7 Christmas Dinner Buffet Ideas Blending Hot Casseroles and Cold Platters

When planning a Christmas dinner buffet, I find that blending comforting hot casseroles with refreshing cold platters creates a delightful balance. It’s all about offering variety that satisfies both warm and cool cravings. From baked ziti to shrimp cocktail, there are many options to consider. I’ve curated seven ideas that might inspire your holiday feast, ensuring everyone leaves with a full heart and plate. Curious about what these dishes could be?

Cozy Baked Ziti With a Fresh Caprese Salad

Cozy Baked Ziti with a Fresh Caprese Salad is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any holiday gathering. This baked pasta dish combines ziti pasta with a rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese, while the Caprese salad, made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, adds a refreshing balance to the meal. Together, they create a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will warm the hearts of your guests.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Ziti: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the chopped basil. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper, and stir until well combined.
3. Mix the Pasta with Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the marinara sauce. Make sure all the pasta is coated evenly in the sauce.
4. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the ziti and sauce mixture on the bottom. Spoon dollops of the cheese mixture over the pasta, and then layer the remaining ziti and sauce on top.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the final ziti layer. You may also add a little extra Parmesan for added flavor.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Prepare the Caprese Salad: While the ziti is baking, prepare the Caprese salad. In a bowl, combine the sliced fresh tomatoes and remaining chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
8. Serve: Once the baked ziti is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Plate generous portions of the baked ziti alongside the fresh Caprese salad for a warm and inviting holiday meal. Enjoy!

Sale

Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...

• The Original Pro Chopper – TikTok’s favorite veggie slicer and one of the top-rated kitchen gadgets of the season! Simple to use, set up, and...

$49.99 −$20.00 $29.99

BUY ON AMAZON

Creamy Loaded Potato Casserole Paired With Chilled Shrimp Cocktail

Creamy Loaded Potato Casserole is a decadent, comforting dish filled with layers of tender potatoes, creamy cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon. This casserole pairs perfectly with a chilled shrimp cocktail, making it a fantastic choice for a festive Christmas dinner buffet. Guests will appreciate the creamy texture and rich flavors, elevating their holiday dining experience.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and becomes perfectly bubbly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
3. Boil the Potatoes: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a boil and then add the sliced potatoes. Boil for about 7-10 minutes until the potatoes are just tender but not falling apart. Drain the potatoes and set aside.
4. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of boiled potatoes at the bottom, followed by a layer of the creamy cheese mixture. Repeat layers until all potatoes and cheese mixture have been used, finishing with a layer of the cheese mixture on top.
6. Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a bubbly, cheesy crust when baked.
7. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Let it Cool: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
9. Serve with Shrimp Cocktail: While the casserole cools, arrange your chilled shrimp cocktail in a serving dish. Pair a spoonful of the creamy loaded potato casserole with a few shrimp for a delightful combination that celebrates the holiday season. Enjoy!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...

• Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get fresh shredded cheese, cutting the food...

$29.97

BUY ON AMAZON

Savory Chicken and Rice Bake Alongside a Colorful Antipasto Platter

Savory Chicken and Rice Bake is a comforting one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a medley of vegetables. This hearty bake is perfect for a Christmas dinner buffet, offering a warm and satisfying option that is both easy to prepare and serve. The dish’s rich flavors meld beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by guests of all ages.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your dish cooks evenly from the start.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and diced carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Combine Rice and Broth: In a large mixing bowl, combine the long-grain white rice, chicken broth, sautéed vegetables, frozen peas, and dried thyme. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
5. Assemble the Bake: In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), pour the rice mixture evenly across the bottom. Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
6. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Uncover and Finish: Once cooked, remove the foil and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to firm up slightly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious Savory Chicken and Rice Bake alongside your colorful antipasto platter.

Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...

• 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage methods. Never worry about spoilage ever...

$99.00

BUY ON AMAZON

Hearty Beef or Veggie Lasagna With a Refreshing Greek Salad

Hearty Beef or Veggie Lasagna is a classic comfort food that suits any festive gathering, especially during Christmas. Layered with rich meat sauce or fresh vegetables, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese, this dish is both filling and satisfying. Its combination of flavors and textures will delight your guests, making it a standout item on your Christmas dinner buffet.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ensuring they do not stick together.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes). If using ground beef, add it to the skillet, cooking until browned. If opting for vegetables, add your choice and sauté until softened. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, simmering for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
5. Layer the Lasagna: In a large baking dish (around 9×13 inches), spread a thin layer of the meat or veggie sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of noodles over the sauce, followed by another layer of sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the sauce, then sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process, adding another layer of noodles, sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella, finishing with a final layer of noodles and the remaining sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the last layer.
6. Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking) and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve. Enjoy your hearty beef or veggie lasagna alongside a refreshing Greek salad for a balanced and festive meal!

Sale

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...

• Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast

$59.99 −$24.00 $35.99

BUY ON AMAZON

Holiday Stuffing Bake Matched With Vibrant Fruit and Cheese Board

Holiday Stuffing Bake is a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, perfect for adding a festive touch to your Christmas dinner. This dish combines savory bread, aromatic herbs, and rich broth, all baked to golden perfection. Pair it with a vibrant fruit and cheese board to create an appealing contrast of flavors and textures, making it a wonderful addition to your holiday buffet.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and the onion is translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, chopped parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until the bread is well-coated with the vegetable mixture.
4. Add Broth and Eggs: Pour the broth over the bread mixture, ensuring everything is evenly soaked. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and then fold them into the stuffing mixture until combined. Mix gently to avoid breaking up the bread too much.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon the stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake the Stuffing: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve Warm: Once baked, remove the stuffing from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm alongside a vibrant fruit and cheese board to enhance your Christmas buffet. Enjoy!

Sale

Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...

• 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches

$39.99 −$12.00 $27.99

BUY ON AMAZON

Warm Butternut Squash Casserole Complemented by a Crisp Garden Salad

Warm Butternut Squash Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish that embodies the flavors of the season. This casserole features roasted butternut squash paired with a savory blend of cheese and spices, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust for added texture. Accompanying this dish with a crisp garden salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, making it an excellent choice for your Christmas dinner buffet.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the Squash: On a large baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spread the squash in an even layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until fork-tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Blend the Squash: Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted squash with heavy cream, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the Gruyere cheese. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash and blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the butternut squash mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
5. Add Toppings: In a small bowl, mix the remaining cheddar and Gruyere cheeses with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake the Casserole: Bake the casserole in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Pair it with a crisp garden salad for a delightful holiday meal. Enjoy!

Sale

Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...

• 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units (oz/lb:oz/fl'oz/g/mL), tare function, and includes 2 AAA...

$13.99 −$3.00 $10.99

BUY ON AMAZON

Decadent Mac and Cheese Served With a Festive Meat and Vegetable Platter

Decadent Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy comfort food that brings warmth and indulgence to your Christmas dinner buffet. This dish features a blend of cheeses melted into a velvety sauce that coats perfectly cooked macaroni. Served alongside a festive meat and vegetable platter, it becomes a delightful centerpiece that satisfies both children and adults alike.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly, ensuring that it doesn’t burn.
3. Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking the roux. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Cheeses: Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar, Gruyere, and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until all the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy goodness.
6. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake the Dish: If you prefer a crispy top, you can bake the mac and cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color. Serve hot alongside your festive meat and vegetable platter, and enjoy the rich flavors this comforting dish brings to your holiday table.