As the holiday season approaches, many of us are thinking about what to serve on Christmas Eve. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large party, having delicious and festive dishes on hand can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to delight your guests and satisfy their holiday cravings.
From classic comfort foods like roasted turkey and macaroni and cheese to sweet treats like pumpkin pie and peppermint bark, these recipes offer a little something for everyone. And with many of them being easy to make ahead of time or even cooked in advance, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
In this special Christmas Eve recipe collection, we’ll explore everything from savory main courses and side dishes to decadent desserts and festive drinks. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and get cozy as we dive into our favorite holiday recipes!
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
This classic roast turkey recipe is elevated by a flavorful herb butter that’s sure to impress your holiday guests. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, this dish is perfect for the busy cook.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, parsley, thyme, and rosemary until well combined.
4. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast the turkey for about 4-4 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 4-4 1/2 hours
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
This classic side dish gets a flavorful boost from the addition of roasted garlic, elevating it to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While the potatoes cook, place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil and drizzle with olive oil. Fold the foil into a packet and roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and mashed.
4. Drain the cooked potatoes and add them to a large mixing bowl. Add the roasted garlic, butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional ham glazing, this recipe combines the flavors of cranberries and orange to create a deliciously glazed ham perfect for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 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 medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Place ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours total
Classic Beef Wellington
Elevate your dinner party with this timeless classic, featuring tender beef fillet wrapped in puff pastry and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef fillet
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef fillet with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. In a separate pan, sauté the mushroom duxelles over medium heat until fragrant.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a large rectangle.
6. Place the cooled beef fillet in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
7. Spoon the mushroom duxelles over the beef, then brush the edges of the pastry with water.
8. Roll the pastry over the beef, starting from one long side, and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Note: Mushroom duxelles can be store-bought or homemade (see recipe). If using store-bought, omit any added salt or herbs.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines tender potatoes with a rich and creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Layer the potato mixture in the prepared baking dish, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
5. Pour heavy cream over the potatoes, making sure they’re well-coated.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweeten up your snack time with this simple and delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots, peeled and trimmed
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the baby carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the glazed carrots in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s sure to become a family favorite! This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni with the richness of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a golden-brown package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– 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, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, butter, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Crusted Prime Rib
Elevate your prime rib game with a fragrant and flavorful herb crust, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-7 pound) prime rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the prime rib roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the prime rib on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Green Bean Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, bring 2 inches of water to a boil. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange cooked green beans in an even layer. Pour soup mixture over the green beans.
5. Sprinkle french-fried onions evenly over the top.
6. Dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
This beloved dessert is a staple of fall celebrations and the perfect treat to warm up your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated 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 for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour pumpkin mixture into the pie crust.
6. 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.
7. Allow pie to cool completely on wire rack.
Whipped Cream Topping:
1. Beat heavy cream in a medium bowl with electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Top cooled pumpkin pie with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake
A classic holiday dessert gets a creamy twist with the addition of eggnog, creating a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for Christmas gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually add eggnog, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until combined.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Transform your holiday gatherings with this refreshing Peppermint Chocolate Bark recipe. This easy-to-make treat combines rich chocolate, peppermint flavor, and festive colors to create a perfect party favor or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup crushed candy canes, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
3. Stir in peppermint extract and salt.
4. Pour melted white chocolate onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
6. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
7. Pour melted dark chocolate over the cooled white chocolate layer.
8. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooling time)
Enjoy your delicious and festive Peppermint Chocolate Bark!
Gingerbread Cookies
These soft and spicy cookies are a holiday staple, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
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
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
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.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm up with a rich and spicy mulled wine perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Honey or sugar, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired level of spiciness.
3. Add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness with honey or sugar if needed.
5. Serve warm in mugs or heat-proof glasses.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Summary: Elevate your Brussels sprouts game with this simple and delicious recipe, featuring crispy bacon and caramelized sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, breaking up any large clumps.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with optional broth for added moisture.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe
A classic comfort food dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fluffy goodness of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, and nutmeg.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer
Savor the freshness of succulent shrimp in this elegant and easy-to-make cocktail appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium bowl, combine lemon juice, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This appetizer is a no-cook recipe, perfect for hot summer days.
Christmas Eve Beef Stew
This hearty beef stew is a perfect way to warm up on Christmas Eve, filling your home with the aromas of slow-cooked meat and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or shank, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add browned beef, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Apple Cinnamon Strudel
This classic dessert combines tender apples with the warmth of cinnamon and a crispy, flaky crust. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spread apple mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the 1-inch border over the filling, then roll the strudel into a tight log shape. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush melted butter over the strudel and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with Caramel Sauce
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy vanilla bean ice cream, paired with a sweet and sticky caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup vanilla beans (split lengthwise)
– Caramel sauce recipe below
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and vanilla beans. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into an ice cream maker. Discard the vanilla beans.
4. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the caramel sauce:
– Combine 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup light corn syrup in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
– Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes or until deep amber color forms.
6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp sea salt and 1/2 cup heavy cream.
7. Pour the caramel sauce over the churned ice cream and mix until fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: approximately 45 minutes)
Summary
Get ready to impress your loved ones on Christmas Eve with these 20 delightful recipes! From savory dishes like Roast Turkey with Herb Butter and Classic Beef Wellington to sweet treats like Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream and Eggnog Cheesecake, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find classic holiday sides like Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows, as well as indulgent desserts like Peppermint Chocolate Bark and Apple Cinnamon Strudel. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat your family, these recipes are sure to make your Christmas Eve a memorable one.