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–+ servings
Sarah

Christmas Buffet (Easy Menu & 60-Minute Assembly)

A stress-free Christmas buffet plan with make-ahead steps, safe reheating temperatures, portion math, and styling tips for grazing tables or classic buffets. Designed for busy hosts who want a gorgeous spread without the chaos.
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Prep Time 2 days
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 people
Course: Buffet, Main Course, Sides
Cuisine: American
Calories: 750
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  • 1–2 mains (ham, turkey, pork roast, or vegetarian centerpiece)
  • 3–4 hot sides (potatoes, casseroles, veggies)
  • 1–2 cold salads (greens, grain, or pasta)
  • breads, sauces, and desserts
  • beverages (punch, cocoa, cider, sparkling water)
  • garnishes (citrus, herbs)
  • serving labels and allergen cards
  • chafers, slow cookers, and thermometers

Equipment

  • chafing dishes or slow cookers
  • serving platters and bowls
  • food thermometers
  • oven and stovetop
  • sheet pans
  • buffet table or grazing board
  • tongs, spoons, and ladles
  • labels and place cards

Method

  • 1. Plan layout and portions: Sketch your buffet flow and portion guide based on number of guests.
  • 2. Prep ahead (T–48 to T–24 hours): Par-bake casseroles, pre-roast meats, and mix sauces to refrigerate overnight.
  • 3. Reheat safely: Poultry to 165°F; pork/beef to 145°F + rest; casseroles to 165°F. Use thermometers for accuracy.
  • 4. Stage buffet: Arrange in logical order (salads → mains → sides → breads → desserts). Keep hot in chafers, cold on ice trays.
  • 5. Label and manage: Add allergen tags and serving utensils. Refresh dishes and wipe counters every 20–30 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 750kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 1100mgFiber: 6gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3.8mg

Notes

Portion Guide (per adult): 6–8 oz mains; 3–4 sides; 1–2 breads; 1 dessert.
Temperature Safety: Keep hot dishes ≥140°F and cold dishes ≤40°F.
Make-Ahead Strategy: Prep casseroles and roasts 1–2 days early; reheat evenly before service.
Reader Favorites to Add: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole, Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, and Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies.
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