47 Christmas Dinner Recipes Ideas You Might Actually Want to Make Not Just Bookmark
Holiday meals matter more when 47 Christmas dinner recipe ideas finally offer choices people genuinely want. Trying out something different can breathe new life into the most visited table of the year. Flipping from bookmarked recipes to ones you’ll actually make brings a sense of accomplishment.

Crockpot Turkey Breast

Dinner feels less overwhelming when you bring out this Crockpot Turkey Breast for Christmas gatherings. Juicy slices pair well with both casual and more formal holiday meals. I love how the slow cooker makes it stress-free, especially when there’s so much else on the to-do list. Everyone is left wondering how something so easy can taste so festive.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Turkey Breast
Rich Beef Bourguignon

Bringing unmistakable depth and warmth, this Rich Beef Bourguignon ensures your holiday feels extra special. The slow-cooked goodness fills the house with a sense of anticipation before dinner starts. I enjoy making this after the first snow, when everyone is ready for something hearty. Traditional recipes like this add richness to your winter table.
Get the Recipe: Rich Beef Bourguignon
Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Finger foods always make celebrating easier, particularly with this Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls option on the spread. Guests light up when they see the mix of seasonal colors and flavors in a single bite. I find these disappear quickly at parties and leave people talking. Whoever thought stuffing could be fun-sized deserves some applause.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Traditional sides become even more special with these Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes shining next to your main course. Silky layers and a golden top bring something fancy to the table without adding stress to your holiday prep. I like making this when I want to impress with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
Christmas Prime Rib Roast

Nothing says special occasion like slicing into this Christmas Prime Rib Roast at your festive dinner. Tender meat with a flavorful ring always gathers a group eager to dig in. I save this recipe for times I want to make guests feel truly welcomed and celebrated. Sharing something this impressive sets the tone for a wonderful holiday.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Prime Rib Roast
Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and smooth, this Buttery Mashed Potatoes dish makes every dinner plate a little brighter in December. Each spoonful brings warmth and comfort to chilly evenings with friends and family. I always make extra since this is one side that vanishes first. A simple classic never fails to bring people together at the table.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Hearty and smooth, this Creamy Beef Stroganoff brings gourmet comfort to your Christmas table. Each forkful combines familiar warmth with a flavor that feels just a bit luxurious. I enjoy making this when friends visit because it feels both cozy and a little fancy. Crowds always come back for an extra helping or two.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff
Savory French Onion Casserole

Scent from this Savory French Onion Casserole baking in the oven will have everyone huddled in the kitchen waiting for dinner. Each bite of gooey, melty comfort seems to draw compliments from guests every time. I reach for this recipe whenever holiday crowds get a little bigger than planned. Layers of flavor help make chilly evenings special.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole
Hearty Beef Stew

Cold winter nights are the perfect backdrop for a bowl of this Hearty Beef Stew served piping hot. Steam rises as you dig in, promising a meal that comforts right to the core. I keep this stew on rotation throughout December since leftovers make lunch easy the next day. Hearty dishes like this keep everyone gathered together.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Stew
Layered Homemade Lasagna

Serving this Layered Homemade Lasagna at a gathering brings conversations and laughter to the table. Baked layers pull you in with their comforting aroma and bubbling top. I choose this recipe for family-style dinners that stretch into long evenings. Each bite delivers just the right amount of nostalgia for holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Layered Homemade Lasagna
Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Offering up something unexpected, this Hearty Cabbage Casserole wins grins from those who usually pass on veggies. Baked until perfectly tender, it adds an element of homey goodness to any meal. I appreciate how this side brings a little balance amid the heavier mains. Easy comfort meets a lighter seasonal touch in every serving.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Elegant Beef Wellington

Centerpieces don’t get more festive than this Elegant Beef Wellington at a Christmas feast. Flaky layers hide a hearty filling, which makes each slice feel like a treat. I like to pull out this recipe for moments that deserve a little extra sparkle. Guests always linger around the table for just one more bite.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Beef Wellington
Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Layers of flavor and a slightly crisp finish make this Savory Cornbread Stuffing a real star for Christmas. Supportive of any main dish, it stands out with a flavor that’s familiar yet unique. I tend to sneak a piece before the meal gets underway. A nostalgic blend like this always creates buzz at potlucks and parties.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing
Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

A comforting blend of classic ingredients gives this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole crowd-pleasing power. Soft, creamy bites settle hunger after a chilly walk or a busy holiday morning. I rely on this dish for batch cooking when gatherings grow unexpectedly large. Sharing casseroles filled with comfort always kicks off the season right.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Vegan Nut Roast

Meatless mains feel more exciting with this Vegan Nut Roast, looking festive on the buffet. Hearty texture and vibrant colors offer vegans a truly special option, while everyone else takes a second look, too. I love prepping this for guests with varied tastes, knowing it sparks conversation. Seasonal flavors can stand out beautifully when made with care.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Nut Roast
Crispy Pork Belly

Chilly celebrations call for something special like this Crispy Pork Belly, which brings a rich, savory flavor to your table. Crackly crust and tender meat catch the eye the minute the platter arrives. I serve it when I want an appetizer that lingers in memory. Slices of this quickly disappear, leaving only happy faces behind.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Little green veggies get the holiday treatment in this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Melted cheese mixed with roasted sprouts makes even skeptics eager for a taste. I create this side to liven up festive buffets and balance heavier classics. Colorful casseroles brighten the plate and encourage everyone to give veggies another try.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

All eyes head straight for the main course when this Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing appears at Christmas dinner. Roasted until crisp and stuffed with seasonal flavors, it stirs up excitement before the first slice. Planning makes it easy to relax and enjoy the moment. Seasonal showstoppers never go out of style for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Holiday meals get a lighter twist while still feeling rich with this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole on the buffet. Golden cheese and tender florets make for a cozy addition that doesn’t weigh you down. I’ve found folks appreciate having a break from heavier dishes. This casserole quietly earns a spot as a new favorite for the season.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Warming the whole house, this Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast keeps everyone content as the day unfolds. Moist slices please picky eaters and fans of traditional meals alike. I trust this recipe when I want leftovers that taste even better next time. No-fuss comfort food lets you focus on making memories.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Bringing back the feeling of holidays at home, this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole delivers both nostalgia and warmth. Each serving surrounds you with the gentle notes of classic comfort. I put this together for busy weeknights since it carries over for second meals so easily. Nothing says cozy quite like a big scoop of casserole.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Hearty Turkey Chili

Heaping bowls of this Hearty Turkey Chili invite everyone to dig in for a meal bursting with flavor. A little spice and rich base make it perfect for warming up after snow days and wintry outings. I lean on this recipe whenever my crowd gets especially hungry. Simple pots of chili fill bellies and kick off lively conversations.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili
Classic Meatloaf

Unwrapping something familiar at the dinner table brings comfort, especially with this Classic Meatloaf as the star. Sliced thick and ready to share, it draws instant interest from those craving a home-cooked meal. I choose this dish when I want everyone to go back for seconds. Hearty dinners like this deserve a regular spot during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatloaf
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Creamy, hearty, and filled with flavor, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole recipe keeps guests returning for more. Each scoop feels just right next to a steaming cup of something warm. I include this in my prep list for nights requiring hands-off cooking and lots of leftovers. Easy crowd-pleasers are the key to a less stressful season.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Roasted Turkey Legs

Serve something a little different with this Roasted Turkey Legs dish, which gives each guest their own hearty portion. Crispy skin and juicy insides create a fun twist on holiday meats. I use this recipe for gatherings where carving a whole bird feels like a hassle. Hands-on eating brings out smiles in both kids and grown-ups.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey Legs
Ham Steaks

A plate with this Ham Steaks option means a classic, dependable main dish that guests love year after year. Each piece carries a rich aroma and builds excitement for the rest of the meal. I include ham as a backup for those who want more than just turkey. Traditions live on through a few well-chosen favorites at the table.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks
Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

Filling casseroles make prep nights easier, and this Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole is always worth repeating. Its creamy blend hits all the right cozy notes, especially after a day out in the cold. I double this recipe whenever I plan to send guests home with leftovers. Shared comfort food ends up being everyone’s favorite gift.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Elegant Mushroom Wellington

Plant-based guests are treated to something truly special with this Elegant Mushroom Wellington as part of your Christmas celebration. Flaky crust and an earthy center look beautiful and satisfy even non-vegetarians. I bring this out at dinners where I want everyone to feel included in the main event.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Mushroom Wellington
Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Heaps of goodness come together in this Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes dish, often placing it at the center of the buffet. Creamy and hearty, it receives compliments moments after serving. I build this as a side when I want something extra decadent for winter feasts. Over-the-top comfort like this brings an extra reason to celebrate.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Even picky eaters can’t resist this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves once it comes bubbling out of the oven. Golden cheese and a tender bite invite second helpings without hesitation. I rely on it for big family meals or potlucks when I want smiles all around. Adding a veggie side never felt so satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Layers of creamy goodness mark this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe as a go-to for winter dinner spreads. Guests dig in for both flavor and nostalgia with every forkful. I slide this into the oven just before company arrives, saving time as festivities kick off. Hearty sides like this never fail to comfort during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Long, cold nights wind down with bowls of this Slow Cooker Beef Stew, making everyone feel tucked in and cozy. Rich, tender bites invite the crowd to refill their bowls before the night is through. I appreciate how easy this stew is to set and forget on busy celebration days. Homestyle favorites fill the room with warmth and laughter.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Apple and Cranberry Pie

Gorgeous color meets a blend of tart and sweet in this Apple and Cranberry Pie that deserves a spot on every Christmas dessert list. The aroma always has guests asking what’s coming out of the kitchen. I plan to bake this whenever I want to brighten up the dessert table. Holiday flavors like these keep everyone excited for a slice.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie
Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies

Aromas coming from this Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies dish announce Christmas dinner in a way nothing else can. The glossy, caramel edges tempt everyone for another helping. I love how the veggies soak up those flavors, making even the sides worth a double scoop. Sweet glazes always leave a lasting impression during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies
Tender Roasted Broccoli

Sometimes the best sides are also the simplest, just like this Tender Roasted Broccoli. Roasted to perfection, it wins over skeptics and fans alike with its gentle bite. I serve this when the table needs a colorful touch that helps balance richer fare. Easy sides like this free up time to focus on the main event.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Hearty Beef Pot Pie

Warm, flaky crust signals the arrival of this Hearty Beef Pot Pie at any Christmas gathering. Each thick slice overflows with comfort, making guests linger for one more bite. I rely on this recipe for both special celebrations and casual nights when home feels most inviting. Cozy classics always find their way onto the table at holiday time.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Pot Pie
Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

Cold December evenings call for something creamy, making this Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini right at home in winter kitchens. Noodles and sauce invite everyone to gather up for seconds. I turn to this recipe when I need dinner to handle itself while I take care of guests. Leftovers become a bonus meal everyone appreciates.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
Hearty Beef Chili

Inviting everyone to warm up, this Hearty Beef Chili boasts flavors that deepen as it simmers. Big bowls encourage guests to linger, especially after a day spent outdoors. I ladle this out at parties where the crowd wants something hearty but hands-off. Classic comfort makes winter gatherings feel even more festive.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Chili
Classic Shepherds Pie

Each scoop of this Classic Shepherds Pie delivers layers of cozy flavor, bringing comfort in every bite. Fluffy topping and savory filling keep this dish at the top of many Christmas wish lists. I prepare this ahead when I know time will be tight around the holidays. Favorites like this never go out of style at big gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shepherds Pie
Tender Roast Beef

A special dinner calls for presenting this Tender Roast Beef in all its juicy glory. Carving the roast brings people together, eager to see who gets the end slice. I use this recipe for festive meals that deserve a centerpiece worthy of praise. Dishes this timeless deliver both warmth and cheer.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roast Beef
Mashed Sweet Potatoes

A classic side gets a holiday lift with this Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe, mixing just the right amount of comfort into Christmas dinner. The smooth, natural sweetness wins over guests after only a spoonful. I like serving them next to both turkey and ham as a cheerful, colorful companion. Sides that brighten the table are always welcome.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Even veggie skeptics pause to try a bite of this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze dish. Shiny glaze and crisped edges make each one pop on the plate. I serve these as a way to offer a little bit of tang among all the rich dishes. A surprising side can quickly become the most talked-about part of dinner.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Any holiday feast gets upgraded with a plate of these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes alongside the main course. Light, crispy bites are easy to pick up and impossibly hard to stop eating. I make them for special occasions and watch them disappear in moments. Little sides lend a playful twist to any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

Sweetness and holiday cheer combine in this Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham that always earns compliments. Each slice pairs juicy meat with a caramelized finish that gets people chatting. I look forward to serving this just for the way it perfumes the kitchen. Showstopper mains like this are what December memories are made of.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham
Turkey Bolognese

Family-style dinners feel even warmer with bowls of this Turkey Bolognese passed around the Christmas table. Savory sauce and hearty pasta bring everyone together, making it feel like a true celebration. I reach for this on nights when everyone craves something heartier yet still light. Comforting choices like this keep the season feeling fresh.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bolognese
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

Special occasions feel fancier as soon as you bring out this Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. Each slice carries cozy flavors and an air of celebration. I keep this recipe handy for guests who like something a little out of the ordinary. Festive main courses can make an ordinary dinner feel like an event.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu
Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

A holiday meal finds a new favorite in this Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast with its shiny, mouthwatering finish. The combination of savory and sweet stands out on any plate it joins. I enjoy sharing this at potlucks since it holds up so well for travel. Effortless main dishes make meal prep feel like a joy, not a chore.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast
About the Author

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.
