19 holiday dishes that’ll turn your kitchen into the North Pole’s favorite branch

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Transform your holiday spread into the talk of the season with dishes that bring festive cheer to every bite. These 19 creations don’t just feed a crowd; they’ll make your kitchen feel like Santa’s workshop, minus the reindeer cleanup. Perfect for gatherings where everyone claims they’re “just here for the food.” Let’s be honest, with these dishes on the table, no one’s leaving early.

Two squares of cranberry bars on a slate plate.
Cranberry Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Abominable Snowman Cupcakes

Snowman-themed cupcakes with fluffy white frosting and candy eyes.
Abominable Snowman Cupcakes. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

If Santa had a favorite dessert station outside the North Pole, Abominable Snowman Cupcakes would be the star attraction. Their festive charm and holiday magic make them impossible to resist, no matter how full everyone claims to be. These cupcakes disappear faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve, leaving no evidence except happy faces. Serve these, and your kitchen might just earn honorary elf status.
Get the Recipe: Abominable Snowman Cupcakes

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

A slate platter with six crab stuffed mushrooms garnished with herbs.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you’re aiming for a snack that will have everyone coming back for seconds, these Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are the way to go. They’re easy to grab, making them perfect for small gatherings or a cozy night in. Every bite is a blend of rich and comforting tastes. You’ll be surprised at how quickly they disappear from the plate.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For anyone who loves a touch of nostalgia with their holiday feast, Old Fashioned Ham Salad hits the spot. It’s a versatile dish that can serve as an appetizer or a main, depending on how you serve it. This recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both surprising and familiar. It’s a true classic that never fails to please.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board

A festive Christmas charcuterie board with a bowl of sprinkled fruit dip surrounded by holiday-themed treats and fruits.
Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

This Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board feels like something straight out of Santa’s workshop. It’s colorful, sweet, and has that magical touch that gets everyone in the holiday spirit. Whether it’s kids sneaking extras or adults hovering for “just one more,” it’s always the star of the dessert table. Your kitchen will officially be dubbed the North Pole’s favorite with this on the menu!
Get the Recipe: Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This recipe provide a modern twist on a beloved side dish, making them a standout addition to any meal. These perfectly portioned stacks make serving and presentation a breeze. Au Gratin Potato Stacks are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This dish will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Smoked Turkey Thighs

Smoked turkey thigh on a white plate.
Smoked Turkey Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Turkey Thighs are a fantastic way to change up the traditional holiday turkey fare. They’re packed full of flavor and have a tenderness that can’t be beaten. This dish serves up a smaller portion size, making it ideal for different events or a family meal. It’s a simpler, more relaxed way to enjoy turkey.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Turkey Thighs

Peppermint Fluff

Bowl of peppermint fluff topped with red sprinkles and wafer cookies.
Peppermint Fluff. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

When a dish like Peppermint Fluff hits the table, your kitchen might as well have been endorsed by the big guy in red himself. It’s the kind of festive favorite that feels like it was whipped up by Santa’s best elves. Bowls empty faster than you can say “Merry Christmas,” and suddenly everyone’s asking for the recipe. With this treat, your kitchen becomes the North Pole’s favorite branch in no time.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Fluff

Triple Ginger Cake

A plate with four squares of triple ginger cake bars on it.
Triple Ginger Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who love a bit of spice in their sweets, Triple Ginger Cake offers a whole lot of warmth. It’s soft, moist, and packed with a gingery punch. This cake is a fantastic finish to any meal and pairs beautifully with your favorite coffee or tea. It’s a holiday treat that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Triple Ginger Cake

Smoked Ribeye Roast

Sliced smoked ribeye beef on a cutting board.
Smoked Ribeye Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrading the centerpiece of your holiday meal can be effortlessly achieved with a Smoked Ribeye Roast. This main dish is rich in flavor and guaranteed to impress your guests. It’s a hearty option for those looking to stick to traditional roots while adding a smoky twist. Everyone will be asking for your secrets on this one.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast

Sausage Stuffing

Sausage stuffing in a red pot.
Sausage Stuffing. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A holiday meal isn’t complete without a hearty side like Sausage Stuffing. It’s a staple that complements any main dish beautifully, bringing a homey and comforting vibe. This recipe is robust and full of character, just like the stories shared around the dinner table. It’s a must-have for completing the festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffing

Sweet Potato Cornbread

A piece of cornbread on a plate next to a few potatoes.
Sweet Potato Cornbread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet Potato Cornbread brings a sweet twist to a classic side dish. It’s soft, crumbly, and absolutely irresistible, especially when served warm. This cornbread pairs wonderfully with a range of holiday dishes, from meats to greens. Plus, it’s a great way to add a bit of color and sweetness to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want the smoky flavors of tradition without the fuss, Smoked Carver Ham is your go-to. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, offering a succulent and juicy main course. This ham can easily become the star of your holiday meal, setting a new standard for festive feasts. Plus, the leftovers make for fantastic sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

A plate of chocolate cookies topped with white icing and green sprinkles. A red and white striped cloth is in the background.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are the perfect holiday treat for anyone who loves a hint of mint with their chocolate. These cookies are rich, indulgent, and full of holiday cheer. They’re ideal for cookie exchanges, gifting, or just enjoying with a tall glass of milk. Plus, they add a festive touch to any holiday dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Traeger Smoked Turkey

A smoked turkey on a wooden cutting board.
Traeger Smoked Turkey. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking to impress with minimal effort, Traeger Smoked Turkey is the way to do it. This method gives the turkey a wonderfully smoky flavor that’s hard to achieve any other way. It’s perfect for those looking for something different this holiday season. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter around the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

Ginger Spice Cookies

A plate of Spiced Ginger Cookies and a cup of tea.
Ginger Spice Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ginger Spice Cookies bring warmth and nostalgia to the holiday season. These cookies are not only delicious but also fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. It’s a traditional holiday cookie that always seems to bring smiles.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Adding a side of Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds can transform any meal into something extraordinary. These sprouts are not just your average side dish; they offer a complex mix of textures and tastes, with the brown butter adding a nutty richness that’s hard to beat. They’re easy to make but look incredibly sophisticated on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

A black plate with bacon and mushroom tartlets on it.
Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets are the perfect small bite for your holiday spread. They’re rich, savory, and absolutely moreish. This appetizer is a great way to kick off any festive meal, offering a sophisticated yet easy-to-enjoy option. It’s hard not to keep going back for one more.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Tomato Bruschetta Board

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Setting up a Tomato Bruschetta Board is a fantastic way to get everyone involved and eating together. It’s fresh, tasty, and perfect for sharing. This board is a great way to start off any holiday meal, encouraging everyone to dig in and enjoy. Plus, it’s a beautiful centerpiece for your table.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

Cranberry Bars

Two squares of cranberry bars on a slate plate.
Cranberry Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a sweet ending to any meal, Cranberry Bars are a winner. They’re tangy, sweet, and utterly irresistible. These bars are a great alternative to more traditional holiday desserts, offering a blend of flavors that’s both refreshing and comforting. It’s a dessert that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bars

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