15+ Christmas Dinner Recipes to Make Your Holiday Sparkle

Christmas dinner is a special time to gather with family and friends, sharing delicious food and creating lasting memories. You can impress your loved ones with a variety of delightful recipes that celebrate the flavors of the season. From classic roasts to flavorful vegetarian options, there’s something to please everyone at the table.

As you prepare for this festive occasion, choosing the right dishes will make all the difference. Embracing traditional recipes alongside modern twists can elevate your Christmas dinner experience. With the right planning and creativity, you can create an unforgettable meal that reflects your personal style and culinary preferences.

1) Herb-Crusted Prime Rib

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib is a fantastic choice for your Christmas dinner. It’s flavorful, tender, and sure to impress your guests. The savory herb crust adds a delicious touch to the juicy roast.

To start, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Mix together softened butter, garlic, salt, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Then, rub this mixture all over the prime rib for that extra flavor.

Roast the meat until it reaches your desired doneness. Let it rest before slicing to keep all those juices in. Serve it with au jus and horseradish sauce for a wonderful finishing touch.

Ingredients

• 1 (4 pound) bone-in prime rib roast
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a bowl, mix butter, garlic, salt, thyme, rosemary, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture on the prime rib.
4. Roast in the oven until desired doneness.
5. Let it rest before slicing and serve.

2) Honey-Glazed Ham

Honey-glazed ham is a classic choice for Christmas dinner. The sweet glaze gives the ham a lovely golden finish and a rich flavor. It pairs well with many sides and is sure to impress your guests.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard create a flavorful glaze. You might also use apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.

When preparing the ham, bake it at 325°F (165°C) while brushing it with the glaze several times. This ensures every bite is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 spiral-cut ham (about 4 kg)
• 100 g brown sugar
• 125 g honey
• 50 ml apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• Cloves (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
3. Brush the glaze over the ham.
4. Place the ham in the oven and bake, basting with the glaze every 20 minutes.
5. Continue baking until heated through, about 1.5 to 2 hours.

3) Roast Duck with Orange Sauce

Roast duck with orange sauce is a delightful choice for your Christmas dinner. The combination of crispy duck skin and sweet, tangy orange sauce makes this dish truly special.

To prepare the duck, start by seasoning the cavity with salt and pepper. You can stuff it with oranges and onions for added flavor.

Next, brush the skin with a mixture of orange juice, light brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. This glaze will help create a beautiful, caramelized finish as it roasts.

Roast the duck in the oven at 400°F (200°C). Keep brushing it with the orange glaze every 20 minutes for the best results.

Let it rest before serving to allow the juices to settle. This will give you a moist and delicious duck.

Ingredients

• 1 small duck (about 2.5 lbs / 1.25 kg)
• 2 oranges
• 2 tsp light brown sugar
• 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the duck inside with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff the duck with oranges and onions.
4. Mix orange juice, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar.
5. Brush the duck with the glaze.
6. Roast for about 1.5 hours, basting every 20 minutes.
7. Let the duck rest before carving.

4) Vegetarian Lasagna

Vegetarian lasagna is a delicious and hearty option for your Christmas dinner. This dish layers pasta with rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and a variety of vegetables.

You can use ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. These veggies add flavor and color to the dish.

To make it even more special, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano. This adds a nice touch to your lasagna.

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups spinach
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce.
4. Add a layer of noodles, followed by ricotta, vegetables, and mozzarella.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until golden.

5) Herbed Lamb Chops

Herbed lamb chops are a delicious choice for Christmas dinner. The garlic and herbs create a flavorful crust that makes each bite special. Plus, they are easy to prepare and cook.

To make herbed lamb chops, you’ll want to start with quality lamb. You can pan-sear them for a nice crust or grill them for a smoky flavor.

Here’s what you need:

Ingredients

• 4 lamb chops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rub the lamb chops with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chops for 3 minutes on each side.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 6-8 minutes for medium-rare.

6) Spiced Butternut Squash

Spiced butternut squash is a great addition to your Christmas dinner. It’s warm, flavorful, and easy to prepare. You can roast it to enhance its natural sweetness.

To make this dish, start by peeling and cubing your butternut squash. Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme for extra flavor.

Roasting at 400°F (200°C) brings out the best flavors. Bake until tender, about 25-30 minutes.

For a festive twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. This simple addition makes it feel special for the holiday.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds butternut squash
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh thyme (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
3. In a bowl, toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

7) Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a delicious side dish for your Christmas dinner. The creamy texture and rich flavor make them a favorite for many.

To start, you can use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Roasting garlic adds a nice, sweet flavor that makes the dish special.

Mix the mashed potatoes with butter and milk for extra creaminess. A touch of chives adds a nice finishing touch for color and taste.

These potatoes pair well with turkey or roast beef, making them an ideal addition to your festive meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• 1 head of garlic
• ½ cup of butter
• ½ cup of milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chives (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic in foil and roast for about 30 minutes.
3. Peel and chop the potatoes.
4. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Mash the potatoes and mix in roasted garlic, butter, and milk.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and top with chives if desired.

8) Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a delicious side dish perfect for your Christmas dinner. This dish features creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy, nutty crust.

You can use fresh or canned sweet potatoes for easy preparation. The combination of brown sugar and pecans offers a delightful sweetness and texture that pairs well with holiday meals.

Here’s how to make this tasty casserole at home.

Ingredients

• 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans preferred)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup flour

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, vanilla, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
4. In another bowl, mix chopped nuts, brown sugar, and flour.
5. Sprinkle the nut mixture on top of the sweet potato layer.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

9) Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for your Christmas dinner. They become tender and crispy when roasted, bringing out a wonderful flavor. You can add some balsamic vinegar for a tangy touch or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for extra taste.

To prepare, simply trim the ends and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, roast them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown.

These little veggies are not only delicious but also add a beautiful pop of color to your holiday table. Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and flavors they bring to your meal!

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
3. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

10) Green Beans with Parmesan

Green beans with Parmesan are a tasty and easy side dish to add to your Christmas dinner. They are simple to prepare and complement many holiday meals.

Start by washing fresh green beans. Then, trim the ends to keep them looking nice. You can roast or sauté them for great flavor.

For roasting, toss the beans with olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Then, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness.

When they are nearly done, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Let it melt for a delicious, cheesy finish.

You can also try sautéing them in a pan for a quicker option. Just use medium heat and cook until tender.

Ingredients

• Fresh green beans
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and trim the green beans.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, garlic, and salt.
4. Spread on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20 minutes.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan on top before serving.

11) Yorkshire Pudding

Yorkshire pudding is a classic dish often enjoyed during Christmas dinner. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for soaking up gravy.

To make this dish, you need a few simple ingredients. Combining flour, eggs, milk, and a bit of salt creates a batter that puffs up beautifully when baked.

Traditionally, Yorkshire pudding is served before the roast. This way, it fills you up and makes the meal more satisfying. You can also enjoy it alongside meat and gravy for a delicious combination.

Ingredients

• 2 heaping cups of flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups milk
• 4 eggs, lightly whisked
• Handful of chives, chopped
• 2–3 ounces of rendered fat

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
3. Add milk and whisk in the eggs.
4. Let the batter sit for 30 minutes.
5. Add rendered fat to a baking dish and heat in the oven.
6. Pour the batter into the hot dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffy.

12) Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

Cranberry sauce with orange zest is a bright addition to your Christmas dinner. The tartness of the cranberries pairs nicely with the sweet and citrusy flavor of orange. This sauce is easy to make and adds a festive touch to your holiday table.

To prepare, you need fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients blend beautifully to create a tasty condiment.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• ½ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup orange juice
• ½ cup orange zest
• ½ teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the cranberries under cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool before serving. Enjoy!

13) Chestnut Stuffing

Chestnut stuffing is a delightful addition to your Christmas dinner. It combines tender chestnuts with vegetables and bread, creating a hearty side dish full of flavor.

To make it, start with roasted chestnuts, chopped onions, and celery. You can also add herbs like sage for a festive touch. This stuffing pairs perfectly with turkey or pork.

You will enjoy the nutty taste and unique texture that chestnuts bring. It adds a warm, cozy vibe to your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh chestnuts
• 8 cups dry seasoned bread cubes
• 1 cup onion, minced
• 1 cup celery, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roast the chestnuts, then chop them.
3. Sauté the onion and celery until soft.
4. In a bowl, mix chestnuts, sautéed vegetables, and bread.
5. Add herbs and moisten with stock.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake in a greased dish for 30 minutes. Enjoy!

14) Gravy with a Red Wine Base

Red wine gravy adds a rich flavor to your Christmas dinner. It perfectly complements roast meats and makes your meal feel special.

To start, use high-quality beef or vegetable stock for a solid base. Adding red wine enhances the taste, giving it depth.

You can mix in caramelized onions for sweetness. The balance of flavors will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (500ml) beef or vegetable stock
• 1/3 cup (80ml) dry red wine
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 large onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add stock and wine, whisking continuously.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened.

15) Baked Ziti with Spinach

Baked Ziti with Spinach is a delicious and comforting dish. It’s easy to make and perfect for your Christmas dinner. The combination of pasta, cheese, and spinach creates a warm and hearty meal.

You’ll start by cooking the ziti pasta until it’s al dente. Meanwhile, prepare a mixture with spinach, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce.

Then, layer the pasta and sauce in a baking dish, adding mozzarella for that cheesy goodness.

Once assembled, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden. This dish not only tastes great but also looks festive on your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 12 oz uncooked ziti
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ziti according to package directions.
3. In a large bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, garlic, and spinach.
4. Combine the cooked ziti with the tomato mixture and ricotta cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.