15 Christmas meals that won’t let your holiday spirit get lost in the cooking

Photo of author

| Published:

Christmas is about spending time with loved ones and not being stuck in the kitchen, and these meals help keep the focus on what matters most. These recipes are simple enough to prepare without taking away from the joy of the season. Perfect for any holiday gathering, they bring warmth and cheer to the table while keeping things manageable.

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.

Christmas Tree Cake Dip

A festive tray of Christmas Tree Cake Crack, featuring broken pieces of white chocolate-coated crackers, topped with red drizzle and green sprinkles.
Christmas Tree Cake Dip. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Holidays can feel like a marathon, but this Christmas Tree Cake Dip makes dessert feel like a festive sprint. It’s all about keeping the magic alive without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for those moments when you want to impress but need simplicity on your side. This sweet addition will keep your guests dipping into the holiday cheer without breaking a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Cake Dip

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

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

Preparing Crab Stuffed Mushrooms can light up your holiday table with something both elegant and easy. This dish offers a wonderful combination of flavors that come together in a way that feels both festive and comforting. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for an appetizer that’s both sophisticated and simple to make. Wrap up your holiday meal prep with this recipe, and watch as it becomes a new favorite among your guests.
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.

Bringing a twist to holiday leftovers, Turkey & Apple Panini is an inventive way to enjoy the flavors of the season. This sandwich combines the best of the holiday leftovers in a creative and delicious manner. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a cozy meal amidst the hustle and bustle of the season. This Panini proves that holiday meals can be both delicious and simple.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

A festive display of peppermint sugar cookie bars surrounded by Christmas decorations.
Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

When you need a dessert that’s quick to make but still brings the holiday cheer, these bars are a solid pick. Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars combine festive flavors with a no-fuss approach, making them perfect for keeping things simple. They’re great for adding some sweetness to the table without stealing all your kitchen time. With these bars, your holiday spirit stays intact and so does your sanity.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

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 a game-changer for anyone seeking a healthier side dish this holiday. This recipe showcases how easy it is to achieve perfectly cooked sweet potatoes without much effort. It’s a straightforward approach to a holiday favorite, ensuring you can focus more on enjoying the festivities and less on cooking. Finish your holiday spread with this dish for a wholesome and hassle-free option.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon.
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a unique blend of flavors that can complement any holiday meal with Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. This dish adds a delicious twist to traditional sauerkraut by incorporating apples and bacon, making it a memorable part of your festive dining experience. It’s a wonderful way to introduce variety into your holiday menu while keeping preparation stress-free. Let this recipe be the surprise hit of your seasonal gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

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.

When the holidays are in full swing, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with cooking, but a Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board keeps things festive without the hassle. This board lets everyone grab what they like while you relax. It’s a way to mix sweet and light options into your celebration, giving you more time to mingle. So go ahead, bring out this cheerful platter, and enjoy watching it disappear as fast as the presents get unwrapped!
Get the Recipe: Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board

Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema

A wooden cutting board with sliced meat and sauce on it.
Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema is an exquisite choice for those looking to impress their guests with minimal effort. This recipe pairs well-known ingredients in an unexpected way, offering a refreshing take on holiday appetizers. It’s perfect for a festive gathering where you want to offer something a bit out of the ordinary. Enjoy sharing this delicious dish with friends and family during your holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema

Turkey Chaffwich

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

If you’re in search of a creative way to use up holiday turkey, Turkey Chaffwich has got you covered. This recipe transforms leftovers into a delicious new meal that is both satisfying and simple to prepare. It provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the flavors of the holiday in a form that’s unexpected yet delicious. Gather your family around for a casual meal and enjoy the comfort it brings.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chaffwich

Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

A plate of Prosciutto & Parmesan Puff Pastry pinwheels.
Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Entertaining becomes a breeze with Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels, a recipe that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. These pinwheels are a fantastic finger food option that can easily become the star of your holiday appetizer table. They’re straightforward to make yet possess an elegance that guests will appreciate. Introduce these at your next gathering and watch them disappear in moments.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Sauerkraut Balls

A close-up shot of hands pulling apart a crispy, golden-brown, cheese-filled snack with a gooey, melted cheese center against a textured white background.
Sauerkraut Balls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sauerkraut Balls are an intriguing addition to the holiday menu, offering a flavorful way to enjoy sauerkraut in bite-sized form. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the tangy taste of sauerkraut and are looking for a unique appetizer. Easy to prepare and even easier to serve, these balls are bound to become a talking point among your guests. Serve these at your holiday party for a memorable and distinctive snack.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Balls

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a luxurious yet manageable holiday treat, Beef Wellington Bites are the answer. These miniature versions of the classic dish retain all the elegance and richness but in a form that’s perfect for party serving. They offer a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making them an instant hit at any festivity. Your guests will marvel at the taste and presentation of these exquisite bites.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Ginger Spice Cookies

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

No holiday is complete without the aromatic bliss of Ginger Spice Cookies filling the air. This recipe yields cookies that strike a perfect balance between spicy and sweet, bringing warmth to any holiday table. They’re just the right touch for those who appreciate the nostalgic flavors of the season. Bake a batch of these cookies and fill your home with the essence of holiday joy.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced turkey breast on a white plate with sprigs of thyme.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a stress-free main course, Air Fryer Turkey Breast is the way to go. This recipe allows you to enjoy the tradition of turkey without the complexity of preparing a whole bird. The result is a perfectly cooked turkey that’s juicy and flavorful, with minimal effort. It’s a smart choice for smaller gatherings, ensuring you get to spend more time with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

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 bring the quintessential holiday flavors together in a form that’s irresistible. This recipe pairs the richness of dark chocolate with the refreshing coolness of peppermint, creating a memorable sweet treat. They’re ideal for sharing with family and friends, or for enjoying a quiet moment of holiday bliss on your own. These cookies will surely add a touch of magic to your festive celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.