Christmas is a time for joy, love, and of course, delicious food! If you’re attending a holiday potluck this year and want to bring something that will impress your friends and family, look no further. We’ve rounded up five festive recipes that are sure to make you the star of the party. So put on your apron, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking these five festive recipes to wow your Christmas holiday potluck!
1. Jingle Bell Jalapeno Poppers
These spicy little treats will add a kick to your potluck spread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 jalapeno peppers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.
- Wrap each jalapeno with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the wrapped jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Santa’s Secret Spinach Dip
This creamy and flavorful dip will have everyone coming back for more. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup chopped spinach, cooked and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup chopped water chestnuts
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch dressing mix.
- Add the chopped spinach, water chestnuts, green onions, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve with your favorite chips, crackers, or veggies.
3. Merry Meatballs
These juicy and flavorful meatballs will disappear faster than Santa down a chimney. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, egg, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into bite-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce until warmed through.
- Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and pour the marinara sauce over them.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.
4. Reindeer Rice Krispies Treats
These adorable and tasty treats will delight both kids and adults alike. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 24 pretzel twists
- 48 candy eyes
- 24 red M&M’s
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until well coated.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease your hands with butter.
- Shape the mixture into oval-shaped treats and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Press two pretzel twists into each treat to resemble antlers.
- Place two candy eyes and one red M&M on each treat to create the reindeer’s face.
- Let them cool and set before serving.
5. Frosty’s Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Warm up your guests with this delightful and comforting hot chocolate. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- Crushed candy canes, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
- Add the cocoa mixture to the hot milk and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in the peppermint extract.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.
With these five recipes in your culinary arsenal, you’re ready to conquer any Christmas potluck. From spicy jalapeno poppers to adorable reindeer treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So spread the holiday cheer and let the feasting begin!
