47 Christmas Dinner Recipes I Bring Out Every December

There’s a certain kind of magic that shows up when the same holiday dishes hit the table year after year. These 47 Christmas recipes carry stories, inside jokes, and maybe a few secret feuds over who makes them best. They’re the glue that holds family dinners together, one serving at a time.

Close-up of seasoned and roasted meat with crispy edges. — Copycat Honey Baked Ham. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Savory French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs. — Savory French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

You might find yourself wanting seconds when you bring out Savory French Onion Casserole each December. It stands out on the table, bringing a simple, rich taste with a little crunch. Guests always remember this one, especially when it sits next to hearty meat dishes. Every year, it gives our meal a flavor you can’t quite find elsewhere.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes on a white plate. — Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These always round out a holiday meal in the best way, especially because Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes provide comfort everyone looks forward to. They bring a smooth, rich texture that fits with any main dish, making the whole plate come together. Family members always request this one, because it just feels like home.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible. — Hearty Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Some people might be surprised by how much they enjoy Hearty Cabbage Casserole during the holiday spread. It brings a home-style touch, which gives everyone something familiar but interesting. Even those who don’t normally want cabbage find themselves going back for more. This dish brings something different to the meal every year.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Golden Roasted Turkey

A roasted turkey garnished with herbs, boasting a golden brown, crispy skin, presented on a gleaming glass platter. — Golden Roasted Turkey. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Whether cooking for many guests or just close family, Golden Roasted Turkey always becomes the centerpiece of our December table. People wait for that first slice, knowing it means the feast is truly starting. It works with all the classic sides, making every plate look full. Each year, nothing starts dinner like this one.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey

Layered Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil. — Layered Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes you want something hearty that keeps everyone full and happy, which is why Layered Homemade Lasagna is on the menu. It stacks up nicely, giving each bite a mix of flavors and textures. Even after a big meal, guests ask to take some home. This one gets talked about all year long.
Get the Recipe: Layered Homemade Lasagna

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top. — Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Offering a new take on potatoes, Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes come out every December for a reason. It pairs well with any meat while adding a nice richness to the table. People always ask what makes it so special, probably because it stands out among other sides. I never skip this dish because it disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Comforting Turkey Casserole

Close-up of a plate of creamy turkey casserole topped with bread crumbs and garnished with fresh basil leaves, reminiscent of a comforting turkey casserole. — Comforting Turkey Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

After the main event, there’s sometimes leftover meat, making Comforting Turkey Casserole a must-serve. It feels familiar and brings back memories from past dinners. You always see someone going for seconds with this dish. That’s probably why it ends up on my list every year.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Casserole

Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Slow cooker pot roast with mushrooms and carrots garnished with fresh rosemary. — Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Guests keep asking how to make meat as tender as Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast every year. It comes out soft, easy to eat, and so full of flavor that plates are clean in no time. When it’s on the table, it’s tough to pick anything else first. Each December, it’s the one people remember.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Festive Christmas Casserole

A close-up of a spoon scooping a portion of creamy baked casserole topped with herbs, with a dish of the casserole and a spoon in the background. — Festive Christmas Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Every menu needs a special dish, which is why Festive Christmas Casserole gets a spot. Friends and family look forward to it before they’ve even walked in the door. It’s easy to pair with anything, making the table feel full and hearty. Not once has anyone turned down a serving.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole

Elegant Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington sliced on a wooden board with a side salad in the background. — Elegant Beef Wellington. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You know dinner is a big event when Elegant Beef Wellington shows up on the table. Family members always talk about how impressive it looks, even before trying it. After that first bite, everyone wants more. It really brings something special every time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Beef Wellington

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Those wanting something familiar but lighter might appreciate Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole during big meals. Kids actually end up reaching for this one, which is rare for a veggie dish. There’s something about it that makes people ask for the recipe. I never leave it out since it’s become a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Some dishes look simple but stand out once you try them, like Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes. It’s always creamy, layered, and truly enjoyable with main dishes. People usually come back for more, often before the meal is over. Friends now ask for it by name each year.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Hearty Beef Stew

A close-up of a beef stew with green peas and chopped parsley, showing a spoon partially submerged in the rich, red sauce. — Hearty Beef Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes you want something that warms everyone up right away, which is why Hearty Beef Stew becomes a tradition. It brings a thick, rich bowl to the table and pairs well with bread or potatoes. There’s a reason it never goes untouched during dinner. You can always count on it to please guests.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Stew

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

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

Serving up favorites usually means making Buttery Mashed Potatoes for everyone around the table. The creamy texture fits every plate, making other foods taste even better. People ask when these are coming out, even before they see the rest of dinner. You really can’t miss with this one.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Beef Stroganoff

A close-up of fettuccine pasta with creamy sauce, reminiscent of Beef Stroganoff, paired with sliced beef, mushrooms, and sprigs of rosemary. — Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Each December, guests look forward to Creamy Beef Stroganoff as one of the main dishes. It’s always smooth, hearty, and easy to eat after a long day. There’s something special about this meal because it fills you up and brings everyone together. Even picky eaters enjoy every bite.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Close-up of sliced glazed turkey breast with visible seasoning. — Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Many people want a little extra sweetness on the table, so Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast hits the spot. The first bite always gets their attention, thanks to its smooth finish. This dish goes quickly, leaving pretty much nothing behind by the end of the meal. It’s become a new classic in my house.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs. — Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing everyone together usually means making Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole as a reliable favorite. Most guests grab a big helping, saying it reminds them of family gatherings. Even on a crowded table, this one never goes unnoticed. Tradition seems to keep this dish coming back.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A plate of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with pine nuts on parchment paper. — Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Even those who said they hated vegetables have switched sides for Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. It adds a punchy bite alongside richer main dishes, balancing out the whole dinner. Guests compliment this dish more than I expected. This one has earned a permanent spot at special dinners.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Tender Roast Beef

Sliced roast beef served on a bed of mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh rosemary. — Tender Roast Beef. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

It seems like every guest looks forward to plenty of seconds when Tender Roast Beef is served. Plates fill up fast with this centerpiece next to sides of all kinds. Most years, it’s one of the first dishes gone. That’s enough reason to always make it.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roast Beef

Classic Meatloaf

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery. — Classic Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sharing a meal with family often leads back to Classic Meatloaf for its homey comfort. People feel right at home as soon as they see it on the table, which makes for easy conversation. Leftovers are rare, as it usually goes fast at dinner. I think guests like the feeling it brings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatloaf

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Someone serving broccoli casserole. — Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Having something green that also disappears quickly means it’s Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. Kids and adults alike dig in without being asked twice. People often want this recipe for their own tables. It fits with everything and never sticks around for long.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini . Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes. — Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A little tradition comes back each year with Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini in the lineup. Its rich texture and familiar flavors always bring people back for more. You might notice the dish nearly empty by the time dinner’s finished. It’s a hit that keeps guests happy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

Elegant Mushroom Wellington

Mushroom wellington on a white serving plate. — Elegant Mushroom Wellington. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

People who want something special without meat tend to go for Elegant Mushroom Wellington. The dish stands tall and makes everyone feel welcome at the table. It’s memorable, bringing out smiles from even non-vegetarians. No one leaves it behind when reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Mushroom Wellington

Hearty Turkey Chili

A close-up of a pot of chili with beans, avocado slices, red onion, sour cream, and garnished with chopped cilantro. — Hearty Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Friends crowd around the kitchen for a bowl of Hearty Turkey Chili every year. It’s easy to serve, making dinner simple and less stressful. When cold nights roll around, this one always fits right in. The pot is usually empty fast.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili

Vegan Nut Roast

A plate with a nut roast and potatoes on it. — Vegan Nut Roast. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Making everyone feel included is simple with Vegan Nut Roast at dinner. The dish looks impressive and stands out for guests who prefer a plant-based meal. People always talk about how much they wish it was served more often. It’s now one of our yearly essentials.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Nut Roast

Rich Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes. — Rich Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Holiday spreads often feel more complete once Rich Beef Bourguignon hits the table. The first servings disappear quickly, as plenty of guests go back for more. There’s a warmth and comfort in every bite. The meal feels more complete with this dish in the mix.
Get the Recipe: Rich Beef Bourguignon

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Anyone looking for a change from regular sides almost always asks for Mashed Sweet Potatoes. These come out so smooth and sweet, working with both meats and other vegetables. People always ask about that extra hint of flavor. It’s an easy upgrade to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A close-up of a spoonful of chicken stuffing, showcasing croutons, shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and sprinkled herbs. — Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Family favorite status goes to Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole as soon as it sits on the table. It’s filling, comforting, and easy to dish out for a big group. Older guests say it tastes like something from their childhood. Sharing this one just makes sense during a big gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Tender Roasted Broccoli

A bowl of roasted broccoli topped with grated cheese and seasoning. — Tender Roasted Broccoli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few dishes disappear faster than Tender Roasted Broccoli when it’s placed next to bigger entrees. Even kids seem to forget it’s a veggie. It adds a clean, simple taste that pairs well with everything else. No plate skips a bit of this one.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork. — Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Getting requests for recipes means you’ve hit a home run with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Every spoonful holds creamy, rich goodness that fits in with all the best dinners. This side moves fast once served. It’s easily one of the dishes people want on their own menus.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Crispy Pork Belly

Sliced roast pork with crispy, golden-brown skin on a wooden surface. — Crispy Pork Belly. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Even just mentioning Crispy Pork Belly gets people hungry before dinner even begins. That crackling finish draws people in, making this a true star beside other main dishes. Family members tend to rush for seconds and thirds. This dish is always a highlight.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly

Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

Glazed ham layered with pineapple slices and a hint of brown sugar, garnished with rosemary sprigs. — Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Slices of Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham show up each December, adding a touch of something sweet. The smell alone brings family to the table, ready for a full plate. Every year, it draws praise for how well it balances with other sides. This one sticks around by popular demand.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan. — Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

People always comment on how nice Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes look, even before trying them. Biting into one gives a mix of crunch and soft centers, which leaves everyone talking. Putting these on the table earns some extra excitement from guests. The presentation always makes people ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Casserole dish with Brussels sprouts, crispy onions, cheese, and herbs, mixed with a spoon. — Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Somehow, Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole changes minds about vegetables at dinner. Guests who weren’t fans before now enjoy every bite. It vanishes fast, with plenty of people going for seconds. That’s when you know you’ve picked a winner.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies

A baked dish with slices of glazed ham, roasted sweet potato cubes, and green beans, garnished with rosemary sprigs. — Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mixing protein and veggies is easy with Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies on the menu. People love anything that brings a touch of sweetness to dinner. Piles of this side end up on everyone’s plate. It’s a steady favorite every year.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies

Hearty Beef Pot Pie

A golden-brown homemade pie with a flaky crust, garnished with a sprig of rosemary on the side. — Hearty Beef Pot Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Something about Hearty Beef Pot Pie gets conversation flowing with every bite. It’s rich and filling, making it a strong contender for the best dish on the table. Family talks about this one most after the meal. Leftovers are rare for this main.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Pot Pie

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Breaded and fried patties garnished with chopped parsley are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of creamy dipping sauce with herbs. — Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These bites vanish almost immediately when Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes are offered. The crispy outside makes them a hit with both kids and adults. You’ll find guests reaching for these long before the main courses. They’re the perfect small bite for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Turkey Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce, grated cheese, and chopped herbs, with a fork resting on the plate. — Turkey Bolognese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pasta nights feel more special when serving Turkey Bolognese at family gatherings. It’s lighter than traditional options, which people seem to enjoy after bigger meals. The sauce always gets compliments for being so hearty yet easy to eat. Adding this to the table just makes sense for us.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bolognese

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Close-up of a serving of chicken cordon bleu casserole with shredded chicken, ham, melted cheese, and breadcrumb topping, garnished with parsley. — Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Getting flavors from a classic dish is easy with Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Guests smile when they see it among the other choices, bringing back memories. The cheesy filling makes it stand out every year. More than once, people ask for seconds before anything else.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Hearty Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby. — Hearty Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Old and new friends meet over big bowls of Hearty Beef Chili every time it comes out. It warms everyone right up, sticking with you throughout the night. Some people even ask for it before dessert is served. You’ll never see leftovers with this pick.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Chili

Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

A wooden spoon lifts a serving of cheesy casserole with chunks of ham and potatoes from a baking dish. — Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A bit of nostalgia creeps in as soon as Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole comes out. People say it tastes just like something from when they were younger. The creamy, rich texture fits perfectly with other classics. This dish doesn’t last long at our celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

Sheet pan meal with sliced roasted chicken breast, brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, pecans, and pomegranate seeds, garnished with herbs. — Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hosting a large group is made simple with Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner in the mix. Everything comes together on one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Guests enjoy trying a little bit of everything in one serving. It’s always a hit with busy hosts.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

Savory Cornbread Stuffing

A metal spatula lifts a serving of baked stuffing topped with chopped parsley from a white casserole dish. — Savory Cornbread Stuffing. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Something about Savory Cornbread Stuffing rounds out the main meal so well that you can’t skip it. Guests always ask for a second scoop, partly because it’s familiar but better. You’ll hear requests for this recipe nearly every gathering. It just fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Classic Shepherds Pie

A baked shepherd's pie with a golden mashed potato topping, partially served to reveal ground meat, peas, carrots, and gravy in a white dish. — Classic Shepherds Pie. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When the mood calls for comfort, Classic Shepherds Pie ends up front and center. The layers make each serving heartier than most, keeping people full and happy. Friends say it reminds them of home, which always brings smiles. Nobody turns down a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shepherds Pie

Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

A roasted turkey stuffed with vegetables is served on a platter, surrounded by various side dishes including rolls, salad, and stuffing. — Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

In homes where tradition matters, Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing carries a lot of weight during dinner. Its unique filling always catches people’s attention. Every plate looks a little brighter with it on there. This dish often gets the most compliments.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

Sliced breaded chicken rolls filled with ham and cheese, topped with creamy sauce and garnished with chopped parsley on a plate. — Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you want something a little extra, Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu delivers on flavor and texture. The rich, creamy filling makes every bite special. People remember this dish year-round and sometimes request it outside the holiday season. Serving it always feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Special gatherings get a boost from Copycat Honey Baked Ham as the centerpiece. The finish is always just right, making this ham popular with all ages. Slices go fast, so you might want to make a little extra. People usually talk about it far into the next year.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham