25 Cheesy Christmas Recipes to Wow Your Guests
Christmas is a time for family, fun, and, of course, fantastic food. If you're looking to impress your guests this holiday season, what better way than with some cheesy goodness? From savory appetizers to creamy side dishes and indulgent desserts, there's a cheesy recipe for every occasion.
Whether you’re a fan of classic cheesy bites or want to try something new and exciting, these dishes are sure to add that extra sparkle to your Christmas spread. In this post, I’m sharing 25 Cheesy Christmas Recipes to Wow Your Guests, each one designed to bring a smile to your loved ones' faces and keep them coming back for more.
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1. Cheesy Garlic Bread
This cheesy garlic bread is the perfect appetizer to kick off your Christmas feast. The buttery garlic goodness combined with gooey melted cheese will have your guests begging for the recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise.
- Mix the softened butter and minced garlic in a bowl.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
2. Cheesy Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms
These Cheesy Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms are bite-sized and packed with flavor. The combination of bacon, cheese, and mushrooms creates an irresistible treat that your guests will adore.
Ingredients:
- 20 large mushrooms, stems removed
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the mushroom caps on a baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy, cheesy spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for dipping crackers, bread, or veggies.
Ingredients:
- 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve with your favorite chips, crackers, or veggies.
4. Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers
These stuffed peppers are filled with a cheesy, flavorful mixture that will satisfy everyone at the table. They’re a great savory option that’s both filling and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked ground beef
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a skillet, sauté the onion and ground beef until browned.
- Add the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, and half of the cheddar cheese to the skillet and mix.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Top each stuffed pepper with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
5. Cheesy Potato Casserole
This cheesy potato casserole is a comforting and indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with any holiday meal. The creamy potatoes combined with cheese make it a holiday favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the hash browns, sour cream, soup, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, butter, and green onions.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
This rich and hearty soup is filled with cheesy goodness, ham, and tender potatoes. It’s a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly Christmas evening.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes until tender.
- Add the ham, milk, and cream, and cook on low heat.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
7. Cheesy Chicken Parmesan
This cheesy chicken Parmesan is a classic comfort dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a festive holiday meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Coat the chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Cheesy Shrimp Scampi
For a seafood twist, try this cheesy shrimp scampi. The shrimp is cooked in a garlicky, buttery sauce and topped with melted cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink.
- Pour in the white wine and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and cover until the cheese melts.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
9. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
These cheesy mashed potatoes are creamy, rich, and flavorful. They make the perfect side dish for any holiday meal.
Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain.
- Mash the potatoes with milk and butter.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm.
10. Cheesy Bacon Mac and Cheese
A holiday twist on the classic mac and cheese, this cheesy bacon mac and cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch to the creamy, cheesy pasta.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk and whisk until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the cheeses until melted.
- Add the cooked pasta and bacon, and mix well.
- Serve hot.
11. Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
These cheesy chicken enchiladas are bursting with flavor and perfect for a festive holiday dinner. The cheesy filling and spicy sauce are a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 can enchilada sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Spread a little enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, cheese, and a spoonful of sauce.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them in the baking dish.
- Top with more enchilada sauce and cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Cheesy Vegetable Bake
This cheesy vegetable bake is a great way to get your veggies in while still indulging in some cheesy goodness. It’s a delicious, savory side dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Steam the broccoli and cauliflower until tender.
- Mix the vegetables with cream, cheese, and seasonings.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
13. Cheesy Baked Ziti
This cheesy baked ziti is the ultimate comfort food. The layers of cheesy pasta and marinara sauce make it a perfect dish for the holidays.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cook the ziti according to package instructions.
- Mix the cooked pasta with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
This cheesy broccoli casserole is the perfect side dish for any holiday meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Steam the broccoli until tender.
- Mix the broccoli with soup, cheese, and seasonings.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
15. Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole
This cheesy sweet potato casserole combines the sweetness of potatoes with the savory richness of cheese for a unique and delicious holiday dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Boil the sweet potatoes until tender.
- Mash the sweet potatoes with butter, cream, and brown sugar.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
16. Cheesy Cornbread
This cheesy cornbread is a great addition to your holiday meal. The cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory flavor to this classic side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 box cornbread mix
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Mix the cornbread mix, egg, milk, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Stir in the cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
17. Cheesy Meatball Sliders
These cheesy meatball sliders are perfect for a party or casual Christmas dinner. They’re easy to make and full of cheesy, meaty goodness.
Ingredients:
- 12 slider rolls
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Form the ground beef into small meatballs and bake for 15 minutes.
- Place the meatballs on slider rolls and top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve.
18. Cheesy Stuffed Jalapenos
These cheesy stuffed jalapenos are spicy, cheesy, and totally addictive. Perfect for anyone who likes a little heat with their cheese!
Ingredients:
- 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Mix the cream cheese and cheddar cheese together.
- Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.
- Top with crumbled bacon.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
19. Cheesy Quiche
This cheesy quiche is a savory, indulgent treat that's perfect for Christmas morning or brunch. It’s loaded with cheese and your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Beat the eggs with the cream, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the cheese and spinach.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until set.
20. Cheesy Polenta
This cheesy polenta is creamy and rich, making it the perfect side dish for any holiday meal. It’s flavorful, comforting, and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup polenta
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Stir in the polenta and reduce the heat to low.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in the butter and cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
21. Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan
This cheesy eggplant Parmesan is a hearty vegetarian dish that’s perfect for the holidays. It’s crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside.
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Bread the eggplant slices in breadcrumbs and bake for 20 minutes.
- Layer the eggplant slices in a baking dish with marinara sauce and cheeses.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
22. Cheesy Baked Beans
These cheesy baked beans are a delicious, savory side that adds a cheesy twist to a classic dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans baked beans
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a baking dish, mix the baked beans with cheese, bacon, and onions.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
23. Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken
This cheesy spinach stuffed chicken is a flavorful, filling dish that’s sure to impress your holiday guests.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast.
- Stuff with spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
24. Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin
This cheesy cauliflower gratin is a decadent side dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cream
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Steam the cauliflower until tender.
- Mix with cream, cheese, and seasonings.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
25. Cheesy Shrimp Scampi
This cheesy shrimp scampi is a delicious, indulgent seafood dish that’s perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup cream
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Sauté the shrimp with garlic and butter until pink.
- Stir in the cream and cheese until melted.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 10 minutes, until bubbly.
Conclusion
These 25 cheesy Christmas recipes are sure to wow your guests and make your holiday meals unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for appetizers, side dishes, or main courses, there’s a cheesy recipe here for everyone. Enjoy!