This post will show you the 23 Yummy yum Christmas Dinner Ideas to create this festive season.
The holiday season is the perfect time to gather loved ones around a table filled with delicious food and festive cheer.
Christmas dinner is a special occasion, and it deserves a menu that reflects the warmth and joy of the season. Doesn’t matter if you’re hosting a grand feast or maybe, just a cozy family dinner, the right Christmas dinner ideas can turn your holiday meal into a memorable celebration.
Get inspired with these Christmas dinner ideas that will not only satisfy your guests but also create an atmosphere of festive delight.
This post will unveil so many mouthwatering recipes that will make your Christmas dinner the highlight of the holiday season.
23 NICE CHRISTMAS DINNER IDEAS TO CREATE
1. Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding
Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding is a classic British dish featuring tender, slow-cooked beef served with fluffy Yorkshire pudding, perfect for soaking up gravy. This hearty meal is often a centerpiece for festive gatherings. Trust me, this is one the Christmas dinner ideas you wouldn’t want to miss this festive season.
4-5 lb beef roast (ribeye or sirloin)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 cup beef broth
Yorkshire Pudding
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1/4 cup beef drippings or vegetable oil
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
Season the beef roast with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned.
Transfer the roast to a roasting pan, add beef broth, and roast for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (130°F for medium-rare).
For Yorkshire pudding, mix flour, milk, and eggs until smooth. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Pour drippings or oil into muffin tins and heat in the oven.
Pour batter into the hot muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Let the beef rest before slicing and serve with Yorkshire pudding and gravy made from pan drippings.
2. Honey Glazed Ham
Honey Glazed Ham is a succulent dish featuring a tender ham baked with a sweet honey glaze, creating a caramelized crust that enhances its savory flavor. It’s a popular choice for holiday feasts and celebrations.
1 fully cooked ham (6-8 lbs)
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Whole cloves (optional)
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place in a roasting pan.
In a bowl, mix honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
Brush the glaze over the ham and, if desired, insert cloves into the intersections of the scored lines.
Cover the ham with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
Remove foil in the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze. Let rest before slicing.
3. Herb-Crusted Prime Rib
Herb-Crusted Prime Rib is a show-stopping roast beef dish, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful crust and juicy interior. This elegant meal is ideal for special occasions and holiday dinners.
5-7 lb prime rib roast
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
3 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper
1 cup beef broth
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
Mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Rub the herb mixture all over the prime rib.
Place in a roasting pan and roast for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 325°F (165°C) and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
Let the roast rest for 20 minutes before slicing. Use pan drippings mixed with beef broth to make a gravy.
4. Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Sauce
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Sauce is a traditional holiday dish featuring a golden-brown turkey, often served with a tart and sweet cranberry sauce to enhance its flavor. It’s a beloved staple for Christmas celebrations. Trust me, of all these delightful Christmas dinner ideas, don’t make the mistake of not creating this one.
1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
1/2 cup melted butter
Salt and pepper
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
1 onion, quartered
1 lemon, quartered
For Cranberry Sauce:
1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 orange, zested and juiced
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Pat the turkey dry and season the inside with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Place onion and lemon inside the cavity.
Brush the outside with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
Roast turkey in a roasting pan, basting occasionally with pan juices, for about 3-4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
For cranberry sauce, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until cranberries burst, and sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Let cool.
5. Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Stuffed Pork Tenderloin is a flavorful dish made with pork tenderloin filled with a savory stuffing, often including ingredients like herbs, fruits, or nuts. This dish is both impressive and delicious, making it perfect for holiday dinners.
2 pork tenderloins
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped apples
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepperOlive oil
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix cranberries, apples, walnuts, breadcrumbs, and thyme in a bowl.
Cut a slit down the center of each tenderloin to create a pocket. Stuff with the cranberry mixture.
Season the outside of the tenderloins with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloins on all sides until browned.
Transfer to a baking dish and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Let rest before slicing.
6. Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie
Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish made with a hearty filling of vegetables and lentils, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This plant-based option offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, suitable for holiday gatherings.
2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
1 cup lentils, cooked
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup vegetable broth
4 cups mashed potatoes
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Add mixed vegetables, lentils, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper, then transfer to a baking dish.
Spread mashed potatoes over the top and smooth out.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7. Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill
Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill is a light and flavorful dish featuring salmon fillets seasoned with fresh lemon and dill, baked to perfection. This elegant meal is a healthy choice for festive dinners.
Add this to your Christmas dinner ideas and you’ll be so glad you did, it’s a guaranteed hit!
4 salmon fillets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, sliced
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Top with lemon slices and chopped dill.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is a delicious Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. Its savory flavors make it a satisfying option for holiday meals.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup flour
1/4 cup olive oil
1 cup Marsala wine.
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper
Flatten chicken breasts to an even thickness and season with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until softened.
Pour in Marsala wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer until sauce reduces by half.
Stir in butter and return chicken to the pan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve with sauce spooned over the chicken.
9. Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is a luxurious dish consisting of a beef tenderloin coated with pâté and wrapped in flaky pastry, creating a stunning centerpiece. This dish combines rich flavors and textures, perfect for special occasions.
2 lb beef tenderloin
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup pâté (optional)
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
1 egg, beaten
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil over high heat until browned. Let cool.
Spread pâté over the beef, if using. Roll out puff pastry and spread with a layer of finely chopped mushrooms. Place the beef on the pastry and roll up tightly, sealing the edges.
Brush with beaten egg and place on a baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare. Let rest before slicing.
10. Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic
Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic are flavorful cuts of lamb seasoned with aromatic rosemary and garlic, then grilled or roasted for a tender finish. This dish is a sophisticated option that adds a touch of elegance to any holiday feast.
8 lamb chops
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
In a bowl, mix garlic, rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Rub the mixture over the lamb chops and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
11. Butternut Squash Risotto
Butternut Squash Risotto is a creamy Italian dish made with arborio rice and roasted butternut squash, offering a rich, savory flavor with a hint of sweetness. It’s a comforting and elegant vegetarian option for holiday dinners.
1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 tbsp butter
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
In a large saucepan, heat olive oil and butter. Sauté onion until softened.
Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in white wine and cook until absorbed. Gradually add broth, stirring frequently, until rice is creamy and cooked through.
Stir in roasted butternut squash and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
12. Seafood Paella
Seafood Paella is a Spanish dish featuring rice cooked with a variety of seafood, saffron, and spices, creating a flavorful, aromatic meal. This festive dish adds a vibrant and exotic touch to holiday gatherings.
If you love seafoods, this is one of the Christmas dinner ideas you definitely don’t want to miss.
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup Arborio or paella rice
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp saffron threads
1 can diced tomatoes
3 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup mussels or clams, cleaned
1 cup peas
Lemon wedges for serving
In a large skillet or paella pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
Add rice, paprika, and saffron. Stir for 1-2 minutes.
Add tomatoes and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
Arrange shrimp, mussels, and peas on top of the rice. Cover and cook until seafood is cooked through and mussels have opened, about 10 minutes.
Serve with lemon wedges.
13. Stuffed Acorn Squash
Stuffed Acorn Squash is a hearty vegetarian dish where roasted acorn squash is filled with a savory mixture of grains, vegetables, and spices. It’s a wholesome and visually appealing option for festive meals.
4 acorn squashes
1 cup quinoa, cooked
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
1/4 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried sage
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut acorn squashes in half and scoop out seeds. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add quinoa, cranberries, nuts, sage, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the roasted squash halves with the quinoa mixture and return to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes.
14. Braised Short Ribs
Braised Short Ribs are tender, slow-cooked beef ribs simmered in a rich sauce of wine and aromatics, resulting in a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth dish. This indulgent meal is perfect for special holiday occasions. This should be among the top Christmas dinner ideas on your list, trust me you’d be glad you included it.
4 lbs beef short ribs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 sprigs thyme
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sear ribs on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
Add red wine and cook until reduced by half. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
Return ribs to the pot, cover, and braise in the oven for 2.5-3 hours, or until tender.
Remove ribs and reduce sauce on the stovetop if needed. Serve with sauce spooned over.
15. Mushroom Stroganoff
Mushroom Stroganoff is a vegetarian take on the classic dish, featuring sautéed mushrooms in a creamy sauce served over noodles or rice. It’s a comforting and flavorful meat-free option for holiday meals.
1 lb mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper
Egg noodles or rice for serving
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
Add mushrooms and cook until browned.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in sour cream and cook until the sauce is thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve over egg noodles or rice.
16. Maple-Glazed Carrots
Maple-Glazed Carrots are tender roasted carrots coated in a sweet and buttery maple glaze, adding a touch of warmth and sweetness to the holiday table. This simple yet elegant side dish complements any festive main course.
1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss carrots with olive oil, maple
syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
17. Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped Potatoes are a creamy, layered dish made with thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich sauce of cream, butter, and cheese. This comforting and indulgent side is a popular addition to holiday meals, offering a deliciously savory flavor.
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic until softened. Stir in heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
In a greased baking dish, layer potatoes, pouring cream mixture over each layer. Top with cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden.
18. Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a light, flavorful side dish of sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds and a hint of lemon. It adds a crisp and nutty element to holiday dinners.
1 lb green beans, trimmed
1/4 cup slivered almonds
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper
Blanch green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to ice water to stop cooking.
In a skillet, melt butter and toast almonds until golden.
Add green beans and lemon juice, and sauté until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
19. Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread Stuffing is a Southern-inspired side dish made with crumbled cornbread, herbs, and vegetables, baked to perfection. It’s a flavorful twist on traditional stuffing, ideal for holiday feasts.
1 batch cornbread, crumbled
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried sage
1 tsp dried thyme
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, sauté celery and onion until softened.
In a bowl, mix cornbread, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden and crispy on top.
Don’t miss out on creating this crowd-pleasing classic for your Christmas dinner ideas list!
20. Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry Orange Relish is a refreshing and tangy side dish made from fresh cranberries and orange zest, offering a bright contrast to savory holiday dishes. It’s a must-have condiment for holiday meals.
1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 orange, zested and juiced
1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and orange juice.
Cook over medium heat until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
Stir in ground ginger, if using. Let cool before serving.
21. Spinach and Artichoke Gratin
Spinach and Artichoke Gratin is a creamy baked casserole made with spinach, artichokes, and a cheesy sauce, creating a rich and indulgent side. This dish adds a comforting and flavorful option to the holiday spread.
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix spinach, artichokes, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
22. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic holiday dish featuring mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy layer of brown sugar and pecans. It’s a sweet and savory side that pairs beautifully with festive meals.
4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
For Streusel Topping:
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with brown sugar, butter, milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Mix streusel topping ingredients and sprinkle over sweet potatoes.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
23. Classic Caesar Salad
Classic Caesar Salad is a refreshing starter or side dish made with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese. Its bright, tangy flavors offer a perfect balance to richer holiday dishes.
1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup Caesar dressing
1/2 cup croutons
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing.
Add croutons and Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately.
These detailed explanations should help you create a festive and delicious Christmas dinner, ensuring that your meal is both impressive and satisfying. Make this year’s celebration extra special with a meal that will leave everyone grateful and satisfied. Enjoy your holiday cooking!
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