Many families lean on any of these 49 Christmas dinner recipes to kick off their holiday celebrations with good food and less stress. Picking favorites or trying something different each year makes dinner feel fun and fresh. A well-chosen menu can bring warmth to the table even before the celebrations begin. Serving a variety of homemade dishes helps everyone feel included.
Layered Homemade Lasagna
Plates fill quickly whenever a bubbling pan of lasagna sits at the center of the table. People always talk about how this Layered Homemade Lasagna feels like comfort in every forkful. Hearty pasta and creamy filling keep everyone coming back for seconds. Nothing says “holiday” quite like homemade classics.
Get the Recipe: Layered Homemade Lasagna
Elegant Beef Wellington
Cutting into a golden pastry reveals a meal fit for a special occasion. Serving this Elegant Beef Wellington often creates a sense of celebration at every Christmas gathering. Guests can’t help but admire the beautiful presentation and rich taste. Impressive dishes like this remain the talk of the evening.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Beef Wellington
Savory French Onion Casserole
Warm casseroles bring the comforting aroma of caramelized onion to your holiday table. This Savory French Onion Casserole makes people pause and appreciate winter classics. A cheese-topped crust creates plenty of excitement when shared with friends. Rich, homey flavors remind everyone why Christmas dinners are best enjoyed together.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole
Christmas Prime Rib Roast
There’s real anticipation when a beautifully roasted prime rib is ready for carving. Each time I serve this Christmas Prime Rib Roast, guests gather around eager to get the perfect slice. A juicy roast always steals the show, inspiring second helpings. Special cuts like this add true celebration to any holiday tradition.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Prime Rib Roast
Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
Baked potato dishes with thin, creamy layers brighten any Christmas spread. Every time I plate this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes, it disappears fast among both kids and grown-ups. The rich texture pairs well with festive roasts. French classics can easily anchor an unforgettable winter dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
Comforting Turkey Casserole
Leftover turkey turns into something special when baked into a bubbling casserole. People often request the recipe for this Comforting Turkey Casserole before the night ends. Warm, hearty dishes help everyone linger at the table a little longer. Turkey casseroles keep the holiday spirit alive well after Christmas Day.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Casserole
Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Few things feel as comforting as smooth, buttery potatoes served alongside Christmas favorites. Bowls of this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes disappear in minutes during big gatherings. The creamy texture blends seamlessly with every holiday main. Potatoes always have a special place on festive tables.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Cozy meals come together easily with bubbling casseroles and plenty of creamy rice. When I set down this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole, the room fills with smiles and conversation. Hearty bites guarantee no one leaves hungry. Simple recipes make the best holiday memories.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Warm mounds of potatoes are a staple at Christmas feasts in every corner of America. Passing around this Buttery Mashed Potatoes often starts cheerful conversations about everyone’s favorite sides. People rarely stop at one serving. Whether paired with beef or turkey, mashed potatoes always belong on the Christmas menu.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Creamy Beef Stroganoff
Beef in a creamy sauce offers warmth and depth on cold winter nights. This Creamy Beef Stroganoff brings out stories of family traditions and favorite holiday meals. Each spoonful makes guests feel right at home. Dishes like this give the festive season a cozy boost.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Veggie casseroles packed with cheese rarely last long on the holiday buffet. Every scoop of this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole seems to disappear before the meal even ends. The creamy flavor brings out smiles from even the pickiest eaters. Cheesy sides offer a comforting balance to rich meats and stews.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast
Eye-catching glazes bring the Christmas spirit to every plate. This Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast means guests are quick to ask for seconds. The glossy sheen always draws lots of compliments. Glazed turkey makes ordinary dinners feel bright and festive.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast
Festive Christmas Casserole
Holiday gatherings practically invite a casserole packed with comfort and color. This Festive Christmas Casserole brings out the sparkle in everyone’s eyes. Every helping feels like the perfect mix of hearty and celebratory. Potluck staples keep Christmas fun, relaxed, and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole
Crockpot Turkey Breast
Slow-cooked dishes save precious time on busy Christmas afternoons. I love serving this Crockpot Turkey Breast because it frees up the oven for other holiday favorites. The turkey always comes out tender enough for sandwiches the next day. Meal prep is easier when this handy recipe makes the main dish shine.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Turkey Breast
Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Meals get a bit brighter when cabbage is baked into a rich, filling casserole. I bring this Hearty Cabbage Casserole to holiday potlucks for something a little unexpected. The flavor stands up next to classic mains without overpowering them. Cabbage surprises everyone in the best way during the colder months.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Appetizers that can be picked up and shared are always a hit at Christmas parties. Watching people try this Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls makes me glad I made extra. Tart cranberries add a playful twist everyone remembers. Bite-sized snacks keep the mood lively as dinner gets closer.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Vegan Nut Roast
Having a plant-based main on the table means everyone feels included in the Christmas celebration. This Vegan Nut Roast creates a buzz with both vegans and meat eaters. Each slice gives off warm, spiced notes perfect for winter evenings. Hearty roasts bring people together no matter their style.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Nut Roast
Golden Roasted Turkey
Crowds gather in the kitchen when the holiday turkey comes out crisp and golden. This Golden Roasted Turkey usually sets the pace for an evening of laughter and seconds. Juicy slices paired with favorite sides never disappoint. The centerpiece of Christmas dinner always makes an entrance to remember.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Cheesy casseroles work their magic even on vegetables some folks think they don’t like. Each time I serve this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole, guests ask for the recipe. The bubbly cheese wins over more fans every year. Vegetables really can be the highlight of the season.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Classic Shepherds Pie
Classic holiday spreads benefit from warm dishes layered with comfort. This Classic Shepherds Pie keeps the room quietly content with every bite. The meaty filling and smooth top always draw the biggest compliments. Traditions feel strongest with a shepherd’s pie on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shepherds Pie
Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Potatoes with a decadent, creamy texture earn attention at crowded Christmas gatherings. Each scoop of this Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes looks almost too good to eat. Plates are soon empty and everyone sneaks back for more. Creamy side dishes round out winter tables perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Bubbles of cheese and crisp broccoli invite guests to dig in before the main event. I prepared this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves with potluck gatherings in mind. It pairs well with any roast or ham. Vegetable casseroles truly brighten up the holiday buffet.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
Noodles mixed in a creamy sauce set the stage for a relaxing Christmas dinner. This Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini usually earns lots of happy sighs. Folks love scooping up big portions between bites of greens and bread. Tetrazzini keeps the holiday table full and festive.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
Tender Roasted Broccoli
Plates get greener with a simple side that still packs plenty of flavor. Watching people come back for this Tender Roasted Broccoli convinces me vegetables can be just as exciting as any main dish. The gentle crunch fits right into any winter meal. Roasted veggies bring brightness to cold evenings.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Golden croquettes disappear from holiday plates the second they arrive. Each bite of these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes combines a light crunch with soft, flavorful filling. People ask about them long after the party ends. Fun sides leave a lasting impression at Christmas dinner.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Elegant Mushroom Wellington
Puff pastry filled with mushrooms promises plenty of holiday magic for everyone. Even meat lovers enjoy this Elegant Mushroom Wellington at festive gatherings. Slicing through those layers feels truly special. Unique, show-stopping mains add extra sparkle to the evening.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Mushroom Wellington
Turkey Bolognese
Holiday pasta makes for a welcome break from the usual lineup of roasts and casseroles. I notice that this Turkey Bolognese offers a light and hearty option that kids and grown-ups love. Sauce-coated noodles warm up winter nights. A pasta dish with turkey feels just right around the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bolognese
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Sides made with potato and ham have a way of turning heads at Christmas buffets. Spoonfuls of this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham end up as the first thing to vanish every year. Hearty, cheesy flavors win over every crowd. Classic sides make gatherings complete.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Glazed ham fresh from your own kitchen sounds almost too good to pass up. This Copycat Honey Baked Ham causes quite a bit of holiday excitement. Those shiny slices end up on nearly every plate, every time. Homemade versions of restaurant favorites make winter feasts more personal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Classic Meatloaf
Simple, meaty slices draw cheers from almost anyone craving familiarity at Christmas. This Classic Meatloaf lets guests settle in for a meal that feels warm and homey. Comments about how it “tastes like tradition” pop up often. Even new faces appreciate a dependable favorite.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatloaf
Rich Beef Bourguignon
Seasonal stews deliver comfort and conversation as temperatures drop. Friends love the way this Rich Beef Bourguignon fills the kitchen with a rich aroma. By the end of the night, there’s never a bit left in the pot. Beef stews create cozy connections during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Rich Beef Bourguignon
Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Ham and potatoes are an unbeatable duo once cold weather hits. I pull out this Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole when the group needs something filling and familiar. Each creamy, hearty scoop has guests lingering long after dinner ends. Classic casseroles draw everyone together.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu
Hearty chicken with a crunchy finish always seems to impress during Christmas celebrations. This Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu sparks admiration from first bite to last crumb. The extra bit of cheese adds to the holiday feeling. Chicken favorites keep everyone smiling.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu
Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Busy holiday schedules call for something you can set and forget. Every time I make this Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast, folks wander into the kitchen to ask what smells so inviting. Tender beef and winter vegetables make the meal memorable. Pot roasts are perfect for relaxed Christmas evenings.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies
Glazed ham mixed with veggies adds color and sweetness to any festive table. Guests scoop up portions of this Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies without a second thought. The blend of flavors feels particularly at home during winter celebrations. Holiday sides never have to be boring.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies
Apple and Cranberry Pie
Fruit pies bring a bright finish to any Christmas dinner spread. Sharing slices of this Apple and Cranberry Pie gets everyone reaching for dessert before the main course is even finished. The crisp crust and tart filling create lasting memories. Nostalgic desserts keep the holiday spirit alive.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Creamy, bubbling potatoes show off their golden edges right out of the oven. These cheesy Scalloped Potatoes leads to happy faces around the table. Each spoonful goes perfectly with any traditional roast. Potato sides always find space on crowded holiday plates.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham
Pineapple and brown sugar come together for an unforgettable Christmas glaze. Setting down this Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham draws everyone to the serving station right away. Those glossy slices vanish in no time. Sweet and savory belong side by side during the season.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Savory scents fill the kitchen as guests catch sight of a bubbling casserole packed with favorites. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole seems to get eaten up before anything else. Ranch flavor always draws a crowd; especially paired with crispy bacon. Creative casseroles keep the mood upbeat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Smooth sweet potatoes piled high give your holiday table an extra pop of color. Friends compliment this Mashed Sweet Potatoes for its rich, earthy flavor every Christmas. The bright hue matches the cheerful energy of the night. Root vegetable sides bring warmth all season.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Caramelized veggies shine bright during winter’s biggest feasts. These caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze creates a buzz before anyone tastes a bite. Even those not fond of Brussels sprouts find themselves going back for more. Glazed vegetables let side dishes steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Hearty Beef Pot Pie
Pot pies filled with beef and vegetables wrap everyone in a sense of comfort. After I set down this Hearty Beef Pot Pie, folks race to grab a generous slice. Each bite brings a rich, warm flavor perfect for cold nights. It’s a winter favorite that never lasts long.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Pot Pie
Crispy Pork Belly
Crunchy pork belly always encourages second helpings when served at holiday dinner. People talk about this Crispy Pork Belly long after dessert is on the table. The irresistible crisp keeps plates busy all night. Pork belly turns any gathering into a celebration.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly
Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Thin, fanned potatoes crisped in the oven are sure to wow at Christmas. Each time I pass around this Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes, someone asks how they’re made. Unique presentation draws lots of oohs and ahhs from guests. Creative sides add festive flair to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Ham Steaks
Hearty ham slices shine both as a main dish and an unexpected side. Guests help themselves to this Ham Steaks, noting how juicy and flavorful each bite tastes. Versatile meats go with anything on the Christmas buffet. Ham fits every part of the festive menu.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks
Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing
Roasted turkey stuffed with cranberries gives each bite a burst of flavor and color. This Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing is sure to wow friends and create lively conversation. Sweet-tart notes take traditional turkey to a new level. Stuffed mains always brighten up winter celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing
Tender Roast Beef
Comforting beef slices bring everyone to the table fast once the platter is served. This Tender Roast Beef reminds people why classic roasts have staying power. Each pink middle surrounded by a brown crust looks mouthwatering in the candlelight. Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a big roast.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roast Beef
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Warm stuffing paired with chicken makes for an irresistible, comfortable dish during the winter season. Every time I bake this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, it disappears before any other side. Savory bakes make chilly nights cozier. Familiar casseroles help set a relaxed, joyful holiday mood.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Hearty Beef Stew
Stews brimming with beef and vegetables are just right for deep winter evenings. After filling bowls with this Hearty Beef Stew, I watch people gather close and share stories. Each bite soothes as the holiday season winds down. One-pot wonders always bring people back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Stew
