Work parties are the best when they are laid back, potluck moments of socializing. However, when this happens, you get a mixture of items. Think about it. There are 3 categories of potluck folks. First, there are the people who try really hard to make something special, but it always comes out a tad below mediocre. Second, those individuals who could win the title of overachievers, always trying to outdo everyone else (think upright, standing veggie Christmas tree). And, lastly, don’t forget the people who always show up with the food purchased from the local grocery store on the way to the office this morning.

Which category do you fall into? Why not stand out and make some out of the ordinary that will wow your co-workers?

If you are wanting to put yourself in a category all your own by making something for everyone to enjoy that tastes good and isn’t too over the top, then check out these tasty holiday potluck ideas that everyone will love.

Mexican fiesta

Just about everyone loves Mexican food. And, if some of your colleagues don’t, there is still a good chance that many do. Why not bring in a little Mexican fiesta to challenge your holiday potluck? Try one of these ideas:

Seven-Layer Dip is a wonderful mixture of all things taco. For instance, it has a layer of taco-flavored refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, olives, onions, lettuce, and tomato. Of course, you can always remove or add a layer to match your preferences. Serve with crispy tortilla chips.

Having Walking Tacos is always fun, too. Bring in snack size bags of Doritos or Fritos chips, a crock pot of taco meat, and all the taco fixings, such as sour cream, cheese, tomatoes, onions, lettuce, etc. Gently crush the tacos in the bag and scoop in all your toppings. Eat it out of the bag with a fork.

Little meat bites

Sometimes you just want to bring in something bite size for your co-workers to enjoy. This could be anything small and scrumptious. Today, however, we will focus on little meat bites, such as bacon-wrapped little smokies or meatballs. Both classic potluck dishes – and always loved by those in attendance.

Bacon wrapped little smokies. This recipe will require the use of an oven. Simply buy the little smokies and a package of bacon. Cut the bacon 3 parts, gently twirling each piece around the little smokie and placing a toothpick through it to hold it in place. Sprinkle a little brown sugar on top.

Bake in the oven on 350-degrees for 40 to 45 minutes.

Meatballs.  For this tasty recipe, you will mix together beef, egg, water, bread crumbs, and minced onion. Then, add a sauce that is made up of cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice.

Bake on 350 degrees for about 20 to 25 minutes. Then mix all the ingredients together in a slow cooker for at least an hour. This allows all the flavors to mingle together.

Macaroni and cheese bar

Do you want to be the talk to of the office by making some delicious and unique? If so, then why not consider creating a potluck-sized mac ‘n cheese bar? This is sure to be a hit with your co-workers. Create a big batch of macaroni and cheese. You can choose to cook up several boxes of the Kraft stuff or cook up some homemade scratch recipe.

Then, you will provide small dishes of mix-ins, such as bacon bits, broccoli, chicken chunks, salsa and jalapenos, and so forth.

It’s a delicious, feel-good, home-cooked dish that is sure to please.

Chocolate covered pretzels

If you are known for your sweet tooth or have been told to bring in a dessert dish, we’ve got something simple for you.

Now, you know how sweet and salty tastes so deliciously wonderful together, don’t you? For this recipe, you will use the large pretzel rods and various types of chocolate – milk, dark, and white.

Melt the chocolates either in the microwave or on the stove. Then, dip two-thirds of the pretzel into your choice of chocolate. Then, use decorative holiday sprinkles or a different (color) chocolate for a drizzle effect. Place the pretzels on wax paper and place in the refrigerator to harden.

You will have a tasty, decorative potluck treat in a matter of minutes.

Cranberry Walnut Cheese Log

Last, but not least, consider this cranberry walnut cheese log because, well, everyone loves a cheese log! Serve it alongside some tasty crackers or veggies – and your co-workers will eat it up – guaranteed. Plus, it looks festive, too.

You combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberries, walnuts, green onions (chopped), salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Once thoroughly mixed, form it into a log and refrigerate.

Spread out cranberries, walnuts, and chopped green onions on a plate. Place it directly on top of the toppings and roll it. Although most should go ahead and stick to the log immediately, you can use your hand to press the remainder into place.

And, it is done! Simple and delicious.

Candy Cane Christmas Dip

Another festive dish sure to please is Candy Cane Christmas dip. This simple recipe can be made in no time at all – and its easy to transport to and from the office.

Break your candy canes into small pieces, then crush them with a rolling pin. Add them to a mixture of cream cheese, marshmallow fluff, peppermint extract, and food coloring (optional). Refrigerate until ready to eat.

Serve this dip with vanilla wafers, apples, pretzels, or even chocolate graham crackers.

Ready to get cooking?

Holiday office potlucks don’t have to be boring or repetitive. Change things up this season with one of these recipes that is sure to please your co-workers. They are tasty, festive, and full of flavor. All you have to decide is which one you are going to make. So, what will it be? Candy Cane Christmas dip? A colorful cheese log? A magnificent mac ‘n cheese bar? Or, some bacon wrapped little smokies?

Enjoy!