Christmas is the season for family, joy, and of course, great food. The Christmas dinner table is often the centerpiece of holiday celebrations, where cherished traditions meet new ideas, creating a meal that is as memorable as the season itself. Whether you’re hosting a traditional feast, experimenting with new flavors, or catering to special dietary needs, there are endless possibilities to make your Christmas dinner extraordinary. Here are some festive and creative Christmas dinner ideas to inspire your holiday menu.
100 Best Christmas Dinner Ideas to Make Your Holiday Table Sparkle
What’s merrier then a big feast?
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Presents under the tree are great, but a memorable holiday celebration wouldn’t be complete without a tasty Christmas dinner! The Drummond family goes big with “lots of food, funny stories, wine, laughter, and Dr Pepper,” Ree Drummond says. Looking to make your own festive feast? Get all the Christmas dinner ideas you need from the complete list below. Here, you’ll find impressive roasts, Christmas casseroles, and plenty of traditional holiday favorites. Plus, there are a few creative new Christmas recipes to impress all your out-of-town guests.
Of course, the holidays are no time to hold back, so this list kicks off with plenty of scrumptious Christmas appetizers that everyone will gleefully gobble up. Serve cocktail meatballs or pull-apart pigs in a blanket for something nostalgic, or go all in on festive flair with a wreath-shaped charcuterie board. But don’t fill up on the apps—the main dishes are the real star of the show! If you’re anything like Ree, then a prime rib is a must-have main course. But you’ll also find rack of lamb, roast chicken, and pasta recipes to serve with your favorite holiday sides. All that’s left is Christmas dessert, so go ahead and check out the list of Christmas cookies before Santa comes to town.
1
Roast Turkey Breast
Instead of cooking a whole turkey, try an easier approach and just make the breast! It takes less time but it’s still wonderfully moist thanks to the layer of garlic, lemon, and thyme-infused butter.
Get the Roast Turkey Breast recipe.
2
Mistletoe Martini
Cranberry, mint, vodka, and elderflower liqueur make this cocktail as festive to drink as it is to look at. Serve it up when guests arrive and they’ll instantly get in the holiday spirit!
Get the Mistletoe Martini recipe.
3
French Onion Potatoes au Gratin
If you’re a fan of French onion soup, then you’ll love this take on layered potatoes. They’re just as rich and savory with lots of melty cheese and caramelized onions.
Get Ree’s French Onion Potatoes au Gratin recipe.
4
Pimento Cheese Thumbprint Crackers
Don’t be fooled, these thumbprints aren’t the kind you serve for dessert! Instead, they’re made with savory pimento cheese and a spicy pepper jelly filling for a fun holiday appetizer.
5
Ham with Cherry-Pineapple Glaze
Bring this old-school main course to your holiday table and everyone will be hit with a burst of nostalgia. But don’t worry, the cherry-pineapple topping is just as impressive today as when your grandma used to make it.
Get Ree’s Ham with Cherry-Pineapple Glaze recipe.
6
Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
Getting your family to eat their veggies during the holidays is easy when you serve up this cheesy casserole dish. It’s chockfull of cauliflower, broccoli, cheddar, bacon, and buttery crackers for added crunch.
Get Ree’s Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon recipe.
7
Sautéed Green Beans with Pomegranates
The beautiful green and red colors of this simple side dish will stand out on any Christmas dinner table. Plus, you’ll love the pop of flavor from fresh pomegranate seeds, shallots, ginger, and herbs.
Get Ree’s Sautéed Green Beans with Pomegranates recipe.
8
Stuffed Butternut Squash
This alternative main course is perfect for any hearty winter dinner. The naturally sweet squash is filled up with a mixture of sausage, rice, kale, and grated gruyere cheese.
Get the Stuffed Butternut Squash recipe.
9
Christmas Margarita
Margaritas for Christmas? Yes, please! This variation turns the classic drink into a snowy-white cocktail thanks to the addition of cream of coconut.
Get the Christmas Margarita recipe.
10
Fried Deviled Eggs
For the Drummond family, it wouldn’t be a party without deviled eggs. But if you want to take things up a notch, try making them crispy and fried with a creamy filling.
Get the Fried Deviled Eggs recipe.
11
Slow Cooker Ham
The secret to Ree’s holiday ham is all in the glaze. It’s made with one of her favorite sodas: Dr Pepper! Talk about a sticky-sweet coating for your salty ham.
Get Ree’s Slow Cooker Ham recipe.
12
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
These mashed potatoes are a dream to whip up! You can even make them in advance and reheat them on Christmas Day when you’re ready to serve. It’s life-changing!
Get Ree’s Creamy Mashed Potatoes recipe.
13
Cabbage Salad
A fresh winter salad is a great way to balance out all the heartier dishes on your holiday table. This one is crisp and colorful thanks to the apple slices, purple cabbage, arugula, and nuts.
Get the Cabbage Salad recipe.
14
Beef Noodle Casserole
Beef, pasta, and cheese are three things your family will love. It’s the perfect casserole dish for a more casual Christmas dinner.
Get the Beef Noodle Casserole recipe.
15
Green Bean Casserole
Once you try green bean casserole from-scratch, you’ll never go back to the canned variety again! You can even customize it to your family’s preferences (try swapping the breadcrumbs for crunchy fried onions instead!).
Get the Green Bean Casserole recipe.
16
Gingerbread Martini
Once you have the spiced gingerbread syrup, you can shake up this cocktail anytime you want! It can even double as a holiday dessert.
Get the Gingerbread Martini recipe.
17
Roasted Delicata Squash
Don’t forget to add a bounty of seasonal veggies to your table. This winter squash is a great place to start! It’s naturally sweet with a savory sage and parmesan cheese crust.
Get the Roasted Delicata Squash recipe.
18
Broccoli Cheese and Cracker Casserole
There’s just something about the combination of broccoli and cheese sauce that has everyone coming back for more. Add buttery crackers to the mix and you’ll have an instant family favorite.
Get Ree’s Broccoli Cheese and Cracker Casserole recipe.
19
Roast Leg of Lamb
Lamb is an excellent choice for your holiday show-stopper. It’s tender and elegant with a garlicky, herbaceous crust and a flavorful gravy.
Get the Roast Leg of Lamb recipe.
20
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a Southern favorite with big, bold flavor. They’re made with smoky turkey legs but you can use ham hocks if you prefer.
Get the Collard Greens recipe.
21
Root Beer Glazed Ham
This ham is made with root beer, plum jelly, spicy brown mustard, and apple cider vinegar. The result is a smoky, sticky, family-favorite glaze.
Get Ree’s Root Beer Glazed Ham recipe.
22
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Crisp Brussels sprouts are delicious any which way—even raw! You just need to shave them into a salad, add dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and a tangy Dijon dressing.
Get the Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad recipe.
23
Buttermilk Ranch Angel Biscuits
These heavenly biscuits are light and fluffy, but it’s their herby ranch flavor that really takes them over the top. Don’t forget to serve them up with extra ranch butter for good measure.
Get the Buttermilk Ranch Angel Biscuits recipe.
24
Mushroom Gravy
Don’t forget the gravy! This savory and creamy variation is made with mushrooms, fresh thyme, and garlic. You’ll want to pour it over the whole plate.
Get the Mushroom Gravy recipe.
25
Champagne Punch
You’ll make any holiday get-together feel like a special occasion when you pop the bubbly for this party punch. It’s sweet and fizzy with a pretty cranberry garnish.
Get the Champagne Punch recipe.
26
Shrimp Dip
Instead of canned shrimp, this recipe opts for fresh seafood instead. It’s an easy way to freshen up the old-school party dip.
Get the Shrimp Dip recipe.
27
Stuffed Artichokes
This recipe will teach you everything you need to know about preparing artichokes, including how to trim the leaves. Don’t worry, it’s easy! Then, just load them up with a golden, lemony breadcrumb filling.
Get the Stuffed Artichokes recipe.
28
Chicken Florentine
This elegant chicken dinner is lusciously creamy and full of festive color. Just look at the green spinach and red sun-dried tomatoes in the sauce!
Get the Chicken Florentine recipe.
29
Twice-Baked Potato Casserole
Turn your potatoes up a notch by adding lots of fan-favorite mix-ins, like sour cream, bacon, and cheddar cheese. You can even do most of the prep work ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Get the Twice-Baked Potato Casserole recipe.
30
Spatchcock Turkey
Cut your cooking time in half with this simple method for making a whole turkey. Just follow the steps for how to spatchcock the bird, then season it with a smoky rub.
Get the Spatchcock Turkey recipe.
31
Beef Burgundy
If you’re looking for something comforting to warm you up on the chilly December night, then beef burgundy is the dinner for you! It’s made with tender chuck roast, savory mushrooms, and an entire bottle of red wine.
Get Ree’s Beef Burgundy recipe.
32
Lobster Bisque
Here’s an elegant way to start your meal: Serve up a bowl of creamy lobster bisque! The Creole seasoning, white wine, and clam juice give the broth even more flavor.
Get the Lobster Bisque recipe.
33
Manicotti
You can’t go wrong with a cheesy baked pasta! But instead of your typical lasagna, try this ricotta-stuffed manicotti instead. It has a hearty ground beef sauce and lots of melted cheese on top.
Get the Manicotti recipe.
34
Peppermint Martini
Finish your meal with something sweet and boozy like this peppermint martini with a festive sugared rim. It only requires three ingredients so its easy to shake up.
Get the Peppermint Martini recipe.
35
Sausage Stuffing
This hearty stuffing has the perfect balance of crusty French bread and simple white sandwich bread that gives the center a bread pudding-like texture.
Get the Sausage Stuffing recipe.
36
Gougères
Get a head start on planning your holiday menu by making these cheesy puff pastries in advance. They can be frozen ahead and popped in the oven whenever your guests arrive!
Get the Gougères recipe.
37
Surf and Turf
If you want to pull out all the stops with an elegant main course, look no further than this surf and turf recipe. It combines seared steak with creamy, lemony shrimp.
Get the Surf and Turf recipe.
38
Maple Bacon Butter Fan Rolls
We love a good supermarket hack during the busy holiday season and these show-stopping dinner rolls do just that! They’re made with frozen bread dough to keep things easy.
Get the Maple Bacon Butter Fan Rolls recipe.
39
Stuffed Turkey Breast
Swirls of cornbread stuffing made with apples and bacon will instantly upgrade your turkey breast this season. Serve it up with gravy on the side and everyone will be happy.
Get the Stuffed Turkey Breast recipe.
40
Seared Scallops
Did you know you can cook scallops to perfection in just 10 minutes? This is the perfect quick-fix, but still impressive meal for those hectic holidays.
Get the Seared Scallops recipe.
41
Roasted Cauliflower
If your holiday menu could use a fresh veggie side, this nutty roasted cauliflower is just the recipe. You’ll be shocked at how quickly it gets gobbled up.
Get the Roasted Cauliflower recipe.
42
Milk Punch
A longtime holiday staple, milk punch is just the thing your Christmas dinner has been missing. This boozy, creamy punch is like eggnog, but without the egg.
Get the Milk Punch recipe.
43
Chicken Cacciatore
Ree has made this comforting chicken dinner many times, and it’s easy to see why. The crispy chicken thighs, flavorful white wine sauce, and noodles make it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Get Ree’s Chicken Cacciatore recipe.
44
Slow Cooker Green Beans
Not only is this dish perfectly on theme with its festive red and green colors, but it’s also loaded with savory flavor thanks to the bacon.
Get the Slow Cooker Green Beans recipe.
45
Herb Focaccia
Go all out for the holidays with this homemade bread. It’s filled with fragrant herbs and has the best texture!
Get the Herb Focaccia recipe.
46
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
These sticky-sweet dates are filled with blue cheese and wrapped in bacon. But what sets them apart from other bacon-wrapped dates, is the kick from the slice of jalapeño!
Get the Bacon-Wrapped Dates recipe.
47
Butternut Squash Lasagna
Seasonal winter squash becomes a creamy sauce for this hearty lasagna. Add Italian sausage, spinach, and lots of cheese for a fun twist on the baked pasta dish.
Get the Butternut Squash Lasagna recipe.
48
Pull-Apart Cheese Bread
This is a quick and easy way to upgrade your bread basket! The pull-apart loaf is filled with jarred pesto and shredded mozzarella cheese, then baked until melty.
49
Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Not only will the slow cooker save you space in the oven for baking all those Christmas cookies, but it also makes this pot roast meltingly tender.
Get the Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.
50
Honey-Chipotle Glazed Turkey
If your family doesn’t shy away from spice, try giving your holiday menu a kick with this turkey that has a sweet and spicy glaze. There’s even a gravy made with flavorful adobo sauce.
Get Ree’s Honey-Chipotle Glazed Turkey recipe.
51
Cranberry Martini
It doesn’t get more festive than a cranberry martini! Add a lime twist to the glass for that red and green flair.
Get the Cranberry Martini recipe.
52
Moussaka
This traditional Greek dish is layered with a hearty meat sauce, vegetables, and a bechamel topping that’s unbelievably creamy.
53
Christmas Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are must-have at any Drummond holiday party, but instead of the simple variety, this one is transformed into adorable little Christmas trees!
Get the Christmas Deviled Eggs recipe.
54
Roast Beef
When you bring this big holiday roast out to the table, you’ll be greeted with “oohs” and “ahhs.” After all, it’s an impressive main course that’s topped with caramelized onion gravy!
Get the Roast Beef recipe.
55
Crock-Pot Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes might seem labor intensive but using the slow cooker makes them even easier. The whole thing cooks up into a creamy, cheesy sensation with little effort.
Get the Crock-Pot Scalloped Potatoes recipe.
56
Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes
A nutty streusel topping makes sweet potatoes even more festive. We love the idea of adding a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
Get the Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes recipe.
57
Garlic Green Beans
Sometimes simple is best, as is the case with these quick and easy green beans. They have just enough flavor from fresh garlic cloves.
Get the Garlic Green Beans recipe.
58
Christmas Charcuterie Board
Let your creativity shine with this festive wreath-shaped cheese board! All you need is a round platter, your favorite deli meats, mozzarella balls, and red and green olives.
Get the Christmas Charcuterie Board recipe.
59
Pepper-Jack Mashed Potatoes
You can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes! But if you want to take things to the next level, try adding a little spice in the form of pepper jack cheese. There’s also some chili powder and cayenne for good measure.
Get Ree’s Pepper-Jack Mashed Potatoes recipe.
60
Chicken Fried Chicken
For a twist on fried quail (a classic Drummond family tradition), this fried chicken is worth a try. It’s extra crunchy and flavorful thanks to buttermilk, pickle juice, and cayenne pepper. Just don’t forget the gravy!
61
Cherry Punch
Serving a festive punch will make it easier for you as the host. Guests can help themselves to a drink while you put the finishing touches on the Christmas dessert!
Get the Cherry Punch recipe.
62
Grilled Lobster Tail
Whether or not you celebrate with the Feast of the Seven Fishes, lobster is a great idea for those looking to impress. And if you serve it up with prime rib, it’ll be a surf and turf Christmas like none other!
63
Dutch Oven Roast Chicken
You’ll get a main course and some side vegetables all in one pot with this easy roast chicken recipe. Plus, it’ll look just as impressive as any other dish you’re serving.
Get the Dutch Oven Roast Chicken recipe.
64
Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
If you’re looking for ways to feel a little bit fancy this holiday, these crab-stuffed mushrooms are your answer! Surprisingly, they’re not difficult to make at all!
65
Stuffing with Chorizo and Poblano
Stuffing is one of those dishes that’s great for customizing. In this case, poblano peppers and chorizo give it a subtle kick.
66
Rack of Lamb
Lamb is a fun alternative to prime rib or turkey on Christmas. And it only requires 30 minutes of cook time which is a major time-saver during the holidays.
Get the Rack of Lamb recipe.
67
Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese
It doesn’t get more comforting than mac and cheese! This one is made with three types of cheese (American, cheddar, gouda) and the best part is that it doesn’t take up any oven space!
Get the Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese recipe.
68
Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Smothered in gravy, these pork chops are perfect for a chilly winter night. Plus, they’ll taste great with your classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes and green beans.
Get the Slow Cooker Pork Chops recipe.
69
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
For a fun twist on your regular mashed potato dish, try mashed sweet potatoes instead. They’ll add a pop of color (and flavor) to your holiday table.
Get the Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe.
70
Pull-Apart Pigs in a Blanket
Everyone’s favorite appetizer gets a holiday spin with this fun wreath-shaped recipe! It’ll be hard to eat just one.
Get the Pull-Apart Pigs in a Blanket recipe.
71
Air Fryer Green Beans
Not only is this side dish ready in just 15 minutes, but it also won’t take up any space on your stovetop. Now that’s an easy Christmas recipe!
Get the Air Fryer Green Beans recipe.
72
Pomegranate Margarita
This festive red and green cocktail is made with pomegranate juice, which has a cranberry-like flavor. It’ll make you wonder why you’ve never served margaritas at Christmas before!
Get the Pomegranate Margarita recipe.
73
Italian Wedding Soup
Not really made for weddings, this comforting soup is all about the “marriage” of flavors between the broth, pasta, and mini meatballs. In fact, it’s perfect for Christmas or any family dinner!
Get the Italian Wedding Soup recipe.
74
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This recipe tastes just like homemade stuffing meets chicken pot pie. But the best part is that it’s easy to make and it feeds a crowd!
Get the Chicken and Stuffing Casserole recipe.
75
Pumpkin Risotto
Warm, comforting, and loaded with wintry flavors—this risotto will make any night feel like a special occasion. It’s especially pretty with the crispy bacon and sage leave garnish.
Get the Pumpkin Risotto recipe.
76
Candied Sweet Potatoes
A warm spiced maple and bourbon glaze gives these sweet potatoes their caramelized flavor. It’s perfect alongside beef, pork, turkey, or any holiday main.
Get the Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe.
77
Air Fryer Turkey Breast
If you’re serving a crowd and need a second main course to serve with your prime rib or Christmas ham, consider this air fryer turkey recipe—it couldn’t be easier!
Get the Air Fryer Turkey Breast recipe.
78
Prime Rib
The Drummond family enjoys a big prime rib for dinner on Christmas. Ree’s easy recipe takes the stress out of cooking the beef.
Get Ree’s Prime Rib recipe.
79
Easy Baked Brie
Add this melty brie cheese to your charcuterie board for the ultimate cozy winter vibes. It’s topped with seasonal herbs and a touch of honey for sweetness.
Get the Easy Baked Brie recipe.
80
Shrimp Cocktail
Perfectly chilled shrimp cocktail feels like a special treat to welcome your guests. Making it at home is all the more fun!
Get Ree’s Shrimp Cocktail recipe.
81
Bacon-Wrapped Turkey
If you want to make a big statement this holiday season, look no further than this show-stopping main course. The turkey is covered in a bacon lattice that helps make it smoky, salty, and so gorgeous.
Get Ree’s Bacon-Wrapped Turkey recipe.
82
Cauliflower Gratin
This new twist on a classic gratin is made with cauliflower instead of potatoes. But it still has plenty of flavorful gruyere cheese and the crunchy topping you know and love.
Get Ree’s Cauliflower Gratin recipe.
83
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
You can serve these bacon-wrapped scallops on their own as a holiday appetizer or over a plate of rice or pasta for a more filling main course. Either way, don’t forget to drench them in the flavorful chili butter sauce!
Get Ree’s Bacon-Wrapped Scallops recipe.
84
Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Preserves
This 20-minutes main course will look like you spend hours in the kitchen. It’s adorned with a delicious glaze that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Get Ree’s Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Preserves recipe.
85
French 75 Cocktail
Celebrate your Christmas dinner with a toast and a glass of this champagne cocktail. It’s bright, refreshing, and perfect for saying “Cheers!”
Get the French 75 Cocktail recipe.
86
Cocktail Meatballs
All your guests will be raving over this tasty holiday starter—it’s a little bit sweet and a little bit spicy. Basically, the perfect bite!
Get Ree’s Cocktail Meatballs recipe.
87
Duchess Potatoes
This fancy-looking twist on mashed potatoes will look extra-impressive alongside your holiday roast. All you need is a piping bag with a star tip to make it happen.
Get Ree’s Duchess Potatoes recipe.
88
Brussels Sprouts Casserole
The combination of Brussels sprouts and bacon in a creamy baked casserole dish will have even picky eaters cleaning their plates. To get a head start on your Christmas prep, trim and halve the veggies up to two days in advance.
Get the Brussels Sprouts Casserole recipe.
89
Beef Wellington
If you’re looking for a show-stopping Christmas centerpiece, this impressive beef wellington will do the trick! The tender beef is wrapped in flaky puff pastry with a layer of savory mushrooms.
Get the Beef Wellington recipe.
90
Baked Gnocchi Alfredo
This decadent pasta dish will trump your usual mac and cheese. It’s made with pillow-soft gnocchi that are easy to find these days at the grocery store.
Get the Baked Gnocchi Alfredo recipe.
91
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
The combination of maple syrup and bacon makes this side dish the perfect balance of salty and sweet. It’ll make even the harshest skeptics of this vegetable ask for seconds.
Get the Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe.
92
Honey-Glazed Ham and Checkerboard Rolls
Here’s a fun way to serve Christmas ham—try making a bit platter with sliced ham, cheese, and dinner rolls for a DIY slider that everyone will love.
Get Ree’s Honey-Glazed Ham and Checkerboard Rolls recipe.
93
Braised Short Ribs
These fall-of-the-bone short ribs can do with just about any side dish but serve them over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta and it’s pure heaven.
Get Ree’s Braised Short Ribs recipe.
94
Cranberry Brie Bites
This popular party food is even better in bite-sized form. And it’s so easy to prepare too—all you need is puff pastry, brie cheese, cranberry sauce, and nuts.
95
Cheesy Potato Casserole
This creamy potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Along with plenty of cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup, there’s also a buttery breadcrumb topping that’s unbelievably good.
Get the Cheesy Potato Casserole recipe.
96
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow
This decadent casserole dish isn’t just for Thanksgiving. Everyone will be happy to see it on your Christmas table, too.
97
Slow Cooker Brisket
We love a holiday main where both meat and veggies are all cooked in one pot. And not just any pot for that matter—it’s all done in a slow cooker—so you don’t have to take up precious oven space.
Get the Slow Cooker Brisket recipe.
98
Christmas Crudites
It’s always a good idea to start with something fresh like a plate of veggies with a creamy, herby dip. Plus, the red and green colors of this holiday starter is perfect for celebrating Christmas.
Get Ree’s Christmas Crudites recipe.
99
Butternut Squash Casserole
This savory casserole is loaded with seasonal winter veggies like butternut squash, kale, and parsnips. It’s a healthy addition to your Christmas dinner menu.
Get the Butternut Squash Casserole recipe.