40 Classic Christmas Dishes You Should Prepare This Year


40 Classic Christmas Dishes You Should Prepare This Year


Pull out the classic comfort picks this year with these showstopper Christmas dishes. You can never go wrong with them, and they're guaranteed to please and delight everyone at the table. What are you going to cook up this Christmas?


1. Roast Turkey

The centerpiece of many Christmas dinners, a beautifully roasted turkey is both traditional and delicious. Season it with herbs like rosemary and thyme for a fragrant twist.

Claudio-Schwarz-Cgctefh-Azk-UnsplashPhoto by Claudio Schwarz on Unsplash

2. Honey-Glazed Ham

A succulent honey-glazed ham, with its sweet and savory flavors, is a crowd-pleaser. The glaze, often enhanced with mustard or cloves, adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Sorel 67-1Ofpse1Qvlm-UnsplashPhoto by Сергей Орловский on Unsplash

3. Beef Wellington

For a touch of elegance, Beef Wellington, with its tender beef wrapped in puff pastry, never fails to impress. It's a luxurious option for those looking for something different from poultry.

Loija-Nguyen-Lf2Dvys-D2E-UnsplashPhoto by Loija Nguyen on Unsplash

4. Christmas Goose

A classic choice, the Christmas goose is rich and flavorful. Roasted with apples and served with a berry compote, it's a nod to traditional holiday feasts.

Goose Img 5053David.Monniaux, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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5. Yorkshire Pudding

This fluffy, airy pudding made from a simple batter is a must-have side. It's perfect for soaking up all the delicious gravy on your plate.

Lisa-Baker-Vqtwbiaissk-UnsplashPhoto by Lisa Baker on Unsplash

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These tiny cabbages, when roasted with a bit of bacon or balsamic glaze, transform into a delightful side dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy.

Jodi-Pender-X3Iny0Ddfzw-UnsplashPhoto by Jodi Pender on Unsplash

7. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs perfectly with any main dish. Add a hint of garlic or cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Parnis-Azimi-Qrdm1Rmkgoq-UnsplashPhoto by Parnis Azimi on Unsplash

8. Cranberry Sauce

Move over canned sauce, homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest adds a zesty, fresh element to your Christmas spread.

Elena-Leya-Qlcf-Fus-U0-UnsplashPhoto by Elena Leya on Unsplash

9. Stuffing

Whether you prefer it inside the turkey or baked separately, stuffing is a versatile dish. Incorporate sausage, nuts, or fruits for a unique twist.

Chelsea-Shapouri-1Rq-Jamplz4-UnsplashPhoto by Chelsea shapouri on Unsplash

10. Glazed Carrots

Sweet, buttery glazed carrots are a simple yet delightful addition. A sprinkle of herbs or a hint of honey can elevate this dish.

Adam-Jaime-Ofljzk61O1S-UnsplashPhoto by Adam Jaime on Unsplash

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11. Green Bean Casserole

This creamy casserole topped with crispy onions is a nostalgic dish that brings comfort and joy to the holiday table.

Megan-Bucknall-S71Ihwycym4-UnsplashPhoto by Megan Bucknall on Unsplash

12. Roasted Root Vegetables

A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted to perfection is a healthy and colorful side option.

Jennifer-Griffin-Osnl3-G9Vou-UnsplashPhoto by Jennifer Griffin on Unsplash

13. Gravy

No Christmas dinner is complete without a rich, flavorful gravy made from the turkey or roast drippings.

Victoria-Hm6Xld1Ibrk-UnsplashPhoto by victoria. on Unsplash

14. Bread Sauce

A traditional British accompaniment, bread sauce is a creamy, spiced sauce that pairs wonderfully with turkey.

1024Px-Bread SauceI, ElinorD, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

15. Pigs in Blankets

These small sausages wrapped in bacon are a delightful appetizer or side, adding a playful touch to the meal.

Bowl Of Pigs In A BlanketAnn Larie Valentine, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

16. Christmas Pudding

This rich, fruity dessert is a traditional end to the Christmas meal. Serve it with brandy butter for an extra festive touch.

Nik-Hstc-Pu4Kqs-UnsplashPhoto by Nik on Unsplash

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17. Yule Log

A chocolate sponge cake rolled with cream and decorated to look like a log, this dessert is both delicious and a festive centerpiece.

Kisoulou-Meiw33 R6Wo-UnsplashPhoto by Kisoulou on Unsplash

18. Mince Pies

Tiny pies filled with a mixture of dried fruits and spices, mince pies are a sweet, traditional treat.

Toa-Heftiba-Fw3Ixgxymi0-UnsplashPhoto by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

19. Eggnog

This creamy, spiced beverage can be enjoyed as a dessert or a comforting drink to sip throughout the evening.

512Px-Eggnog (Cropped)Dinner Series, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

20. Mulled Wine

Warm, spiced, and slightly sweet, mulled wine is the perfect drink to warm up your guests and spread Christmas cheer.

Gaby-Dyson-Rjtbtzj1Lrm-UnsplashPhoto by Gaby Dyson on Unsplash

21. Stollen

This German Christmas bread, laden with dried fruits, nuts, and a vein of marzipan, is a festive treat. Its dusting of powdered sugar resembles a snowy winter landscape.

Yulia-Khlebnikova-29D6U5Szfjk-UnsplashPhoto by Yulia Khlebnikova on Unsplash

22. Gingerbread House

Crafting a gingerbread house is a delightful holiday activity. Not only is it a decorative centerpiece, but its spicy, sweet flavor is also a treat.

Clu-Soh-2Tgtvb7Q 4E-UnsplashPhoto by Clu Soh on Unsplash

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23. Roasted Chestnuts

Embrace tradition with roasted chestnuts. Their warm, nutty flavor is a quintessential holiday snack, perfect for gathering around the fireplace.

Hansjorg-Keller-Udqjsqrtkve-UnsplashHansjörg Keller on Unsplash

24. Panettone

This Italian sweet bread, filled with candied fruits and raisins, is a Christmas staple. Its light, airy texture makes it a favorite at the end of a hearty meal.

Food-Photographer-Jennifer-Pallian-Aq Og51Xgle-UnsplashYulia Khlebnikova on Unsplash

25. Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

A wheel of brie topped with homemade cranberry sauce and wrapped in puff pastry is a sumptuous appetizer that's both elegant and comforting.

Stories-2Mwayzjzqxc-UnsplashStories on Unsplash

26. Swedish Meatballs

These small, savory meatballs in a creamy gravy are a nod to Scandinavian holiday traditions. Serve them as an appetizer or a side dish.

Kina-Cvnn8Zsnhb4-UnsplashPhoto by Kina on Unsplash

27. Roast Duck

A succulent roast duck, with its crispy skin and rich flavor, is a luxurious alternative to turkey or ham. Serve it with a fruit glaze or sauce for extra panache.

Melanie-Lim-Lwggx8Yz1Pw-UnsplashPhoto by Melanie Lim on Unsplash

28. Tourtière

This French-Canadian meat pie, typically filled with minced pork and spices, is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for cold winter nights.

Tourtiere Whole Piehttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tourtiere_whole_pie.jpg

29. Gravlax

Cured salmon, known as gravlax, is a Scandinavian delicacy. Serve thin slices with dill mustard sauce as a light, elegant appetizer.

Christmas Eve Dinner Of Christmas Food - GravlaxKgbo, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

30. Rum Cake

Infused with the flavors of rum and vanilla, this moist, rich cake is a decadent way to end your Christmas feast.

Prchi-Palwe-Vazkd7Zil3U-UnsplashPhoto by Prchi Palwe on Unsplash

31. Peppermint Bark

This simple confection, made from layers of chocolate and peppermint candies, is both a delicious treat and a festive gift idea.

Diy Christmas Chocolates (Unsplash)Yoori Koo yoori_koo, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

32. Seafood Paella

For a twist on tradition, a colorful and flavorful seafood paella brings warmth and vibrancy to your Christmas table.

Douglas-Lopez-4B0Clmtjxww-UnsplashPhoto by Douglas Lopez on Unsplash

33. Waldorf Salad

This classic salad, with its mix of apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts in a mayonnaise dressing, adds a refreshing touch to the holiday spread.

Waldorf Salad (Aunt Caroline's Recipe)KaMan on Wikimedia Commons

34. Pumpkin Pie

A slice of creamy pumpkin pie, spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, is a comforting end to the Christmas meal.

Matthew-Bornhorst-Vok1Zcahplo-UnsplashPhoto by Matthew Bornhorst on Unsplash

35. Trifle

Layers of sponge cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream make trifle a visually stunning and deliciously rich dessert.

1024Px-Trifle--Ben 18:33, 25 March 2006 (UTC), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

36. Roast Pork with Crackling

A juicy roast pork with crispy crackling is a show-stopping main course that's sure to please all your guests.

Jez-Timms-8X3Oqzxqqa4-UnsplashPhoto by Jez Timms on Unsplash

37. Red Cabbage

Braised red cabbage, often flavored with apple and spices, is a vibrant and tangy side that complements rich meats beautifully.

Dimitri-Photography-Ijluggnrzsi-UnsplashPhoto by dimitri.photography on Unsplash

38. Christmas Cake

This dense, fruit-laden cake, typically made weeks in advance and soaked in brandy, is a traditional British holiday dessert.

Kate-Laine-Amjbmvcgehw-UnsplashPhoto by Kate Laine on Unsplash

39. Hot Chocolate

A mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate, possibly spiked with a shot of liqueur, is the perfect way to warm up during the festive season.

Maddi-Bazzocco-Mjzq7A2Rjxq-UnsplashPhoto by Maddi Bazzocco on Unsplash

40. Sausage Rolls

Flaky pastry wrapped around savory sausage meat, these bite-sized treats are a favorite at holiday gatherings.

Matt-Seymour-Wg6Qdxkulhi-UnsplashPhoto by Matt Seymour on Unsplash