The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than gathering around the table with loved ones for a festive feast? This Christmas, why not try your hand at some classic, cozy dishes that are sure to become new traditions in your household. From savory meats and sides to sweet treats and drinks, we’ve rounded up 18 traditional Christmas recipes that are sure to impress.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for the main event or just want to add a few extra special touches to your holiday spread, these tried-and-true recipes are here to help. So go ahead, don your favorite festive apron, and get ready to cook up some holiday magic!
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter and Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this simple yet impressive roast turkey recipe, featuring a flavorful herb butter and rich gravy. Perfect for serving a crowd on Thanksgiving or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup turkey broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.
7. Meanwhile, pour the turkey broth into the roasting pan to make a savory gravy. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
This classic combination of flavors is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. A sweet and sticky honey glaze pairs perfectly with the juicy pineapple, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) ham, bone-in or boneless
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 pineapple ring, fresh or canned
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large baking dish.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Top with pineapple ring and bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Classic Beef Wellington
Classic Beef Wellington Recipe
Elevate your dinner party with this show-stopping dish, featuring tender beef wrapped in puff pastry and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) filet mignon or ribeye roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate to cool.
4. Spread mushroom duxelles evenly over the cooled beef, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Place the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and brush with beaten egg.
6. Position the beef in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it.
7. Fold the pastry over the beef, pressing gently to seal. Brush top with egg wash.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Note: Mushroom duxelles is a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and herbs. You can use store-bought or homemade for this recipe.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday meals with a homemade cranberry sauce that’s bursting with flavor and simplicity. This classic recipe is a must-have for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, if using. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic with the comfort of warm, fluffy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions Recipe
This beloved American side dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of crispy onions, adding texture and flavor to the creamy green bean and mushroom mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onion rings, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch green beans for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cooked green beans, mushroom mixture, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and black pepper.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with crushed French-fried onions and crispy fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère Cheese
A classic comfort dish that’s perfect for any occasion, these creamy scalloped potatoes are infused with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese. With its crispy top and velvety interior, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine sliced potatoes and enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Drain the potatoes.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add Gruyère cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of potatoes. Top with the cheese mixture, then repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Pour heavy cream over the top layer of cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Traditional Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce
A classic British dessert, this rich and fruity pudding is a staple of the holiday season. Serve warm with a drizzle of brandy sauce for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
For the pudding:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, cranberries)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the brandy sauce:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brandy or other liquor
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (140°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into a well-greased 1-pint pudding basin or individual cups.
5. Cover with parchment paper and steam for 2-3 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let cool.
7. To make brandy sauce, combine heavy cream, butter, and brandy in a saucepan. Heat until smooth.
8. Serve warm pudding with a drizzle of brandy sauce.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours for the pudding, 5 minutes to prepare brandy sauce.
Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)
A traditional French dessert, Bûche de Noël, also known as Yule Log Cake, is a festive and delicious treat perfect for the holiday season. This moist sponge cake is filled with buttercream and decorated to resemble a log.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Buttercream filling and decorations of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch (25x38cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Add milk and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to egg mixture, beating until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until springy to the touch.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before filling and decorating.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
Get cozy with these classic gingerbread cookies, perfectly paired with a rich and creamy royal icing for the ultimate holiday treat. With just the right amount of spice and sweetness, these soft-baked cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
For the cookies:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
For the royal icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before decorating with royal icing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Peppermint Bark Chocolate Bark
Get into the holiday spirit with this refreshing and delicious Peppermint Bark Chocolate Bark recipe. Crunchy peppermint candies and rich dark chocolate come together to create a sweet treat perfect for gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (30g) crushed peppermint candies (such as Andes Mints)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
4. Melt the white chocolate chips in a separate double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
5. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer.
6. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top of the bark.
7. If using shortening, drizzle it over the bark to help set the chocolate.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set.
Cooking Time: None
Eggnog with Bourbon and Nutmeg
Warm Up with a Rich Eggnog: Bourbon and Nutmeg Recipe
This classic eggnog recipe gets a sophisticated twist by adding bourbon and nutmeg, perfect for the holiday season. This creamy and aromatic drink is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– Pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Temper the egg mixture by gradually pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon whiskey. Let it cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate until chilled. Just before serving, sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves
As the temperature drops, a warm cup of mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fire or gather with friends. This classic recipe infuses rich red wine with the sweet warmth of cinnamon and cloves.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it mulle for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add sliced orange and lemon to the pot for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time.
5. If desired, add brown sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
6. Strain the wine into heat-proof cups or a thermos to serve.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Festive Stuffed Butternut Squash
As the seasons change, warm up with this comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for the holidays. Roasted butternut squash filled with a savory blend of grains, herbs, and spices will become a new favorite at your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese (if using), olive oil, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each squash half with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
A classic combination of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe is a perfect representation of the fall season. The tender red cabbage and caramelized apples are slow-cooked in a mixture of spices and aromatics, resulting in a rich and comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sliced cabbage, diced apples, garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in apple cider vinegar and water, and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
A classic combination that’s sure to please! This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts by roasting them with crispy bacon and a hint of caramelized flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
5. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Sausage Rolls
A classic comfort food, homemade sausage rolls are a staple of many gatherings. With this simple recipe, you can create flaky, buttery pastry wrapped around savory sausage for a delicious snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound sausage (homemade or store-bought), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place sausage pieces along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
4. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg and fold over sausage, pressing gently to seal.
5. Use a fork to crimp edges and create a decorative border.
6. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
7. Brush tops with remaining egg wash and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shortbread Cookies with Jam Thumbprints
These classic Scottish cookies get a sweet twist with the addition of jam thumbprints, making them perfect for snacking or gift-giving. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these buttery treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Jam or preserves of your choice (raspberry, strawberry, or apricot work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and granulated sugar; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut out shapes. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before making thumbprints with a spoon. Fill with your chosen jam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Christmas with these 18 traditional recipes. From classic dishes like roast turkey and beef Wellington, to sweet treats like gingerbread cookies and Yule log cake, there’s something for everyone on this festive feast menu. Enjoy savory sides like green bean casserole and roasted Brussels sprouts, or try your hand at homemade cranberry sauce and mulled wine. With a variety of sweet and savory options, you’ll find the perfect recipe to make your holiday season merry and bright.
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