11+ Christmas Dishes Main Recipes

Christmas is a time for joy, family, and of course, delicious food. Imagine your table filled with mouthwatering aromas and festive flavors that bring everyone together.

Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter

Herb Butter Roasted Turkey

Herb Butter Roasted Turkey from A Cedar Spoon

Rating: 4.5.

Herb and Butter Roasted Turkey with White Wine Pan Gravy.

Herb and Butter Roasted Turkey with White Wine Pan Gravy. from Half Baked Harvest

Rating: 4.3.

Garlic Herb Butter Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

Garlic Herb Butter Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe from No. 2 Pencil

Rating: 5.

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Roast Turkey is a Christmas staple, offering a comforting, savory experience that’s synonymous with the holiday season. The tender meat, infused with flavorsome herb butter, creates an unforgettable dining experience. Typically, the turkey is seasoned generously with a blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, which not only enhance its flavor but also fill your home with a delightful aroma.

What makes this recipe special is the use of a rich herb butter, which is slathered both under and over the skin. This technique ensures the turkey remains juicy and moist while roasting to a beautiful golden brown. It’s a foolproof way to impress your guests, especially when served with a side of homemade cranberry sauce and gravy.

For many, the highlight of the meal might be the crispy, buttery skin or the juicy slices of meat that pair perfectly with all the trimmings. This dish is not just food; it’s a centerpiece that embodies the spirit of Christmas gathering.

Honey-Glazed Ham

Festive main course recipes

Festive main course recipes from BBC Good Food

Super Easy Christmas Menu

Super Easy Christmas Menu from RecipeTin Eats

Rating: 5.

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Honey-Glazed Ham brings a sweet and savory allure to the holiday table, with its succulent meat and glossy, caramelized glaze. The ham is often coated in a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard or cloves, creating a beautiful balance of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

This recipe is cherished for its simplicity and the delightful contrast it offers. The sweetness of the glaze complements the salty, smoky ham, making each bite a delightful treat. Whether you’re serving a small family dinner or hosting a grand feast, this dish is a showstopper, often admired for its beautifully scored surface and shiny finish.

The best part? Leftover ham makes an excellent addition to sandwiches, omelets, or even a hearty soup, extending the joy of your Christmas meal beyond the day itself. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

Prime Rib Roast with Garlic and Rosemary

Garlic Prime Rib

Garlic Prime Rib from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 2 h 50 min.

Garlic Herb Butter Prime Rib

Garlic Herb Butter Prime Rib from Simply Recipes

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

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Prime Rib Roast is the epitome of luxurious holiday dining, known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This dish is often seasoned with garlic and rosemary, which infuse the meat with aromatic flavors that are simply irresistible.

What sets this recipe apart is the method of slow roasting, which ensures the prime rib is cooked to perfection—tender and juicy on the inside, with a delectable crust on the outside. The rosemary and garlic not only enhance the flavor but also create a fragrant crust that adds to the dish’s visual appeal.

Many find this dish to be a highlight of their Christmas dinner, not just because of its exquisite taste, but also due to its grandeur. It’s a dish that invites admiration and anticipation, making your holiday meal a memorable occasion.

Vegetarian Stuffed Butternut Squash

Stuffed Butternut Squash

Stuffed Butternut Squash from Jessica in the Kitchen

Rating: 4.5.

Easy Vegan Stuffed Butternut Squash

Easy Vegan Stuffed Butternut Squash from Wow, It's Veggie?!

Rating: 4.6.

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Quinoa, Kale, Cranberries, and Chickpeas

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Quinoa, Kale, Cranberries, and Chickpeas from Well Plated

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

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For those looking for a non-meat option, Vegetarian Stuffed Butternut Squash is a delightful choice. This dish is a vibrant mix of textures and flavors, where tender roasted squash is filled with a savory stuffing of quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and herbs.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its colorful presentation and the way it captures the essence of the season. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the earthy quinoa and tart cranberries, creating a harmonious balance that even meat lovers will appreciate.

It’s a wonderful addition to any festive table, offering a burst of flavor and a nod to healthy, plant-based dining without compromising on taste or satisfaction. Plus, it caters to vegetarians without making them feel like they’re missing out on any holiday indulgence.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Christmas Dishes

Festive main course recipes

Festive main course recipes from BBC Good Food

Super Easy Christmas Menu

Super Easy Christmas Menu from RecipeTin Eats

Rating: 5.

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Nail the Perfect Roast Every Time

Ensure your roast turkey or prime rib is cooked to perfection by using a meat thermometer. This simple tool takes the guesswork out of roasting, ensuring your meat is juicy and perfectly cooked.

Create a Show-Stopping Glaze

For a ham glaze that impresses, consider adding a splash of orange juice or bourbon to the honey mixture. This adds a depth of flavor and a hint of sophistication to your dish.

Master Vegetarian Delights

When making stuffed butternut squash, toast your nuts beforehand for an added crunch and depth of flavor. This small step can make a big difference in bringing out the richness of the stuffing.