19 Christmas recipes that won’t let a single plate return with leftovers

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Hosting a holiday gathering means bringing together food that everyone loves, and these recipes are sure to deliver. Each dish is prepared to be a crowd-pleaser, leaving no room for leftovers. Whether it’s a main course or a festive side, these options ensure every plate will be wiped clean with happy smiles all around.

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.

It’s not every day you find treats that bring a smile and zero leftovers, but these Abominable Snowman Cupcakes manage both. They stand out at any holiday spread, perfectly embracing the festive cheer with their fun and quirky charm. These little snowmen are impossible to ignore and tend to vanish before anyone can grab seconds. If you want a Christmas dessert that guarantees empty plates, this one is a no-brainer.
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 hit appetizer this Christmas, Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are your best bet. They have a unique blend that’s both appetizing and memorable, making your holiday table more inviting. Each mushroom cap is filled with a flavorful mixture, creating a bite-sized marvel that’s hard to resist. These mushrooms ensure your guests converse about your menu long after the holiday lights dim.
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 meal that brings warmth, Turkey & Apple Panini marries traditional holiday flavors in a not-so-traditional way. It’s comforting, and easy to make, and the crisp apples add a fresh twist to the succulent turkey. Imagine biting into this sandwich and feeling the crunch, the taste, and the warmth all at once. It’s a simple pleasure that makes for an unforgettable holiday lunch.
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.

Nobody can resist a spread that looks like holiday magic. This Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board will be the first thing to disappear at the table. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and festive, making it ideal for mingling moments. Trust me, there won’t be a single grape or cracker left to clean up.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Dip Christmas Charcuterie Board

Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

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

The perfect way to kick start your holiday evening is Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail. It’s a classic drink with a smoky twist that adds depth and character. Sipping on this cocktail by the fire, surrounded by friends and family, makes for an unforgettable holiday experience. It’s not just a drink; it’s a moment to enjoy and enjoy the simpler pleasures of the season.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Eggnog sugar cookies on a plate with santa claus figurines.
Eggnog Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Eggnog Sugar Cookies take a beloved holiday beverage and transform it into a delicious treat. With their soft texture and hints of nutmeg and vanilla, these cookies are like a warm hug on a chilly evening. They’re perfect for baking in large batches and sharing with loved ones or simply enjoying a cup of hot cocoa. The aroma alone will make your home smell like Christmas cheer is in the air.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Peppermint Fluff

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

Holiday gatherings are known for indulgent spreads, but Peppermint Fluff has a way of vanishing faster than Santa’s cookies. This sweet treat brings a festive twist to any table, making it the one dish people can’t stop going back for. By the time the party’s over, don’t expect to find even a spoonful left behind. It’s the Christmas go-to that proves you really can’t have too much of a good thing.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Fluff

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.

For a creative way to use holiday leftovers, try Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties. They’re a comforting dish that brings together two favorites in a delicious, crispy patty. Perfect for a relaxed post-holiday brunch or a casual dinner, these patties ensure that not a single bit of your festive feast goes to waste. Plus, they bring back the flavors of the holiday in a delicious, new way.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

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

Mini Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets are the answer to your search for the ultimate finger food this holiday. They’re savory, packed with flavor, and impossible to pass up. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or a casual get-together, these tartlets fit right in and promise to disappear fast. It’s a stress-free option that adds a touch of elegance to your festivities.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Traeger Smoked Turkey

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

Nothing says holiday feast quite like a Traeger Smoked Turkey. It’s the centerpiece that draws everyone to the table, with its smoky aroma and juicy flavor promising a meal to remember. This turkey isn’t just dinner; it’s a festive experience that brings everyone together. The anticipation as it comes out of the smoker is part of the joy of holiday cooking.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

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.

Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon are a side dish that effortlessly complements any holiday meal. They’re creamy, comforting, and infused with a savory bacon flavor that makes them irresistible. This dish proves that sometimes, the simplest combinations are the most satisfying. It’s a comforting reminder of the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

Smoked Beef Tenderloin

A sliced smoked beef tenderloin on a white plate.
Smoked Beef Tenderloin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A luxurious choice for the holidays, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience is Smoked Beef Tenderloin. Its smoky flavor, combined with tender juiciness, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. This dish transforms the holiday feast to new heights, guaranteeing that your table is the topic of conversation. It’s a true testament to the art of holiday cooking.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Tenderloin

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.

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets are a sophisticated choice for holiday entertaining. They merge the delicacy of salmon with the subtle sweetness of leeks, all wrapped in a crispy phyllo shell. These tartlets are not just food; they’re a statement of elegance and flavor. Serving them at your holiday gathering shows a flair for the exquisite.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Homemade Boursin Cheese with Fresh Herbs

A wooden board with sliced salami, crackers, a deviled egg, and a square dish of homemade Boursin cheese.
Homemade Boursin Cheese with Fresh Herbs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For an artisan touch to your holiday spread, Homemade Boursin Cheese with Fresh Herbs is a must-try. This creamy, herbed cheese spread is a testament to the pleasures of homemade cuisine. It’s surprisingly simple to make and offers a personal touch that store-bought versions can’t match. Your guests will appreciate the freshness and flavor, making it a talking point of your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Boursin Cheese with Fresh Herbs

Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

A white plate with five biscoff cookie butter streusel bars, each drizzled with melted cookie butter.
Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars are a heavenly treat that no one can resist. They combine the nostalgic flavor of cookie butter with a crunchy streusel topping for a dessert that’s both comforting and addictive. Whether you’re ending your holiday meal with these bars or gifting them to friends, they’re sure to make an impression. They encapsulate the joy of the season in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

Broccoli Casserole with Turkey

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

Experience a fantastic way to bring comfort and nutrition to your holiday table with Broccoli Casserole with Turkey. It’s a wholesome dish that combines the richness of turkey with the freshness of broccoli. Perfect for both casual and formal gatherings, this casserole ensures that everyone finds something to love on your holiday menu. It’s a warm, inviting dish that embodies the spirit of the season.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with 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 are the essence of holiday baking, offering a warm, spiced flavor that’s deeply comforting. These cookies fill your home with an inviting aroma that’s reminiscent of holiday cheer and nostalgia. They’re perfect for sharing with neighbors, and friends, or simply enjoying the twinkling lights of your Christmas tree. These cookies are a lovingly baked reminder of the season’s warmth and joy.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies

Homemade Turkey Stock

A bowl of turkey stock.
Homemade Turkey Stock. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Enjoy a rewarding endeavor that brings out the full potential of your holiday turkey with Homemade Turkey Stock. It’s a base for soups, gravies, and sauces that add a deep, savory flavor. This stock is not just about taste; it’s about embracing the zero-waste philosophy and making the most of your holiday feast. It’s a practical, flavorful way to extend the holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Turkey Stock

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 offer a festive twist on a classic flavor combination. They’re rich, minty, and utterly irresistible, perfect for satisfying that holiday sweet tooth. These cookies are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic holiday flavors of chocolate and peppermint. Their delicious crunch and a burst of mint make every bite a festive celebration.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

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