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Every Christmas, it’s so easy to lament over how there are only 25 days to set up our tree, find the perfect gifts for friends and family, and do all the baking we want to do (this is THE year we’re going to make a gingerbread house from scratch, we swear!)…it’s a whirlwind of activity that feels like it never stops. Can you relate? If so, let us help take some of the stress off your plate this holiday season—we might not be able to help you wrap all those presents, but we CAN help you figure out what to serve for dinner, whether it’s a casual holiday weeknight or the main event. With this irresistible list of family-approved classics, we’ve got all your Christmas dinners covered. Here are our top 90 picks to round out your holiday spread—apps, sides, and entrées included.
We’re pretty obsessed with apps year-round, but we’ve gotta say, our Christmas-themed ones are some of our best. We’ve included a great mix here of cute, like our pigs in a blanket wreath or our pull-apart Christmas tree; fancy, like our bacon wrapped dates or our crab stuffed mushrooms; and classic, like our sausage balls or our cranberry brie bites. They’re perfect for cocktail parties, dinner parties, and every occasion in between.
Entrées are important (and we’ve got some incredible ones below), but we’ll admit, a lot of the time we’re really in it for the sides. We’ve included our favorite classics here, like our garlic mashed potatoes, our Ruth’s Chris Steak House sweet potato casserole, our vegetarian mushroom gravy, or our potatoes au gratin. They’re the comfort foods you love, with a little special twist for the holidays.
On to the main event! We’ve got ideas for you here whether you need something quick and easy to get you and your family through your Christmas to-dos, or are looking for something spectacular to impress guests. Ham is classic for Christmas dinner, so we’ve included a number of our favorite recipes here, including our brown sugar pineapple ham and our cherry bourbon glazed ham. Pork, turkey, and spectacular beef dishes are also always impressive, so check out our perfect roast beef, our stuffed pork loin, our turkey roulade, or our beef Wellington for ideas. Want something more low-key? Our chicken spanakopita bake, our pizza casserole, our shepherd’s pie, and our chicken pot pie casserole are all one and done meals that your whole family will love, all season long.
Want even more holiday dinner ideas? Check out our favorite Christmas soups, salads, and sides too. Once you’ve got those set, check out our favorite holiday cocktails, cookies, and cakes to fully round out your evening too. Merry Christmas, from all of us to you.
Potatoes Au Gratin
Cheesy, creamy, and perfectly decadent, potatoes au gratin is the side dish we turn to for practically every holiday. Thinly sliced potatoes are baked with a creamy garlic mixture and cheese topping until golden and bubbling. It’s the perfect easy but impressive side dish to wow at your Christmas dinner, or for an extra special date night.
Get the Potatoes Au Gratin recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Boasting a combination of succulent, flavorful meat and shatteringly crisp skin, this impressive bone-in, skin-on roast pork dish has earned its place as the centerpiece of any Christmas dinner spread (but is good enough to make all winter long too).
Get the Puerto Rican Pernil recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: ERIKA JOYCE
Antipasto Christmas Tree Cheese Ball
Nothing says hostess with the most-est like a charming and delicious antipasto Christmas tree. This cheesy appetizer sculpture will help you decorate for your Christmas party and feed your guests all in one fell swoop.
Get the Antipasto Christmas Tree Cheese Ball recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Baked Feta Bites
If you love the TikTok-famous baked feta pasta and the delightful sophistication of our cranberry brie bites, then brace yourself: These little appetizers are the culinary revelation that combines the best of both worlds.
Get the Baked Feta Bites recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Chicken & Dumplings
Shredded chicken and fluffy homemade dumplings (or biscuits, if you like) come together here for the MOST comforting meal ever. Want to make it even easier? Make our Crockpot chicken & dumplings instead.
Get the Chicken & Dumplings recipe.
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON – Hearst Owned
Sausage Roll Wreath
Every holiday gathering needs a showstopper on the table. That being said, maybe you want something new this holiday season. Enter: this classic British sausage roll with a Christmas–appropriate makeover.
Get the Sausage Roll Wreath recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Honey Baked ham is grand, deliciously smoky, and has a signature caramelized crust all over. Sadly, it’s something you have to plan to order in advance and can be a little on the pricey side. If you didn’t have time to order a ham, want to save some money, or just try a homemade version of this classic centerpiece, this copycat recipe is for you.
Get the Copycat Honey Baked Ham recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER
Merry Mozzarella Bites
These merry mozzarella balls are going to make cocktail hour on Christmas Eve a little more jolly. Marinated ciliegine (or “cherry sized” mozzarella balls) are combined with white balsamic, garlicky chives, and a little crushed red pepper to signify Santa! If you can’t find ciliegine, you can use bocconcini, which are a little larger.
Get the Merry Mozzarella Bites recipe.
PHOTO: LINDA PUGLIESE; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers
Spinach-artichoke dip is a classic appetizer, but let’s make it a little more festive! Wrapped in puff pastry, the dip can be shaped into cute little Christmas trees and becomes individual apps. The tree gets topped with a little cheese star, as all trees should be.
Get the Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Sweet Potato Rolls
There is nothing better than a soft, homemade dinner roll. These rolls use sweet potatoes to make them even softer and fluffier, similar to our classic potato rolls. The tops are brushed with a honey butter and sprinkled with salt to play up both the savory and sweet side of a sweet potato, perfect for any holiday meal.
Get the Sweet Potato Rolls recipe.
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Pozole
Don’t let the time commitment on this fantastically flavorful Mexican soup scare you. It’s as easy as bringing water to a boil and letting it simmer away while you multitask on other things. With time, the meat will turn tender, soft, and buttery, the aromas will deepen, and the color will become as rich as the soup tastes.
Get the Best-Ever Pozole recipe.
PHOTO: RYAN LIEBE; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
With a sweet and tangy glaze made with cranberry sauce and thyme- and sage-speckled turkey meatballs, these are great for serving over fluffy mashed potatoes for a low-key Christmas dinner.
Get the Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON
Fish Pie
Fish pie is usually seafood in a cream sauce topped with mashed potatoes. For this version, we took inspiration from Greek cuisine (specifically avgolemono soup) and added dill and lemon.
Get the Fish Pie recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Dry Brine Turkey
A holiday meal is not complete until the turkey is on the table. Turkeys are large, so we get it, but they don’t have to be intimidating. The one thing you can do to ensure a bird that stays juicy and doesn’t dry out in the oven: Brine it!
Get the Dry Brine Turkey recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Baked Brie Wreath
Honey-glazed melted brie, plus herby crispy pizza dough, is an equation for true happiness. Your friends, family, or colleagues will be ready to dive into this edible wreath once you stroll through the door… after all, you want to eat the cheese while it’s warm and gooey.
Get the Baked Brie Wreath recipe.
PHOTO; LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLIST; ERIKA JOYCE
Zuppa Di Pesce
If you want to feel like you’re feasting on the Adriatic coast, then you’ve got to make this zuppa di pesce recipe. A staple dish for any traditional Italian-American feast of the seven fishes, this stewy seafood dish is as beautiful as it is comforting.
Get the Zuppa Di Pesce recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON
Candied Yams
For many, candied yams are an indispensable part of the holiday meal, along with mashed potatoes. We agree! Our version gets an added kick from bourbon—we think once you try them, you’ll never want yams without it.
Get the Candied Yams recipe.
PHOTO: DOAA ELKADY; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Pigs In A Blanket Wreath
This adorable holiday app will become an instant legend to all of your family and friends (who doesn’t love pigs in a blanket!?). It’s a centerpiece worthy of your holiday table—plus one that you can eat, which is the best kind of centerpiece in our opinion.
Get the Pigs In A Blanket Wreath recipe.
Andrew bui
Perfect Prime Rib
Prime rib, also referred to as standing rib roast, is the beautiful piece of meat we turn to whenever we need a truly show-stopping holiday roast. You’ll make your guests think you labored for hours, but it’ll be your little secret thatreally your oven did all the work.
Get the Perfect Prime Rib recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Oven-Baked Salmon
While we have no shortage of creative salmon recipes, there’s a reason this classic and simple version is one of our most popular recipes. Whether you’re looking for a simple, hands-off weeknight dinner or, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep up your sleeve.
Get the Oven-Baked Salmon recipe.
PHOTO: DOAA ELKADY; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Naughty Knots
Though these cheesy, herby bites of deliciousness may make you feel like you should be written up on the naughty list, we promise that if you make these for your holiday dinner guests, you will be sealed on the good list forever.
Get the Naughty Knots recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Stuffed Shells
Imagine lasagna being turned inside out to form cute pockets stuffed with creamy, garlicky ricotta and cream cheese, which are then slathered in tomato sauce for an impressive dinner with friends or family. That’s the beauty of stuffed shells.
Get the Stuffed Shells recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Roasted carrots are a classic easy side dish that we turn to time and time again, whether we’re serving up a holiday dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Topping them with a balsamic glaze truly takes them over the top. Serve these carrots alongside your Christmas dinner or Marry Me chicken if you’re looking for the missing piece to your meal—you won’t regret it.
Get the Balsamic Glazed Carrots recipe.
PHOTO: LINDA PUGLIESE; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Salmon En Croute
A cheesy, garlicky, spinach mixture is the perfect balance to a tender salmon fillet. Everything is nestled together in the puff pastry dough, and after 20 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a buttery, flaky crust with perfectly tender salmon inside.
Get the Salmon En Croute recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Roasted Fennel With Delicata Squash & Apples
In-season vegetables find their way into this healthy, colorful side dish that’s perfect for elegant dinner party menus, simple weeknight meals, or paired with richer, holiday spreads.
Get the Roasted Fennel With Delicata Squash & Apples recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Fancy Christmas Cheese Ball
Looking for a stunning Christmas app that comes together in no time? Look no further than the humble cheese ball. They’re a retro idea that we’ve really run with here at Delish, taking them fully into modern times with creative ingredients and decorating methods.
Get the Fancy Christmas Cheese Ball recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Pesto Pizza Stuffed Star Bread
Here’s an easy and festive holiday appetizer that looks way more impressive and complicated than it actually is. Using homemade pizza dough and pesto is great, but if you go the store-bought route, this star bread takes very little effort. Serve with marinara to complete the look.
Get the Pesto Pizza Stuffed Star Bread recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Beef Tenderloin
While it may seem intimidating, this holiday roast is actually surprisingly easy to make, and is the perfect centerpiece to your Christmas dinner. The secret to this flavor-packed dish? An irresistible (and easy) marinade made up of ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Get the Beef Tenderloin recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Tourtiere
Tourtiere is basically a prettier way of saying “meat pie.” Originally from Quebec, the pie is traditionally made in a “tourtiere” dish and eaten during Christmas. It’s been around for hundreds of years and has yet to lose its meaty luster.
Get the Tourtiere recipe.
PHOTO; LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLIST; ERIKA JOYCE
Brûléed Brie Crostini
Mini brie toasts are a super-easy appetizer, and caramelizing the tops is a great party trick. The crunchy sugar topping gives way to an oozy slice of brie and sweet jam.
Get the Brûléed Brie Crostini recipe.
Hearst Owned
Dill & Cheddar Pierogis
Loaded with sharp white cheddar, sweet caramelized onions, and creamy mashed potatoes, the only thing more gratifying than making these Polish dumplings from scratch is stuffing them in your mouth. 😋
Get the Dill & Cheddar Pierogis recipe.
Joel Goldberg
Baccala
Salt cod’s unique flavor—a complex fishiness, both ultra-savory and subtly sweet—is a favorite nostalgic flavor for many around the world. This particular dinner recipe is inspired by a classic Southern Italian preparation for baccala, featuring a hearty tomato sauce filled with olives, capers, and potatoes, called baccalà alla Napoletana.
Get the Baccala recipe.
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM
Creamy Chicken Spanakopita Bake
This easy casserole is a fun take on the classic spanakopita, where we take the classic Greek dish and turn it into a family-friendly dinner featuring shatteringly crisp phyllo layers that envelop a creamy chicken filling with a lot of spinach and feta.
Get the Creamy Chicken Spanakopita Bake recipe.
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON
Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad
We don’t believe in boring salads at Delish, and crunchy apples and tart cranberries bring a lot of life to this one. The slightly sweet and lemony dressing is easy to make, and you’ll want to have extra on hand to pour it over everything.
Get the Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Tamales
Mexican tamales aren’t just fun to eat, they’re a great solo or group project for anyone who loves to cook (particularly during the holidays!). Make it a party by involving your friends, enlist your partner or spouse for a different kind of date night, or get the whole family involved.
Get the Tamales recipe.
Andrew bui
Goat Cheese-Stuffed Rolls
Just when we thought dinner rolls couldn’t get any better—we stuffed them with goat cheese. These golden brown beauties are rich, soft, and full of honey and herby goat cheese. Best part of a cheese-stuffed roll? It doesn’t need any butter.
Get the Goat Cheese-Stuffed Rolls recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Grapefruit & Goat Cheese Fennel Salad
Crisp licorice-y fennel is best from winter to early spring, so we paired it with some more winter-friendly ingredients: juicy grapefruit, briny Kalamata olives, creamy goat cheese, and some rich toasted pine nuts.
Get the Grapefruit & Goat Cheese Fennel Salad recipe.
Andrew bui
Homemade Lasagna
Based on the traditional lasagna alla Bolognese from the Emilia-Romagna province in Italy, we grabbed what we loved most about the timeless, classic recipe and simplified it to make it weeknight-friendly.
Get the Homemade Lasagna recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Tuscan Tortellini Skillet Bake
Here, savory pancetta gets paired with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and oregano, then simmered with heavy cream and finished with grated Parmesan and fresh spinach. It’s tossed with cooked tortellini, topped with fresh mozzarella, and broiled to creamy, melty, just-slightly-browned perfection.
Get the Tuscan Tortellini Skillet Bake recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Linguine with clams is our ideal seafood dinner: It’s so simple, can be thrown together in about 30 minutes, but still delivers on that rich flavor that makes it extra special. Trust us—the wine-based sauce is unbeatable.
Get the Linguine With Clams recipe.
PHOTO: RYAN LIEBE; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
Ever wonder how you can get all of the flavors of a holiday cheese board with a fraction of the effort? Wonder no more. This cranberry-topped whipped feta dip is here to save your holiday appetizer planning.
Get the Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS
Melting Potatoes
These melt-in-your-mouth potatoes got their name for good reason: With a tender, soft middle and an herby topping, one bite and you’ll get it. Smothered in butter, garlic, and fresh herbs, they really are amazing with everything, from weeknight dinners to romantic special occasions.
Get the Melting Potatoes recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER
Mushroom, Spinach, & Gruyère Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Fast-cooking pork tenderloin is a regular in our weeknight dinner rotation, but that doesn’t mean we let it become so routine that it doesn’t dazzle come holiday time. Instead, mix it up with fun flavors, like the mushrooms, spinach, and cheese here.
Get the Mushroom, Spinach, & Gruyère Stuffed Pork Tenderloin recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
If you’re unfamiliar with dates, it’s time to familiarize yourself! The date’s sweetness is the PERFECT counterpoint to crisp, salty bacon and creamy goat cheese. We guarantee these will fly off the plate whenever you serve them.
Get the Bacon-Wrapped Dates recipe.
Emily Hlavac Green
Corn Casserole
While some versions of this recipe use store-bought boxed cornbread mix, ours is completely homemade which gives a smooth texture we can’t get enough of. It’s full of all our favorite things: creamed corn, butter, heavy cream, and even more corn!
Get the Corn Casserole recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
In the world of fancy appetizers, the crab-stuffed mushroom reigns supreme, but they also make for a great main. Transform these into a dinner-worthy entrée by using portobello mushrooms instead of cremini.
Get the Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Chicken Pot Pie
While this classic comfort food is one that you can easily find pre-made in almost any grocery freezer aisle, we strongly believe that making your own chicken pot pie is more than worth it. Our biggest tip: make the components ahead of time!
Get the Chicken Pot Pie recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER
Shepherd’s Pie
In England, the birthplace of this hearty dish, shepherd’s pie is most often made with a ground lamb filling. In the States, it’s more common to use ground beef. Both are delicious, so use whichever you prefer.
Get the Shepherd’s Pie recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: LENA ABRAHAM
Brussels Sprout Salad
When we want to incorporate this veggie into our holiday dinners, we turn to this fresh, seasonal salad. With toasted almonds, shaved Parmesan, and pomegranate seeds, this is the holiday side that will convert even the biggest Brussels sprout haters.
Get the Brussels Sprout Salad recipe.
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
We tenderize the broccoli and cauliflower in no time thanks to the microwave, then toss it with a no-cook sauce made of ranch powder, sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes, and warming red pepper flakes. Serve this as a side, or feel free to mix in some shredded rotisserie chicken to make this a full meal.
Get the Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole recipe.
Erik bernstein
Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath
Looking for an appetizer that doubles at a centerpiece? This cheesy, savory crescent ring is perfect for your holiday gathering. And if it’s a vegetarian app you’re after, we’d suggest subbing in sautéed mushrooms for the bacon.
Get the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath recipe.
Joel Goldberg
Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham
Get ready to plan a Christmas dinner party around this ham alone! The tart cherries and bourbon work together to bring a slight sour and oaky tartness to the spiral ham, and the glaze has just enough cayenne pepper to deliver a subtle smoky heat.
Get the Cherry Bourbon Glazed Ham recipe.
Lucy Schaeffer
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
You know what’s great? Mashed potatoes. You know what’s even better? Roasted garlic mashed potatoes! That extra savory flavor from melty, roasted garlic adds the perfect kick to classic mashed spuds. (We also add a splash of tangy balsamic vinegar to kick them up a notch.)
Get the Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe.
Erik bernstein
Kale Salad With Apples and Toasted Almonds
Need a simple Christmas salad that comes together fast? Kale yeah you do! Pair apples and kale with dried cherries, toasty almonds, and feta for a salad everyone will love this holiday season.
Get the Kale Salad With Apples and Toasted Almonds recipe.
Parker feierbach
Instant Pot Pork Puttanesca
For this dish, we were inspired by classic Italian puttanesca, a tomato-based dish with anchovies, capers, and olives that’s traditionally served over pasta. Pork makes it extra hearty, so we served it over creamy polenta, but feel free to sub in pasta, rice, or whatever else you can dream up.
Get the Instant Pot Pork Puttanesca recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Beef Wellington
The roast turkey is a classic, but if you’re really looking to impress your holiday guests this year, beef Wellington is the centerpiece you should present. With four components—tender beef tenderloin, a savory duxelle, prosciutto, and flaky puff pastry—this is the centerpiece that will wow from the very first slice.
Get the Beef Wellington recipe.
PHOTO: RYAN LIEBE; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Chicken and Mushroom White Lasagna
Few things are more pleasing than a melty, cheesy square of lasagna. This creamy white version, made extra-luxurious from a cheesy béchamel-type sauce called Mornay, is packed with chopped chicken, spinach, mushroom, and fresh herbs–and a few time-saving secrets. 😉
Get the Chicken and Mushroom White Lasagna recipe.
Andrew bui
Garlic & Herb Turkey Roulade
Sometimes, roasting a whole turkey is just too much of an undertaking. A roulade, though? It’s surprisingly easy (we swear!), super-flavorful, and much easier to carve. Perfect served with a side of mashed potatoes and some tart cranberry sauce.
Get the Garlic & Herb Turkey Roulade recipe.
PHOTO: RYAN LIEBE; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS
Skillet Cornbread
Not only does this cornbread involve less cleanup, but it promotes the ideal texture of crackly crust around moist, decadent corn cake. Pouring the batter into a preheated cast-iron creates a sear to the batter (nothing like that sizzling sound when it’s poured in) and speeds up the bake time too.
Get the Skillet Cornbread recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Baked Brie In Puff Pastry
We filled ours with raspberry jam, but use your favorite spread or jelly. Drizzle it with some honey and you’ll have a warm, cheesy app that feels extra fancy in no time at all.
Get the Baked Brie In Puff Pastry recipe.
Andrew bui
Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
This going to be your new go-to potato side. The secret to the ultra-crispy skin? A cornstarch slurry! For some flavor we added rosemary and garlic, but just like our other roasted potatoes, feel free to add any herbs or flavors your heart desires.
Get the Roasted Fingerling Potatoes recipe.
ERIK BERNSTEIN
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
This retro glazed ham is a classic stunner for the center of a table, and just a few easy sides short of a fantastic Christmas feast.
Get the Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham recipe.
Erik bernstein
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
If chicken pot pie excites you, but pie crust intimidates you, you’ve arrived at the perfect recipe. Classic chicken pot pie filling is baked into a stress-free casserole and, best of all, topped with biscuits for that tantalizing golden brown finish.
Get the Chicken Pot Pie Casserole recipe.
ERIK BERNSTEIN
Sweet Potato Casserole
This recipe is for everyone who hates marshmallows atop their sweet potato casserole—in their place is a buttery, brown sugar pecan topping that is still perfectly sweet and holiday-worthy.
Get the Sweet Potato Casserole recipe.
PHOTO: DOAA ELKADY; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Perfect Pot Roast
When it comes to stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, it’s difficult to beat tender, flavorful pot roast. The shredded beef meal comes complete with tender potatoes and carrots and a sauce you’ll want to spoon over everything.
Get the Perfect Pot Roast recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI ; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots
This recipe made us wonder, Why don’t we roast carrots more often? When they roast, their flavor concentrates and sweetens. Pair that with copious amounts of umami-packed Parmesan and just a touch of lemon, and you’ve got a super-irresistible side.
Get the Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots recipe.
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
French Onion Soup
Rich, deeply flavorful, and downright decadent, French onion soup is the treat-yourself comfort food we’ll never tire of. Caramelized onions, a beefy broth, and the signature melty cheese and bread topping all transform what could be a simple soup into an enduring classic.
Get the French Onion Soup recipe
PHOTO: RYAN LIEBE; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Osso Buco
Literally translated to “off the bone”, osso buco is a traditional northern Italian stew that celebrates the impossible tenderness of crosscut veal shank. It’s true, this recipe does take a bit of time, but we promise, it’s worth it.
Get the Osso Buco recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: LAURA REGE
Whole Roasted Cauliflower
If you’re looking for a vegetarian dinner centerpiece, then you can’t beat a whole roasted cauliflower. Gorgeously browned outside and meltingly tender in the middle, its stunningly simple goodness can’t be topped at any vegetarian Christmas dinner.
Get the Whole Roasted Cauliflower recipe.
PHOTO: LINDA PUGLIESE; FOOD STYLING: BEN WEINER
Fluffy Potato Rolls
Have a leftover baked potato? The only logical thing to do is to mash the insides and make dinner rolls. These are truly the Fluffiest. Dinner. Rolls. Ever. Fresh out of the oven, each roll has a crispy bottom, buttery top, and unbelievably soft center.
Get the Fluffy Potato Rolls recipe.
Andrew bui
Mashed Potato Casserole
This recipe begins—as you might expect—with classic mashed potatoes. We then add herb-infused milk and some cream cheese, then fold in the secret ingredient—eggs! Eggs are stirred in before baking to lighten up the potatoes, and they help the mixture “soufflé” a bit in the oven.
Get the Mashed Potato Casserole recipe.
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: Taylor Ann SPENCER
Our love for crescent roll recipes is no secret. Why make dough from scratch when everyone loves the canned stuff?! These are a fan favorite every fall. They always disappear within minutes, probably because the combo of salty, creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecans is PERFECT.
Get the Cranberry Brie Bites recipe.
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Meatloaf
Your go-to meatloaf recipe should be simple and dependable, but also packed with flavor to keep you (and your family and guests) coming back for more. We tested this recipe again and again to guarantee that it was worthy of being your new forever go-to, never-fail meatloaf.
Get the Meatloaf recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike will be piling this flavor-packed gravy on top of all the holiday sides. This gravy comes together in minutes—and you won’t miss roasting a whole turkey or chicken to make it.
Get the Vegetarian Mushroom Gravy recipe.
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON
Stuffed Mushrooms
To make these, we stuff baby bella mushrooms with garlicky, herby bread crumbs and plenty of cheese. Stuff them ahead of time and bake them off when you’re ready for an easy appetizer or simple holiday side dish.
Get the Stuffed Mushrooms recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Vegan Mushroom Pot Pie
When it’s cold out over Christmas, a steaming hot pot pie filled with creamy, flavorful gravy, sweet and tender veggies, and topped with a shatteringly flaky crust is EVERYTHING. Here, mushrooms replace meat and are every bit as satisfying as their meaty counterparts.
Get the Vegan Mushroom Pot Pie recipe.
Andrew bui
Cranberry Sauce
This sweet-tart cranberry sauce is almost as easy as opening up the canned stuff, and you know your holiday deserves better. This is one of those dishes you can make up to a week in advance too. (Bonus: The flavors will meld and deepen while it hangs out in the fridge.)
Get the Cranberry Sauce recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
Roasted Pork Tenderloin
When you’re craving an easy holiday dinner protein but are tired of old standbys like chicken breast or ground beef, look no further than pork tenderloin. It’s quick-cooking, takes extremely well to countless flavors, and is easy, but remarkable enough for holidays and special occasions.
Get the Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe.
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE
This sweet potato salad is the perfect way to lighten up any holiday dinner spread. Feta, dried cranberries, and red onions pair really nicely with the earthy sweetness of the orange super food. Did we mention it’s great warm or cold?
Get the Sweet Potato Salad recipe.
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER
Pizza Casserole
From the realms of cheesy pizza and bubbling baked pasta comes a new family favorite: pizza casserole. Loaded with sausage, veggies, and plenty of cheese, this meal has all of the cheesy, tomato-filled goodness of our favorite take-out pizza, neatly packaged in a 13″-by-9″ pan.
Get the Pizza Casserole recipe.
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Slow-Roasted Pork And Peppers
There’s very little prep for this simple dinner—it’s just a matter of halving bell peppers and cutting onions into wedges, then the oven does the rest of the work, transforming the boneless pork shoulder into meltingly tender meat that’s perfect for a holiday weeknight dinner or company.
Get the Slow-Roasted Pork And Peppers recipe.
ANDREW BUI
Holiday Roasted Vegetables
The dried cranberries and balsamic vinegar add some sweetness and tartness, while the pecans add a crunch to these holiday-worthy vegetables. We use Brussels sprouts and carrots, but feel free to add extra vegetables or swap in some of your favorites.
Get the Holiday Roasted Vegetables recipe.
Parker Feierbach
Classic Roast Chicken
Intimidated by a whole chicken? Don’t be! It’s surprisingly easy to make, and there’s nothing better than roast chicken leftovers during that limbo time between Christmas and New Year’s. They’re great on salads, in sandwiches, in tacos… The sky’s the limit.
Get the Classic Roast Chicken recipe.
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Baked Ham With Brown Sugar Glaze
Pro tip for taking your usual holiday ham over the top? Make your own homemade glaze! Our go-to combo is brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider.
Get the Baked Ham With Brown Sugar Glaze recipe.
ETHAN CALABRESE
Sausage Balls
Many of you might be thinking: Wait, what even is a sausage ball?! The answer: addictive bites of cooked pork sausage, cheddar, and Bisquick that will be the most popular appetizer at your party.
Get the Sausage Balls recipe.
Ethan Calabrese
Pull-Apart Christmas Tree
Now this is the ultimate Christmas app. Super-cheesy and herby, this centerpiece appetizer has the looks and taste to impress. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour!
Get the Pull-Apart Christmas Tree recipe.
Ethan Calabrese
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
Tossed in a honey and vinegar dressing and roasted until glazed and crisp, these sweet and tangy sprouts will steal the (side) show wherever they go. Roasting at high heat on a bare metal sheet pan is key to getting gorgeously browned, crackling-crisp sprouts.
Get the Caramelized Brussels Sprouts recipe.
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON
Maple Glazed Ham Steak
Want a holiday ham experience without the commitment to using up those leftovers? Maple ham steaks are just the thing for when you’re celebrating with a smaller crowd.
Get the Maple Glazed Ham Steak recipe.
Parker feierbach
Braised Lamb Shank
Braising lamb shanks might sound a little intimidating, but honestly, it couldn’t be easier. After a quick sear, the oven does all the work for you.
Get the Braised Lamb Shank recipe.
Parker feierbach
Roast Lamb
Roasting a lamb shoulder is just as easy, if not easier, than roasting a chicken. All you need to do is rub your roast with a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil and throw it in the oven for an hour or so.
Get the Roast Lamb recipe.
Ethan Calabrese
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