Top Food Ideas for Christmas Dinner and Holiday Parties

First published on December 20, 2023

Christmas time has come, you’ve decorated the house, and how it’s time to complete your holiday mission. You have the Christmas tree, lights, and wreaths, but now what are you going to serve for your holiday meal? Ocean State Job Lot would like to give you a few helpful hints, a step-by-step guide if you will, to make sure it’s not only a night that people will have fun but that they’ll enjoy so much that they’ll be telling their friends for years to come.

Starters to Set the Festive Mood: Christmas Appetizers

You’ll want to get your guests into the right mood with amazing appetizers. While the holiday music is playing in the background, you might want to start your festive gathering with some delicious handpicked delights. Of course you want to have the mainstays such as cheese, crackers and various fruits, but how about adding in some tangy cranberry and brie crostinis to go with savory spinach and artichoke dips? In addition, you could up your game with smoked salmon canapés and brie-stuffed mushrooms. Both could melt in their mouths but also bring an air of sophistication to the affair.

Watch as your guests glance and walk around the room looking for more while they create an atmosphere of laughter and conversation. These appetizers will break the ice for the night and get things going in the right direction. And of course, if you want to make them in holiday shapes or arrangements, it’s all the more fun. Use our bakeware to help.

Christmas Party Food Ideas Buffet: A Spread to Remember

If you choose to go the buffet route, you should consider the feast with a main course that steals the spotlight—whether it’s succulent honey-glazed ham, perfectly roasted turkey, or both, your options ensure a centerpiece that delights every palate. Pasta is never a bad idea and always easy to make.

Enhance the experience with mouth-watering sides, from creamy garlic mashed potatoes to roasted winter vegetables, adding layers of taste and texture. As with your pasta, you’ll want to decide on which sauces to offer to top your dish. You won’t ever be able to please everyone, but you can offer choices that cover a wide range such as traditional red and alfredo sauce. Don’t forget to use our disposable aluminum pans to make your spread look awesome and the clean-up a breeze.

Savory Delights: Top 5 Christmas Main Course Ideas

• First on our list is a succulent honey-glazed ham, a true traditional classic that embodies the spirit of the season.
• Next up, is a roast turkey that’s perfectly seasoned with all the spices you love from Ocean State Job Lot. Cooked to golden perfection, it will bring a nice follow-up to those still craving turkey from Thanksgiving.
• If you like a little variety, beef tenderloin might be an option that offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience,
• Our last meat option is a herb-roasted chicken that is a flavorful option that delights every palate.
• Don’t forget your vegetarian friends with a stuffed acorn squash dish with a delightful blend of seasonal flavors.

Remember, you’ll want to pair these main course options with our exquisite sides, ranging from creamy garlic mashed potatoes to cranberry-orange glazed Brussels sprouts, creating a symphony of tastes that define the holiday season. Don’t forget the spices, oils, and vinegars too to add some flavor.

Sweet Endings: 5 Must-Try Christmas Desserts

Cakes, cookies, pudding and pies – oh my! With Christmas desserts, there are so many delectable delights you can dish out so don’t limit yourself. You’ll want to bring that food experience to an exciting finish.

First on our list is the classic spiced pumpkin pie, a velvety masterpiece that captures the essence of autumn.

If you prefer the richness of chocolate, try a chocolate yule log, a decadent treat that adds a touch of opulence to your celebrations.

For those who savor the traditional, gingerbread cookies are always a hit and you can share that blend of spice and sweetness, complete with personal toppings to share with your loved ones. You might want to use Bob’s Red Mill flour in your mix.

If you really want an exotic twist, explore cranberry orange cheesecake, a harmonious fusion of tart cranberries and zesty orange atop a creamy cheesecake base.

Conclude your feast with irresistible peppermint chocolate truffles, offering a burst of minty freshness encased in velvety chocolate.

Food Ideas for a Christmas Party: Bringing Variety to the Table

Our food ideas for a Christmas party that will be memorable is one that has diverse tastes. As we’ve mentioned above, having a mix of traditional and creative dishes will help that. As always, you’ll want to keep an eye on quality, variety, and affordability when looking at your menu so you can stretch that dollar and get as much fun for your family and friends as possible.

Here’s a few more food ideas you might want to consider:

If any of your guests are gluten-free, having a few of those dishes available would be a nice touch and would probably be greatly appreciated.

Easy-to-Make Christmas Recipes for a Stress-Free Holiday

Drink Options

We’ve gone over the food ideas, but you’ll also want to think over the drink options as well. They are just as important to consider when you’re planning. Holiday parties tend to be known for having alcohol on hand. You’ll want to make the decision on if you will be serving alcohol, how much you will provide in addition to the options, or if you will make it a bring your own beverage party. Either way, make sure your guests know ahead of time so their expectations are met. As the host, you’ll want to make sure everyone is able to get home safely. There could be legal implications should someone get into an accident after leaving your party. Make that a priority. Have plenty of water, soda, and non-alcoholic beverages on hand, too.

Have Fun!

At the end of the night, you’ll be plenty tired and there will be lots of cleanup to do. Ocean State Job Lot can help you there with our wide selection of disposable plates, cookware, bakeware, and heavy-duty kitchen bags. If folks offer help, take it. You’ll appreciate it the next day.

Happy Holidays from Ocean State Job Lot!