The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a deliciously traditional Christmas dinner? This year, why not try something new and exciting on your menu? From classic turkey and ham to savory beef Wellington and decadent mac and cheese, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of 20 festive recipes will make your holiday meal a hit with family and friends.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a simple yet satisfying side dish, our selection has something for everyone. And who knows? You might just discover a new favorite recipe to add to your annual rotation. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Christmas one to remember!
Herb-Roasted Turkey with Garlic Butter
This classic turkey recipe is elevated by the addition of fragrant herbs and a rich garlic butter, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb-garlic butter mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for approximately 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Honey-Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Elevate your holiday gathering with this show-stopping ham, infused with the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of pineapple. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 1 fresh pineapple, sliced
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the honey glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Arrange pineapple slices on top of the ham.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Classic Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles
Classic Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles: A timeless dish that elevates a tenderloin of beef to new heights by wrapping it in puff pastry and filling with earthy mushroom goodness. This recipe is sure to impress at any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see below for recipe)
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mushroom Duxelles:
– 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Place the mushroom duxelles on one half of the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it.
4. Place the beef tenderloin on top of the mushrooms.
5. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
6. Place the other half of the puff pastry on top and press to seal.
7. Brush the top of the Wellington with the remaining egg.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the pungency of garlic with the creaminess of cream cheese. Perfect for a comforting side dish or as a base for a hearty casserole.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: butter, chives, or grated Parmesan for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with the minced garlic, softened cream cheese, and milk or heavy cream.
3. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with butter, chives, or grated Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
This classic comfort food dish combines the simplicity of green beans and cream of mushroom soup with the crunch of crispy onions, all wrapped up in a golden-brown casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions, crispy
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onions in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the green bean mixture, then stir in the cream of mushroom soup.
5. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish, topped with crispy French-fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, balsamic vinegar, and any remaining pan juices.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
This classic Southern dish is a staple at many holiday gatherings. Sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and spices meld together to create a rich, comforting casserole topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Streusel topping (see below)
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and heavy cream. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with streusel topping (see below).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Elevate your holiday table with this simple and flavorful homemade cranberry sauce infused with the warmth of orange zest. Perfect for topping turkey, yogurt, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp orange zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the orange zest and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-18 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls with Honey Glaze
Elevate your dinner table with these soft, buttery rolls infused with the warmth of honey. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or savory stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Honey Glaze ingredients: 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough; shape into 8-10 rolls.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool slightly before drizzling with Honey Glaze (simply mix honey and heavy cream together).
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Slow-Cooker Pot Roast with Vegetables
Transform a tough cut of beef into tender, flavorful pot roast with this easy slow-cooker recipe. Simmer it with vegetables and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
3. Add the garlic, carrots, and potatoes on top of the onion.
4. Place the pot roast on top of the vegetables.
5. Pour in the beef broth.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Serve hot with the juices spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Baked Mac and Cheese with Three Cheeses
This classic comfort food gets a delicious twist with the combination of three artisanal cheeses: sharp cheddar, creamy Gruyère, and tangy Parmesan. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp)
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Roasted Carrots with Thyme and Maple Syrup
This recipe transforms simple carrots into a sweet and savory masterpiece, perfect for a side dish or as a snack. The combination of roasted carrots, thyme, and maple syrup creates a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp maple syrup
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, thyme, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this indulgent recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, artichoke hearts, and creamy cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each breast and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Parmesan-Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and crispy Parmesan-crusted pork tenderloin, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal. This recipe combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the tenderness of pork, making it a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Dip the pork in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the coated pork for 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Thermidor with Gruyère Cheese
Lobster Thermidor with Gruyère Cheese Recipe
Rich and decadent, this Lobster Thermidor recipe combines succulent lobster meat with the creamy richness of Gruyère cheese. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lobster meat, white wine, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook until lobster is opaque and flaky, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and combined with the lobster mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Wild Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil
Savor the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms in this creamy risotto dish elevated by a hint of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine and cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add truffle oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Gradually add warmed broth to rice mixture, stirring constantly and adding more broth as needed. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy and tender.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Yule Log Cake
Brighten up your holiday gatherings with this festive and delicious Peppermint Chocolate Yule Log Cake. Moist chocolate cake, infused with peppermint extract, is wrapped in a rich chocolate ganache and topped with crushed candy canes for a fun and playful touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and oil.
3. Add peppermint extract to the wet mixture and whisk until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cake is set.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before spreading with melted chocolate ganache.
7. Garnish with crushed candy canes and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingerbread Crust
This rich and creamy eggnog cheesecake is elevated by a crunchy gingerbread crust, perfect for the holiday season. With its velvety texture and warm spices, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Gingerbread Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
For the Eggnog Cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the gingerbread crust according to package instructions or make from scratch using the ingredients listed above.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by eggnog and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Cloves
Warm up with a classic winter drink infused with the comforting aromas of cinnamon and cloves. This spiced mulled wine is perfect for cold nights by the fire or as a festive addition to holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and water until dissolved.
4. Pour the sugar mixture into the pot with the wine mixture.
5. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until the wine is warm and fragrant.
6. Strain the mulled wine into a serving jug or individual mugs to serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gingerbread Trifle with Whipped Cream
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this show-stopping Gingerbread Trifle, featuring moist gingerbread cake, sweet caramel sauce, and fluffy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gingerbread cake mix (or homemade gingerbread)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the gingerbread according to package instructions. Allow it to cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Add granulated sugar and salt; continue whipping until combined.
3. Cut the cooled gingerbread into 1-inch cubes.
4. In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, create a layer of gingerbread cubes.
5. Drizzle with caramel sauce; top with whipped cream.
6. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with whipped cream on top.
7. Sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on whipping cream)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a deliciously traditional Christmas dinner with these 20 festive recipes. From savory options like Herb-Roasted Turkey, Classic Beef Wellington, and Slow-Cooker Pot Roast, to sweet treats like Peppermint Chocolate Yule Log Cake and Eggnog Cheesecake, there’s something for everyone on this list. Also included are classic sides like Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Creamy Green Bean Casserole, and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large holiday bash, these recipes will help make your Christmas dinner truly unforgettable.
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