Once the holiday rush settles, it’s nice having 51 Christmas dinner ideas saved for moments when you want inspiration without scrambling. This collection brings together dishes that work for small gatherings, bigger celebrations, or those times you just want something comforting on the table. Each one has its own purpose, so you can pick what fits your plans next year.
Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
There’s something about this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes recipe that makes any holiday meal feel extra special. The creaminess is unmatched, and it has that perfect balance of buttery richness you can’t help but crave. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday ham or turkey, it fits in seamlessly, completing your Christmas feast with a comforting touch.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Savory French Onion Casserole
If cozy, rich flavors are what you’re looking for, then this Savory French Onion Casserole is the dish you didn’t know your Christmas dinner spread was missing. It has that unexpected wow-factor that guests rave about every single time, and the best part? It fits perfectly alongside turkey, prime rib, or any other holiday entrée you’ve got planned. Make room on your table, because this casserole is about to steal the spotlight!
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole
Golden Roasted Turkey
Christmas dinner wouldn’t feel complete without a showstopping roast turkey, and this Golden Roasted Turkey delivers everything you could hope for. This dish just feels festive, filling the house with those classic holiday aromas that instantly make you nostalgic for holiday gatherings past. Whether it’s the centerpiece of an intimate dinner or feeding a full table of friends and family, this turkey is sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey
Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Looking to mix things up this Christmas dinner while keeping comfort at the center of it all? This Hearty Cabbage Casserole will surprise everyone with its old-school charm and lovely depth of flavor. The savory layers pair perfectly with roasted meats, but it’s equally capable of standing on its own as the unexpected MVP of the dinner table. Trust me, this dish deserves a spot on your holiday rotation; it’s just that good.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Festive Christmas Casserole
Bringing warm flavors and a touch of holiday cheer, this Festive Christmas Casserole is the perfect blend of hearty, lovely ingredients that scream December. What makes it so special isn’t just its recipe; it’s the way it instantly brings that cozy, Christmas feeling to your table. Even if you’re juggling the chaos of hosting, this casserole lets you serve joy with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu
Elegant yet approachable, this Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu delivers an upscale dish that fits perfectly into your holiday spread. It’s one of those recipes that feels restaurant-quality but still carries the comfort of homemade. The best part? It works equally well for small dinner parties or larger gatherings when you really want to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu
Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast
When you’re looking for something smaller but just as bold as a full turkey, this Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast is the answer. Plus, it’s perfect for smaller celebrations where you still want all the flavors of Christmas without the time and effort of roasting a full bird. The way that glaze caramelizes on top might just make this your new holiday favorite!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast
Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Is there anything more satisfying than creamy potatoes baked until golden and bubbly? This Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole is the definition of holiday comfort food, packed with flavors that warm you up inside and out. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side or a filling main, this casserole gets the job done; and makes Christmas night feel all the cozier.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Want to transform your holiday stuffing game? These Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun way to serve a holiday classic with a touch of creativity. These bite-sized treats are perfect for serving as an appetizer or even alongside roasted dishes as a unique alternative to traditional stuffing. Everyone will be reaching for these at the table; and you might just want to make extra for all the fans they’ll win over!
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Hearty Beef Pot Pie
It’s hard to beat the comfort of a steaming-hot pot pie during a Christmas dinner, and this Hearty Beef Pot Pie checks all the boxes. It’s a perfect option when you’re looking for something warm and lovely to enjoy after a long day of holiday festivities. Whether served as part of the main spread or as an alternative to more traditional dishes, this pot pie always feels right.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Pot Pie
Christmas Prime Rib Roast
Nothing says showstopper quite like this Christmas Prime Rib Roast. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that turns your Christmas dinner into something unforgettable. If you’re celebrating with loved ones, this dish makes a statement on the holiday table, bringing people together around a centerpiece that feels luxurious without being intimidating.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Prime Rib Roast
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Cheesy, creamy, and straight-up irresistible, this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe is a guaranteed hit for your Christmas dinner spread. The layers bake into a golden-brown perfection that feels like comfort food turned up a notch, and the ham adds just the right amount of salty goodness to every bite. This recipe is all-in on holiday warmth and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Crockpot Turkey Breast
When oven space gets tight during the holidays, this Crockpot Turkey Breast steps in to save the day. Cooking low and slow brings out a tenderness that rivals even the fanciest roasted turkey, and it’s perfect for smaller crowds or when simplicity is key. The flavor and texture feel just as special as the holiday, all while freeing you up to focus on other festive favorites for the table.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Turkey Breast
Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
The holidays are meant to feel special, but that doesn’t mean every dish has to be complicated. This Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner delivers all the flavors of the season, from turkey to your favorite sides, all in one pan. It’s practical, delicious, and perfect for smaller gatherings where you want to enjoy the day without spending all your time cooking. It’s low stress, high reward!
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Creamy Beef Stroganoff
Imagine how perfect it would be to unwind with a bowl of this Creamy Beef Stroganoff at the end of a busy holiday season. With tender strips of beef and a rich, velvety sauce, it’s just the comfort food you need during the festivities. Whether you’re serving it on Christmas Eve or using it to warm up on a snowy night, this dish delivers big on flavor and coziness.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff
Savory Cornbread Stuffing
A holiday meal isn’t complete without stuffing, and this Savory Cornbread Stuffing brings a southern twist that everyone will love. The cornbread provides a unique texture and flavor that stands out amongst other traditional holiday sides. It matches beautifully with all kinds of roasted meats, especially turkey and ham, making your holiday spread absolutely irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing
Elegant Beef Wellington
For those looking to make a statement, this Elegant Beef Wellington is the epitome of Christmas dinner grandeur. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience, turning any holiday gathering into a sophisticated affair. When you bring this to the table, you don’t just serve dinner; you serve a masterpiece that will leave your guests in awe and definitely talking about the meal in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Beef Wellington
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
If holiday comfort food is your goal, then this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole should be on your Christmas menu. The best part is how it brings together all those familiar, beloved flavors of the season in one fun, easy-to-serve dish. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where good food and great company come together.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Hearty Beef Stew
Nothing beats a bowl of rich, flavorful beef stew on a cold December day, and this Hearty Beef Stew is holiday perfection. This stew has universal appeal, whether you serve it for a family dinner or enjoy it cozied up by the fireplace. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth to your heart and soul, making your holiday season feel just right.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Stew
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
For a side dish that adds a touch of sophistication to your holiday meal, these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze are a must-try. They complement turkey, ham, or beef beautifully, and even the pickiest of eaters might just come around to loving Brussels sprouts after trying this delicious recipe. It’s a celebration of winter flavors that really stands out.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Few things in life are as comforting as this Buttery Mashed Potatoes recipe on your festive table. Creamy, smooth, and indulgent, they pair beautifully with almost any holiday main dish. These mashed potatoes help round out the meal, adding that much-loved familiar comfort food element that makes everyone feel right at home. Just watch them disappear from the bowl; make extra if you want any leftovers!
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Apple and Cranberry Pie
End your Christmas dinner on a sweet note with this Apple and Cranberry Pie. The tartness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweet, spiced apples to create a pie that’s bursting with festive flavor. The flaky crust and warm filling make it the ultimate holiday dessert, and there’s something about serving pie that feels welcoming and homey.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie
Layered Homemade Lasagna
Looking for an Italian twist to your Christmas dinner? This Layered Homemade Lasagna is comforting and sophisticated, offering layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta. It’s perfect for when you want to serve something hearty and enjoyable. Lasagna can be made ahead, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Layered Homemade Lasagna
Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
All the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu are brought together in this easy, comforting Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Combining tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy cheese sauce, it’s everything you love about the original dish but in a fuss-free casserole form. This dish is perfect for the holiday season when you want something special without all the effort. Rich and filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Comforting Turkey Casserole
After the holiday hustle and bustle, a comforting casserole like this Comforting Turkey Casserole fits the bill perfectly. It’s made with all the cozy flavors of the season, making it a familiar favorite that’s ideal for using up your holiday leftovers. Whether you’re serving it as part of the main meal or enjoying it the next day, it’s the kind of dish that warms your soul with every bite. This one quickly becomes a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Casserole
Elegant Mushroom Wellington
Vegetarian guests need not feel left out with this Elegant Mushroom Wellington on the table. It’s a fun and sophisticated dish, featuring rich, flavorful mushrooms and a golden, flaky pastry shell. Mushroom Wellington offers the same festive flair without the meat, making it perfect for diverse holiday menus. It pairs beautifully with a range of sides, ensuring every guest feels satisfied and cared for.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Mushroom Wellington
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Perfectly creamy and just the right amount of cheesy, this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole adds a delicious twist to your Christmas dinner. It’s a welcoming change in your side dish lineup and stands out with its rich, indulgent flavor. Ideal for pairing with turkey, ham, or roast beef, this casserole is comfort food reimagined for the holidays. Even those who weren’t fans of cauliflower are sure to be converted after a taste!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Vegan Nut Roast
In search of a main dish that’s hearty and vegan-friendly? This Vegan Nut Roast ticks all the boxes, offering a delicious, festive option for plant-based diners. Packed with nuts, grains, and vegetables, it’s full of flavor and texture, making it enjoyable and festive. This roast is great for bringing everyone together, regardless of dietary preferences, ensuring that no one misses out on the holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Nut Roast
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
When it comes to comfort food, this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic. It’s the kind of dish that brings instant warmth to the table, combining tender chicken, rich creaminess, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s versatile enough to be a main dish or a hearty side, and the leftovers are just as good! Ideal for cozy family dinners, it’s sure to become a regular in your holiday meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Looking to add an eye-catching but delicious side to your holiday spread? These Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes are just what you need. Sliced to perfection and baked until crispy, they offer the best of both worlds; tender inside with a lovely crunch. Lightly seasoned, they complement the flavors of any main dish, making your Christmas dinner plate as tasty as it is beautiful.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
For a truly indulgent side, these Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes bring that touch of sophistication and richness to your holiday meal. Thinly sliced potatoes baked in cream and garlic, they melt in the mouth with every bite. Pair them with roast beef or ham for a perfect combination, and get ready for rave reviews! They might just become the new family favorite for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing
Transform your holiday turkey game with this Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing. The succulent turkey, paired with a cranberry stuffing that bursts with festive flavors, makes a striking main dish. Roast to golden perfection for an elegant centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Perfect for family gatherings, this dish creates a memorable dining experience that captures the joy of the season.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing
Classic Meatloaf
You can’t go wrong with a well-made meatloaf, especially for a holiday meal. This Classic Meatloaf is packed with savory flavors and is the kind of comfort food everyone loves. It’s easy to prepare, fulfilling, and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or any of your favorite holiday sides. A timeless choice that evokes hominess and comfort, perfect for any Christmas dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatloaf
Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Broccoli gets a holiday makeover with this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. Cheesy, creamy, and topped with a crispy crust, it’s a surefire way to get everyone eating their greens. It’s an ideal side dish that fits perfectly with all your holiday main dishes and brings a comforting, hearty touch to the table. This one will keep everyone coming back for more!
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Turkey Bolognese
For a holiday twist on a classic Italian favorite, this Turkey Bolognese offers a lighter yet still hearty option. Perfect for serving over pasta or as a rich filling for a lasagna, it adds a festive touch to your Christmas dinner spread. The flavors meld beautifully, and it’s a savory way to enjoy turkey outside of the traditional roast. This dish proves turkey’s versatility and ensures every bite is lovely.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bolognese
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
When you think of festive and fuss-free, these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes come to mind. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a rich, cheesy sauce and baked to perfection make this a side dish everyone will rave about. It’s rich and indulgent, fitting beautifully into any holiday menu and complementing all your main dishes effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Hearty Turkey Chili
Warm up those cold holiday nights with a big pot of this Hearty Turkey Chili. It’s packed with savory spices and tender turkey, making it a comforting dish that’s great for casual gatherings or feeding a crowd. It has that soul-warming quality you look for in winter dishes, perfect for serving with a sprinkle of cheese and a slice of cornbread. This is one recipe that’s sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili
Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Recreate that perfect holiday ham with this Copycat Honey Baked Ham recipe. The sweet and savory glaze creates a mouthwatering caramelization that’s impossible to resist. It’s the ideal main dish for Christmas dinner, impressing everyone with its sumptuous flavors and beautiful presentation. The leftovers, if you have any, are equally fun, making sandwiches or breakfast dishes shine.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Simplify your Christmas dinner with this Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast. The slow cooker does all the work, turning out a roast that’s fall-apart tender and packed with flavor. Perfect for those busy holiday days when you want a no-fuss but delicious meal. Serve it with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a comforting, homey holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Loaded with rich, indulgent flavors, these Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes bring a side dish like no other to the holiday table. Imagine all the best parts of a baked potato mixed with cheese and seasonings, then baked until bubbly. It’s a decadent addition that pairs perfectly with roasted meats and stands out with every creamy, flavorful bite.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Transform your Brussels sprouts this holiday season with this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. It steps up the humble vegetable, blending it with a creamy, cheesy sauce and finishing with a golden, crispy top. This dish is bound to convert even the most stubborn sprout skeptics at the table and might just become a new holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Tender Roast Beef
For a main course that never fails to impress, consider making this Tender Roast Beef. The crusty exterior and perfectly cooked interior provide a classic, reliable entrée for your holiday gathering. It pairs beautifully with any number of sides and creates a centerpiece that holds its own in any festive spread. This is the kind of timeless recipe that makes you feel like a seasoned holiday host.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roast Beef
Ham Steaks
Sometimes it’s the simple things that make the biggest impact, and these Ham Steaks are no exception. Easy to prepare with a rich, smoky flavor, they make a fantastic main dish or even a hearty side for larger spreads. The perfectly caramelized edges bring just a hint of sweetness, making every bite savor-worthy and festive.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks
Rich Beef Bourguignon
Transform your holiday meal with this Rich Beef Bourguignon. Deep, complex flavors of slow-cooked beef, wine, and hearty vegetables make this dish utterly enjoyable. It’s perfect for a special Christmas dinner that calls for something extra special. The lengthy cooking time makes it feel indulgent and special; ideal for winter celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Rich Beef Bourguignon
Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Want to serve something that’s both fun and delicious? These Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes fit the bill perfectly. With a crispy golden exterior and creamy potato filling, they’re the kind of appetizer or side that everyone will reach for. They’re great for dipping or enjoying on their own, adding an elegant yet playful touch to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Hearty Beef Chili
For something warm and lovely, think this Hearty Beef Chili. It’s loaded with rich flavors and tender beef, making it perfect for those cozy Christmas evenings. Whether served in a big bowl by the fire or at a festive dinner, it’s a comforting dish everyone loves. Add some crusty bread or cornbread on the side, and you’ve got a meal that hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Chili
Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
After all the holiday hustle, a dish like this Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini is just what you need. It’s a fun mix of turkey, creamy sauce, and tender pasta, perfect for using up those holiday leftovers. The flavors come together in a way that’s comforting and oh-so-satisfying. Ideal for a relaxed family dinner that still carries those festive feels long after the big day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
Crispy Pork Belly
For an impressive and flavorful addition to your Christmas dinner, try this Crispy Pork Belly. The combination of crispy crackling and tender, juicy meat is irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that has everyone talking and adding it to their list of perennial favorites. Serve it with a variety of sides for a memorable holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a holiday staple, and these Mashed Sweet Potatoes take that to the next level. Smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of sweetness, they complement all your holiday main dishes perfectly. It’s like having comfort and tradition in every serving bowl. They’re perfect whether you’re making them for a holiday feast or a simple, comforting dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Tender Roasted Broccoli
Veggies need not be boring, especially when you’re serving this Tender Roasted Broccoli. Perfectly roasted with just the right amount of char, they make a delicious and healthy side for your Christmas dinner. The roasting brings out a rich flavor that complements any main dish, turning a simple vegetable into something extra special.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham
For a main course that combines sweet and savory perfectly, consider this Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham. The caramelization from the brown sugar and the tangy sweetness of the pineapple make this dish a standout. It’s a great twist on classic holiday ham, bringing beautiful, festive flavors to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham
