47 Christmas Meal Prep Ideas for When You’re Already in the Holiday Spirit

Holiday weeks always feel more manageable when meals don’t have to be decided at the last minute. For anyone mapping out meals early, these 47 Christmas meal prep ideas provide a handy range of choices. Some are great for weeknights while others work for hosting moments. Planning ahead gets easier when there are choices ready to fit your schedule.

Savory Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Christmas Prime Rib Roast

Close-up of a sliced roast beef garnished with herbs on a blue plate. The meat appears medium-rare and juicy. — Christmas Prime Rib Roast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Juicy slices with a crisp crust make this Christmas Prime Rib Roast the main attraction. People gather close to see the carving. I plan this roast for the special holiday meal preps that deserve a little more. A grand roast ensures the celebration feels unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Prime Rib Roast

Comforting Chicken and Biscuits

A close-up of a baked chicken pot pie topped with six round biscuits and garnished with chopped parsley. — Comforting Chicken and Biscuits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Flaky biscuits over tender chicken surprise guests at winter gatherings. People go back for more, hoping there’s just a bit left in the dish. I find this Comforting Chicken and Biscuits recipe gets the most compliments on busy holiday nights. Hearty dinners like this warm everyone up.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Chicken and Biscuits

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

A close-up of a serving of baked macaroni and cheese being lifted from a casserole dish, topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs. — Four Cheese Mac n Cheese. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Creaminess in every forkful makes this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese impossible to skip. Nobody can resist the bubbling cheese on top. I make enough for seconds knowing it goes quick. Mac n cheese is a star on any holiday meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

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.

Melt-in-your-mouth bites and savory juices make this Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast perfect for meal prepping during the holidays. Eager hands reach for seconds every time. I set aside portions for easy leftovers. One-pot dinners like this bring extra comfort to the table.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped bacon, crispy onions, and melted cheese, featuring visible green peppers and a creamy sauce. — Green Bean and Bacon Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy topping and smoky bits draw people to this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole at potlucks. Holiday guests are quick to scrape every last serving from the pan. I make extra because it’s always the first side to vanish. Casseroles like this turn meal prep into a celebration.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

A glass dessert cup filled with chocolate mousse, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, placed on a light-colored surface. — Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light texture and rich chocolate goodness melt together in this Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse. Dessert lovers often race to grab a second helping. I serve it in little cups for a special treat. Chocolate mousse always makes holiday meals end on a high note.
Get the Recipe: Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

A platter of whipped cheese topped with roasted cranberries, chopped herbs, and sliced green onions. — Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bold flavor pairs tart cranberry with a gentle fiery kick in this Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. People always ask for the recipe once they try it. I share it at parties for a crowd-pleasing surprise. Unexpected dips keep meal prep from feeling routine.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Creamy layers and tender potatoes combine for an experience no one forgets. Visitors help themselves to generous portions of this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes side. I plan for leftovers, but the pan always empties out. Sides with layers of richness feel right at any Christmas feast.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Rich Chocolate Cream Pie

A slice of chocolate cream pie with a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, served on a black plate. — Rich Chocolate Cream Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Glossy top and a melt-in-your-mouth texture draw attention to this Rich Chocolate Cream Pie. Sweet tooths gather quickly wherever it’s served. I find this classic pie disappears even faster during the holidays. Homemade pies give meal prep a nostalgic feel.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cream Pie

Buttermilk Biscuits

Three golden-brown biscuits are stacked, with the top one missing a bite. A small sprig of greenery with red berries is visible in the corner. — Buttermilk Biscuits. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fluffy centers make these Buttermilk Biscuits a perfect choice for cozy Christmas mornings. Friends comment on how they pair well with every dish. I bake a double batch for brunches and late-night snacks. Biscuit baskets vanish as soon as the meal begins.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Roasted sweet potato wedges sprinkled with herbs on parchment paper. — Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunchy outside hides a soft bite within each Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges piece. Holiday meal preppers love how quickly they’re enjoyed. I plate them for family style eating with dipping sauces on the side. Sweet potatoes bring color and comfort to every gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

A slice of apple pie stuffed cheesecake on a plate with a spoon. — Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy filling and spiced apple pockets stun guests with this Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. Friends talk about how every bite feels festive. I offer leftovers, but they rarely last long. Cheesecake with an apple twist always wows the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

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.

Gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta keep everyone reaching for more of this Cheesy Baked Ziti. Households prepping for a crowd appreciate how simple it is to warm up. I save servings for quick holiday lunches. Pasta bakes help busy days go smoothly.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Baked Ziti

Rich Chocolate Pie

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream. — Rich Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A shimmer of chocolate draws attention to every slice of this Rich Chocolate Pie. Folks excitedly chat about dessert before the main meal even ends. I stash an extra wedge away for late-night cravings. Chocolate lovers always leave happy with this pie.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Pie

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

A close-up of a cheesy, baked casserole topped with bacon and chopped green onions, with a serving being lifted out, showing melted cheese stretching. — Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Creamy centers topped with golden edges turn this Twice Baked Potato Casserole into a dinner winner. Guests ask what makes it so fluffy at every holiday gathering. I prepare enough for two servings per person. Potato casseroles promise leftovers, if there’s any left at all.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves. — Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Holiday lunches become festive when this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad appears on the menu. Colorful bites bring a welcome change from heavier meals. I serve it on crisp greens for a lunch that feels special. Fresh salads help meal prep feel less stressful.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a chocolate chip cookie on a cooling rack. — Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cookies with golden edges and gooey centers disappear fast at holiday cookie swaps. People chase the warm batch of these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies with milk or cocoa. I bake extra, just in case. Homemade cookies turn meal prep into something joyful.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Clam Chowder

A bowl of creamy soup with clams, bacon, chopped green onions, and parsley, placed on a pink surface next to a spoon and some fresh herbs. — Clam Chowder. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy texture packed with hearty bites brings comfort to every bowl of this Clam Chowder. Guests warm up, swapping stories with each spoonful. I ladle out hearty portions so everyone gets a taste. Chowder is just right for holiday meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

Burnt Basque Cheesecake

A close-up of several slices of a dense, golden-brown custard or cheesecake on parchment paper. — Burnt Basque Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Toasted edges with creamy centers feel like a magic trick on every dessert table. Guests look twice at this Burnt Basque Cheesecake and ask what makes it so unique. I cut generous slices for anyone curious to try. Holiday dinners benefit from desserts that spark conversation.
Get the Recipe: Burnt Basque Cheesecake

Mushroom Gravy

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with mushroom and onion gravy, garnished with rosemary. — Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Savory and smooth, this Mushroom Gravy gives meal prep a rich finishing touch. Diners drizzle it over everything, from potatoes to roasts. I save every drop since leftovers get requested often. Gravy brings out the best in winter dishes.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Amish Cinnamon Cake

Three pieces of crumbly coffee cake with a cinnamon swirl are stacked on a plate, with two white mugs partially visible around them. — Amish Cinnamon Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Layers of warm spice and soft cake make this Amish Cinnamon Cake feel extra special during Christmas. People request a second piece before dinner is cleared. I wrap individual slices for take-home treats. Cakes like these become a December tradition.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake

Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots, and peas in a brown broth, garnished with chopped parsley. — Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Aromas fill the house as this Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup stews away. Everyone heads back for another bowl after the first try. I freeze quarts for easy weeknight meals after parties end. Soup makes Christmas meal prepping easier on busy days.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Homemade Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top. — Homemade Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Little rounds packed with flavor help meal prep get off to a fast start using this Homemade Egg Bites recipe. Adults and kids both come back for seconds. I make several varieties so no one gets bored. Breakfasts feel easier with a tray of egg bites ready.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Egg Bites

Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

Brownies with a cream cheese layer in the center are cut into squares and arranged on parchment paper. — Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Deep chocolate flavor meets creamy tang in this Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies pan. Every square promises a gooey bite with a fun swirl. I cut generous portions for dessert trays throughout the season. Brownies are always a treat when prepping for a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

Vegetarian Gravy

A ceramic jug filled with creamy mushroom gravy, sprinkled with herbs, sits on a wooden board next to a small bowl of mixed dried herbs. — Vegetarian Gravy. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Silky texture and hearty notes make this Vegetarian Gravy a star for holiday eaters. Meat-free guests appreciate the attention to savory flavor. I set out extra ladles just to keep up with demand. Plant-based options add variety to any Christmas meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

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.

Fluffy insides and a crispy outside create excitement about this Savory Cornbread Stuffing. Lots of folks go back for seconds to catch all the crunchy bits. I prepare enough to fill up the biggest pans. Cornbread stuffing brings comfort and color to festive meals.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies

Close-up of pecan-topped brownies on parchment paper, showing their dense chocolate base and nutty topping. — Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fudgy bites and nutty crunch meet in the best way in this Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies recipe. Guests line up for a second square after their first taste. I bake two pans if I’m prepping for a big dessert crowd. Brownies with a pie twist keep things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies

Sourdough Stuffing

A close-up of a serving of bread stuffing with chopped herbs, lifted from a baking dish. — Sourdough Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tangy bread and warm herbs mix for mouthwatering results using this Sourdough Stuffing. People talk about the unique flavor long after the tray is gone. I include it for eaters who crave something a little new. Sourdough gives holiday stuffing a fresh spin.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

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.

Heaping bowls brimming with warmth quickly win over holiday meal preppers. This Hearty Turkey Chili brings everyone out of the cold. I portion leftovers for easy lunches all winter long. Chili makes holiday planning a breeze on chilly days.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili

Chess Pie

A close-up of a sliced custard pie dusted with powdered sugar, with two metal spoons resting on top of the pie in a white dish. — Chess Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Buttery crust topped with a silky filling makes this Chess Pie a dessert table favorite. All who try a slice pause for a second bite. I wrap leftovers for friends who are curious about the Southern twist. Unique pies stand out even on crowded winter tables.
Get the Recipe: Chess Pie

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.

Crispy edges and a sweet glaze lure everyone toward this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze bowl. People rethink what they know about sprouts with just one serving. I get requests for the recipe every time. Holiday vegetables never tasted this bold.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Round baked brie cheese topped with walnuts, fresh thyme, and drizzled honey, served in a wooden container. — Warm and Gooey Baked Brie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pull-apart cheese and bubbly spread create an instant crowd at each party when I serve this Warm and Gooey Baked Brie. There’s never a crumb left. I keep alternatives on deck for guests who like extra toppings. Warm appetizers keep the holiday mood lively.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Dense Fruit Cake

A close-up of a fruitcake with a slice being lifted out, showing its dense texture and pieces of dried fruit inside. — Dense Fruit Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chunks of fruit and richness in every slice make this Dense Fruit Cake a classic winter treat. Some are surprised by how much they like it. I offer small squares for after-dinner nibbles. Fruit cakes stick around as a time-honored tradition.
Get the Recipe: Dense Fruit Cake

Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

A close-up of two baked savory stuffing balls with visible chunks of onion, celery, herbs, and bread on a golden tray. — Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized portions of this Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls vanish before dinner even begins. People enjoy dipping them into sauces for a holiday twist. I prep double portions to keep up with demand. Stuffing balls turn meal prep into finger food fun.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Several squares of chocolate brownies with a yellow and brown marbled pattern are stacked and arranged on parchment paper. — Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Every layer gives something new, from deep chocolate to sweet banana in these Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies. Dessert lovers often ask how the flavors mix so well. I add it to dessert trays for holiday potlucks. Brownies with banana bring extra cheer to the Christmas season.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Creamy and gently sweet, this Mashed Sweet Potatoes side fits right in next to the Christmas roast. People always scrape the dish clean by the end. I double the batch for late-night holiday snacking. Sweet potato mash rounds out the meal prep perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

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

Creamy pasta and tender turkey join together for a meal that feeds a crowd with this Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini. Guests grab second helpings before the main course is finished. I prep this dish for easy reheating after parties. Turkey leftovers never tasted so good.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

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.

Crunchy shells and a soft core make these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes disappear fast. Everyone grabs more than one. I heat these for snack platters whenever company drops by. Potato snacks brighten any holiday meal prep session.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Gingerbread Cupcakes

Three cupcakes topped with swirled frosting, cranberries, rosemary sprigs, pinecones, and powdered sugar, with a small decorative house in the foreground. — Gingerbread Cupcakes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Notes of ginger and molasses create a cupcake full of holiday memories with this Gingerbread Cupcakes recipe. Friends who love bold flavor come back for seconds. I top with fun decorations to fit the Christmas theme. Gingerbread treats bring magic to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Cupcakes

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.

Savory layers and melted cheese fill each scoop of this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham bake. Hungry eaters hurry for a spoonful. I freeze leftovers for busy holiday nights. Potato and ham bakes are perfect for make-ahead meals.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Elegant Mushroom Wellington

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

Golden crust holding hearty mushroom filling transforms holiday meal prep with this Elegant Mushroom Wellington. Friends remember the beautiful slices each year. I keep extra for lunch after the main meal. Impressive mains turn every dinner into an event.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Mushroom Wellington

Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, resting on parchment paper with a crumbly base visible. — Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunchy caramel tops a smooth filling in this Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake. Dessert lovers appreciate the blend of classic cheesecake and elegant finish. I bring out my torch to wow guests at the holiday table. Cheesecakes like this are worth sharing.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties

Four browned sausage patties garnished with chopped herbs on a plate, with a fork breaking one open to show the inside. — Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Flavorful patties bring extra protein to Christmas brunch in this Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties recipe. Friends love each juicy bite. I smile when there are just a few left on the tray. Sausage patties help breakfast prep move quickly.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties

Colorful Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers on a serving dish with balsamic glaze drizzled over. — Colorful Caprese Skewers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Red, green, and white create a cheerful look on holiday platters with these Colorful Caprese Skewers. Kids join in assembling them, adding to the fun. I use these skewers as a way to break up heavier dishes. Fresh appetizers brighten any meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Caprese Skewers

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.

Roasted turkey paired with a tart stuffing brings energy to Christmas meal prepping in this Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing recipe. Family members gather as the carving begins. I always hope for leftovers. Roast turkey forms the heart of many holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate cake drizzled with caramel sauce on a plate, with more cake in the background. — Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A thick slice loaded with sweet and salty flavors makes this Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake unforgettable. Party hosts never expect leftovers. I decorate with a light drizzle for extra shine. Caramel cake brings a sense of celebration to meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Spinach and turkey wrapped up create something fun in this Savory Turkey Pinwheels dish. Guests enjoy taking a pinwheel for a quick bite. I bring trays to potlucks to keep things easy. Pinwheels turn meal prep into a hands-on experience.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels