30+ Easy Christmas Dinner Ideas That Will Delight Your Family This Holiday Season

Christmas is a time for joy, laughter, and of course, delicious food! If you’re looking to impress your family this holiday season without the stress, you’ll love these tasty dinner ideas. Each recipe is designed to bring warmth to your table and smiles to your loved ones.

Herb-Roasted Turkey

Herb-Roasted Turkey
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Herb Roasted Turkey

Herb Roasted Turkey from Dinner at the Zoo

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 4 h 20 min Total Time: 4 h 20 min.

Herb Roasted Turkey

Herb Roasted Turkey from What's Gaby Cooking

Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 3 h 10 min Total Time: 3 h 10 min.

Herb-Roasted Turkey

Herb-Roasted Turkey from EatingWell

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 3 h 30 min Total Time: 3 h 30 min.

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Imagine a beautifully golden turkey, seasoned with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, roasting in your oven. This classic dish is juicy, tender, and fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that signal the holidays are here.

What makes herb-roasted turkey special is the simplicity of the preparation. You can brine it overnight for extra flavor, then just rub it with butter and herbs before roasting. Your family will rave about how deliciously moist it is!

Honey-Glazed Ham

Honey-Glazed Ham
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Honey Glazed Ham

Honey Glazed Ham from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 1 h 35 min Total Time: 1 h 35 min.

Honey-glazed ham

Honey-glazed ham from BBC Good Food

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 2 h 20 min Total Time: 2 h 20 min.

Maple honey mustard glazed ham recipe

Maple honey mustard glazed ham recipe from Taste

Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 1 h 50 min Total Time: 1 h 50 min.

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Sweet and savory, a honey-glazed ham is a showstopper that brings a festive flair to the dinner table. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a shiny, sticky exterior that is irresistible.

This recipe is popular because it requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Just score the ham, brush on a mixture of honey, mustard, and brown sugar, and let it bake until it’s heated through. Your family will love the combination of flavors in every bite!

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes from Simply Recipes

Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: 45 min Total Time: 45 min.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe from Creme De La Crumb

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.

Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe from Love and Lemons

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 45 min Total Time: 45 min.

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Nothing says comfort food like creamy garlic mashed potatoes. This side dish is buttery, smooth, and has a delightful hint of garlic that elevates the traditional recipe.

What makes these mashed potatoes special is the addition of roasted garlic, which adds a sweet, mellow flavor. Pair them with gravy or serve them on their own; either way, they’ll be a favorite at your holiday gathering.

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts from The Flavor Bender

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Rating: 5. Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, coconut oil, maple syrup, red pepper, sea salt Total Time: 40 min.

Balsamic Maple Brussel Sprouts

Balsamic Maple Brussel Sprouts from Healthful Blondie

Rating: 5. Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, turkey bacon, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, avocado oil Total Time: 35 min.

Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze

Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze from A Couple Cooks

Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, olive oil Total Time: 35 min.

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Brussels sprouts can be a hit or miss, but with a maple glaze, they become a delicious side that everyone will love. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, and the maple adds a rich flavor that’s perfect for the season.

This dish is popular because it’s not only tasty but also healthy! Toss the sprouts in olive oil, roast them until crispy, and then drizzle with maple syrup for that perfect sweet touch. Your family won’t believe how good Brussels sprouts can be!

Stuffed Acorn Squash

Stuffed Acorn Squash

Stuffed Acorn Squash from The Kitchn

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 5, 0(8)

Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash

Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash from Cookie and Kate

Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 1 h

Stuffed Acorn Squash

Stuffed Acorn Squash from Well Plated by Erin

Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 1 h 10 min Total Time: 1 h 10 min.

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Stuffed acorn squash is not only stunning to look at but also packed with flavor. With a filling of quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and spices, each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

This recipe shines during the holidays as it’s both beautiful and nutritious. The sweet squash pairs wonderfully with the savory filling, making it a fantastic option for a main dish or a hearty side. Your guests will be impressed by your creativity!

Classic Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole | Campbell's® Recipes

Green Bean Casserole | Campbell's® Recipes from Campbell Soup

Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.

Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: 35 min Total Time: 35 min.

Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole from Spend With Pennies

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.

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Green bean casserole is a holiday staple that always brings nostalgia. With its creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onion topping, it’s a dish that never fails to please.

This recipe is special because it combines convenience with comfort. Using canned green beans and cream of mushroom soup makes preparation a breeze, yet the flavors are so comforting that everyone will feel right at home. Plus, the crunch from the fried onions adds the perfect finishing touch!

Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry Sauce from Once Upon a Chef

Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 15 min

Cranberry Orange Sauce

Cranberry Orange Sauce from Dinner at the Zoo

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 13 min

Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

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Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest from Andi Anne

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 25 min

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Bright and tangy, this cranberry sauce is a refreshing addition to your Christmas dinner. The hint of orange zest adds a lovely citrusy twist that complements the tartness of the cranberries perfectly.

This dish stands out because it’s homemade and so easy to make! Simply simmer cranberries with sugar and orange zest until they burst and thicken. Your family will appreciate the fresh flavor compared to store-bought options!

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole from Spend With Pennies

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 45 min

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 1 h

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows from Simply Recipes

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 1 h

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This sweet potato casserole is like dessert on your dinner table! Creamy, sweet, and topped with gooey marshmallows, it’s a delightful dish that combines the best of both worlds.

What makes this recipe popular is its comforting sweetness and nostalgic appeal. The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and fluffy marshmallows creates a heavenly topping that everyone will want to dig into. It’s sure to become a holiday favorite!

Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme

Roasted Carrots with Honey & Thyme

Roasted Carrots with Honey & Thyme from zenbelly

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 5, 0(1)

Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme

Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme from Casual Foodist

Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.

Honey Roasted Carrots

Honey Roasted Carrots from Fox and Briar

Rating: 4.3. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.

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These roasted carrots are simple yet elegant, showcasing the natural sweetness of the veggies. With a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of thyme, they’re transformed into a flavorful side dish that’s hard to resist.

This recipe is beloved because it’s not only easy to prepare but also brings a vibrant color to your table. The caramelization from roasting enhances the carrots’ flavors, making them a delightful complement to any main dish. Your family will love how tasty and healthy they are!

Chocolate Yule Log Cake

Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) from Life Love and Sugar

Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Sour cream, mascarpone cheese, dark cocoa powder, heavy whipping cream, rosemary Total Time: 1 hr 42 min.

Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël)

Yule Log Cake (Bûche de Noël) from Stress Baking

Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Dark chocolate, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla bean paste, cup cake flour, heavy cream Total Time: 1 hr.

Bûche De Noël (Yule Log)

Bûche De Noël (Yule Log) from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Coconut oil, cocoa powder, fresh cranberries, cake flour, heavy cream Total Time: 10 hr.

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End your Christmas dinner on a sweet note with a stunning chocolate yule log cake. This rolled sponge cake filled with rich chocolate cream is both beautiful and delicious, resembling a log covered in snow.

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This dessert is popular because it’s dramatic yet surprisingly easy to make. The combination of chocolate and cream makes it a decadent treat, and decorating it like a log adds a fun festive touch. Your family will be thrilled to see this showstopper on the dessert table!

Eggnog Cheesecake

Eggnog cheesecake

Eggnog cheesecake from Flouring Kitchen

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 1 h 50 min Total Time: 1 h 50 min.

Eggnog Cheesecake

Eggnog Cheesecake from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 1 h 25 min Total Time: 1 h 25 min.

Eggnog Cheesecake

Eggnog Cheesecake from Life Love and Sugar

Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 4 h

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Eggnog cheesecake is a delicious twist on a classic dessert that captures the essence of the season. Creamy, spiced, and topped with whipped cream, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the holidays.

This recipe is special because it combines the flavors of eggnog with a creamy cheesecake base, making it a unique treat. The hint of nutmeg and vanilla brings warmth and nostalgia, ensuring your family will savor every bite. It’s a festive dessert that will leave everyone wanting more!

Peppermint Bark

Peppermint Bark

Peppermint Bark from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: White chocolate, coconut oil, candy canes, peppermint extract, bittersweet chocolate Total Time: 1 hr 45 min.

Peppermint Bark Recipe

Peppermint Bark Recipe from Dinner at the Zoo

Rating: 5. Ingredients: White chocolate chips, chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, peppermint extract Total Time: 15 min.

5-Ingredient Peppermint Bark

5-Ingredient Peppermint Bark from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: White chocolate, peppermint extract, peppermint candies, canola oil Total Time: 2 hr 25 min.

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Peppermint bark is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. With layers of creamy white and dark chocolate, and topped with crunchy peppermint pieces, it’s a sweet indulgence that screams Christmas.

This treat is popular because it’s a simple no-bake dessert that looks impressive. Just melt the chocolate, layer it, and sprinkle with crushed peppermint for a festive touch. It’s a fun way to get everyone in the holiday spirit!