Thinking about shaking things up for your festive feast this year? How about skipping the usual turkey and trying something different? Here are 23 amazing recipes that are perfect for the holidays, and they’re not your typical fare. These dishes are easy to make and are a great way to impress your friends and family with something new. Trust me, your holiday table will be anything but boring!
![Sliced ham with oranges and mint.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/ip-ham-horiz-4.jpg)
Instant Pot Char Siu
![Sliced char siu pork with lettuce leaves.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/char-siu-fdl-1.jpg)
You know, making Char Siu in an Instant Pot is a game changer for festive feasts. It’s not your typical turkey, but the blend of sweet and savory flavors in tender pork is just irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Char Siu
Sticky Toffee Pudding
![A plate of sticky toffee pudding cakes with caramel sauce.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/sticky-toffee-pudding-original-hero-2.jpg)
Forget the usual pies; Sticky Toffee Pudding is where it’s at! It’s this gorgeous, moist sponge cake drenched in a rich toffee sauce. Every bite feels like a warm holiday hug. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you’re gathered around the table.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Toffee Pudding
Potatoes au Gratin
![Overhead shot of potatoes au gratin cooked in an oval baking dish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/potatoes-au-gratin-2.jpg)
Potatoes au Gratin offers a rich and comforting alternative to the usual holiday sides. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with creamy cheese and baked to a golden perfection, creating a dish that complements any festive main course. This recipe brings a touch of elegance to the holiday table, balancing tradition with a gourmet twist.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes au Gratin
Dulce de Leche Cookies
![Overhead shot of dulce de leche cookies.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/dulce-de-leche-cookies.jpg)
Oh, these Dulce de Leche Cookies are a dream for anyone with a sweet tooth. They’re a delightful break from traditional holiday treats. Each cookie is packed with that creamy, caramelized goodness. It’s like a little bite of festive joy!
Get the Recipe: Dulce de Leche Cookies
Instant Pot Duck Confit
![Overhead shot of a confit duck leg with orange sauce and star anise pods.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/ip-duck-confit.jpg)
Duck Confit in an Instant Pot might sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly straightforward. It’s a luxurious twist on your holiday meal, with meat so tender and flavorful, it’ll have everyone asking for your secret.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Duck Confit
Kolacky
![Several poppy seed filled kolacky on a white plate with red and gold ribbons in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/kolacky.jpg)
Kolacky are these delightful pastries that add a touch of tradition to your festive spread. They come with different fillings – fruit, cheese, you name it. It’s like a sweet nod to heritage at your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Kolacky
Instant Pot Shrimp
![Cooked shrimp in a green and white striped bowl, garnished with parsley.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/instant-pot-shrimp-1024x576-1.jpg)
Who says seafood can’t be festive? This Instant Pot Shrimp dish is a fabulous way to diversify your holiday menu. It’s incredibly versatile – great as an appetizer or a main dish. Plus, it’s so quick to make!
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp
Smoked Salmon Dip
![Smoked salmon dip in a bowl with crackers and veggies for dipping.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/smoked-salmon-dip-horiz-3-1.jpg)
This Smoked Salmon Dip is a total crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoked salmon’s richness with a creamy texture makes for an elegant starter. It’s ridiculously easy to make but looks so sophisticated on your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip
Hamentashen
![Hamentashen cookies piled on a white plate with more cookies on a rack in the background. There is jar of jam with a spoon in it in the background too.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/hamentashen-2.jpg)
Hamentashen are these unique, triangular pastries, usually enjoyed during Purim, but why not bring them to your festive feast? They offer a delightful variety of fillings and are sure to be a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Hamentashen
Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites
![Bowl of jalapeno popper bites.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/af-jalapeno-popper-bites.jpg)
For a more casual holiday gathering, these Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites are fantastic. They’re just like the full-sized poppers, but in a fun, bite-sized form. Easy to make and even easier to eat!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites
Apple Galette
![Overhead shot of an apple galette on parchment with fresh apples on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/apple-galette-fdl.jpg)
An Apple Galette is this wonderfully rustic yet elegant dessert. It’s less fussy than a traditional apple pie, but trust me, it’s just as delicious. It brings a cozy, homemade feel to your festive feast.
Get the Recipe: Apple Galette
Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon
![Low-angled shot of a honey cookie broken in half with stacks of honey cookies and a glass of milk in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/honey-cookies-horiz.jpg)
If you’re looking for something not too sweet, these Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon are just the ticket. They have this lovely subtle sweetness with a hint of citrus and spice. They’re like little bites of holiday comfort.
Get the Recipe: Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon
Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
![Low angle shot of stuffed pepper soup in a white bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/ip-stuffed-pepper-soup.jpg)
On a cold evening, there’s nothing like a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup made in the Instant Pot. It’s got all the flavors of the stuffed peppers you love, but in a comforting, sippable form. A great way to warm up your holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
Green Bean Salad
![Low angle shot of green bean salad with fried onions and dry ricotta on a white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Green-Bean-Salad-1600.jpg)
To balance out the rich holiday dishes, this Green Bean Salad is a fresh, vibrant choice. It’s a healthy addition, adding some much-needed greens to your festive feast.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Salad
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
![Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes with whipped cream stars on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/mini-pumpkin-cheesecakes-fdl.jpg)
These Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes are adorable! Each one is a perfect, individual dessert with that seasonal pumpkin flavor in a creamy, decadent cheesecake. They’re great for when you want just a little something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Instant Pot Ham
![Sliced ham with oranges and mint.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/ip-ham-horiz-4.jpg)
If you’re looking to switch up the traditional turkey, why not try a ham in the Instant Pot? It comes out juicy and full of flavor. It’s a fantastic centerpiece for your festive feast and so effortless to make.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ham
Black Sesame Cookies
![Black sesame cookies on a baking sheet with a spoonful of black sesame seeds.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/black-sesame-cookies.jpg)
For something a little different, these Black Sesame Cookies are a sophisticated treat. They have a unique, nutty flavor that’s just so intriguing. They’ll definitely stand out on your holiday cookie platter.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies
Apple Cider Donut Cake
![Overhead shot of this apple bundt cake on a cake stand with apples in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/apple-cider-donut-cake-fdl.jpg)
Imagine all the flavors of an apple cider donut but in a cake! This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s got that familiar taste but presented in a fun, novel way. Definitely a highlight at any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Donut Cake
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
![Cranberry sauce in a white bowl garnished with orange zest and star anise pods.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/cranberry-hero-1-1.jpg)
Homemade cranberry sauce in the Instant Pot is a revelation. It’s so simple to make, yet the flavor is just leagues above any canned version. It’s a small touch that can really elevate your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
![Masshed potato casserole in a baking dish with a cracker crumb topping.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/cheesy-potato-casserole-fdl2.jpg)
This Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole is comfort food at its finest. It takes the beloved mashed potatoes and adds a delicious cheesy twist. It’s the kind of indulgent side dish everyone looks forward to at the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
Quaker Oatmeal Cookies
![Low angle shot of oatmeal cookies on a white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/quaker-oatmeal-cookies.jpg)
You can’t go wrong with classic Quaker Oatmeal Cookies. They’re a simple, wholesome option that’s always a hit. Perfect for any festive occasion where you want a tried-and-true favorite.
Get the Recipe: Quaker Oatmeal Cookies
Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie
![Overhead shot of a phyllo pie cooked in a bundt pan.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/butternut-squash-phyllo-1.jpg)
This Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie is a showstopper. The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the crisp phyllo. It’s a fantastic vegetarian option that’s as delicious as it is elegant.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie