Festive Feasts: 10 Must-Try Holiday Dinner Recipes

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1. Roast Turkey with Herb Butter

Nothing says holidays like a perfectly roasted turkey. This recipe allows the turkey to shine with a mix of fresh herbs, butter, and a hint of lemon.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

  2. In a bowl, mix the softened butter with the herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.

  3. Loosen the skin of the turkey and rub the herb butter mixture under the skin and on top.

  4. Truss the turkey and place it in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.

  5. Roast the turkey for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

  6. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

2. Honey-Glazed Ham

This sweet and savory dish is a holiday classic. The glaze caramelizes beautifully to create a stunning centerpiece for your table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 fully cooked ham (8-10 lbs)

  • 1 cup honey

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

  2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan.

  3. In a bowl, mix honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and spices to create the glaze.

  4. Brush the glaze over the ham and cover it loosely with foil.

  5. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices.

  6. Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.

  7. Let it rest before slicing.

3. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These velvety mashed potatoes are the perfect side dish, enhancing your festive feast with their rich flavor and creamy texture.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Chives for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.

  3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the garlic-butter mixture and heavy cream.

  4. Mash until smooth, and season with salt and pepper.

  5. Garnish with chopped chives before serving.

4. Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These brussels sprouts are sweetened with a touch of maple syrup and roasted to perfection, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. In a large bowl, toss brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

  3. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

  4. Add chopped pecans in the last 5 minutes of roasting.

5. Traditional Stuffing

Stuffing can be a dish on its own, packed with herbs and spices, making it a must-have at your holiday dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf of bread (French or sourdough), cubed

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion and celery until softened.

  3. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken broth gradually until moist.

  4. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

6. Cranberry Sauce with Orange zest

This tangy cranberry sauce elevates your turkey or ham, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory dishes on your table.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 1 cup water

  • Zest of 1 orange

  • Juice of 1 orange

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil.

  2. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.

  3. Stir in the orange zest and juice, then remove from heat and let cool.

7. Pumpkin Pie

No holiday feast is complete without a slice of pumpkin pie. The rich flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg make this a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

  • 3/4 cup sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, and spices until combined.

  3. Add eggs, mixing well, then gradually stir in evaporated milk.

  4. Pour filling into the pie crust and bake for 15 minutes.

  5. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set.

  6. Let cool before serving.

8. Gingerbread Cookies

These delightful gingerbread cookies are perfect for adding a touch of sweetness and spice to your holiday festivities.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger

  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tablespoon ground cloves

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 3/4 cup sugar

  • 1/2 cup molasses

  • 1 large egg

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, spices, baking soda, and salt.

  2. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add molasses and egg, mixing well.

  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, kneading until combined.

  4. Wrap the dough in plastic and chill for at least 2 hours.

  5. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.

  6. Let cool before decorating with icing.

9. Eggnog

This creamy, spiced drink is a holiday staple. Serve it fresh or spiked to enjoy the festive season!

Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs

  • 3/4 cup sugar

  • 4 cups whole milk

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup bourbon or rum (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until creamy.

  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, and nutmeg until hot but not boiling. Gradually stir into egg mixture.

  3. If using, stir in bourbon or rum. Chill before serving.

10. Chocolate Yule Log Cake

This show-stopping dessert resembles a log and is filled with rich chocolate ganache; a delightful end to any festive meal!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

  • Chocolate ganache for filling and topping

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

  3. In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale, then add vanilla.

  4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until combined.

  5. Spread the batter in the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.

  6. Let cool and then roll the cake in a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar.

  7. Once cool, unroll it, spread chocolate ganache, and re-roll; frost the outside with more ganache.

Conclusion

The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, and what better way to celebrate than with a festive feast? These 10 must-try holiday dinner recipes are sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories at your table. From hearty main dishes like roast turkey and honey-glazed ham to delectable sides and desserts, each recipe is designed to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. So gather your family, cook together, and enjoy the festive spirit while savoring these comforting dishes!

FAQs

1. Can I prepare these dishes ahead of time?

Yes! Many of the dishes can be prepared in advance. Stuffing, cranberry sauce, and desserts like pumpkin pie can be made a day before. Just reheat before serving.

2. Are there vegetarian alternatives for these recipes?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey with stuffed acorn squash or a vegetable wellington. For sides, include more plant-based options like roasted root vegetables or quinoa salad.

3. How can I make gluten-free versions of these recipes?

Use gluten-free bread for stuffing, gluten-free flour for baked goods, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Many ingredients like vegetables, meats, and spices are naturally gluten-free.

4. What are some beverage pairings for a holiday dinner?

Pair your holiday dinner with festive drinks like mulled wine, apple cider, or a selection of holiday cocktails. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water infused with fresh fruit is delightful.

5. How do I store leftovers from the holiday feast?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing dishes like soup or casserole, which can be reheated later.

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