Looking for festive recipes that are simple to make and everyone will love? These Christmas dinner ideas are easy to pull together and great for a cozy holiday meal. Whether you want seafood, classic comfort dishes, or something a little different, there is plenty here to choose from.
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Whether you're planning a feast of seven fishes on Christmas Eve or a traditional spread on Christmas day, these recipes keep everything simple, tasty and stress free.
Mix and match your favorites to build a menu that works for your family, and make your Christmas dinner special with these easy and delicious recipes.
Christmas Dinner Ideas
Whether you are hosting or bringing a dish, there is something in this list for your holiday spread. From appetizers and salads to sides, mains, and desserts, these recipes make it easy to pull together your Christmas dinner menu.
1
Cioppino Seafood Stew
This cioppino comes together with a handful of pantry ingredients simmered into a rich tomato base with garlic and herbs. Add shrimp, fish, or any seafood you like, fresh or frozen, and let it gently cook until everything is tender. It is a simple way to make a special holiday dinner without much effort.
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2
Sweet Potato Soup
This sweet potato soup is smooth, cozy, and lightly scented with warm spices. The coconut milk adds a gentle creaminess that makes each spoonful feel extra comforting. It's easy to make ahead, reheats beautifully, and works well as a starter for any holiday meal.
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3
Instant Pot Ham with Pomegranate Glaze
This ham cooks quickly in the Instant Pot and comes out juicy every time. The honey mustard pomegranate glaze adds a bright, tangy finish that feels festive without extra work. It is simple to slice and serve, making it a great holiday main dish.
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4
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
This slow cooker butternut squash soup is creamy, smooth, and incredibly easy. The vegetables cook until tender, then everything blends together into a silky texture right in the crock pot. It's a great way to warm up a cold December evening and perfect for serving a crowd.
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5
Simple Roasted Turkey Breast
This roast turkey breast is a great option when you want something easier than a full bird. It stays tender and flavorful with minimal prep, and the leftovers are great for sandwiches or salads later in the week. It is a simple holiday favorite you can make any time.
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6
Creamy Cauliflower Soup
Cauliflower and celery root blend into a velvety soup with a mellow, earthy flavor. A sprinkle of crispy bacon and fresh chives adds a nice contrast without overpowering the bowl. It is a simple, elegant option that fits right into a relaxed holiday dinner.
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7
Mustard Baked Salmon
This mustard baked salmon cooks on one sheet pan with tender asparagus for a quick and easy dinner. The mustard adds a little tang that pairs nicely with the flaky salmon. It is a great choice if you want something lighter that still feels special.
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8
Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
These slow cooker mashed potatoes let you skip the stovetop and free up space for other dishes. The potatoes cook until soft, then mash right in the crock pot for easy cleanup. They stay warm until serving and work well with any holiday main dish.
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9
Smoked Shrimp
These smoked shrimp come together quickly and pick up just the right amount of smoky flavor. You can make them in a smoker or set up indirect heat on the grill. They are great as a starter or a simple seafood addition to your holiday spread.
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10
Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet potato casserole has warm spices, a touch of honey, and a crunchy pecan topping. It is simple to mix together and bakes into a comforting side that feels right at home on any holiday table. The leftovers are just as good the next day.
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11
Easy Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in these root vegetables and makes them tender with crisp edges. They are easy to customize with whatever mix you have on hand. It is a simple and colorful side dish that fits with anything you are serving.
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12
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
These easy air fryer Brussels sprouts are crisp, tender and perfectly browned. A quick balsamic dressing gives them a bright, savory finish. They are fast, simple, and great when you want a holiday side that does not take up room in the oven.
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13
Cranberry Orange Sauce
This cranberry sauce is made with just cranberries, orange juice, and honey or maple syrup. It cooks in minutes and sets up beautifully as it cools. It is a fresh, bright addition to the table, especially if you're serving turkey.
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14
Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe
This broccoli salad mixes crisp broccoli, bacon, red onion, walnuts, and golden raisins for a mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy. It holds up well, making it a great make ahead option. It's a crowd favorite that always disappears fast.
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15
Easy Roasted Carrots
These roasted carrots come out tender with caramelized edges and a simple seasoning that lets their natural sweetness shine. They are easy to prepare and work with any main dish. It is a simple side that feels right for a holiday dinner.
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16
Deviled Eggs with Bacon
These deviled eggs are a simple holiday appetizer with a creamy filling and plenty of room for toppings. Bacon, roasted red peppers and chives add a nice pop of flavor and color. They are easy to set out on the table and always go quickly.
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17
Roasted Shrimp Cocktail
This roasted shrimp cocktail feels a little fancy but could not be easier. The shrimp roast quickly, giving them a tender texture that pairs well with the 5-ingredient cocktail sauce. It is a great starter for Christmas dinner or any holiday gathering.
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18
Apple Crisp with Pecan Crumble
This apple crisp brings together baked apples and warm cinnamon with a simple almond flour pecan topping. It bakes into a comforting dessert that works well with a scoop of ice cream. It is a great way to end the meal without fussing over a pie crust.
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19
Chocolate Pecan Tart
This chocolate nut tart combines rich chocolate with crunchy pecans for a sweet filling. It looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to put together, making it a perfect make ahead dessert for serving after a big holiday dinner.
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20
Hazelnut Cookies
These hazelnut cookies come together with just a few ingredients and bake into tender, lightly sweet rounds. Their simple flavor makes them great with coffee, hot chocolate or apple cider. Serve them with dessert or as part of a holiday cookie tray.
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These easy Christmas dinner ideas help you put together a menu that feels festive without the stress. Pick a few favorites, keep things simple, and enjoy a relaxed holiday meal with your family, friends and guests.
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