Christmas Dinner Recipes
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‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than by hosting a spectacular dinner with the best Christmas dinner menu? As the twinkling lights adorn the streets and the scent of pine fills the air, it’s time to gather your loved ones for a celebration filled with warmth, laughter, and, of course, an unforgettable feast.
Christmas Dinner Menu Recipes
Christmas is a time where we get to slow down and spend time with those we love most. While we both reminisce and making new memories, our Christmas’ are full of laughter, joy, and delicious foods! Whether you’re hosting Christmas at your home or traveling to be with those you love this year, we’ve put together the best collection of recipes for your Christmas dinner menu.
If you’re looking for delicious main dishes, quick and easy appetizers, perfectly paired side dishes, and tasty desserts we’ve got your covered! This is the ultimate round-up of our favorite Christmas dinner recipes! Make sure to check out our Christmas cookie round up to help make your Christmas gatherings even more sweet!
From my family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Tips for Planning the best Christmas Dinner Menu!
This year, we’ve put together our favorite tips and tricks for planning your Christmas dinner menu! Follow our favorite kitchen and holiday prep secrets so you can spend more time celebrating with those you love this Christmas!
1. Make Your List & Menu All At Once
Plan your meal with guests in mind so that you don’t have to go back and make changes! Make sure to record if any of your guests have special dietary restrictions and or food sensitivities. Also, if you’re inviting family or friends with young children, keep track of how many kids will be attending! Teens typically eat a lot and kids may be picky eaters. Making a list will help you plan accordingly.
2. Make A Shopping List
Once you’ve finalized your menu and guests, make a shopping list from your menu. Double check of your Christmas dinner recipes and make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Buy the non-perishable pantry items early so you can avoid the crowds and rush of people closer to the holidays. Keep a separate list for fresh foods you’ll need to shop for closer to the holidays so you are organized and can avoid multiple trips to the store!
3. Plan An Activity
Planning activities for the kids that will be attending your Christmas Dinner is one of my favorite secrets to a no-fuss holiday! A little preparation ahead of time, takes a lot of headache and hassle out of the the “I’m bored” or “we don’t know what to do” when the holidays come around. Check out my Christmas activities for crafts, printables and snacks that anyone would have a blast with!
4. Prep The Fridge
Clean your fridge before you go grocery shopping for your Christmas dinner menu! Not only will your fridge look great, but it will have more than enough room for all the tasty food you’ll be devouring this Christmas!
5. Make Notes
Take a little time and write down a few notes about the holidays! Include your menu, shopping list, the guests that came (there are often last minute changes), things that went well, things that could use revision and tuck it away for next year’s Christmas dinner menu.
Appetizers
Classic Deviled Eggs Recipe
Elevate your appetizer game with this timeless classic deviled eggs recipe! A perfect addition to any Christmas dinner menu.
Christmas Tree Mini Pizzas
These Christmas tree mini pizzas are a festive and delicious way to celebrate the season. One of my favorite recipes for Christmas dinner!
Grape Jelly Meatballs
These grape jelly meatballs are a crowd-pleasing sensation – the perfect blend of tangy and savory goodness. A really easy addition to your Christmas dinner menu.
Instant Pot Grape Jelly Meatballs
Fast, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious! Serve them with toothpicks or cocktail picks for a quick bite-sized appetizer.
Mini Twice Baked Potatoes
Indulge in the creamy goodness of mini twice baked potatoes – a tiny twist on a classic favorite. They’re loaded with so much flavor and are perfect for any crowd.
Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe (Crock Pot or Oven)
Whether you choose the slow-cooked perfection of the Crock Pot or the quick and easy oven method, the creamy goodness and bold flavors are sure to be a hit.
Rotel Dip
Dive into the flavor fiesta with this irresistible Rotel Dip! Everyone needs some easy recipes to add to their Christmas dinner menu, and this one is always a crowd favorite.
Veggie Pizza Recipe
Healthy and delicious, veggie pizza is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! If you need a few healthy appetizer options, this one fits the bill.
Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip
Dive into the holiday spirit with this cream cheese cranberry dip! It may sound a little out there, but trust me, you don’t wanna miss out on the tangy creamy goodness of this dip.
Dill Pickle Dip
Perfect for Christmas parties or snacking anytime! This tangy dill pickle dip is so yummy.
Bacon Wrapped Waterchestnuts with Sweet Dipping Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible bacon wrapped water chestnuts! A great one-bite appetizer that is loaded with tons of flavor.
Cranberry Pinot Noir Meatballs
Succulent meatballs glazed in a rich cranberry Pinot Noir sauce, creating a perfect harmony of sweet and savory. If you want an easy meatball recipe with holiday flair, this is the one!
Main Dishes
Beef Wellington
Experience culinary perfection with this classic beef Wellington! You’ll impress even the most posh of guests if you add this to your Christmas dinner menu.
Roast Turkey
Celebrate the essence of tradition with a perfectly roasted turkey! If you don’t have a go-to turkey recipe yet, this one will be your favorite in no time.
The BEST Homemade Lasagna
Savor the layers of love and flavor with the BEST homemade lasagna! You may not think to add this to your list of Christmas dinner recipes, but everyone loves it and it’s a classic comfort food. Perfect for the holidays!
Honey Baked Ham
Bring joy to your table with this festive centerpiece. A honey baked ham is a great Christmas dinner menu staple.
Crock Pot Turkey Breast
Simplify your holiday feast with this Crock Pot turkey breast! If you don’t want to make a whole turkey, this is the next best thing.
Crock Pot Pineapple Ham
Let your Crock Pot work its magic with this mouthwatering pineapple ham! So much flavor and so easy to make.
Cranberry Crock Pot Pork Loin Recipe
A perfect blend of convenience and flavor for a memorable meal. Make this super easy pork loin for your Christmas dinner.
Sides
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Twice the flavor, half the effort! Make all the best flavors of twice baked potatoes in a super easy casserole form.
Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Embrace the delicious warmth of cheesy broccoli cauliflower casserole. It’s a classic that would go well on any Christmas dinner menu.
Crockpot Stuffing
The perfect hassle-free side dish for a deliciously easy holiday feast. Save room in your oven and make the stuffing in the crock pot instead!
Crescent Rolls Recipe
Soft, flaky, and utterly irresistible, these homemade crescent rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. Skip the store-bought rolls and make these instead!
Easy Creamed Peas
A quick and delightful side dish featuring sweet peas in a velvety cream sauce. You’ll love these easy creamed peas.
Glazed Carrots
Turn ordinary carrots into extraordinary with these glazed carrots! They are a yummy side that can be added on to any Christmas dinner menu.
Creamed Corn
Dive into comfort with this creamed corn recipe! Such a great side dish for the holidays and everything in between.
Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
Layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked to golden perfection in a creamy, cheesy sauce. I love to add this to our Christmas dinner menu!
Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Simplify your feast with make-ahead mashed potatoes! If you need to take some stress out of Christmas dinner menu planning, then make these mashed potatoes.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Creamy mashed potatoes loaded with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan, baked to golden perfection. They are the cheesy goodness that everyone needs on their Christmas dinner menu.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this oven-baked delight. A great addition to your favorite Christmas dinner recipes.
Seven Layer Salad
Serve up this classic crowd-pleaser for a feast that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty. Bring this to a Christmas potluck and listen to the oo’s and ah’s!
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Elevate your side dish game with the delightful combination of fresh green beans hugged by savory bacon. You can skip green bean casserole and make this instead!
Green Beans with Bacon
A simple yet flavorful side dish that combines the freshness of green beans with the savory richness of bacon. If you need a quick side for your Christmas dinner menu, this is just the thing.
Cranberry Fluff Salad
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet side any time of the year! We love this super easy recipe for Christmas dinner.
Cheesy Carrot Casserole
Tender carrots bathed in a creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection. This should absolutely be on your list of Christmas dinner recipes!
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, velvety, and perfectly seasoned, these mashed potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any occasion.
Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes
Simplify your meal prep with Crock Pot mashed potatoes! Save that oven space and keep the kitchen a little more cool by making sides in the crock pot.
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
A stress-free and flavorful addition to your table. If you didn’t know you could make green bean casserole in the crock pot, now you do!
The BEST Green Bean Casserole Recipe!
A time-tested favorite that’s sure to steal the spotlight. This is the absolute best green bean casserole recipe out there!
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
A zesty and sweet addition to your festive feast, effortlessly made in the Instant Pot. Skip the store-bought canned sauce and make this fresh sauce at home.
Gravy Recipe
Complete your feast with this rich and savory gravy recipe! Every turkey and mashed potatoes needs some yummy gravy.
The BEST Cranberry Sauce Recipe!
Add a burst of flavor to your feast with the BEST cranberry sauce recipe! Canned sauce has nothing on this Christmas dinner menu favorite.
Corn Pudding Casserole Recipe
A sweet and savory blend of corn, creamy goodness, and a golden crust that’s perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners. Add this to your list of favorite recipes for Christmas dinner.
Crock Pot Green Beans with Bacon
An easy and savory side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. These bacon loaded green beans are so incredibly tasty!
Creamy Corn Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Indulge in comfort with this creamy corn macaroni and cheese casserole! A loaded dish that will go well on any and every Christmas dinner menu.
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Cheese lovers, rejoice! Dive into the decadence of this cheesy hashbrown casserole recipe.
Roasted Carrots with Dill
The natural sweetness of roasted carrots meets the refreshing flavor of dill in this simple yet delightful side dish. So tasty!
Stuffing Recipe
Experience the essence of comfort with this classic stuffing recipe! It’s easy to make and always turns out perfect.
Vegetable Casserole Recipe
Packed with colorful veggies, savory goodness, and a golden crust, it’s a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. One of our favorite Christmas dinner recipes.
Sweet Potato Casserole
A must-have for your holiday table! This marshmallowy sweet potato casserole is just to die for.
Desserts
Toffee
Buttery, crunchy homemade toffee is the best ever! This classic dessert is a must-make.
Pecan Pie
Indulging in the warmth of the season with a slice of homemade pecan pie. Store-bought pie is always dry and crumbly — this pie never fails to impress.
French Silk Pie
Where each silky bite is a decadent dance of chocolate dreams. You’re going to love this french silk pie.
White Chocolate Gingerbread Poke Cake
A festive dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. This fun twist on gingerbread is a great dessert for your Christmas dinner menu.
Chocolate Covered Cherries
A simple yet indulgent treat that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Make these ahead of time to take something off of your to-do list.
Cranberry Cake
Savor the flavors of the season with this cranberry cake! Sweet and tart, it’s a great dessert recipe for Christmas dinner.
Homemade Caramels
Soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible, these caramels are a delightful treat that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself.
No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake
A delightful and easy-to-make holiday treat that’s sure to spread joy. You can make cheesecake without the difficult techniques of a water bath!
Easy Chocolate Fudge
Whip up a batch for a quick and delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy chocolate fudge is a must-have recipe for Christmas dinner.
Chocolate Pecan Pie
Satisfy your sweet cravings with a classic twist – chocolate pecan pie! You’ll love this sweet and chocolatey classic pie.
Christmas Poke Cake
A delightful dessert with layers of flavor, colorful gelatin poking through, and a fluffy topping. So fun and so yummy!
Christmas Crack
Easy to make and perfect for sharing during the festive season! This is a yummy toffee like treat that everyone will enjoy.
Christmas Cupcakes
Add a dash of festive joy to your celebrations with these Christmas cupcakes! They look like they have frosting Christmas tree on top!
Beverages
Christmas White Sangria
Raise a glass to the holidays with Christmas white sangria! A classy and elegant drink for all of your holiday parties.
Red Christmas Sangria
Cheers to a merry and bright holiday season! This yummy sangria will go with any Christmas dinner menu.
Peppermint Martini
This festive cocktail blends the cool essence of peppermint with the smooth sophistication of a classic martini. So fun!
Sparkling Cranberry Cocktail
Cheers to joy and sparkle! This tart sparkling cocktail is a game-changer for the holiday season.
Homemade Eggnog
This classic festive drink, with a sprinkle of nutmeg, is a delightful way to add warmth and cheer to your celebrations. A great way to warm up on a cold evening.
Grasshopper Drink
This creamy cocktail combines the cool flavors of mint and chocolate for a sweet treat that’s perfect for sipping and savoring.
Haley says
Mini tree pizzas that’s so cute.
Julie Evink says
So cute and fun!
Melissa Howell says
What an amazing round up of recipes! I love the mini Christmas tree pizzas! What a fun appetizer to keep kids happy while they’re waiting for dinner! And those chocolate mint sandwich cookies are calling my name!
Julie Evink says
So many delicious options!
Danielle Green says
Talk about making Christmas cooking easy! Wow – what a great list!
Julie Evink says
Thanks!
Malinda Linnebur says
I LOVE helpful guides like this!! Makes planning for the holidays a little less stressful! Thanks for sharing!
Julie Evink says
You’re welcome!