Christmas is the season for meals that bring happiness, laughter, and empty plates. These 19 dishes are sure to have everyone coming back for seconds of Christmas joy, with conversations lingering as long as the flavors. Whether it’s a twist on tradition or a family favorite done right, these recipes are crowd-pleasers through and through. Just remember to make extras—leftovers might not stand a chance!
Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Holiday gatherings get a whole lot merrier when these Southern Sausage Cheese Balls hit the table. They’re the kind of crowd-pleaser that keeps guests hanging around the snack station. Bite-sized and packed with flavor, they bring just the right amount of festive charm to your spread. Add these to your holiday menu, and you might find them disappearing faster than gifts on Christmas morning.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
There’s nothing like cozying up with family, and a plate of Crab Stuffed Mushrooms adds the perfect touch of indulgence to your festive spread. These little bites bring sophistication to the Christmas table. They’re just right for when you want to mix up the traditional holiday fare with something a bit more special. Plus, they’re the perfect size for popping in your mouth between merry conversations.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Red Velvet Christmas Truffles
The holidays wouldn’t be complete without a hint of chocolatey goodness, and Red Velvet Christmas Truffles hit the sweet spot. They bring a pop of color and a rich taste that’ll have your guests reaching for more. Perfect for gifting or for adding a festive touch to your dessert selection, they have a way of making the season feel even more special. Just make sure you snag one for yourself before they’re all gone!
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Christmas Truffles
Ginger Spice Cookies
When it’s time to swap stories by the Christmas tree, you’ll want to have a batch of Ginger Spice Cookies on hand. They bring that classic holiday spice that seems to warm you from the inside out. These cookies have a knack for making the house smell amazing, and they’re just as good for Santa as they are for your guests. They’re the comforting sidekick to a cup of hot cocoa on a cozy December night.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies
Smoked Ribeye Roast
For those looking to seriously impress at the dinner table, a Smoked Ribeye Roast is a show-stopper. It’s the kind of main course that makes everyone pause for a moment to appreciate the aroma filling the room. While it’s a centerpiece that speaks for itself, it’s also surprisingly simple to pull off with the right time and temperature. Expect everyone to be angling for seconds, maybe even thirds, of this one.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast
Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies
Infuse your holiday with a bit of whimsy thanks to some Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies. These aren’t your ordinary gingerbread cookies; they’re a step up, with just the right amount of chocolate to entice everyone, both young and old. They’re equally fun to decorate as they are to eat, and they add a dash of charm to your Christmas cookie lineup. It’s not a Christmas party until these guys make an entrance, right?
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies
Broccoli Casserole with Turkey
A Broccoli Casserole with Turkey is the one-pot wonder that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s the comfort food classic with a festive twist, packing both veggies and protein. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s a no-fuss dish with crowd-pleasing power. And honestly, who doesn’t love a good casserole during the holidays?
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Turkey
Triple Ginger Cake
If you’re out to make a statement with dessert, this Triple Ginger Cake is your secret weapon. This isn’t just another sweet treat; it’s a thoughtful nod to traditional holiday flavors with a twist. You’ll find it’s bold without going overboard, and the sort of cake that invites you to have another sliver. It’ll stand tall among the pies and puddings, claiming its rightful place at the festive feast.
Get the Recipe: Triple Ginger Cake
Smoked Turkey Thighs
Switch things up from the typical whole bird with some succulent Smoked Turkey Thighs. These are bound to become a new favorite, especially for those who love the darker, richer cuts of meat. Smoking them low and slow is the key to that fall-off-the-bone tenderness everyone raves about. As an added bonus, they’re just as impressive to look at as they are to eat.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Turkey Thighs
Sweet Potato Cornbread
You haven’t experienced the full range of holiday comfort food until you’ve tried Sweet Potato Cornbread. It’s like someone took the essence of Christmas dinner and baked it into a fluffy, golden slice of heaven. This cornbread is the kind of side that complements both savory and sweet, adding a unique twist to the festive table. Trust us, a basket of this won’t last long once it’s passed around.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Homemade Turkey Stock
For those who know the secret to amazing soups and gravies, Homemade Turkey Stock is a must-have in the kitchen arsenal. It’s the hidden gem of your Christmas cooking, elevating every dish it’s added to. Plus, it’s the perfect way to make use of every last bit of that holiday turkey. A pot of this simmering on the stove is sure to spread comfort and joy.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Turkey Stock
Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail
Kick back after a day of holiday hustle with a Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail in hand. This is the grown-up drink that adds an air of sophistication to any Christmas gathering. It’s got a kick, a hint of smoke, and just the right touch of sweetness to round off a hearty meal. So raise a glass to good health and great company!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail
Crab Spanakopita
Bringing a bit of Mediterranean flair to your Christmas, Crab Spanakopita offers a savory spin on a traditional favorite. This dish combines flaky pastry with a filling that’s both rich and fulfilling. It’s a great way to start off your holiday meal, or even to serve as a fancy appetizer. Your guests might not be expecting it, but they’ll sure be glad you made it.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita
Turkey Chaffwich
Get inventive with your holiday leftovers and whip up a Turkey Chaffwich. This is the kind of sandwich that turns second-day food into a meal that’s just as exciting as the original feast. It’s hearty, it’s satisfying, and it’s downright delicious. Plus, it’s casual enough to eat with your hands while you’re lounging around in your Christmas PJs.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chaffwich
Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars
Your dessert game will be strong with Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars making an appearance. They’re chewy, they’re crumbly, and they’re utterly addictive. These bars are perfect for when you want something a bit different from the usual Christmas cookies. Just be warned: you might have to hide a few for yourself before they disappear.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars
Air Fryer Turkey Breast
For a modern take on the traditional holiday centerpiece, try an Air Fryer Turkey Breast. This method gets you that coveted crispy skin while keeping the inside juicy. It’s quick, it’s efficient, and it frees up your oven for all those delightful sides. You might just find that this becomes your new go-to for a fuss-free Christmas dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Nothing says ‘holiday season’ quite like Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. They’ve got that festive minty kick paired with rich dark chocolate that’s just irresistible. These cookies are perfect for building a holiday platter or munching on while wrapping presents. Let’s be real, they’re also a surefire way to win some brownie points with Santa.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Tomato Bruschetta Board
A Tomato Bruschetta Board is your ticket to simple yet satisfying holiday entertaining. It’s fresh, it’s vibrant, and it provides a welcome contrast to the heavier festive fare. This board is all about sharing, making it a hit for mingling and festivities. Not to mention, who doesn’t love a bit of DIY food action at the party?
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board
Cranberry Bars
Wrap up your holiday meal with the sweet tang of Cranberry Bars. These sweet-tart treats are a bright addition to any dessert table and offer a refreshing bite after a hearty meal. They’re simple to make and even easier to love. Be prepared for them to go quickly, as guests will definitely be back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bars