If December had a taste, it would probably be something from these 19 Christmas recipes. Each one brings the kind of joy that makes the month feel a little less hectic and a lot more festive. They’re great for impressing guests—or just winning over that one picky eater who swears they don’t like holiday food. Spoiler alert: they’ll love it, and so will you!
Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Few things bring the holiday cheer like a platter of crowd-pleasing appetizers, and Southern Sausage Cheese Balls know how to steal the show. These little bites are the kind of thing people keep sneaking back for when they think no one’s watching. They’re the perfect addition to any Christmas spread, offering a cozy, festive vibe that feels just right. If you’re looking to add a little magic to your holiday gathering, these will deliver every time.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Red Velvet Christmas Truffles
Sweet, rich, and indulgent, Red Velvet Christmas Truffles are a holiday must-have. They’re the perfect treat to share at a party or wrap up as a homemade gift. Each bite feels like a small celebration, with just the right balance of sweetness. They’ll definitely disappear fast, so make extra if you can.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Christmas Truffles
Smoked Ribeye Roast
A centerpiece like a Smoked Ribeye Roast makes a big statement on any holiday table. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and always gets compliments. Perfect for anyone who loves a little smokiness with their festive dinner. It’s one of those dishes that’s worth every second of waiting for the carving.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast
Homemade Boursin Cheese with Fresh Herbs
Homemade Boursin Cheese with Fresh Herbs is an easy win for appetizers that feel fancy without the effort. It’s creamy, herby, and pairs well with crackers or bread. Perfect for spreading, it quickly becomes the star of the snack table. You might even find people skipping the main course for more of this.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Boursin Cheese with Fresh Herbs
Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Cooking a Turkey Breast in the air fryer is a game-changer for a smaller holiday crowd. It comes out juicy, flavorful, and just right for quick slicing. Perfect for anyone who wants to avoid the stress of roasting a whole bird. Plus, it frees up your oven for all the other good stuff.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars
If you’re a dessert lover, Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars are the treat you didn’t know you needed. Sweet, crumbly, and packed with indulgence, they make a perfect after-dinner bite. These bars are great for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Either way, they’ll leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars
Sausage Stuffing
No holiday dinner is complete without Sausage Stuffing on the table. It’s comforting, hearty, and pairs perfectly with all the classics. Serve it up alongside turkey or ham, and it’ll be gone before you know it. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffing
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are the ultimate festive treat for chocolate lovers. Each bite gives a rich cocoa flavor with a refreshing kick. These cookies are perfect for dessert trays, cookie swaps, or sneaky midnight snacks. They’ll quickly become a family favorite you’ll make year after year.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon
A holiday table feels complete with Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon. Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, they’re an instant hit with guests. Whether as a side dish or a snack, they always find a way to disappear fast. Make enough to go around because everyone will be asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon
Traeger Smoked Turkey
For a twist on tradition, a Traeger Smoked Turkey brings bold flavors to the holiday meal. It’s juicy, tender, and has just the right amount of smokiness. Perfect for those who want to try something different without overcomplicating things. It’ll make you rethink the way turkey should taste.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey
Sweet Potato Cornbread
Combining sweet and savory, Sweet Potato Cornbread is a must for a festive dinner. It’s hearty enough to stand out but still pairs well with everything on your plate. This dish adds something special to the table and feels like pure comfort. Even the picky eaters will be grabbing a slice or two.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Ginger Spice Cookies
Nothing says holiday cheer like Ginger Spice Cookies fresh out of the oven. Warm, cozy flavors make them perfect for dunking in milk or coffee. They’re a classic treat that everyone loves, from kids to grandparents. Keep a batch on hand because they disappear faster than you can bake them.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies
Crab Spanakopita
A twist on the classic, Crab Spanakopita makes a crowd-pleasing holiday appetizer. Flaky, buttery layers with rich, savory filling hit the perfect note. These are great for passing around at parties or starting off a big meal. You might want to make extra because they’ll be gone in no time.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita
Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies
Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies take a holiday favorite and make it even better. They’re rich, festive, and fun for decorating with the family. Perfect for dessert tables, gift bags, or just treating yourself. These cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies
Smoked Carver Ham
A Smoked Carver Ham makes an impressive centerpiece for any holiday meal. It’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Slice it up for sandwiches, pair it with sides, or enjoy it straight from the serving platter. Leftovers, if there are any, make for amazing next-day meals.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham
Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets
Bite-sized and packed with goodness, Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets are perfect for holiday gatherings. They’re savory, flaky, and just the right size for snacking. These little tarts make a great addition to any appetizer spread. Expect these to disappear as soon as they hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets
Baked Brie in a Bowl
Warm and gooey, Baked Brie in a Bowl is a showstopper on any holiday table. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers or dipping with bread. This dish feels fancy without needing much effort, which is always a win. It’s one of those appetizers people remember long after the meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie in a Bowl
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets bring something special to your appetizer lineup. These are light, flaky, and packed with great flavors. Perfect for adding a bit of elegance to the snack table without too much effort. They’ll have your guests asking where you found the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Cranberry Bars
Sweet and tangy, Cranberry Bars are a holiday favorite for dessert lovers. They’re perfect for cutting into squares and sharing with family and friends. A great mix of rich and fruity flavors makes these bars stand out. Whether for dessert tables or snack trays, they’re a hit every time.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bars