As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of roasting turkey, sweet potatoes, and fresh herbs fills the air. Gathering around the table with loved ones to share a delicious meal is a cherished tradition for many. But what makes this time of year so special is the joy of cooking up a storm in the kitchen with friends and family.
In this article, we’re sharing 20 festive holiday recipes that are sure to make your gatherings cozy and memorable. From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with pecan topping, these dishes will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are designed to be easy to follow and full of flavor.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through some of our favorite holiday treats, from savory main courses to sweet indulgences. So grab your apron, get cozy by the fire, and let’s get cooking!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Celebrate the holidays with a show-stopping roasted turkey, elevated by a flavorful herb butter. This classic recipe yields a golden-brown, juicy bird that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Sweet and savory, this Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple is a classic combination that’s sure to impress your guests. A simple glaze made with honey, brown sugar, and pineapple juice gives the ham a sticky, caramelized crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, mustard, and cloves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Place ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores.
6. Cover ham with foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy and savory garlic mashed potatoes recipe, served with a rich and flavorful gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Gravy ingredients:
+ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
+ 1 cup beef broth or red wine
+ 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and mash with garlic, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. For the gravy, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add beef broth or red wine, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Serve the mashed potatoes with the warm gravy spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Green Bean Casserole
This classic comfort food recipe combines the sweetness of green beans with the richness of a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a golden-brown casserole. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk, cream of mushroom soup, and black pepper.
4. Combine cooked green bean mixture with the creamy sauce and stir until coated.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with french-fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
A classic Southern-inspired casserole that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in melted butter, heavy cream, and chopped pecans until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle honey over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
This classic recipe makes a deliciously tangy and sweet homemade cranberry sauce perfect for the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful condiment in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Traditional Stuffing with Sage and Sausage
This classic stuffing recipe combines the savory flavors of sausage, sage, and bread to create a delicious side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. With its hearty texture and aromatic spices, this stuffing is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, sausage mixture, sage, salt, and pepper. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a savory delight by pairing them with crispy bacon and a hint of sweetness. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. After roasting the Brussels sprouts for 15 minutes, add cooked bacon to the pan and toss with brown sugar (if using).
8. Return to oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the classic macaroni and cheese with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Mix well.
4. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls with Honey Glaze
Elevate your dinner table with these tender and buttery rolls, topped with a sweet honey glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Add melted butter and mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
5. Knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet, shape into desired rolls.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Honey Glaze:
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Mix together and brush over warm rolls while still on the baking sheet. Serve immediately.
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
As the seasons change, it’s time to warm up with a classic fall treat: pumpkin pie. This recipe combines the comfort of pumpkin with the richness of whipped cream for a perfect dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with pumpkin mixture.
5. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes or until filling is set.
Whipped Cream:
1. In a bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add sugar to taste and mix well.
3. Top cooled pie with whipped cream and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pecan Pie with Caramel Drizzle
Classic Pecan Pie with Caramel Drizzle Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this scrumptious pecan pie recipe, elevated by a rich caramel drizzle. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Caramel drizzle (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Stir in pecan halves.
5. Roll out pie crust and fill with the pecan mixture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
Caramel Drizzle:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Combine heavy cream, sugar, and butter in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies with Icing
Warm up with a classic holiday treat – Gingerbread Cookies! Soft, spicy, and sweet, these cookies are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
– Royal Icing (recipe below)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Royal Icing
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
Whisk together until smooth. Use immediately.
Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg
Warm up this winter with a rich and creamy eggnog cheesecake, infused with the warmth of nutmeg. This decadent dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by eggnog and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust and sprinkle with nutmeg.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Warm up with this refreshing twist on classic hot chocolate. Perfect for the holiday season or a cozy winter morning, peppermint hot chocolate is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Remove from heat and pour into mugs.
5. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Orange
Warm Up with a Glass of Spiced Mulled Wine
This classic wintertime drink is elevated by the addition of cinnamon and orange, creating a cozy and inviting beverage perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 1 large orange, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and sliced orange.
2. Add the brown sugar and water to the pot, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the mulled wine cook for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of warmth.
5. Strain the spices from the wine before serving, if desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional orange slices and cinnamon sticks if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Festive Cheese Ball with Crackers
Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-make and deliciously festive cheese ball, perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crackers of your choice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add grated cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, shape the mixture into a ball and serve with crackers.
Cooking Time: None needed! This cheese ball is served chilled or at room temperature.
Baked Brie with Cranberry Jam
Elevate your entertaining game with this effortless yet impressive appetizer, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. The creamy brie cheese is perfectly balanced by the tangy cranberry jam, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz)
– 1/2 cup of cranberry jam
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the Brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the cranberry jam over the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the honey evenly over the jam.
5. Arrange the baguette slices around the cheese, slightly overlapping to form a circle.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy, cheesy dip is a party favorite that’s sure to please any crowd. With the perfect balance of spinach, artichoke hearts, and tangy flavor, it’s a must-have for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Elevate your holiday treats with this simple yet impressive recipe for chocolate peppermint bark. Crunchy peppermint candies and dark chocolate come together to create a sweet and refreshing treat perfect for gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) crushed peppermint candies (such as Peppermint M&M’s)
– 1 tablespoon (15g) shortening (like Crisco or vegetable oil)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the crushed peppermint candies and shortening until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None (cooling time: 1 hour)
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 festive holiday recipes perfect for gatherings with friends and family. From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with pecan topping, there’s something for everyone. Try making homemade cranberry sauce or traditional stuffing with sage and sausage. Don’t forget about decadent desserts like pumpkin pie with whipped cream and peppermint hot chocolate to warm up your spirits. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for some delicious meals to enjoy at home, these recipes are sure to impress.
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