49 Christmas Dinner Recipes Ideas You Can Make for Holiday Traditions

Gatherings during the holidays often benefit from 49 Christmas dinner recipes ideas, especially when you want your meal to stand out. Selecting a dish that suits busy schedules lets everyone enjoy the moment without overthinking the prep. Mixing in a few new options keeps old traditions alive while adding something special to the celebration.

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

Butternut Squash Ravioli

A plate of ravioli topped with creamy sauce, grated cheese, and fresh herbs, served with a fork. — Butternut Squash Ravioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and comforting, this Butternut Squash Ravioli brings sweetness and warmth to any Christmas table. The cozy flavor fits perfectly with holiday cheer, inviting everyone to try a bite. Guests often gather for seconds without hesitation, making it a standout option during cold weather. It feels like a special treat reserved for festive occasions.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Ravioli

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes topped with blue cheese, drizzled with ranch dressing, and garnished with green onions. — Spicy Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for something exciting at Christmas dinner? This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes blends tradition and fun in a way that brightens up the meal. People often express how much they enjoy the bold flavors during a chilly December evening. These loaded potatoes turn a familiar classic into a crowd-pleasing holiday surprise.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Tender Mississippi Pot Roast

A bowl of shredded beef garnished with cilantro and peppers. — Tender Mississippi Pot Roast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When comfort is needed, this Tender Mississippi Pot Roast never disappoints. The savory aroma greets everyone as they walk through the door, instantly setting a festive mood. I always find the slow-roasted flavors make guests linger at the table. This dish fits right in with cozy holiday traditions.
Get the Recipe: Tender Mississippi Pot Roast

Loaded Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Two sesame seed burgers with cheese, shredded lettuce, ground meat, and pickles, stacked on a plate. — Loaded Big Mac Sloppy Joe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adventurous eaters light up when this Loaded Big Mac Sloppy Joe hits the table at Christmas celebrations. The blend of flavors brings something memorable to a season filled with classic recipes. I’ve noticed these sandwiches spark cheerful swaps of favorite holiday stories. This option is perfect for breaking from routine while keeping festivities fun.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Easy Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies

Three mini meatloafs topped with sauce are baked on a foil-lined tray with roasted sweet potato chunks and broccoli florets, garnished with chopped parsley. — Easy Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Holiday hosts appreciate low-effort meals, and this Easy Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies makes that possible. The colorful presentation gets attention while the flavor satisfies everyone around the table. I like how simple it is to serve a festive and hearty dinner with minimal clean-up. This meal brings peace of mind to busy December evenings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf and Veggies

Classic Southern Cornbread

Close-up of two stacked pieces of cornbread with melted butter on top, showcasing a golden-brown crust and moist, crumbly texture. — Classic Southern Cornbread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Providing a sense of home with every bite, this Classic Southern Cornbread fits right alongside big Christmas feasts. The gentle crumb makes it a favorite for soaking up savory dishes. Guests commonly pile their plates with extra slices, especially when the holidays call for comfort food. I find it’s a must-have on any festive menu.
Get the Recipe: Classic Southern Cornbread

Creamy Tuscan Pasta

Some dishes shine on special nights, and this Creamy Tuscan Pasta is one guests always mention as a holiday highlight. Silky sauce blends with hearty bites, reminding everyone of festive travel memories. I love how it brings warmth and elegance to the table during cold evenings. It’s a popular choice for adding a sophisticated twist to familiar traditions.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Pasta

Juicy Pork Chops

Close-up of a cooked, seasoned pork chop topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley on a dark plate. — Juicy Pork Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A juicy main dish transforms a regular holiday dinner into a celebration, especially with this Juicy Pork Chops. The tenderness often leads people to ask for the secret behind the recipe. These chops hold their own among Christmas classics, pairing well with favorite sides. Every serving keeps the festive feeling going strong.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Pork Chops

Classic Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top.. — Classic Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple, timeless flavors matter during the holidays, and this Classic Spaghetti Marinara never goes unnoticed. A plateful of vibrant sauce and noodles brings comforting warmth after a busy winter day. The ease of preparation means more time spent with guests rather than in the kitchen. Returning to basics can be just what a festive table needs.
Get the Recipe: Classic Spaghetti Marinara

Creamy Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Close-up of a shrimp curry dish with rice, topped with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions. — Creamy Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dreaming of new holiday tastes? This Creamy Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry blends exotic flavor with festive creaminess for a seasonal twist. Adventurous guests love how each bite offers warmth and excitement in the midst of classic fare. It’s a dish that draws even the most traditional eaters to try something different.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

Stuffing isn’t just for turkey; this Savory Cornbread Stuffing steals the spotlight at Christmas gatherings. Moist yet crumbly, it brings together herbs and heartiness with every serving. I watch plates empty quickly whenever this dish is part of the holiday spread. It’s a comfort food that belongs in every December feast.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Tender Oven Baked Ribs

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions. — Tender Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Special occasions call for bold flavor, and nothing delivers like these Tender Oven Baked Ribs. Guests connect over sticky fingers and laughter while enjoying every juicy bite. The rich aroma fills the home, putting everyone in a relaxed holiday mood. These ribs become a centerpiece at festive dinners.
Get the Recipe: Tender Oven Baked Ribs

Cheesy Baked Ziti

A spoon scoops baked ziti pasta covered in melted cheese and tomato sauce from a casserole dish. — Cheesy Baked Ziti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cold winter nights usher in comfort classics, and this Cheesy Baked Ziti becomes a guaranteed guest favorite. Layers of gooey goodness offer familiar joy in every slice. Serving this at Christmas dinner brings out happy faces all around the table. It’s a dish people remember year after year.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Baked Ziti

Creamy 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. — Creamy Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For pure nostalgia at Christmas, this Creamy Mac and Cheese delivers what everyone craves. A soft, creamy bite makes even busy holiday nights feel special. The rich flavor keeps people reaching for more long after the first serving. Sharing this dish often sparks simple, cozy moments with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mac and Cheese

Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side. — Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for a starter to impress? This Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp brings a spark to the season’s first course. The texture provides a pleasant crunch that pairs perfectly with holiday joy. Friends eagerly sample these shrimp while waiting for the main event.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Hearty White Bean Soup

Culinary traditions thrive in winter, and this Hearty White Bean Soup proves that simple ingredients shine during Christmas. Warmth spreads from the very first spoonful, helping guests settle in for a cozy night. I find this soup soothes chilly hands and hungry stomachs after a day of holiday fun. It always earns a spot at my December table.
Get the Recipe: Hearty White Bean Soup

Creamy Pumpkin Carbonara

A close-up of a forkful of spaghetti carbonara with crispy bacon bits and garnished with green herbs. — Creamy Pumpkin Carbonara. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Seasonal flavors don’t stop at dessert, as this Creamy Pumpkin Carbonara shows. The combination is unexpected, yet it fits right in with holiday fare. Guests are pleasantly surprised by how much they enjoy a uniquely creamy pasta. It’s a festive twist you’ll want to revisit every winter.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Carbonara

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

A close-up of a slice of potato casserole with layers of potatoes, ham, and creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley on a plate. — Scalloped Potatoes and Ham. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

During Christmas, classic comfort matters, and this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham brings both nostalgia and satisfaction. The bubbly top encourages people to dig in for another helping. Rich flavors mix with layers of warmth perfect for cold holiday nights. Sharing this dish connects everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Hearty Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese. — Hearty Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Winter feasts get exciting when you add this Hearty Wild Rice Casserole to the spread. Nutty textures draw people in for second helpings as snow falls outside. I love hearing comments about how memorable this side can be compared to more traditional offerings. It’s a perfect way to round out a holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Wild Rice Casserole

Crispy Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background. — Crispy Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want a playful spin on festive dining, this Crispy Homemade KFC Zinger Burger will surprise your guests. The crunchy bite offers fun in every mouthful during Christmas gatherings. People look forward to breaking from tradition for a meal like this. This dish adds a cheerful twist to the winter season.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Close-up of a slice of creamy lasagna with browned cheese on top and visible layers of pasta, spinach, and sauce. — Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Holiday evenings call for layers of comfort, and this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna fits the bill. The smooth sauce blends with hearty flavors, creating a main course everyone remembers. Bringing this to the Christmas table often gets enthusiastic reactions. The blend of pasta and cream is a combination that stays popular year after year.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

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.

Cozy gatherings in December deserve something rich and filling like this Turkey Bolognese. The sauce unexpectedly mingles warmth and tang, making everyone reach for extra helpings. I notice that even picky eaters come back for more. Sharing this dish brings a new spin to holiday traditions.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bolognese

Authentic Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate. — Authentic Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some foods spark lively conversation, and this Authentic Neapolitan Pizza always steals the spotlight at holiday parties. Each crisp bite recalls old-world flavor mixed with modern festivity. I find this pizza brings people closer as they share slices and laughs. It’s a wonderful way to shake up holiday menus.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Neapolitan Pizza

Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy casserole topped with chopped parsley and crumbly bits, featuring melted cheese and a creamy texture. — Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For ultimate comfort at Christmas, this Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole is tough to beat. Deep, creamy goodness makes guests pause before taking another serving. The familiar taste keeps the holiday mood light and joyful. Those who try it for the first time will want it again next year.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole

Tender Sweet and Sour Pork

Close-up of sweet and sour pork with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds and chives. — Tender Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Considering bold options during December is smart, especially with this Tender Sweet and Sour Pork. The flavor is a sweet surprise against a background of savory classics. Sharing this at Christmas always leads to chatter about favorite holiday foods. It’s a stand-out main that everyone will talk about long after the feast.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet and Sour Pork

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves. — Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Festive tables always find room for comfort food, such as this Cheese Ravioli. Delicate dumplings deliver warmth that guests appreciate on chilly evenings. Setting this out makes the meal even cozier right next to traditional mains. I never see leftovers when cheese ravioli rounds out a holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

A mouthwatering close-up of pumpkin soup garnished with a swirl of cream, crunchy pumpkin seeds, a crispy slice, and aromatic sage leaves. — Creamy Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Making winter nights cheerful, this Creamy Pumpkin Soup brings out the best in seasonal produce. The smooth texture and warm flavor suit any December feast. Steaming bowls invite guests to slow down and enjoy each bite. Serving this soup feels like offering a gentle hug during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole

A golden brown Thanksgiving casserole of baked stuffing garnished with fresh herbs. — Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Holiday leftovers find new life with this Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole, perfect for busy December nights. Every forkful boasts festive flavors from top to bottom. Friends marvel at the creative use of classic holiday dishes. It’s a helpful solution that keeps the Christmas spirit going strong.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Thanksgiving 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.

Special touches matter during Christmas, which is why this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze gets so much praise. Crisp edges and glossy finish turn the ordinary into something memorable. People take extra helpings just for the flavor. It’s a side dish with holiday magic in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

For a festive main course, this Creamy Beef Stroganoff stands out with rich tenderness. The sauce wraps noodles in comfort perfect for cold winter evenings. Guests enjoy every forkful, often pausing to share their best holiday memories. It’s easy to make this Stroganoff part of your annual tradition.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Juicy Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun. — Juicy Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Burgers have a way of livening up holiday gatherings, and this Juicy Copycat Smash Burger keeps smiles coming. Each bite brings a sense of cheer that balances out more classic dishes. I’m always glad to have a few extra on the tray, since they vanish quickly. These burgers become a fun change from the typical Christmas fare.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Copycat Smash Burger

Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

A close-up image of honey chipotle seasoned roasted potatoes garnished with parsley, served alongside grilled steak and lettuce. — Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A touch of sweetness meets heat in this Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes, making it a festive dinner for adventurous guests. Hearty potatoes blend perfectly with the bold steak, leaving everyone satisfied. Sharing this dish can spark conversations about favorite winter flavors. It offers a memorable twist on classic steak night.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A skillet with creamy chicken pasta featuring spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated cheese, stirred with a wooden spoon. — Creamy Marry Me Chicken Orzo. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Guests can’t help but be impressed when this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Orzo arrives at holiday celebrations. The name alone sparks curiosity before anyone even takes a bite. Creamy sauce creates a cheerful mood perfect for nights spent by the fire. I promise this one will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Tender Slow Cooker Mississippi Pork Roast

Shredded roast beef served over mashed potatoes with a pepper and a light drizzle of gravy, garnished with chopped herbs. — Tender Slow Cooker Mississippi Pork Roast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

As the winter chill sets in, this Tender Slow Cooker Mississippi Pork Roast brings dependable comfort to Christmas dinner. Slow cooking means hands-off preparation, giving more time for fun. The rich aroma fills the room and welcomes everyone home. One taste and it becomes a trusted holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Mississippi Pork Roast

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A casserole dish with zucchini and cheese on it. — Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Vegetable dishes take on a new meaning during the holidays thanks to this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Cheesy layers brighten every bite, while the comforting texture makes people come back for more. I find that even veggie skeptics end up loving this dish. A serving turns simple zucchini into Christmas celebration food.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Creamy Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of fettuccine pasta with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley and black pepper. — Creamy Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Coastal flavor finds a spot in festive dining through this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo. Decadent sauce never fails to please a crowd on chilly December evenings. Friends often ask for seconds, especially when seafood feels out of reach in winter. This dish bridges the gap between comfort and special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp Alfredo

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

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

Ham always feels right at Christmas, but this Copycat Honey Baked Ham takes festive flavor a step further. Its glossy finish draws compliments from guests as soon as it arrives at the table. I notice conversations slow down as everyone digs in. Add it once, and it might become a yearly tradition.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

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.

Bringing together favorite holiday ingredients, this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole makes the table feel extra special. Each serving encourages smiles as the flavors mingle so effortlessly. I reach for this on nights when simple comfort is needed the most. This casserole belongs among the best Christmas recipes.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Creamy Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

A white dish filled with cooked fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, with a silver fork resting inside. — Creamy Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

New recipes shine at holiday get-togethers, and this Creamy Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta is a fresh favorite. The luxurious sauce delivers the richness people expect from festive meals. Sharing this dish often starts lively conversations about viral recipes. It delivers the perfect update for a modern Christmas dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Close-up of sliced roasted chicken with crispy skin, garnished with herbs. — Perfect Spatchcock Turkey. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nothing says holiday celebration quite like this Perfect Spatchcock Turkey. A centerpiece that looks just as good as it tastes, it helps everyone appreciate time-honored traditions. The juicy slices bring guests together for a meal to remember. This turkey will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

A plate of golden-brown gnocchi garnished with rosemary, served with a black fork. — Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Starches take the spotlight in Christmas spreads, especially when serving this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. The delicate texture blends perfectly with winter flavors, leaving guests curious about each bite. I love how these gnocchi go with both festive sauces and simple sides. A bowl invites stories and comfort throughout the evening.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Creamy Chicken Alfredo

A plate of bowtie pasta with creamy sauce topped with cooked chicken pieces and garnished with parsley, with a black fork on the side. — Creamy Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy pasta dinners are always a hit, making this Creamy Chicken Alfredo a top pick for holiday tables. The smooth texture and hearty chicken combine for effortless satisfaction during cold weather. Guests pair it with other festive dishes, creating a memorable meal. This pasta regularly appears on lists of Christmas favorites.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Alfredo

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.

Adding a touch of sweetness to savory holiday plates, this Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies brings smiles all around. Glazed slices pair with veggies for a colorful addition to any feast. Friends notice how the balanced taste brings an extra spark. This dish stands out in the lineup of holiday mains.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies

Rich Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish. — Rich Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Blending spice and warmth, this Rich Massaman Curry becomes a centerpiece during Christmas for those who appreciate global flavors. The creamy texture suits cold nights while the aroma welcomes curious guests. Sharing a bowl of curry creates memories alongside classic foods. It’s an unexpected, crowd-pleasing option for December.
Get the Recipe: Rich Massaman Curry

Sweet Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce. — Sweet Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bright color and flavor set this Sweet Orange Chicken apart among classic holiday recipes. Citrusy notes add a cheerful touch to Christmas dinner and invite excitement to the meal. I enjoy serving this when the table needs a lift. It’s a delicious reminder that holiday dining can be full of surprises.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange Chicken

Golden Grilled Cheese

Close-up of two stacked grilled cheese sandwiches made with multigrain bread and melted cheese oozing out. — Golden Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Simple comfort plays a big role in winter meals, especially with this Golden Grilled Cheese. The crispy outside and gooey middle draw praise from all ages. Holiday evenings feel more relaxed with a warm sandwich nearby. I always find these sandwiches disappear in minutes wherever there are hungry guests.
Get the Recipe: Golden Grilled Cheese

Spicy Blackened Chicken Clubs

A grilled chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, bacon, and mayonnaise on toasted bread, served with potato chips on a white plate. — Spicy Blackened Chicken Clubs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

For a bit of boldness in festive dining, try serving these Spicy Blackened Chicken Clubs. Charred flavor mixes with heat for a sandwich that stands out during December gatherings. Guests love the change from more typical dinner options. This club sandwich is sure to be discussed long after Christmas ends.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Blackened Chicken Clubs

Loaded Philly Cheesesteak

A sandwich roll filled with grilled steak strips, melted cheese, green bell peppers, and onions on parchment paper. — Loaded Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Food brings energy to any event, and this Loaded Philly Cheesesteak turns a classic into a holiday treat. Hearty layers invite guests to dig in and enjoy each bite. Even those new to cheesesteak quickly become fans. Bringing this to Christmas dinner offers both comfort and conversation.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Philly Cheesesteak

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Cozy casseroles are timeless, and this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole fits right in with holiday traditions. Smooth, rich flavors deliver winter warmth guests crave after a busy day. I like preparing extras because people gladly return for more. It has earned its place in modern Christmas menus.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

About the Author

A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.