, and your choice of cheese. Then, chop the vegetables and mix them into the egg mixture. Pour this blend into the crusts and bake until they are set and slightly golden.
These mini quiches can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for a buffet. They are sure to impress your guests and add a festive touch to your holiday spread!
