35 Christmas Dinner Recipes You Might Want in Your Holiday Rotation

Here are 35 Christmas dinner recipes that make holiday planning feel a little easier. With a mix of simple options, you can build a menu that fits whatever kind of gathering you have in mind. These choices help keep the mood calm during a busy season. You’ll see how practical this whole lineup feels.

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.

Savory French Onion Casserole

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

Digging into this Savory French Onion Casserole at the holiday table always feels cozy. Robust flavors blend together in a way that feels special without any fuss. Eager guests often go back for another scoop before thinking about dessert. Comfort takes center stage for anyone craving something heartwarming and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Crockpot Turkey Breast

Sliced roasted turkey breast topped with a fruit-based sauce, being drizzled with additional sauce from a spoon. — Crockpot Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With this Crockpot Turkey Breast, stress about dry turkey melts away. Simplicity brings relief when holiday plans are already busy enough. The slow cooker steps in to do the heavy lifting, freeing more time for merriment. Every slice is impressively tender, making guests ask how such juicy perfection happens.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Turkey Breast

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

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

Rich layers make this Hearty Cabbage Casserole ideal for those seeking comfort beneath the sparkle of the season. Savory warmth calls out for generous second helpings. Nostalgic memories come flooding back at every bite. This dish is always a surprise hit no one sees coming but everyone enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

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.

Every year, these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls become a playful favorite. Pops of color brighten up any holiday spread, catching everyone’s attention right away. Guests are curious about what’s inside and soon reach for seconds. Serving them warm brings a bite-sized treat that feels classic yet new.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Crispy Pork Belly

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

Getting that crispy skin on this Pork Belly brings a sense of accomplishment, even for the home cook. Crackling on the outside meets juicy richness inside for perfect contrast. This dish receives plenty of smiles and interest from all around the table. Savory indulgence fits perfectly with Christmas celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly

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.

Holiday tables need a show-stopping veggie, and these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze fit right in. Flavors balance sweet and tangy, encouraging even skeptics to take a second bite. A shimmering glaze adds festive flair to any spread. Every bite proves vegetables can shine at Christmas dinner.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

Nothing says home quite like the aroma of this Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast wafting through the house. It’s impossible not to sneak early tastes as the roast simmers. Each bite turns out melt-in-your-mouth, full of flavor from hours of patience. The main dish practically does the work for the holiday cook.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast

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.

For gatherings craving a Southern twist, this Savory Cornbread Stuffing checks every box. Fluffy, golden pieces bring an appealing contrast to classic bread stuffing. Observers often watch this version disappear quickly at parties because it stands out. Each forkful delivers the right blend of nostalgia and flair.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Hearty Beef Chili

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

Chilly December nights call for the kind of warmth that only this Hearty Beef Chili can deliver. The blend of slow-cooked flavors makes the crowd linger at the pot, hoping for another helping. Folks seeking bold and filling comfort food come back for more. It’s the kind of dish that keeps energy high all night.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Chili

Festive Christmas Casserole

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

A dash of color and plenty of cheer come together in this Festive Christmas Casserole. Layers create an impressive centerpiece everyone wants to be first to sample. The first forkful always brings genuine smiles of surprise. This recipe often leaves guests requesting instructions before plates are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole

Apple and Cranberry Pie

A slice of mixed berry pie with a golden crust sits on a plate next to a spoon, with fruit filling spilling out. — Apple and Cranberry Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Baking this Apple and Cranberry Pie fills the home with an inviting warmth. Tartness mixes with sweetness, ensuring every slice feels special. Holiday tables get livelier with the pie’s vibrant color. Pastry fans line up for another piece, claiming there’s always room for dessert.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie

Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

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

Holiday meals feel complete with a hint of sweetness, and this Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast wins hearts with its golden finish. The glaze brings an extra layer of celebration to every forkful. Slicing into it shortens the distance between guests and the holiday spirit. Tradition meets a modern twist with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Tender Roast Beef

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

Tender Roast Beef brings a classic richness to festive dinners, especially when it’s as tender as this version. Partygoers pause between bites, impressed by the perfectly cooked meat. Those who crave timeless holiday flavors praise the recipe. Serving this dish marks the moment of true celebration.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roast Beef

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.

Plates during festive feasts seem incomplete without these Scalloped Potatoes and Ham piled high. Bubbly and golden on top, each serving brings pure comfort. Observers frequently sneak back for an extra spoonful. The dish brings soul-warming satisfaction to every cold winter evening.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

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.

Twists on tradition keep Christmas dinner interesting, and this Creamy Beef Stroganoff delivers that comfort with a silky sauce. Rich flavor encourages second and third helpings. The aroma signals it’s time to sit and enjoy the holiday meal. Both kids and adults offer high praise every year.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Roasted Turkey Legs

Three cooked turkey legs with herbs and chopped onions are arranged on a white oval platter, garnished with a sprig of parsley. — Roasted Turkey Legs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Focus shifts to dark meat with these Roasted Turkey Legs, and old-fashioned cheer quickly follows. Guests grab hearty portions with gusto, adding excitement to the feast. Presenting them earns genuine interest and delight. Golden brown finish rewards those looking for something beyond standard turkey breast.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey Legs

Elegant Beef Wellington

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

Special occasions deserve a show-stopper, and this Elegant Beef Wellington turns heads immediately. Golden pastry wraps tender beef, and slicing into it becomes the highlight of the meal. A hush often falls when it appears at the table. A dramatic presentation makes the holiday dinner unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Beef Wellington

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.

Some dishes provide comfort as soon as they’re served, and this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole delivers just that. Generous portions disappear in minutes, leaving only happy chatter behind. Extra servings always seem necessary as guests vie for every last piece. Holiday comfort is guaranteed with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Hearty Beef Stew

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

Snow falling outside becomes the background for a bubbling pot of Hearty Beef Stew. Spoonfuls provide warmth that makes braving the chill worthwhile and memorable. Those seeking old-fashioned Christmas comfort cherish every taste. The dish helps people warm up and brings them back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Stew

Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

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

Winning the centerpiece contest at Christmas is likely when this Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham is presented. Glossy, caramelized slices shimmer on the holiday table. Bringing out this ham makes the celebration feel effortless and joyful. Guests gather around, eager to taste the sweet and savory edges.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

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

A spoonful of these Buttery Mashed Potatoes feels like the highlight of any holiday meal. Creamy, smooth texture makes it impossible to resist and truly memorable. Guests often fill their plates with generous helpings of just this side. The serving bowl is always emptied by the end of dinner.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Hearty Beef Pot Pie

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

Comfort and celebration blend seamlessly in every piece of this Hearty Beef Pot Pie. Hidden beneath a golden crust lies unforgettable richness. Those trying it often light up with pure satisfaction. The dish hands out little gifts of warmth to everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Pot Pie

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.

Salty ham mixes with sweet brown sugar in this Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies for a special holiday touch. Vibrant vegetables tempt guests into taking “just a little bit more.” The energy picks up every time this is served, sparking lively conversation. Everything needed for a joyful meal comes together here.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

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

Moments spent sharing this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole tend to linger long after the plates are cleared. Impressive tradition meets easy serving in one festive casserole. Guests quickly inquire about what makes it so unique while reaching for seconds. Every bite surprises and delights with its comforting richness.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Tender Roasted Broccoli

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

Surrounded by holiday indulgences, this Tender Roasted Broccoli stands strong as a memorable side. Crisp-tender and brightly colored, it’s clear vegetables have a place at Christmas dinner. Both kids and grown-ups find it nearly impossible to leave any behind. Leftovers rarely happen with this green favorite.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

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

Impressing a crowd comes easy with this Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu starring on the holiday table. Layers offer festive flavor and a cozy vibe all at once. Visitors remember the dish long after Christmas has passed. It’s often mentioned as a candidate for new family traditions.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

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.

Holiday feasts are truly complete when this Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing becomes the centerpiece. Stunning to look at and even more appealing once carved. Celebratory moments seem grander with each serving. Sweet and savory magic keeps everyone lingering over dinner.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

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

The best casseroles stay with everyone, and this Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole fits the bill perfectly. Creamy layers bring laughter and conversation around every table. Even those usually picky about casseroles dig in appreciatively. Every serving brings warmth to toes and hearts alike.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

Classic Shepherds Pie

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

Growing up with Classic Shepherds Pie means Christmas always brings a sense of home. Hidden layers beneath a pillowy topping make every spoonful memorable. Appreciative guests enjoy its humble warmth among fancier fare. Reliable comfort never loses its charm, year after year.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shepherds Pie

Rich Beef Bourguignon

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

Aiming for holiday elegance grows easier with this Rich Beef Bourguignon cooking away. Deep flavor surprises with every taste and leaves a lasting impression. Gatherings meant to impress reach new heights with this dish. The slow-cooked wonder brings smiles and contented sighs to every table setting.
Get the Recipe: Rich Beef Bourguignon

Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

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

Holiday leftovers reach new heights with this Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini tucked into the menu. Forkfuls of noodles feel like extra presents after all the festivities. The celebration extends another day when this casserole is on the table. Requests for this to be the centerpiece next year happen often.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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

Creamy and dreamy describe these Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes, a frequent crowd favorite. Decadence hides beneath bubbling golden edges for unmatched richness. Guests react with delight at each scoop, wanting more. Smiles come quickly with this dish at the holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Ham Steaks

A cooked pork chop with brown sauce is served on a white plate alongside steamed asparagus spears. — Ham Steaks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Traditional Ham Steaks set a festive tone for those seeking quick yet flavorful holiday classics. Simple preparation ensures the festive spirit is always present. Weeknight gatherings feel instantly upgraded with ham on the menu. Familiar holiday warmth is always a welcome sight.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

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

Resisting this Copycat Honey Baked Ham at Christmas proves impossible for party guests. Caramelized slices create a centerpiece worthy of any holiday spread. Observers notice quickly how the tray empties faster than expected. No trips to the store are needed for this perfectly glossy ham.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Turkey Bolognese

For those wanting something a bit lighter but still hearty, this Turkey Bolognese brings a fresh take. Rich sauce and comfort combine for clean plates and happy faces. Festive yet casual meals work well with this dish as the highlight. Easy laughter and good company seem to follow every serving.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bolognese