20 Unique and Easy Christmas Party Food Ideas Buffet

Table Of Contents

20 Easy Christmas Party Food Ideas Buffet
Planning your Christmas Party Food Buffet Menu
Conclusion

As the holiday season approaches, planning your Christmas party food buffet menu can be an exciting but daunting task.

With so many mouthwatering options to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

But fear not! We’ve compiled a list of 20 unique and easy Christmas party food ideas buffet to help you create a spread that will have your guests raving.

Now, let’s dive into the delicious and easy Christmas party food ideas or Christmas buffet ideas that will have your guests coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

20 Easy Christmas Party Food Ideas Buffet

These unique and special Christmas party buffet food ideas for 2024 are designed to elevate your festive gathering and create lasting memories for you and your guests!

These food ideas for Christmas party are paired with unique flavors to elevate your Christmas buffet with unexpected and delightful taste combinations.

Here are 20 Christmas buffet ideas (Christmas menu ideas) that you should try out for 2024:

1. Pomegranate-Glazed Roast Turkey

No Christmas party would be complete without a showstopping roast turkey as the centerpiece. Elevate this classic dish by glazing the turkey with a tangy-sweet pomegranate glaze.

The vibrant red hue of the glaze will add a festive touch to your buffet, and the juicy, flavorful meat will be the star of the show.

To prepare this dish, rub the turkey with a blend of herbs and spices, then baste it with a pomegranate-based glaze during the roasting process.
Serve the turkey sliced, with a side of your favorite holiday stuffing and cranberry sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.
Get the recipe at Dash of Savory

2. Zesty Almondine Green Beans

Brighten up your Christmas party buffet with a side of zesty almondine green beans. This simple yet flavorful dish features crisp-tender green beans tossed with toasted slivered almonds, lemon zest, and a touch of garlic.

The crunchy texture of the almonds and the bright, citrusy notes of the lemon zest will provide a refreshing contrast to the heavier, richer dishes on your buffet.

Serve this side dish in a beautiful serving dish or arrange the green beans in a decorative pattern on a platter for a visually appealing presentation.

Get the recipe at A Beautiful Plate

3. Boursin Cheese Infused Mashed Potatoes

Elevate your classic mashed potatoes by infusing them with the creamy, tangy goodness of Boursin cheese. This decadent twist on a holiday staple will have your guests swooning.

The Boursin cheese adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the mashed potatoes, while the chives provide a pop of color and freshness.

To prepare this dish, simply mash your cooked potatoes and fold in softened Boursin cheese, along with a splash of heavy cream, a pat of butter, and a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Get the recipe at Culinary Hill

4. Italian-Inspired Shrimp and Pesto Risotto

For a touch of Mediterranean flair, consider adding an Italian-inspired shrimp and pesto risotto to your Christmas party buffet.

This creamy, flavorful dish features plump, juicy shrimp nestled in a bed of fragrant, herb-infused risotto.

To prepare this dish, start by sautéing the shrimp in garlic and olive oil, then set them aside.
Next, build the risotto by slowly adding hot broth to the rice, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes creamy and tender.
Fold in a generous amount of freshly made pesto, the sautéed shrimp, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a truly decadent and satisfying addition to your Christmas buffet.
Get the recipe at La Cucina Italiana

5. Thai Mango Salad

Balance out the heavier, richer dishes on your Christmas buffet ideas with a refreshing Thai mango salad.

This vibrant, flavor-packed dish features sliced mango, julienned vegetables, and a tangy, sweet dressing made with lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of honey.

The bright, tropical flavors of the mango and the crunchy vegetables will provide a welcome contrast to the more indulgent items on your buffet.

Garnish the salad with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Get the recipe at Lazy Cat Kitchen

6. Moroccan Couscous

Introduce your guests to the bold, aromatic flavors of Moroccan cuisine with a fragrant Moroccan couscous dish.

This versatile side can be customized with a variety of mix-ins, from roasted vegetables and dried fruit to toasted nuts and fresh herbs.

To prepare the couscous, cook it according to package instructions, then toss it with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
Fold in sautéed onions, garlic, and your choice of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Top with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, toasted almonds, and a drizzle of olive oil for a truly authentic Moroccan-inspired dish.
Get the recipe at Salima’s Kitchen

7. Truffled Cream Corn

For a luxurious and indulgent addition to your Christmas buffet ideas, consider serving a decadent truffled cream corn.

This rich, creamy dish features sweet, tender corn kernels infused with the earthy, aromatic flavor of truffle oil.

To prepare this dish, sauté corn kernels in butter, then stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a generous drizzle of truffle oil.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a truly decadent and flavorful side dish.
Serve the truffled cream corn in a beautiful serving dish, garnished with fresh chives or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a visually appealing presentation.
Get the recipe at Sabatino

8. Vegan Creole Cornbread Stuffing

For your vegan and vegetarian guests, consider offering a delicious plant-based Creole cornbread stuffing.

This savory, flavorful dish combines crumbled cornbread with sautéed vegetables, Creole seasoning, and a touch of vegetable broth for a satisfying and comforting addition to your Christmas buffet.

The Creole seasoning, which typically includes a blend of paprika, garlic, onion, and cayenne, adds a bold, spicy-sweet flavor to the stuffing, while the cornbread provides a satisfying, bready texture.

Serve this plant-based dish as a side or use it to stuff roasted vegetables, such as acorn squash or portobello mushrooms, for a truly impressive and inclusive holiday offering.
Get the recipe at Bohemian Vegan Kitchen

9. Slow-Cooked Smokey Collards

Bring a touch of Southern charm to your Christmas party buffet with a hearty, slow-cooked dish of smokey collard greens.

This nutrient-dense leafy green, simmered with smoked meat, onions, and a touch of vinegar, is a quintessential comfort food that will warm the hearts (and bellies) of your guests.

To prepare this dish, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot or Dutch oven.
Add in chopped collard greens, a smoked meat of your choice (such as ham hocks or turkey legs), and a flavorful broth or stock.
Simmer the collards low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld and the greens to become tender and infused with the smokey, savory notes.
Finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar for a touch of acidity to balance the dish.
Get the recipe at All Recipes

10. Festive Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

For a fun and interactive addition to your Christmas party buffet, consider offering a selection of festive skewers with a balsamic glaze.

These bite-sized morsels can feature a variety of ingredients, from savory to sweet, allowing your guests to customize their perfect flavor combination.

Some ideas for your skewers include:

Roasted Brussels sprouts, bacon, and balsamic glaze
Cubed pineapple, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil
Grilled shrimp, pineapple, and bell peppers
Cubed watermelon, feta, and mint
Roasted sweet potato, bacon, and maple glaze

Arrange the skewers on a platter or display them in a creative, eye-catching way to encourage your guests to indulge in this delightful and versatile holiday offering.

Get the recipe at Just Dabbling Along

11. Mini Quiches with Creative Fillings

Elevate the classic quiche with a selection of mini versions featuring creative and unexpected fillings.

These bite-sized delights are perfect for a Christmas party buffet, as they can be easily portioned and enjoyed by your guests.

Bake the mini quiches in a muffin tin or on a sheet pan, then arrange them on a platter or serve them in individual ramekins for a visually appealing and delicious addition to your Christmas party buffet.

Some filling ideas to consider include:

Caramelized onion, goat cheese, and thyme
Spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomato
Mushroom, brie, and truffle oil
Bacon, cheddar, and chives
Roasted red pepper, artichoke, and Parmesan
Get the recipe at Sally’s Baking Addiction

12. Unique Cheese Platter Selection

No Christmas party buffet would be complete without a stunning cheese platter. However, instead of the traditional cheddar and brie, consider curating a selection of unique and artisanal cheeses to delight your guests’ palates.

Arrange the cheeses on a large wooden board or platter, accompanied by a variety of crackers, dried fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of honey or jam for a visually stunning and flavorful addition to your buffet.

Some ideas for your cheese platter include:

Aged gouda with a creamy, nutty flavor
Creamy, tangy blue cheese
Soft, spreadable Camembert or Brie
Sharp, crumbly Manchego
Earthy, aromatic truffle-infused cheese
Smokey, bold cheddar

13. Artfully-Shaped Pesto Pizza

For a fun and interactive element to your Christmas party buffet, consider offering an artfully-shaped pesto pizza.

This versatile dish can be customized with a variety of toppings, allowing your guests to create their own personalized slices.

Bake the pizza and then use cookie cutters or a sharp knife to cut the pie into festive shapes, such as Christmas trees, snowflakes, or stockings.

Arrange the artfully-shaped slices on a large platter or cutting board, allowing your guests to easily select and enjoy their personalized creations.

Start with a simple, homemade pesto as the base, then top the pizza with a selection of ingredients such as:

Roasted cherry tomatoes
Grilled chicken or shrimp
Sautéed mushrooms
Caramelized onions
Crumbled feta or goat cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Get the recipe at Love and Lemons

14. Prosciutto, Brie, and Honey “S’mores”

For a truly unique and indulgent addition to your Christmas party buffet, consider offering prosciutto, brie, and honey “s’mores.”

To assemble these delectable bites, start with small squares of baguette or crackers.

Top each one with a slice of prosciutto, a small wedge of creamy brie, and a drizzle of honey.
Arrange the “s’mores” on a platter and watch as your guests savor the unexpected and delightful flavors.
Check the recipe at The Salted Cookie

15. Vegan Finger Foods

To cater to your vegan and plant-based guests, be sure to include a selection of delicious vegan finger foods on your Christmas party buffet.

These bite-sized treats can be both visually appealing and satisfying, ensuring that everyone can indulge in the festive spread.

Arrange these vegan delights on a dedicated platter or scatter them throughout your buffet to encourage your guests to explore and indulge in these plant-based offerings.

Some ideas for vegan finger foods include:

Roasted vegetable skewers with a balsamic glaze
Stuffed mushroom caps with a creamy cashew-based filling
Cucumber bites topped with avocado mousse and a sprinkle of paprika
Mini sweet potato toasts with a cashew-based “cheese” spread
Dates stuffed with a nut-based “caramel” filling

16. Unique Seafood Selection

For a touch of luxury and elegance, consider adding a unique seafood selection to your Christmas party buffet.

From delicate smoked salmon to succulent shrimp cocktail, these seafood-based dishes can elevate the overall experience and cater to a variety of dietary preferences.

Arrange the seafood items on a bed of crushed ice or garnish them with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a visually stunning and appetizing presentation.

Some ideas for your seafood selection include:

Smoked salmon with a dill-infused crème fraîche
Crab-stuffed mushroom caps
Grilled scallops with a lemon-garlic butter sauce
Chilled poached shrimp with a spicy cocktail sauce
Lox and bagel bites with a schmear of cream cheese

17. Gourmet Charcuterie Boards

No Christmas party buffet would be complete without a selection of gourmet charcuterie boards.

These artfully-curated displays of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments are not only delicious but also serve as a visually stunning focal point for your buffet.

When assembling your charcuterie boards, consider including a variety of cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, and chorizo.

Complement the meats with a selection of artisanal cheeses, ranging from creamy brie to bold blue cheese.

Don’t forget to include a variety of accompaniments, such as olives, dried fruits, nuts, crackers, and a selection of jams, chutneys, and honey.

Arrange the charcuterie boards on large wooden cutting boards or slate platters, and garnish them with fresh herbs, edible flowers.
Drizzle with high-quality olive oil or balsamic vinegar for a truly gourmet and visually appealing presentation.

18. Rustic Artisanal Bread and Dip Station

To round out your Christmas party buffet, consider setting up a rustic artisanal bread and dip station.

This interactive element allows your guests to customize their bread-and-dip creations, adding a fun and engaging component to your holiday spread.

Start by offering a selection of freshly baked artisanal breads, such as crusty sourdough, herbed focaccia, and rosemary-parmesan rolls.

Arrange the breads on a large wooden board or in wicker baskets, and provide a variety of dipping sauces and spreads, such as:

Creamy garlic-herb dip
Roasted red pepper hummus
Balsamic-infused olive oil
Pesto
Artichoke-spinach dip
Check out the rustic artisanal bread recipe

19. Interactive Dessert Bar

End your Christmas party buffet on a sweet note with an interactive dessert bar.

This fun and engaging element allows your guests to customize their own dessert creations, adding a touch of playfulness and creativity to the overall experience.

For an extra special touch, consider offering a selection of homemade holiday-themed cookies or small bites that can be added to the dessert bar.

Arrange these sweet treats in a visually appealing manner, using tiered stands or decorative platters to showcase the diverse offerings.

Some ideas for your interactive dessert bar include:

A hot chocolate bar with a variety of toppings, such as marshmallows, crushed candy canes, whipped cream, and shaved chocolate
A s’mores station with a selection of graham crackers, chocolate bars, and marshmallows for guests to assemble.
Provide a variety of festive garnishes, such as crushed peppermint, toasted coconut, and edible glitter, to allow your guests to personalize their creations.

20. Salted Caramel Apple Pie

End your Christmas party buffet on a sweet note with a showstopping salted caramel apple pie. This classic dessert gets a delightful twist with the addition of a rich, gooey salted caramel sauce.

Prepare your favorite pie crust and fill it with a mixture of tart apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a generous drizzle of salted caramel.

Bake until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent and satisfying finale to your Christmas feast.
Get the recipe at Tasty

Planning your Christmas Party Food Buffet Menu

When it comes to planning your Christmas party food buffet, the key is to strike a balance between traditional favorites and unique, unexpected dishes.

You’ll want to include a mix of savory and sweet options, as well as a variety of dietary preferences to cater to all your guests.

To get started, consider the overall theme or vibe of your Christmas party. Are you going for a cozy, rustic feel? Or a more modern, elegant affair?

This will help you narrow down your menu choices and ensure a cohesive, visually appealing spread.

Next, think about the flow of your buffet. Arrange the items in a logical order, with the heavier, more substantial dishes at the beginning and the lighter, sweeter options towards the end.

This will help your guests navigate the buffet with ease and ensure a seamless dining experience.

Conclusion

By incorporating an interactive dessert bar into your Christmas party food ideas buffet, you’ll not only delight your guests with a delicious and customizable finale, but you’ll also encourage a sense of playfulness and creativity that will leave a lasting impression on your attendees.

Ready to create Christmas buffet ideas that will have your guests talking for years to come? Start planning your menu today with these 20 delicious and simple Christmas meal ideas.

Remember to balance traditional favorites with unique, unexpected dishes to cater to all your guests’ tastes.

Happy holidays!