Because A Holiday Meal Should Be Over-the-top—29 Recipes To Try

A holiday meal feels more special with extra care and flavor. Big moments call for big tastes and bright colors on the table. Friends and family gather, so every dish should shine. Simple steps can still bring bold results without stress. Because a holiday meal should be over the top 29 recipes are ready to make each bite feel like a celebration.

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Lamb Chops

Grilled lamb chops garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Lamb Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When it’s time for a holiday feast, how about sinking your teeth into some Lamb Chops. Imagine cutting into tender, perfectly seasoned meat that’s just bursting with flavor. These are not your everyday chops; they’re crafted to impress. Perfect for a festive dinner that says luxury and care. Your guests will remember this meal for a long time.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Chops

Peach Cobbler

A close-up of a slice of peach cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate.
Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a sweet ending to your holiday meal, you can’t go wrong with Peach Cobbler. It’s a warm and cozy dessert that feels like a big hug. Picture a bubbling dish of tender peaches topped with a crispy, buttery crust. It brings that homely warmth straight to your table. Perfectly suited to wrap up any festive dinner.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler

Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies.
Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Picture kicking back after a big holiday meal with a slice of Oreo Cheesecake. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-decadent with that beloved cookie crunch. This dessert takes the best of cheesecake and Oreo cookies to create a flawless finish to your celebration. Each bite is an indulgent treat. Family and friends will ask for another slice.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Close-up of a tater tot breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped herbs.
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Start your holiday mornings off with a bang by making a Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. It’s packed with hearty goodness that will fill anyone up for a big day ahead. The golden tater tots on top add a fun twist to a comforting dish. A perfect way to get everyone excited for the day’s festivities. Your family will be glad you made it.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Avocado Toast

Various avocado toasts with toppings including cherry tomatoes, fried eggs, black olives, and feta cheese on a parchment-lined surface.
Avocado Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Treat yourself to a special holiday breakfast with Avocado Toast. It’s a simple yet elegant option that feels a bit more special than your normal fare. The creamy avocado and its toppings offer a fresh and perfect start to your day. Perfect for those who enjoy something light yet delicious before the feast begins. Definitely a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

French Toast Casserole

A person taking a portion of French toast casserole.
French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Make your breakfast extra special with French Toast Casserole. A dish that combines all the best parts of French toast into one warm, gooey, and crispy delight. Prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free meal. The aroma alone will have everyone running to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: French Toast Casserole

German Chocolate Cake

A slice of double-layer chocolate cake with a creamy filling and glossy chocolate frosting on top.
German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

End your festive meal with a towering German Chocolate Cake. If you love chocolate, this cake brings a deep, rich flavor that’s unforgettable. With its layers of moist cake and sweet, nutty icing, it’s an instant showstopper. Perfect for those who want something extra special for dessert. Everyone will eagerly await dessert time.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Serve up some fun with Ham and Cheese Sliders at your holiday gathering. These little sandwiches are easy to make and a hit with both adults and kids. They’re packed with flavor, from the creamy cheese to the tasty ham. A finger food that’s great for parties. Perfectly sized for snacking or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Give your side dishes a gourmet twist with Dauphinoise Potatoes. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes cooked in a creamy sauce make for a rich and elegant dish. It’s perfect for adding a bit of luxury to your holiday meal. Your family and friends will appreciate all the love that went into making it. An absolute must-try for any festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate cake drizzled with caramel sauce on a plate, with more cake in the background.
Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Take your dessert game to the next level with a Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Rich layers of chocolate cake meet luscious salted caramel for a truly indulgent treat. It’s the perfect way to end any holiday feast on a sweet note. Your guests will be talking about this cake long after the celebration.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Easy Banana Pudding

Banana pudding in a bowl with whipped cream and bananas.
Easy Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy layers meet sweet delight in Easy Banana Pudding. Imagine setting it up, knowing how it’ll wow everyone at the table. The fun part is the assembly, stacking each part with care. It’s a no-bake wonder that hardly needs any fuss. Perfect for when you want a little taste of nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunch meets a hint of sweetness in Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Great as a fresh appetizer or a standalone meal, it excites in its simplicity yet complex texture. Each bite offers a mix of tangy berries and crunchy nuts. A colorful presentation that stands out during holiday feasts. Everyone will want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

A slice of apple pie stuffed cheesecake on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing classic comforts together, Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake surprises with each bite. Combining two beloved desserts, it’s sure to be a holiday conversation starter. Layered perfection awaits in each slice you serve. Who knew cheesecake could hold an apple pie surprise so well? Get ready for gasps of delight.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and garnished with fresh thyme and cracked black pepper.
Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy and fluffy, Mashed Potatoes hit the holiday table and win every time. A staple that’s easy to tailor with your favorite flavors. Serve them with a rich, hearty gravy or leave them plain for purists. They make any meal feel just a bit more special. Simple to prepare, guaranteed to please.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ultimate comfort comes bubbling in Hashbrown Casserole. Layers of potato goodness bring warmth to any gathering. Crispy on the top and tender inside, it pairs well with almost any main course. There’s an old-school charm with every scoop. A holiday must-have that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Banana Bread

Close-up of a sliced banana bread loaf, showcasing its moist, textured interior with visible banana chunks.
Banana Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet and comforting, Banana Bread offers homestyle baking with ease. With a wonderful aroma that fills the kitchen, everyone looks forward to that first slice. Moist texture and sunny flavors make it a family favorite. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. Quick to make, and always loved by all.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

A stack of four fluffy pancakes topped with fresh raspberries, pear slices, and a drizzle of syrup.
Cottage Cheese Pancakes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light and fluffy, Cottage Cheese Pancakes mix traditional flair with an unexpected twist. Ideal for brunch or a special breakfast. Each pancake is rich in texture, packing in flavor. A hidden gem amidst typical holiday dishes. Add a drizzle of syrup for that perfect finish.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Close-up of spiral cookies with red jam filling on parchment paper, reminiscent of Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, one partially eaten and surrounded by crumbs.
Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taking nostalgia to a new level, Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie is an indulgent treat. Capturing the essence of a classic sandwich in cookie form. Each bite bursts with familiar flavors, pleasing kids and adults alike. Amazing as a dessert or festive snack. Expect them to vanish off the plate in no time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft and golden brown, Dinner Rolls sit at every holiday table, ready to be devoured. They’re the perfect sidekick to soups, stews, and roasted dishes. The smell alone is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen. Fluffy inside and with a slight crust, you’ll never have enough. Easy to pull-apart and enjoy with family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Peanut Butter Brownies

A stack of rich peanut butter brownies with a spoonful of creamy peanut butter on the side.
Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fudgy goodness wrapped in a nutty embrace, Peanut Butter Brownies are the ultimate dessert delight. Rich chocolate paired with creamy peanut butter makes for an irresistible layer of taste. Perfect for those who never shy away from a decadent treat. Serve these at your next holiday event and watch them disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Three sugar cookies stacked on top of each other.
Sugar Cookies Without Butter. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You won’t believe how easy it is to bake some scrumptious Sugar Cookies Without Butter. These treats are perfect for any holiday gathering, bringing a bit of nostalgia to everyone. Just the right amount of crispiness combined with their soft center will make them a crowd-pleaser. They are ideal for those looking for a tasty snack without using butter.
Get the Recipe: Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When planning your holiday feast, consider adding Bacon Wrapped Smokies to the mix. These little bites always bring a smile to everyone’s face. The combination of bacon and smokies creates a perfect balance of flavors. Guests will definitely keep coming back for more. Perfect as an appetizer, they make a fun addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Moist Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Close-up of a freshly baked muffin topped with chocolate chips and oats, wrapped in a paper liner. A blurred drink and other baked goods are visible in the background.
Moist Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Get ready to enjoy some incredibly Moist Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins. They’re packed with the rich taste of bananas and luscious chocolate chips throughout. A great addition to any holiday brunch or dessert table, these muffins are sure to please. The texture is just perfect, both light and fluffy. They can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later.
Get the Recipe: Moist Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Funeral Potatoes

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hosting a holiday gathering, certainly include Funeral Potatoes on your menu. This comforting dish, brimming with cheesy goodness, is perfect for feeding a crowd. Its rich and creamy texture is irresistible. Watch as your guests scoop up every last bit from the serving dish.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for an exciting dish to serve, try out Italian Sliders. These small, flavor-packed sandwiches are perfect for your holiday spread. With melty cheese and fresh ingredients, they are sure to be a hit. Easy to make, yet incredibly delicious for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Lamb Shank

Roasted lamb leg on a platter with sliced potatoes, lemon, and herbs. A knife is placed beside the dish.
Lamb Shank. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding Lamb Shank to your holiday meal will impress everyone. Its tender, fall-off-the-bone texture is unbeatable. Perfectly seasoned, it brings a special touch to any dinner. Serve with your favorite side dishes to complete the meal. Everyone will be asking for your secret recipe.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shank

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everyone loves a comforting dish during the holidays, and Mac and Cheese fits the bill perfectly. Rich and creamy, it’s an easy way to please a crowd. This classic dish will bring a warm, inviting feel to your gathering. It pairs well with almost anything. Expect to see people going back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie with a slice removed on a white plate. Topped with lime wedge and zest, the crust is golden brown. A hand touches the plate edge, and a small bowl with cream is nearby.
Key Lime Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing a bit of tangy sweetness, Key Lime Pie is a fantastic holiday dessert. Its refreshing flavor and creamy texture make it a standout. Easy to prepare and perfect to serve, it adds a special touch to your meal. Paired with a lovely whipped topping, it’s simply irresistible. Your guests will surely enjoy every last bite.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a fuss-free holiday meal, whip up an Easy Chicken Casserole. This dish is hearty and comforting, perfect for family gatherings. It’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a wholesome meal. The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce is delicious. Everyone will appreciate the comforting flavors and portion.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

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