“Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.” That’s the ultimate goal when hosting a Christmas party. The food, entertainment and decorations don’t have to be elaborate to have fun!
First, take a look at our guide for hosting a holiday party. Then, check out our thrifty Christmas party tips below.
Make It a Potluck
Focus on preparing one or two dishes as the host. Before the event, ask your guests to whip up some simple hors d’oeuvres, bite-size desserts or crunchy snacks. If some guests aren’t skilled home chefs, no problem. They’re welcome to bring chips and dip, a vegetable tray or even some napkins and cutlery.
1 / 100
Spicy Butterscotch Wings
We love big-time-spicy chicken wings. I do a caramel sauce to balance the heat, but you could also glaze the wings with melted brown sugar. —Aaron Salazar, Westminster, ColoradoGo to Recipe
Holiday Salsa
When we offer this cream-cheesy salsa of fresh cranberries, cilantro and a little jalapeno kick, everyone hovers around the serving dish until it’s scraped clean. —Shelly Pattison, Lubbock, TexasGo to Recipe
Chai Cupcakes
You’ll get a double dose of the spicy blend that’s frequently used to flavor tea in these moist cakes. Both the cupcake and frosting use the blend, which combines some of the best flavors of the season. —Taste of Home Test KitchenGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Snow Pea Holiday Wreath
Santa himself might stop to sample this pretty-as-a-picture finger food! Crunchy green pea pods and juicy red tomatoes add a natural fresh, festive holiday note to my buffet table. —Carol Schneck, Lodi, CaliforniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Festive Holiday Sliders
Turkey sliders with ginger, horseradish and cranberry sauce refrigerate well, so I keep them ready for get-togethers when we bake gifts and wrap presents. —Pamela Miller, Big Rapids, MichiganGo to Recipe
Perfect Peppermint Patties
Calling for just a few ingredients, this is one candy that’s simple to prepare. I make lots of different candy at Christmas to give as gifts. It’s time consuming but worth it to see the delight it brings to people. -Joanne Adams, Bath, MaineGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Mini Muffuletta
People love these hearty little sandwich wedges. The recipe is great for a holiday potluck and can be made the day before.—Gareth Craner, Minden, NevadaGo to Recipe
Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites
After making little bacon-wrapped sausages for years, I needed a change! I had an extra sweet potato and half a package of bacon on hand, so I put on my thinking cap and came up with this treat. —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New JerseyGo to Recipe
Miniature Christmas Fruitcakes
I’ve found that people who normally won’t eat fruitcake make an exception when they sample these. Using mini muffin pans for baking creates fun, single-serving cakes. —Libby Over, Phillipsburg, OhioGo to Recipe
Ham Balls with Brown Sugar Glaze
These smoky-sweet meatballs are a Pennsylvania Dutch specialty. I like setting them out when folks come to visit. —Janet Zeger, Middletown, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe
Turkey Bolognese Polenta Nests
This delicious appetizer combines two of my favorite foods, polenta and bolognese meat sauce, uniting them into one incredibly tasty bite! —Lidia Haddadian, Pasadena, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies
Friends sometimes ask me to make these for wedding receptions. For a fancier presentation, I cut the bars into triangle shapes and drizzle white chocolate over each one individually. —Erika Busz, Kent, WashingtonGo to Recipe
Homemade Polish Pierogi
My mother made many dozens of these and measured ingredients using the palm of her hand. We’ve passed the recipe down over the years as the family has grown. —Veronica Weinkauf, South Bend, IndianaGo to Recipe
Pumpkin Creme Brulee
I’ve never met a creme brulee that I didn’t love! I’m not a big pumpkin fan, but this is fantastic. —Tamara Leonard Merritt, Raleigh, North CarolinaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Black Cherry Swirl Fudge
This colorful treat is sure to satisfy the sweetest tooth in any family! It’s always been a favorite with my nine kids, eight grandkids and my Bible study group. I vary the soft-drink flavors to get colors that match other holidays during the year. —Pauletta Bushnell, Lebanon, OregonGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Bacon Water Chestnut Wraps
The holidays around the house just wouldn’t be the same without these classic wraps. Through the years, Christmas Eve guests have proven it’s impossible to eat just one. —Laura Mahaffey, Annapolis, MarylandGo to Recipe
Mini Pork Pies
As a child, I discovered my love of pork pies. I used to help my father deliver oil on Saturdays, and we would stop at a local place to have the meaty pastries for lunch. —Renee Murby, Johnston, Rhode IslandGo to Recipe
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Monkey Bread
Time to give rum cake a little competition! If this boozy take on monkey bread is too strong for your taste, cut back on the bourbon or use milk as a non-alcoholic substitute. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy EditorGo to Recipe
Green Bean Bundles
I found this recipe in a rural newspaper years ago and have made it often. The bean bundles are excellent with chicken or beef. Sometimes I’ll arrange them around a mound of wild rice to make an appetizing side dish. —Virginia Stadler, Nokesville, VirginiaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Cherry Cheese Logs
Our party guests flock to this holiday gem of an appetizer – cherry-studded cream cheese served with graham or water crackers and pears. —Libby Walp, Chicago, IllinoisGo to Recipe
White Chocolate Peppermint Crunch
This is my favorite confection to make at Christmas. Not only is it easy, it’s delicious as well. I like to fill small bags with the crunchy candy to place in gift baskets.—Nancy Shelton, Boaz, KentuckyGo to Recipe
Figgy Apple Brie Tart
Our holiday gatherings often included baked Brie. I transformed it into a dessert that’s savory and sweet. It makes a wonderful appetizer, too. —Kristie Schley, Severna Park, MarylandGo to Recipe
Marinated Mozzarella
I always come home with an empty container when I bring this dish to a party. It can be made ahead to free up time later. I serve it with pretty frilled toothpicks for a festive look. —Peggy Cairo, Kenosha, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Mini Chimichangas
Wish your guests “Feliz Navidad” with this south-of-the-border specialty! Hearty enough to serve as a meal, these flavorful and filling wraps draw raves whenever I serve them.—Kathy Rogers, Hudson, OhioGo to Recipe
Pizza Fondue
It’s time to rethink the way your family does pizza night. I heard about this recipe on a talk show and then personalized it by using home-canned sauce. —Susan Carlson, Perry, New YorkGo to Recipe
Candied Pecans
I pack these easy candied pecans in jars tied with pretty ribbon for family and friends. My granddaughter gave some to a doctor at the hospital where she works, and he said they were too good to be true! —Opal Turner, Hughes Springs, TexasGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Jellied Champagne Dessert
This refreshing dessert looks just like a glass of bubbling champagne.—Vickie McLaughlin, Kingsport, TennesseeGo to Recipe
Slow-Cooked Cranberry Hot Wings
Cranberry wings remind me of all the wonderful celebrations and parties we’ve had through the years. My daughter’s friends can’t get enough of these wings. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, ConnecticutGo to Recipe
Crab Cake Stuffed Mushrooms
These tender mushrooms with their crispy golden topping are always popular at parties! The crab filling is a delicious special occasion treat. Serve them while they’re warm. —Nancy Aiello, Bloomery, West VirginiaGo to Recipe
Spiced Pear Risotto
We love risotto and are always in search of fun and different ways to prepare it. I like to serve this fruity version with pork tenderloin.—Kim Berto, Port Orchard, WashingtonGo to Recipe
Bacon Cheese Wreath
My grandmother makes this smoky bacon and Parmesan spread for parties and holiday get-togethers. For a pretty yuletide presentation, decorate the cream cheese wreath with green parsley and red pimientos. —Lisa Carter, Warren, IndianaGo to Recipe
Chicken Tamales
I love making these homemade tamales. They take a little time to make but are so worth the effort. I usually make them for Christmas, but my family wants them more often, so I freeze a big batch. —Cindy Pruitt, Grove, OklahomaGo to Recipe
Frozen Peppermint Delight
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s festive, delicious and easy to make, this is the one for you. Drizzled in hot fudge sauce and loaded with pretty peppermint pieces, this almost tempting treat will have guests asking for seconds. —Pam Lancaster, Willis, VirginiaGo to Recipe
Pina Colada Fruit Dip
A taste of the tropics will be welcomed by your holiday guests. The cool and creamy dip can be served as an appetizer or a dessert.
—Shelly Fisher, Hermiston, OregonGo to Recipe
Sweet Potato Crostini
For party time, I turn this sweet potato side dish into an appetizer by serving it on slices of a French baguette. — Steve Westphal, Wind Lake, WisconsinGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Gumdrop Cookies
These fun cookies are chock-full of chewy gumdrops. I use red and green ones at Christmas, black and orange for Halloween and pastel shades for Easter. I’ve made this recipe for years and find that kids really get a kick out of the cookies with a candy surprise inside! —Carolyn Stromberg, Wever, IowaGo to Recipe
New Orleans-Style Spicy Shrimp
We have family members who attended college in New Orleans. This shrimp captures their favorite flavors from the Big Easy, with the right touches of spice and heat. —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New YorkGo to Recipe
Cranberry Cornbread Casserole
What could be better on a cold day than a warm casserole and creamy sweet cornbread put together? Since it starts with a mix, this side takes no time to make. Just bake, scoop and eat. Yum!—Valery Anderson, Sterling Heights, MichiganGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Artichoke Caprese Platter
I dressed up the classic Italian trio of mozzarella, tomatoes and basil with marinated artichokes. It looks so yummy on a pretty platter set out on a buffet. Using fresh mozzarella is the key to its great taste. —Margaret Wilson, San Bernardino, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Sticky Toffee Rice Pudding with Caramel Cream
Simple rice pudding gets a makeover with this upscale recipe. It has just the right thickness to soak up a hot caramel topping. —Janice Elder, Charlotte, North CarolinaGo to Recipe
Blue Cheese Garlic Bread
This is an irresistible way to dress up an ordinary loaf of bread. Serve slices as an appetizer or with a meal. —Kevalyn Henderson, Hayward, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Fluffy Cranberry Delight
This was originally my daughter’s recipe, and she or I will make it for one or more of our holiday get-togethers. It can be served as a fruit salad along with the meal or as a light dessert. It’s particularly pretty in a cut-glass bowl on a buffet. —Ruth Bolduc, Conway, New HampshireGo to Recipe
Zippy Curry Dip
Everyone eats their vegetables when this creamy dip is served alongside them. The curry flavor gets stronger the longer the dip stands, so I like to make it in advance. —Priscilla Steffke, Wausau, WisconsinGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Southern-Style Egg Rolls
Sausage, black-eyed peas and turnip greens give these unique egg rolls a decidedly southern accent. When I bring them to a party, I always come home with an empty plate. —Holly Jones, Kennesaw, GeorgiaGo to Recipe
Easy Smoked Salmon
A magazine featured this recipe years ago, and it’s still my favorite salmon. Just add crackers for a super simple yet elegant appetizer. —Norma Fell, Boyne City, MichiganGo to Recipe
Wild Rice Stuffed Squash
I made this recipe when we invited both our families to celebrate our first Thanksgiving in our new home. There were 37 of us, and those who tried this dish raved about it. —Robin Thompson, Roseville, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Pumpkin Pecan Custard
My family loves pumpkin pie flavor, but this is a delicious, creamy, healthier alternative—and we don’t miss the crust at all. It firms up as it cools. —Abby Booth, Coweta, OklahomaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Cheese/Grape Appetizers
These small bites are well worth the time they take. Serve them as part of an antipasto platter or as a cheese course alongside your favorite wine. —Eleanor Grofvert, Kalamazoo, MichiganGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Oyster Cheese Appetizer Log
When you say “holiday tradition” around our house, this appetizer comes to mind immediately. Every winter, I make lots of cheese logs and freeze them for when I’m expecting company or need to take food to someone’s home. The blend of smoked oysters, chili powder, nuts and cream cheese tastes good-even people who don’t like oysters may enjoy this interesting appetizer. —William Tracy, Jerseyville, IllinoisGo to Recipe
Baklava Thumbprint Cookies
The topping on my sister-in-law’s peach cobbler was so delicious that I asked for the recipe, then decided to use that to top a cookie I developed with the flavors of baklava. My adult son tried one and immediately ate two more—which is unusual for him! It’s a good recipe to mix up the night before and bake fresh the next day for company. —Sharon Eshelman, Harrington, DelawareGo to Recipe
Cheddar & Spinach Twice-Baked Potatoes
My husband is a rancher who loves a hearty potato dish, so consider these spuds with cheddar and spinach cowboy approved! My crowd never leaves leftovers. —Jody Augustyn, Loup City, NEGo to Recipe
Sage & Prosciutto Pinwheels
I love, love, love to make appetizers and I especially like this recipe because I can make the rolls ahead, freeze them, and then slice and bake when needed. —Kate Dampier, Quail Valley, CaliforniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Festive Meat Loaf Pinwheel
This crowd-size pinwheel is special enough for holiday dinner and features ham, Swiss cheese and a delicious homemade tomato sauce.—Vera Sullivan, Amity, OregonGo to Recipe
Creme de Menthe Cream Puff Tree
A tower of creme de menthe-flavored puffs makes a spectacular centerpiece for your dessert table. Guests will have this sumptuous pyramid deconstructed in no time at all! —Agnes Ward, Stratford, OntarioGo to Recipe
Cranberry-Walnut Sweet Potatoes
If you ask me, the best part of a holiday dinner is the sweet potatoes! You can make the sauce up to a day ahead—just leave out the walnuts until you’re ready to serve. —Mary Wilhelm, Sparta, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Antipasto Cups
Turn salami slices into appetizer shells to fill with the veggies and cheese of your choice. —Melissa Obernesser, Utica, New YorkGo to Recipe
Triple Mash with Horseradish Bread Crumbs
Why settle for traditional mashed potatoes when you can enjoy three times the flavor? Combine spuds with rutabaga and parsnips, along with the zip of horseradish, for a taste treat. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, GeorgiaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Sweet Potato Orange Cups
Serve this refreshingly sweet side dish to your guests in separate cups you craft…from oranges! All you have to do is cut oranges in half, scoop out the fruit and fill the peel with the sweet potato mixture. It’s a hit among our family and friends. —Melonie Bowers, Sugarcreek, OhioGo to Recipe
Carrot Spice Thumbprint Cookies
Carrot cake is a family favorite, and these delicious cookies taste just like it with shredded carrots, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, cinnamon and cloves. And they’re topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Who could resist? Each cookie is like eating a piece of carrot cake, but with no fork needed! —Susan Bickta, Kutztown, PennsylvaniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Red Pepper Cornmeal Souffle
I use the vegetables from our garden in all my cooking. Dotted with parsley and red pepper, this souffle is a favorite. —Janet Eckhoff, Woodland, CaliforniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Eggnog Cream with Spiced Pecan Raisin Dunkers
I have a thing for eggnog and other creamy desserts like s’mores, pudding, mousses and dips. So I turned them into one yummy dip with homemade dunkers. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, IllinoisGo to Recipe
Warm Broccoli Cheese Dip
When my family gathers for a party, someone serves this flavorful, creamy dip. Everyone loves its zip from the jalapeno pepper and the crunch of the broccoli. —Barbara Maiol, Conyers, GeorgiaGo to Recipe
Scalloped Apples Casserole
When preparing my first Thanksgiving dinner years ago, I wanted to add something special to the table and came up with this recipe. It’s been a part of our traditional dinner ever since. —Kellie Erwin, Westerville, OhioGo to Recipe
White Chocolate Brie Cups
Try these unique little tarts as an appetizer before a special meal, or save them for a surprisingly different dinner finale. They’re sweet, creamy and crunchy—and very addictive! —Angela Vitale, Delaware, OhioGo to Recipe
Florentine Almond Artichoke Mounds
I always enjoyed traditional artichoke-cheese dip, and for a party, I wanted to create a new appetizer that was a spin on that. This original creation is a bit reminiscent of the dip recipe, and works well on a buffet. —Sherry Johnston, Green Cove Springs, FloridaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Orange-Glazed Chicken & Chorizo Meatballs
These tasty southwestern meatballs warm up a buffet. I add pomegranate seeds, jalapeno pepper jelly and cilantro to make everything pop with color. —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, MinnesotaGo to Recipe
Caramel Havarti
Havarti cheese is a wonderful dessert cheese and is made even better by pecans, caramel topping and apples. This recipe is elegant yet simple. —Tia Thomas, Mountain City, TennesseeGo to Recipe
Blue Cheese-Stuffed Shrimp
Cooked shrimp become something more extraordinary when stuffed with blue cheese. The mild flavor has mass appeal.—Amy Dollimount, Glace Bay, Nova ScotiaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Lasagna Dip
My lasagna noodle chips turned out great and are out-of-this-world crispy. And the dip truly tastes like rich, cheesy Italian-American lasagna. —Linda Cifuentes, Mahomet, IllinoisGo to Recipe
Upside-Down Fruitcake
I get tired of people bad-mouthing holiday fruitcakes. It’s one of my favorite holiday flavors and I look forward to it every year. This year, I decided to combine it with everyone’s favorite, upside-down cake. Try to say no to this fruitcake; I dare you! —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy EditorGo to Recipe
Pistachio-Turkey Meatballs in Orange Sauce
Pistachios and a bright, spicy orange sauce flavored with honey and basil make these mini meatballs a real party favorite. — Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, MinnesotaGo to Recipe
Eggnog Sweet Potato Bake
I love eggnog so I am always looking for new ways to use it. When I added it to mashed sweet potatoes I knew I had a winner. You can make this the night before and refrigerate it unbaked; the next day, let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.—Katie Wollgast, Florissant, MissouriGo to Recipe
Broccoli-Cheddar Tassies
Our family adores broccoli casserole. I wanted to try it as an appetizer, so I used a pecan tassie recipe for the crust. The result? We’re talking scrumptious. —Gail Gaiser, Ewing, New JerseyGo to Recipe
Kalamata Cheesecake Appetizer
It’s believed the Greeks served cheesecake at the first Olympics, so why not rewrite history with a Greek cheesecake appetizer? Ingredients in this version “tame” the kalamata olives, so even if you shy away from kalamatas, you’ll be glad you tried this one. For a milder flavor, use the more common black or green olives. —Theresa Kreyche, Tustin, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Cinnamon Spiced Apples
If you’re feeling festive, scoop some vanilla ice cream over a bowl of these cinnamon spiced apples. They’re homey, aromatic and just plain heavenly. —Amie Powell, Knoxville, TennesseeGo to Recipe
Merry Grinchmas Cookies
Baking cookies around the holidays is a big deal in our house. Some are a must every year and we also come up with new recipes. This one is simple, delicious and fun to make with the kids!—Angela Lemoine, Howell, New JerseyGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Apple, Cheddar & Bacon Bread Pudding
I had this dish at a bridal brunch many years ago. It was so delicious that I created my own version, and this is the result. Now I make it all the time. Enjoy! —Melissa Millwood, Lyman, South CarolinaGo to Recipe
Chipotle Ham ‘n’ Cheese Dip
If you enjoy throwing dinner parties for friends, you can’t beat a convenient slow-cooker recipe like this one. Who wants to be stuck in the kitchen? Just set the slow cooker on low and have fun visiting with guests. —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, MissouriGo to Recipe
Puff Pastry Holly Leaves
These elegant appetizers get rave reviews at my office holiday party. The pastry leaves look as if they require hours in the kitchen, but the prep work takes just 30 minutes. —Angela King, Walnut Cove, North CarolinaGo to Recipe
Oyster Sausage Stuffing
I’ve had this wonderful recipe for more than 30 years and always use it during the holidays. It’s so rich and buttery that I often serve it with pork roast or stuffed pork chops. It never fails to bring raves. —Page Alexander, Baldwin City, KansasGo to Recipe
Caliente Christmas Cheese Crisps
To fire up the crowd, I pack these homemade crackers with bacon, pumpkin seeds and French-fried onion rings. Dunk them in picante sauce. —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, MinnesotaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Pumpkin Seed Toffee
My kids are allergic to nuts, but they can eat pumpkin seeds! Every fall we save the seeds from our pumpkins to add to various recipes, including this one. —Suzanne Earl, Spring, TexasGo to Recipe
Honey Champagne Fondue
This special champagne fondue has wonderful flavor from Swiss cheese and a hint of sweetness from honey. It clings well to any kind of dipper. —Shannon Copley, Upper Arlington, OhioGo to Recipe
Wonton Ravioli
I created this recipe as a quick yet elegant meal. But it works well as an appetizer, too. You can substitute ingredients to your liking.—Jenny Johnson, White Bear Lake, MinnesotaGo to Recipe
Turkey and Mushroom Potpies
I always use the leftovers from our big holiday turkey to prepare this recipe. I think my family enjoys the potpies more than the original feast! —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, GeorgiaGo to Recipe
Fried Prosciutto Tortellini
My take on Italian street food, these fried tortellini are crunchy, gooey good. For the sauce, use the best quality tomatoes you can find. —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New JerseyGo to Recipe
Chocolate & Cardamom Coconut Tart
This holiday-worthy tart with a cardamom-scented crust is my nod to our family’s Scandinavian heritage. The filling is rich in all the right ways, with coconut, cranberries and chocolate. —Carole Holt, Mendota Heights, MinnesotaGo to Recipe
Hot Chocolate Cookies
Using hot chocolate mix and marshmallow bits in the cookie dough really makes these cookies taste like hot cocoa. —Lisa Kaminski, Wauwatosa, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Butternut-Gouda Pot Stickers
My family can’t get enough butternut squash. I had some left over, so I used pot sticker wraps and veggies to create these fun little appetizers. —Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, ManitobaGo to Recipe
Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini Peppers
Mini peppers are so colorful and are the perfect size for a two-bite appetizer. They have all the crunch of pita chips but without the extra calories. —Christine Hanover, Lewiston, CaliforniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Butterscotch Pumpkin Puffs
Yummy things come in these little pudding-rich “packages.” The puffs can be made and frozen in advance, then filled before serving for a time-saving dessert. —Michelle Smith, Running Springs, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Festive Guacamole Appetizers
For ages, my brother’s family and I have gotten together on Christmas Eve, and we always eat Christmas snacks while we open our presents. This Tex-Mex spin on classic appetizer pizza is one we have again and again. —Laurie Pester, Colstrip, MontanaGo to Recipe
Corn & Onion Souffle
I swapped out my old cheese souffle for one with corn. If you’re souffle-challenged, it helps to use smaller ramekins instead of one big dish. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, GeorgiaGo to Recipe
Parisian Chicken Bites
When a friend of mine returned from a trip to Paris, she raved about the food she had and described one of her favorite meals. It inspired me to create a similar hors d’oeuvre. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North DakotaGo to Recipe
Creme de Menthe Cupcakes
We use creme de menthe liqueur (the term means “mint cream” in French) to add a cool touch to these impressive mascarpone-frosted cupcakes. —Keri Whitney, Castro Valley, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Broccoli & Chive Stuffed Mini Peppers
There’s plenty of both crunch and cream in these party appetizers. Fresh chives help them really stand out. —Jean McKenzie, Vancouver, WashingtonGo to Recipe
Chai Truffle Tart
My chai-flavored tart boasts chocolate and caramel layers tucked inside a salty pretzel crust. Truffles on top make it extra indulgent. —Chantal Bourbon, Montreal, QuebecGo to Recipe
Portobello Mushroom and Cream Cheese Taquitos
This party appetizer was inspired by a dish I saw on an episode of Top Chef. I simplified it a little and tweaked the flavors a bit. These can be made ahead and reheated in a 250° oven for 10 minutes. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, GeorgiaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Turkey Sliders with Sweet Potato “Buns”
In this healthier take on sliders, I sandwich a burger between roasty slices of sweet potato. My wife took one bite and approved these tasty little guys. —Guy Martino, Charleston, South CarolinaGo to Recipe
Peppermint Cheesecake on a Stick
Surprise guests with a fun holiday treat—dipped cheesecake wedges you can eat without a fork. Whenever my son has one, he jokes that he wants to quit his job so he can sell them! —Maria Morelli, Kelowna, British ColumbiaGo to Recipe
Pick a Simple Theme
No need to go out and spend a ton of cash a new outfit. Instead, ask guests to wear old Christmas sweaters or pajamas!
Your theme could even revolve around the food. For example, host a Christmas cookie exchange or throw a chili cook-off.
Ask Guests to BYOB
It’s fun to have festive holiday cocktails and tasty seasonal beers. But buying everything yourself can add up quickly. Feel free to ask your guests to bring beer, wine and spirits to share. If you want, just ask in advance what people plan on bringing so you can provide any necessary garnishes and the proper drinkware. Otherwise, mason jars and cups are perfectly fine.
Do a Stocking Stuffer Exchange
If you plan on exchanging presents, set a monetary limit to each gift—say, $15 to $20. Secret Santa is a fun way to buy and receive gifts. Before the holiday party, each guest is assigned another guest for whom they will buy a fun, practical gift. After the gifts are opened, the recipients have to guess who their “Secret Santa” is. Those who guess correctly can go home with extra Christmas cookies.
Plan your Secret Santa gift with our holiday gift guide.
Decorate Like a Minimalist
Keep it simple with the decorations. Hang streamers, tinsel and handmade paper snowflakes from the ceiling. You can also make your home or apartment smell amazing with some festive scented candles or DIY Christmas potpourri.
For music, listen to a Christmas playlist from a free streaming service, such as Pandora or Spotify.
Play Economical Games
This is such an easy Christmas party idea when you’re sticking to a budget! Ask a friend if you can borrow a fun team-oriented game to play. Apples to Apples and Trivial Pursuit are great group games. You can also play games that don’t require cards or boards. Find more ideas for a Christmas game night.
1 / 70
Creamy Chicken Vol-au-Vent
My friends and I have been getting together for “ladies lunches” for years. These vol-au-vents are the perfect no-fuss fancy food; they look complicated, but are actually simple and fun to make. Whenever I think of good friends and good company, I think of these savory pastries. —Shauna Havey, Roy, Utah Go to Recipe
Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
My friends look forward to enjoying these cranberry sauce meatballs at our holiday gatherings. There are never any leftovers! Using packaged meatballs helps save time in the kitchen and they are just as tasty as homemade. The sauce is tangy yet sweet, and the festive color is perfect for any holiday party. —Amy Scamerhorn, Indianapolis, IndianaGo to Recipe
Bacon Cheese Wreath
My grandmother makes this smoky bacon and Parmesan spread for parties and holiday get-togethers. For a pretty yuletide presentation, decorate the cream cheese wreath with green parsley and red pimientos. —Lisa Carter, Warren, IndianaGo to Recipe
Roasted Chicken and Brie Holly Mini Bites
I got the idea for these appetizers from my favorite sandwich at a local restaurant—a symphony of sweet fig, roasted apple, melted brie and tangy garlic mayonnaise. I re-created this delectable combination in a quick appetizer with bright red cranberries and green spinach to give it a holiday twist. These scrumptious bites only take about 20 minutes, but taste like you spent hours; you can also make them a few days in advance, then warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving. They’re the perfect party appetizer! —Terri Gilson, Calgary, AlbertaGo to Recipe
Cheese-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
“They’re easy to fix as an appetizer or salad,” says Mary Lou, a Florida native. “It’s impossible to eat just one.”Go to Recipe
Crispy Oven-Fried Oysters
These flavorful breaded and baked oysters, served with a zippy jalapeno mayonnaise, were created by Marie Rizzio of Interlochen, Michigan. “I entered this recipe in a seafood contest and took first place in the hors d’oeuvres category,” Marie says. “They make an interesting appetizer for entertaining.” —Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, MichiganGo to Recipe
Simmered Smoked Links
No one can resist the sweet and spicy glaze on these bite-sized sausages. They’re effortless
to prepare, and they make a perfect party nibbler. Serve them on frilled toothpicks to make them extra fancy.Go to Recipe
Butternut Thyme Tartlets
A great teaser for what’s to come, this light and crunchy appetizer is filled with my favorite late-fall flavors. Make the creamy filling a few days early, then fill the phyllo cups right before guests arrive. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, IllinoisGo to Recipe
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Raspberry Sauce
Grilling the prosciutto with the asparagus gives this dish a salty crunch that’s perfect for dipping into a sweet glaze. When a delicious appetizer is this easy to prepare, you owe it to yourself to try it! —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North DakotaGo to Recipe
Sausage Cheese Balls
These bite-sized meatballs are a favorite of mine. Feel free to swap in different cheese for the cheddar or to serve the balls with Dijon mustard instead of the barbecue and sweet-and-sour sauces.Go to Recipe
Easy Pimiento Cheese
Every good Southerner has their own easy pimiento cheese recipe. It’s wonderful on crackers, in a sandwich with a fresh summer tomato, inside a grilled cheese sandwich or plain with some crackers. —Josh Carter, Birmingham, AlabamaGo to Recipe
Buffet Meatballs
I need only five ingredients to fix these easy appetizers. My grape jelly and ketchup meatballs make an appearance at almost every potluck and party. —Janet Anderson, Carson City, NevadaGo to Recipe
Smoked Salmon Bites with Shallot Sauce
Tangy mayonnaise-Dijon sauce adds zip to flaky pastry and layers of crisp arugula, thinly sliced smoked salmon and nutty-flavored Asiago cheese. —Jamie Brown-Miller, Napa, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Brie with Almonds
This nut-topped cheese is elegant and impressive for holiday occasions. No one will guess that the recipe is actually a snap to prepare. —Mildred Aydt, Chanhassen, MinnesotaGo to Recipe
Savory Cucumber Sandwiches
Italian salad dressing is an easy way to add zip to this simple spread. You can also use it as a dip with crackers and veggies or a sandwich filling. —Carol Henderson, Chagrin Falls, OhioGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Crisp Caraway Twists
This appetizer is always a hit when I serve it on holidays or special occasions. The flaky cheese-filled twists (made with convenient puff pastry) bake to a crispy golden brown. When our big family gets together, I make two batches. —Dorothy Smith, El Dorado, ArkansasGo to Recipe
Christmas Party Pinwheels
‘Tis the season for easy make-ahead appetizers like these. They look so special and pretty that folks can’t resist them! The refreshing flavor of ranch dressing and crisp colorful vegetables makes these pinwheels a pleasure to serve. —Janis Plourde, Smooth Rock Falls, OntarioGo to Recipe
Salmon Dip with Cream Cheese
This salmon dip is a delightful hors d’oeuvre that’s excellent for any occasion. The combination of salmon, cream cheese and spices gives it terrific flavor. —Raymonde Hebert Bernier, Saint-Hyacinthe, QuebecGo to Recipe
Mini Cheese Balls
These mini cheese balls are the perfect quick appetizer for any party. Roll them in toasted sesame seeds, fresh rosemary and/or paprika to add even more flavor. —J. Spivey, Ennice, North CarolinaGo to Recipe
Favorite Marinated Mushrooms
Brenda Snyder from Hesston, Pennsylvania notes, “This is a nice way to serve mushrooms as an appetizer…and it also makes a great side dish for any type of meat. Sometimes I add these tangy mushrooms to salads for extra flavor, too.”Go to RecipeTaste of Home
Crudite Dip
To bring out the crudite dip’s tangy flavor, chill it before serving. This will allow the flavors time to blend. —Taste of Home Test KitchenGo to Recipe
Antipasto Skewers
This elegant-looking appetizer is quick and easy to make. It’s perfect for dinner parties, cocktail parties and everything in between! —Amanda Dekrey, Fargo, North DakotaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Shrimp Salad Appetizers
This refreshing hors d’oeuvre has gained a big following since a friend shared her family recipe with me. My son says it best: The celery and shrimp are so good together. —Solie Kimble, Kanata, OntarioGo to Recipe
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
This festive dip is a snap to make, taking only 10 minutes from start to finish. Thanks to its hint of sweetness, both kids and adults will gobble it up. —Frankie Robinson, Lockhart, TexasGo to Recipe
Herbed Garlic Cheese Spread
I’ve taken this creamy spread to many holiday gatherings and parties- and there’s never any left to bring home! Well-seasoned with a blend of herb flavors, this cheesy treat tastes great on slices of French bread, too.Go to Recipe
Ham & Brie Pastries
Growing up, I loved pocket pastries. Now, with a busy family, I need quick bites. My spin on the classic ham and cheese delivers as a snack or for supper. —Jennifer Tidwell, Fair Oaks, CaliforniaGo to Recipe
Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms
Mixed with a blend of parsley, basil, oregano and bread crumbs, soy crumbles make a delightful addition to these savory vegetarian stuffed mushrooms. —Arline Aaron of Brooklyn, New YorkGo to Recipetaste of home
Chipped Beef Cheese Ball
This delicious appetizer is near and dear to our family. It is a symbol of our family’s Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. My mom made this cheese ball for more than 30 years. —Molly Sumner, Creve Coeur, MissouriGo to Recipe
Mustard Pretzel Dip
This flavorful pretzel dip recipe is addictive, so be careful! It’s also delicious served with pita chips, crackers and fresh veggies.—Iola Egle, Bella Vista, ArkansasGo to Recipe
Apricot Kielbasa Slices
This easy-to-fix kielbasa appetizer is coated in a thick, zesty sauce with just the right amount of sweetness. —Barbara McCalley, Allison Park, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe
Garlic-Parmesan Cheese Ball
This is one of our entertaining mainstays. It complements most meals and is so easy to prepare and dress up with a variety of garnishes. —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New YorkGo to Recipe
Cucumber Party Sandwiches
This is one of my favorite appetizers. We have lots of pig roasts here in Kentucky, and these small sandwiches are perfect to serve while the pig is roasting. —Rebecca Rose, Mount Washington, KentuckyGo to Recipe
Roasted Beetroot and Garlic Hummus
This tasty beetroot hummus is the prettiest pink snack I’ve ever seen. The healthy recipe is handy to make in large batches and keep in the fridge for lunches and snacks throughout the week. —Elizabeth Worndl, Toronto, OntarioGo to Recipe
Spicy Crab Salad Tapas
I served these at a party and everyone went wild! These delicious morsels have a crispy flaky outside filled with creamy sweet crab that has a little kick. I used scalloped-edge cookie cutters to cut my pastry, but you can use a small biscuit cutter. —Vanessa Mason, Summerdale, AlabamaGo to Recipe
Cranberry and Bacon Swiss Cheese Dip
This warm, rich and creamy Swiss cheese dip is guaranteed to please family and friends alike. Served with thin, crunchy slices of French bread, it makes the perfect appetizer—especially since it can be prepared ahead, put in the fridge, and then baked just before you want to serve it. —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, MinnesotaGo to Recipe
Florentine Almond Artichoke Mounds
I always enjoyed traditional artichoke-cheese dip, and for a party, I wanted to create a new appetizer that was a spin on that. This original creation is a bit reminiscent of the dip recipe, and works well on a buffet. —Sherry Johnston, Green Cove Springs, FloridaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Quick Tortilla Pinwheels
Prepare these easy, cheesy rollups several days in advance if desired. Serve with your choice of mild or hot salsa or picante sauce. —Barbara Keith, Faucett, MissouriGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Calamari Salad
This is one of the seven fish dishes we serve at Christmas time. It is easy to make and quite delicious! I enjoy it served both warm and cold. Either way, it has become one of our traditional dishes each year. The recipe has been passed down to me through my grandparents, who were excellent cooks. —Paul Rinaldi, Easton, PennsylvaniaGo to Recipe
Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels
This recipe is a twist on baked Brie. My family always requests these during the holidays. They are delicious and make the kitchen smell amazing! —Jacquie Franklin, Hot Springs, MontanaGo to Recipe
Fruit Compote With Brie
What a special, versatile recipe! “I stir leftover compote into yogurt or serve it over cheesecake, ice cream, blintzes and crepes.” Clara Coulston – Washington Court House, OHGo to Recipe
Dill Pickle Dip
My love for pickles led me to create this Dill Pickle Dip. It’s so easy to whip together. But be warned, it’s addicting! —April Anderson, Forest Lake, MinnesotaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Santa Deviled Eggs
I love creating special deviled eggs for parties. These little Santas are easier to make than they look, and everyone raves over them. They’re perfect Christmas finger foods! —Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, ColoradoGo to Recipe
Hot Spinach Spread with Pita Chips
Warm and cheesy, this spread is absolutely scrumptious served on toasted pita wedges. Its colorful appearance makes a stunning addition to any buffet. —Teresa Emanuel, Smithville, MissouriGo to Recipe These festive recipes will get you in the holiday spirit.Taste of Home
Snow Pea Holiday Wreath
Santa himself might stop to sample this pretty-as-a-picture finger food! Crunchy green pea pods and juicy red tomatoes add a natural fresh, festive holiday note to my buffet table. —Carol Schneck, Lodi, CaliforniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Lemon-Garlic Hummus
You’ll need just five ingredients to blend together this smooth and creamy bean dip. It’s delicious and quick to make. —Kris Capener, Ogden, UtahGo to Recipe
Pomegranate Pistachio Crostini
Pomegranate seeds intrigue me, so I sliced French bread, smeared it with cream cheese, and added seeds, pistachios and chocolate. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, UtahGo to Recipe These are the perfect crostini recipes for your next party.Taste of Home
Chicken Crescent Wreath
Here’s an impressive-looking dish that’s a snap to prepare. Even when my cooking time is limited, I can still serve this delicious crescent wreath. The red pepper and green broccoli add a festive touch. —Marlene Denissen, St. Croix Falls, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Ham ‘n’ Cheese Biscuit Stacks
These finger sandwiches are filling enough to satisfy hearty appetites. I’ve served the fun little stacks at every event, including holiday gatherings, showers and tailgate parties. —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New JerseyGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Baked Crab Dip
We enjoyed this exquisite dip at my grandson’s wedding reception. It looks fancy but is easy to make. You can even make this crab dip recipe ahead of time by filling the bread bowl early in the day and chilling it until serving. Just remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. —Marie Shelley, Exeter, MissouriGo to Recipe Check out more amazing recipes to make in a bread bowl.Taste of Home
Christmas Meatballs
Cranberry sauce and brown sugar create a tangy glaze for moist meatballs that are good as Christmas appetizers or as a main dish over rice. We love them so much, I prepare them year-round. —Joyce Bentley, Redlands, CaliforniaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Savory Party Bread
It’s impossible to stop nibbling on warm pieces of this cheesy, oniony bread. The sliced loaf fans out for a fun presentation. It’s one of the best savory appetizers I’ve found. —Kay Daly, Raleigh, North CarolinaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Christmas Pizza Squares
Looking to add a dash of Christmas color to your appetizer mix? Topped with roasted peppers, caramelized onions, beef and black olives, this popular pizza is as tasty as it is decorative on the table.Go to RecipeTaste of Home
Festive Holiday Sliders
Turkey sliders with ginger, horseradish and cranberry sauce refrigerate well, so I keep them ready for get-togethers when we bake gifts and wrap presents. —Pamela Miller, Big Rapids, MichiganGo to Recipe
Holiday Salsa
When we offer this cream-cheesy salsa of fresh cranberries, cilantro and a little jalapeno kick, everyone hovers around the serving dish until it’s scraped clean. —Shelly Pattison, Lubbock, TexasGo to Recipe
Bacon-Wrapped Apricot Bites
I love bacon-wrapped recipes, and these sweet-smoky snacks are easy to make and fun to eat, so be prepared with an extra batch. For a change, sprinkle them with a bit of blue cheese or toasted almonds. —Tammie Floyd, Plano, TexasGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Almond-Bacon Cheese Crostini
For a change from the usual toasted tomato appetizer, try this baked crostini recipe. If you like, slice the baguette at an angle instead of making a straight cut. —Leondre Hermann, Stuart, FloridaGo to Recipe
Smoked Salmon Bites
Because smoked salmon is one of my favorite ingredients, it plays a big role here. Best of all, there’s no cooking involved. —Tom Faglon, Somerset, New JerseyGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Cucumber-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Besides being tasty, these little tomato poppers are extra awesome because you can make them ahead of time. At parties, I often triple the recipe because they disappear fast. —Christi Martin, Elko, NevadaGo to Recipe
Cheddar Ham Cups
When a college classmate and I threw a party for our professor, a friend contributed these savory appetizers. Everyone in the class requested the recipe before the party was done. Try the cups with chicken instead of ham if you’d like.
-Brandi Ladner
Gulfport, MississippiGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Peppered Meatballs
Plenty of ground pepper gives these saucy meatballs their irresistible zest. They’re so hearty, I sometimes serve them over noodles as a main course.
—Darla Schroeder, Stanley, North DakotaGo to Recipe
Sweet & Savory Pineapple Cheese Ball
One of my favorite dishes in childhood was my mom’s pineapple and green pepper cheese ball. Now I make it, and it’s always a hit. —Susan Harrison, Laurel, MarylandGo to Recipe
Brie Cherry Pastry Cups
Golden brown and flaky, these bite-sized puff pastries with creamy Brie and sweet cherry preserves could easily double as a scrumptious Christmas desserts. —Marilyn McSween, Mentor, OhioGo to Recipe
Marinated Mozzarella
I always come home with an empty container when I bring this dish to a party. It can be made ahead to free up time later. I serve it with pretty frilled toothpicks for a festive look. —Peggy Cairo, Kenosha, WisconsinGo to Recipe
Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip
This is a spinoff of a Mexican dip I had once. The original was wicked good, but since I was going through an “I’m-so-over-Mexican-dip” phase, I decided to switch it up. Take it to a party—I’ll bet you no one else will bring anything like it! —Mandy Rivers, Lexington, South CarolinaGo to Recipe
Best Ever Stuffed Mushrooms
At party time, I bring out a platter of my easy stuffed mushrooms. I like to make mine with reduced-fat sausage, but you can use regular for an indulgent treat. —Debby Beard, Eagle, ColoradoGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Slow-Cooked Smokies
I like to include these little smokies smothered in barbecue sauce on all my appetizer buffets since they’re popular with both children and adults. —Sundra Hauck, Bogalusa, LouisianaGo to Recipe
Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Spread
This easy spread is based on several different relishes and spreads I’ve tasted or made before. I love the sweet and spicy combination of flavors. —Diane Nemitz, Ludington, MichiganGo to Recipe
Deviled Eggs with Bacon
These yummy deviled eggs went over so well at our summer cookouts, I started making them for holiday dinners, too. Everyone likes the flavorful addition of crumbled bacon. —Barbara Reid, Mounds, OklahomaGo to RecipeTaste of Home
Sesame Chicken Bites
These bites have been a party favorite at our house for many years. You can make the sauce the night before to make day-of prep even easier. —Kathy Green, Layton, New JerseyGo to Recipe
Mini Mac & Cheese Bites
Young relatives were coming for a Christmas party, so I wanted something fun for them to eat. Instead, the adults devoured my mini mac and cheese. —Kate Mainiero, Elizaville, New YorkGo to Recipe Up Next: The Best Christmas Snacks We’ve Seen for 2021
ⓘ
