21 Christmas recipes that’ll make your table more festive than a hallmark movie

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These Christmas recipes are all about making your table the centerpiece of the holiday season. Whether you’re aiming to impress your family or host a cozy gathering with friends, these festive dishes bring just the right mix of tradition and creativity. Think of it as the perfect way to create a meal that feels as warm and inviting as a scene from a Hallmark movie.

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.

Abominable Snowman Cupcakes

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

If your holiday table needs a touch of festive magic, Abominable Snowman Cupcakes are here to steal the spotlight. Their fun, playful vibe brings the kind of cheer that feels straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. These cupcakes have a way of vanishing before you even realize, leaving your table looking festive but deliciously emptier. Add them to your spread, and your holiday table just might get a standing ovation.
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 looking to bring a touch of elegance to your Christmas table, Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a must-try. This recipe pairs the richness of crab with the earthy tones of mushrooms, creating a harmonious blend that’s hard to resist. It’s an ideal choice for an appetizer that’s both sophisticated and full of flavor, setting the tone for a memorable feast. With each bite, guests are sure to appreciate the care and thought put into preparing this delicious start to your holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Turkey & Apple Panini

Turkey & Apple Panini stacked on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a cozy and comforting addition to your holiday meals, Turkey & Apple Panini offers a warm and hearty option. This recipe brings together the savory taste of turkey and the sweet crispness of apples for a dish that feels both familiar and festive. Perfect for a casual Christmas lunch or as a creative way to use up leftover turkey, these paninis are a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly bridges the gap between traditional and modern tastes.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

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.

If your holiday table needs a little extra sparkle, this Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board is here to deliver. Its vibrant display and sweet flavors bring all the festive vibes you’d expect from a Hallmark-worthy celebration. It’s the kind of dish that gets everyone talking and nibbling until there’s nothing left. With this on your table, your holiday spread might just steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

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

Bring a touch of nostalgia to your Christmas feast with Old Fashioned Ham Salad. This recipe revives a classic in a way that feels both comforting and refreshing amidst the more typical holiday dishes. It serves as a fantastic spread for crackers or bread, making it a versatile addition to your table. Not only does it offer a savory option for guests to nibble on, but it also encourages a sense of sharing and togetherness as everyone digs in.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

A sweet potato on a plate with a fork.
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer are an effortless yet delicious side dish that brings a modern twist to your holiday menu. This recipe ensures the sweet potatoes come out perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. They offer a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste or texture, marrying well with both meat and vegetarian main courses.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A jar of White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies next to lavender flowers.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform your holiday dessert tray into a winter wonderland with White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. These cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet white chocolate and the rich texture of a classic crinkle cookie. They’re not only a joy to make but also a visual treat, looking like they’ve been dusted with fresh snow. Baking a batch of these will surely bring smiles and a sweet close to your festive evening.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Smoked Turkey Thighs

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

For a main dish that fills the room with an aroma as inviting as the holiday spirit itself, Smoked Turkey Thighs are an impeccable choice. This recipe offers a twist on the traditional turkey by focusing on the thighs, ensuring each piece is juicy and full of smoky flavor. It’s a delicious way to cater to smaller gatherings without compromising on the sense of occasion that a whole turkey brings.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Turkey Thighs

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 serve as an exquisite appetizer that artfully combines the savory richness of bacon with the subtle warmth of mushrooms. Their petite size makes them perfect for passing around as guests mingle and settle in for the evening’s festivities. This recipe not only showcases your culinary skills but also adds an element of refined taste to your Christmas spread.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Smoked Carver Ham

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

Bring the traditional centerpiece ham to new heights with its deep, smoky undertones and succulent texture with Smoked Carver Ham. This main course stands out for its ability to gather everyone around the table in anticipation of the first slice. It’s a testament to the time-honored tradition of sharing a special meal, updated with a modern flair.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties in a black dish.
Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties are a creative and delicious way to repurpose leftovers, ensuring nothing goes to waste after your holiday feast. This recipe transforms the remnants of your Christmas dinner into a comforting dish that’s perfect for a relaxed meal the next day. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, simple reinventions are the most enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

A glass of whiskey with oranges and a wooden stick.
Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Level up your Christmas celebration with a Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail, a sophisticated drink that adds a layer of complexity to the traditional recipe. This concoction brings an element of elegance and nostalgia to your holiday gathering, making it a topic of conversation amongst guests. It’s a unique choice for those who appreciate a time-honored classic with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

Turkey Roll Roast

A piece of roasted turkey on a cutting board with a knife.
Turkey Roll Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re aiming for a visually impressive yet surprisingly manageable main course, Turkey Roll Roast is the way to go. This dish offers the flavorful treat of turkey in a form that ensures even cooking and easy serving. It’s ideal for those who cherish the presentation aspect of holiday meals but crave the simplicity of preparation. This turkey roast promises to be a centerpiece that captures both the eye and the palate.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Roast

Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

A bowl of boiled potatoes with skins on, topped with a creamy herb sauce and garnished with chopped fresh dill.
Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A side dish that effortlessly combines the creaminess of sour cream with the crispy texture of bacon, Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon, is a mouthwatering addition to any festive table. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that complements a wide range of main courses, offering a familiar yet indulgent taste. It’s a way to bring a sense of home and comfort to your holiday spread, ensuring everyone finds something to love.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans is a recipe that brings a touch of soulful cooking to your Christmas dining experience. Letting the green beans slowly cook to perfection frees up your time to focus on enjoying the holiday rather than monitoring the stove. This side dish is not just easy to make but is also packed with flavor, demonstrating that simplicity can be deeply rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Baked Brie in a Bowl

A wooden platter with baked brie in a bowl, cheese, crackers, grapes and bread.
Baked Brie in a Bowl. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Introducing Baked Brie in a Bowl to your holiday menu is an excellent way to add a luxurious, yet surprisingly simple touch to the festivities. This dish combines the creamy decadence of brie with the communal joy of shared appetizers. It’s an inviting start to the evening that encourages guests to gather around and enjoy together.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie in a Bowl

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets with lemon wedges on a black plate.
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a lighter appetizer that doesn’t skimp on elegance, Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets are a perfect choice. These tartlets provide a delicious contrast of textures, from the crispy phyllo to the smooth salmon and tender leeks. They’re an ideal pick for those looking to balance the richer dishes typically found on Christmas menus.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Turkey Vegetable Soup

Two bowls of turkey and vegetable soup with spoons.
Turkey Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

After the feast has settled, Turkey Vegetable Soup offers a comforting way to enjoy the richness of holiday flavors in a lighter, nourishing bowl. This recipe is perfect for unwinding after the festivities, providing a soothing, warm dish that’s easy on the stomach yet full of taste. It’s a practical yet heartfelt way to make the most of your turkey leftovers, showing that the holiday spirit extends well beyond the main event.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Vegetable Soup

Broccoli Casserole with Turkey

A casserole dish with broccoli and turkey.
Broccoli Casserole with Turkey. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Broccoli Casserole with Turkey is a cozy and satisfying dish that brings together the comfort of casseroles with the festive spirit of Christmas turkey. This recipe is a wonderful way to add a touch of green to your holiday table while indulging in the rich flavors that define the season. It’s particularly appealing for those looking for a dish that feels both special and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Turkey

Turkey Chaffwich

Waffles with turkey and cranberry on a plate.
Turkey Chaffwich. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a fun and innovative take on holiday leftovers, Turkey Chaffwich turns the expected into something unexpectedly delicious. This recipe takes the essence of a sandwich and transforms it with a unique twist, offering a crispy, flavorful, and playful way to enjoy turkey the day after. It’s a perfect choice for a casual, stress-free meal that still holds onto the holiday flavors everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chaffwich

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.

To close out your Christmas feast on a refreshingly sweet note, Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are the answer. This recipe blends the rich intensity of dark chocolate with the cool burst of peppermint, capturing the quintessential flavors of the season. Sharing these cookies means ending your celebration with a memorable touch of sweetness, inviting everyone to linger a little longer in the holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

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