47 Christmas Meal Prep Ideas People Use When Relatives Show Up Early

Unexpected guests are part of every holiday, and 47 Christmas meal prep ideas can help you stay on track. Family popping in early doesn’t have to mean scrambling in the kitchen. Batching a few recipes lets you have something on hand no matter who walks through the door. Quick thinking and smart planning keep holiday moments stress-free.

A close-up of soup with meatballs, carrots, celery, spinach, slivered almonds, and fresh herbs in a clear broth. — Hearty Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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.

Flavors of holiday pie and rich brownies come together in this Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies recipe. Crunchy nuts and a gooey center hit all the right notes for winter dessert tables. Guests never guess how easy it is to cut and serve. I stash extra squares because they vanish before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies

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.

Winter celebrations reach new heights with this Warm and Gooey Baked Brie as an appetizer. Melted cheese paired with sweet or savory toppings makes it a true crowd pleaser. People tend to gather around, waiting for the first slice to be served. Watching that creamy cheese pull is reason enough to make it every year.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Turkey Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce, grated cheese, and chopped herbs, with a fork resting on the plate. — Turkey Bolognese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Cold nights feel less gloomy with a bowl of this Turkey Bolognese. Simmered sauce and tender turkey combine for a comforting dinner that feels familiar yet fresh. I enjoy serving it when the company drops by unexpectedly. Leftovers hardly ever last, so making a big batch always pays off.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bolognese

Sweet French Toast Casserole

A person taking a portion of French toast casserole. — Sweet French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mornings get brighter when you welcome the day with this Sweet French Toast Casserole. Every bite tastes like a hug, with a soft, baked texture that makes breakfast special for everyone. Friends circle back to scoop up another serving. Trying it once is all it takes to make it a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet French Toast Casserole

Mushroom Gravy

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

Hearty meals step up a notch when you pour this Mushroom Gravy over mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. Savory and rich, the sauce wins praise from anyone searching for comfort in the middle of December. The aroma alone brings people closer to the table. It’s a recipe I come back to for stress-free dinners.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Baked Oatmeal

Warm aromas fill the kitchen as you serve this Baked Oatmeal for busy mornings or brunch with extra guests. The comforting texture helps fuel long days filled with visiting relatives. I make enough for second helpings since the cozy flavors win everyone over. There’s always at least one person who asks for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Baked Oatmeal

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.

Every slice of these Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies promises a mix of chocolate richness and creamy swirls. Decadent enough for dessert but easy enough to share, they win nods from all ages. Friends can’t help but reach for seconds. Having a batch ready feels like secret holiday planning.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

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.

Holiday snack tables light up with a bowl of this Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. Each bite delivers a lively mix that sparks conversation. Bright colors and bold flavors draw people in, so the bowl empties quickly. I set this out when I want something fun and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

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.

Steaming hot bowls of this Clam Chowder help thaw out even the coldest winter days. Rich, creamy broth with a hint of the sea brings comfort right when people need it most. Serving this makes dinner feel extra special. Seconds always seem to disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

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.

Holiday cheers rise higher with a batch of Gingerbread Cupcakes fresh from the oven. Warm spices fill the air, building excitement before the first bite. The soft crumb and sweet frosting bring out big smiles. I keep this recipe ready for gatherings when I want an easy win.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Cupcakes

Ham and Split Pea Soup

A bowl of split pea soup with chunks of ham, diced carrots, and herbs, with a spoon resting inside. — Ham and Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Warm soup like this Ham and Split Pea Soup brings everyone in from the snow. Each spoonful is creamy, thick, and brimming with cozy winter flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to linger at the table. I find it especially comforting during the busiest weeks of December.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Split Pea Soup

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.

Bringing out a pan of this Comforting Chicken and Biscuits can turn a hectic day into one filled with calm. Fluffy biscuits and creamy filling invite people to slow down and enjoy dinner together. Hearty and warm, it’s welcomed by anyone in the house. Serving it always makes the evening feel more relaxed.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Chicken and Biscuits

Million Dollar Pie

A close-up of a slice of creamy pie with visible cherries, nuts, and a flaky crust, being lifted from the rest of the pie. — Million Dollar Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pulling out this Million Dollar Pie for dessert always sparks questions and compliments. The cold, creamy filling feels like a special treat during the holidays. I like to keep a second pie in the fridge for those extra guests who sneak in. Even one bite can turn a regular day into a celebration.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Pie

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Close-up of roasted Brussels sprouts mixed with pieces of bacon in a shallow bowl. — Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Roasting brings out the best of this Brussels Sprouts with Bacon dish on frosty December evenings. Smoky, crispy pieces mingle with tender veggies in every bite. Holiday tables look more colorful thanks to this side. Guests who claim veggies aren’t their thing usually change their mind here.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

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.

Bites of this Sourdough Stuffing add a special touch to holiday feasts. Rustic bread and deep flavors turn any side dish into the star attraction. Serving it always feels a little exciting, since people go back for more. I prepare extra pans when relatives arrive early, just in case.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

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.

Seeing this Rich Chocolate Cream Pie come to the table puts a smile on everyone’s face. Creamy, chilled filling and a tender crust make for a show-stopping winter dessert. Forks scrape plates clean without fail. Even non-chocolate fans find something to love in every slice.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cream Pie

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served. — Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Golden, bubbly cheese crowns every pan of Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole fresh from the oven. It works perfectly for feeding a house full of guests while still feeling homemade. I make this recipe ahead of time to make mornings smoother. Leftovers rarely stick around for long.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

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.

Comfort food doesn’t get better than this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese bubbling away on a chilly evening. The smooth blend of flavors makes it satisfying for both kids and adults. Second helpings appear quickly at the table. Serving it reminds everyone of their favorite winter memories.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Rich Buckeye Brownies

Several squares of chocolate cake with a layer of peanut butter filling and a chocolate topping are arranged on brown parchment paper. — Rich Buckeye Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A thick layer of creamy peanut butter gives these Rich Buckeye Brownies a fun twist for dessert. Chocolate fans gather around to grab their own square first. The combination of two favorites always gets a reaction at parties. I rest easy knowing leftovers will get snapped up the next day.
Get the Recipe: Rich Buckeye Brownies

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Layers of thinly sliced potatoes swimming in a creamy sauce turn this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes into a holiday standout. Each forkful tastes luscious and feels right at home next to roasted meat or vegetables. Hosts love hearing the “wow” when the dish arrives. Making it ahead ensures a calm, joyful meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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.

Families who love a classic taste reach for helpings of this Savory Cornbread Stuffing at every gathering. Soft crumbs and herby flavor bring a little warmth to every forkful. The leftovers work well for lunch the next day, too. I count on this recipe to make holiday meals run more smoothly.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Soft Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls in a pan with icing. — Soft Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baking a sheet of these Soft Homemade Cinnamon Rolls draws everyone out of bed, thanks to the aroma. Gooey spirals with sweet frosting impress guests and upgrade any breakfast or brunch. I prepare the dough ahead to save time on busy mornings. Spotting those first smiles is worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Soft Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Close-up of several stuffing balls containing herbs and dried cranberries, garnished with fresh parsley. — Crispy Stuffing Balls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Finger food like these Crispy Stuffing Balls comes in handy when relatives swing by early. Their crunchy exterior hides a soft and flavorful inside, making them a surprising hit. Pass these around before dinner for instant smiles. I keep a tray warm just in case extra guests walk through the door.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

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.

Morning meals feel more complete with a plate of these Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties on the table. Savory bites warm everyone up during the chillier months. People come back for seconds, especially when there’s a big breakfast spread. Preparing these ahead helps keep things stress-free during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties

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.

Few desserts can compete with fresh Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies right out of the oven. Gooey centers and golden edges mean people never wait for them to cool. Serving these at any gathering turns snack time into a celebration. I doubled the recipe because leftovers are a rarity.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Turkey Wings

A plate of cooked chicken wings garnished with chopped herbs, accompanied by two small bowls of dipping sauces. — Turkey Wings. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Roasting a tray of these Turkey Wings brings out rich, golden flavors that everyone enjoys. The crispy skin paired with juicy bites makes them a crowd favorite. Guests reach for them during big family meals or casual gatherings. I prepare extra batches to handle last-minute arrivals.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Wings

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, carrots, potatoes, and garnished with fresh herbs in a thick, reddish-brown broth. — Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A simmering pot of this Slow Cooker Beef Stew fills the house with mouthwatering aromas all day. Tender meat and rich veggies combine for a dinner that feels like winter comfort at its best. People ask for seconds before their bowls are empty. I like starting this early so the evening stays relaxed.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew

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.

Decadent desserts like Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse always make a dinner feel extra special during December. Silky spoonfuls melt in your mouth and leave people wondering how it’s so light. Chilled cups look stunning on any table. I set aside an extra serving for myself once the guests leave.
Get the Recipe: Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

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

Bringing out a bubbling pan of this Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini always feels right with extra people in the house. Forkfuls of pasta, turkey, and a smooth sauce put smiles on every face. It’s an easy way to stretch a meal without feeling pressed for time. The dish continues to taste great, even after reheating.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

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.

A creamy sauce binds together every slice in this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham. The bubbling dish lands on the table to murmurs of approval from hungry guests. Not a single serving is ever left after dinner. Prepping it ahead helps make the season feel less rushed.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of layered tiramisu cake with cream, coffee-soaked sponge, and dusted cocoa powder on top, served on a white plate. — Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No one expects the wow factor of this Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake until dessert arrives. Each bite offers a creamy texture with a hint of holiday flair. Guests pause for a second before taking their fork to it. The combination earns more compliments than any other sweet I’ve made.
Get the Recipe: Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

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.

A stunning main dish like this Christmas Prime Rib Roast always steals the show at holiday gatherings. Perfectly cooked meat sliced at the table feels like a celebration on its own. You’ll see everyone lean closer as the first cut is served. Planning this recipe means less work when guests show up.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Prime Rib Roast

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.

Guests always look forward to seeing Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing on the holiday buffet. The crispy, golden exterior promises a special meal inside. Stuffing with bursts of fruit offers a nice surprise in every bite. Making this dish is a tradition for early arrivals at my table.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

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.

Every bite of this Dense Fruit Cake delivers a medley of sweet and nutty flavors fit for cold evenings. Slices hold up well when relatives snack throughout the holiday. Sharing this treat with guests adds nostalgia and warmth to celebrations. I wrap leftovers to enjoy again next week.
Get the Recipe: Dense Fruit Cake

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. — Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Colorful salads like this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad brighten the table and offer a lighter option during December feasts. Crunch and sweetness combine in a refreshing way that stands out next to heavier dishes. Guests fill their plates again, enjoying a break from the usual fare. The recipe easily stretches to feed extra mouths.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

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.

The aroma of roasting fills the air as these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze come out of the oven. Tangy, sweet glaze balances the earthy veggies for a knockout side dish. I make this one ahead to keep the schedule running smoothly. People are always surprised at how quickly they disappear.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Close-up of sliced crumbly cakes topped with white icing. One piece is positioned vertically to show its texture. — Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Buttery squares of Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies sweep in just the right amount of holiday spirit. Cinnamon and sugar create a cozy bite that stands out in any dessert lineup. Sharing these goodies sparks instant conversation. Leftovers usually end up tucked away for midnight treats.
Get the Recipe: Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Homemade Egg Bites

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

A batch of Homemade Egg Bites loaded into the refrigerator helps mornings move faster when guests show up. Each bite-sized round offers a gentle, creamy flavor that works for everyone. People grab them for a snack or a quick breakfast. Doubling the recipe never feels like too much during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Egg Bites

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.

Classic comfort is guaranteed when you pour this Vegetarian Gravy over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or veggies. Savory, rich sauce wins everyone over, even the most dedicated meat lovers. I start with this gravy at big dinners so no guest feels left out. Generous drizzles transform simple sides into something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

Sweet Orange Rolls

A round baking dish lined with parchment paper holds several cinnamon rolls covered in a thick layer of icing. — Sweet Orange Rolls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bringing bright flavor to cold mornings, Sweet Orange Rolls land on breakfast tables with a welcome burst of citrus. Their gooey centers and fluffy spirals are just right for sharing with guests. I make a pan the night before to save time and effort. A warm roll always helps everyone start the day smiling.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange Rolls

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.

Slow-simmered and rich, this Hearty Turkey Chili fits the bill for days packed with relatives. Each spoonful warms from the inside and keeps a crowd full and happy. People ask for the recipe as soon as they taste it. Serving extra bowls keeps people talking and coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili

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.

Bubbly cheese and pasta layers make this Cheesy Baked Ziti perfect for dinners when you least expect company. Guests gather around, soaking up every bit and asking for more. Hearty slices hit the spot after long winter drives. I like prepping this dish early, knowing everyone will leave the table full.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cranberry Curd Tart

A slice of cherry pie topped with whipped cream and whole cherries sits on a plate, with a fork holding a bite-sized piece nearby. — Cranberry Curd Tart. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright, tart flavors balance out the dessert table with this Cranberry Curd Tart. Its vibrant color always pops at holiday meals, earning compliments before it’s even sliced. Each bite cuts through the richness of other dishes with a refreshing punch. Guests finish their meal, eager for a taste.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Curd Tart

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.

Planning feels simple with this Crockpot Turkey Breast tucked away, slow-cooking to perfection. Juicy and tender, it offers relief for last-minute guests who arrive early. Everyone feels welcome when the kitchen smells inviting. I rely on this fix for stress-free hosting.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Turkey Breast

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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

A platter of Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges wins over both kids and adults at December tables. Crunchy outside and soft inside, these wedges dispatch hunger fast. Their bold color looks festive next to any main. Passing these around gets hands reaching in from every direction.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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.

Soft, spiced notes fill the house while this Amish Cinnamon Cake bakes in the oven. Each slice offers gentle sweetness and a warm crumb that feels right on cold nights. Guests linger, eating slowly, as the cake disappears. I never mind having leftovers for next-day breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake

Hearty Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

Bowls brimming with Hearty Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup make December evenings easy. Tiny meatballs, ribbons of greens, and a rich broth strike just the right balance. Everyone in the house lines up for extra servings. Setting the slow cooker early means one less worry when company shows up.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup