The Best 7 Christmas Potluck Appetisers to Bring to a Party

Christmas is the season to eat, drink, and be merry, and what better way to kick off the festivities than with some delicious Christmas potluck appetisers? Whether you’re attending a Christmas party at the office, with friends, or with family, bringing a standout appetiser can make you the MVP of the party. From savoury to sweet, countless options will have everyone returning for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

Forget the store-bought cheese platter or sad veggie tray – we’re talking about show-stopping dishes that impress even the most discerning palates. So, if you want to make a statement and leave a lasting impression, you’ll want to check out our top picks for the best Christmas appetisers to bring to a potluck.

Prepare to wow your fellow party-goers and leave them begging for your secret recipes. After all, it’s the season to be jolly and indulge in seriously delicious treats. 

Key Takeaways

• Christmas potlucks are an opportunity to gather your friends and families for a festive celebration without the stress of having to cook an enormous meal!
• Many appetisers are great for parties, but when it comes to Christmas, you have to go the extra mile.
• Classic cheese balls are a simple and well-loved Christmas appetiser that you can easily make at home.
• Brie and cranberry puff pastries are a fancy addition to your potluck. Put a little effort and see everyone super impressed with your dish!
• Deviled eggs are a classic when it comes to party appetisers. They’re a crowd-pleaser and super easy to make, too!
• Who doesn’t love Pigs in a Blanket? Children, adults, and everyone in between would swoon over these classic appetisers.
• Sausages and cheese-stuffed sweet potatoes are a luxurious addition to any decent potluck. Get your ingredients ready and make those awesome appetisers.

Christmas Potlucks and Why They’re the Best!

The holiday season is about gathering with loved ones, sharing delicious meals, and creating unforgettable memories. Christmas potlucks are the epitome of festive cheer and communal spirit. They bring together friends and family to enjoy various delectable dishes, where everyone contributes to the spread. It’s a time to share recipes, taste new flavours, and savour the season’s joy.

The beauty of a Christmas potluck is that it takes the pressure off the host to prepare a massive feast on their own. Instead, everyone pitches in with their special dish, whether it’s a classic holiday turkey, a decadent dessert, or a unique appetiser. This allows for a diverse and bountiful spread that caters to everyone’s tastes and preferences.

So, if you plan on hosting a potluck this year or are invited, we have some great recipes for you! Everyone must only bring one or two dishes to a potluck, so make your best choice of our Christmas potluck appetisers below.

The Best Christmas Potluck Appetisers

When it comes to Christmas potluck appetisers, the options are endless. From classic cheese balls and savoury meatballs to elegant brie and cranberry puff pastries, there’s something for every palate. Let’s explore some delectable Christmas potluck appetiser ideas that will elevate any holiday gathering.

1. Classic Cheese Balls

One popular choice for Christmas potluck appetisers is the classic cheese ball, a delightful blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and festive spices. This timeless appetiser is perfect for spreading on crackers or toast, adding a savoury touch to the party. Cheese ball appetisers are so easy to make and taste super good! Here is an easy recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 (250-grams) package of cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Crackers or toast for serving

Instructions

1. Combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
3. In a shallow dish, combine the chopped nuts and parsley. Roll the cheese ball in the nut and parsley mixture, pressing gently to coat the entire surface.
4. Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and arrange crackers or toast around it for serving.
5. Enjoy the cheese ball as a delicious appetiser at your Christmas potluck!

This cheese ball recipe is a crowd-pleaser and will surely be a hit at any holiday gathering. You can customise it by adding your favourite herbs or spices or rolling it in bacon bits for extra flavour. Happy snacking! 

2. Brie and Cranberry Puff Pastries

If you want a bit more of a sophisticated option, consider serving elegant brie and cranberry puff pastries. The flaky pastry combined with the creamy brie and tangy cranberry creates a perfect balance of flavours. This tasty recipe will make everyone ooh and ahh over your delicious Christmas potluck appetisers.

 Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 6 oz brie cheese, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 egg, beaten
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into small squares (about 10×10 cm).
3. Place a small piece of brie and a small spoonful of cranberry sauce in the centre of each square.
4. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg and fold the corners of the squares to the centre, pressing to seal the edges together.
5. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve warm.

These brie and cranberry puff pastries will surely be a hit at any holiday gathering. Enjoy!

3. Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Mushrooms

Another crowd-pleaser is the irresistible bacon-wrapped stuffed mushrooms, a savoury and indulgent treat that never fails to impress. The combination of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and earthy mushroom flavours is irresistible. Serve them as delectable Christmas potluck appetisers or alongside a main course for a decadent and satisfying treat that will have everyone returning for more.

Ingredients

• 12 large white mushrooms, stems removed
• 12 slices of bacon
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder in a small bowl until well combined.
3. Fill each mushroom cap with a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture, pressing it in firmly.
4. Wrap each mushroom with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the mushrooms are tender.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

These bacon-wrapped stuffed mushrooms are best served warm, so enjoy them when they come out of the oven. They are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering and will have your guests asking for the recipe. Enjoy! 

4. Festive Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with a festive twist are also a must-have. These eggs are infused with holiday flavours and add elegance to the appetiser platter. These festive Christmas potluck appetisers are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering, and they are simple and elegant Christmas appetisers that can be prepared beforehand.

Ingredients

• 6 hard-boiled eggs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chopped fresh chives, for garnish

Instructions

1. Peel the hard-boiled eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a mixing bowl.
2. Mash the egg yolks with a fork, then add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined and creamy.
3. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
4. Sprinkle the deviled eggs with paprika and chopped fresh chives for a festive touch.
5. Chill the deviled eggs in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

These festive deviled eggs are a delicious and elegant addition to any holiday spread. The combination of creamy egg yolks with a hint of Dijon mustard and a sprinkle of paprika will impress your guests and leave them returning for more. Enjoy!

5. Pigs in a Blanket

For a playful and comforting option, serve Pigs in a Blanket, a fun and easy-to-eat Christmas potluck appetiser that is always a hit for kids and adults. These tasty little snacks are perfect for any gathering, from game-day parties to family movie nights.

They’re always a hit and will bring everyone a smile. So, next time you need a fun and comforting appetiser, try Pigs in a Blanket!

 Ingredients

• 1 package of cocktail sausages
• 1 can of refrigerated crescent roll dough
• Mustard and ketchup for dipping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Open the package of cocktail sausages and set them aside.
3. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles along the perforated lines.
4. Cut each dough triangle into smaller triangles, then wrap each cocktail sausage in a piece of dough, starting from the wide end and rolling it up.
5. Place the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, until the dough is golden brown and the sausages are heated.
6. Serve the Pigs in a Blanket warm, with mustard and ketchup for dipping if desired.

Enjoy these fun and comforting Christmas potluck appetisers at your next gathering!

6. Sausage and Cheese-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Consider making flavorful sausage and cheese-stuffed sweet potatoes to add a hint of decadence to the spread. These hearty and satisfying Christmas potluck appetisers are a perfect addition to any holiday feast. These indulgent sweet potato appetisers will be a hit at your holiday gathering. Your guests will love this decadent treat, and it will add a touch of luxury to your holiday spread.

Ingredients

• 4 large, sweet potatoes
• 1 lb sausage (can use your favourite flavour, such as Italian or chorizo)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred variety)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onion
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, chopped chives, hot sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Wash the sweet potatoes and prick them all over with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes or until tender.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to cool slightly.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly before cutting them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer of sweet potato inside the skins.
5. Mix the sweet potato flesh, cooked sausage, shredded cheese, green onion, sour cream, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Stuff the sweet potato skins with the sausage and cheese mixture, mounding it on top.
7. Place the stuffed sweet potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until the filling is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes hot, garnished with your choice of toppings, such as crumbled bacon, chopped chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Enjoy these decadent sausages and cheese-stuffed sweet potatoes as a luxurious appetiser for your holiday gathering. Your guests will surely love this indulgent dish’s rich and satisfying flavours. 

7. Avocado and Goat Cheese Filo Tartlets

Finally, indulge in the crispy and tangy avocado and goat cheese filo tartlets, a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and crisp textures sure to impress your guests. With these exquisite Christmas potluck appetisers, you can elevate any festive gathering and create memorable moments with your loved ones. Whether hosting a holiday party or simply attending a potluck, these appetiser ideas are perfect for celebrating the season in style.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 4 oz goat cheese
• 6 sheets of filo pastry
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Lay out one sheet of filo pastry on a clean, flat surface. Brush the entire sheet with olive oil and top with another sheet. Repeat this process until you have a stack of 6 oiled pastry sheets.
3. Cut the filo pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on the size of the tartlets you want to make.
4. Press the oiled pastry squares into a greased mini muffin tin, creating little tartlet shells.
5. Mash the diced avocado in a small bowl with a fork until smooth. Crumble the goat cheese into the avocado and mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spoon the avocado and goat cheese mixture into the prepared filo tartlet shells, filling them to the top.
7. Place the tartlets in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the filo pastry is golden and crispy.
8. Remove the tartlets from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin.
9. Garnish the tartlets with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.

Enjoy these crispy and tangy avocado and goat cheese filo tartlets as a delightful appetiser at your next Christmas potluck!

After careful consideration, we have come to a highly scientific conclusion about Christmas potluck appetisers: they are essential. Who doesn’t love walking into a room filled with delicious finger foods? Christmas potluck appetisers are the real MVPs of the holiday season, and no shindig is complete without them. Cheers to Christmas appetisers, the unsung heroes of every holiday party! 

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