As the snowflakes start to fall and the fireplace crackles to life, there’s no better way to celebrate the holiday season than with a warm, inviting gathering surrounded by loved ones. And what makes these cozy gatherings truly special? The delicious food, of course! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 festive holiday recipes that are sure to become new family traditions. From classic roast turkey and honey glazed ham to creamy green bean casserole and pumpkin pie, we’ve got you covered with a variety of dishes to suit every taste.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large bash, these recipes are perfect for making your holiday party a memorable one. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up some holiday magic!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Elevate your holiday table with this timeless roast turkey recipe, perfectly seasoned and infused with the aroma of fresh herbs. This classic dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 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 the softened butter, parsley, sage, and lemon zest.
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 for approximately 4-4 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 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 holiday dish that’s sure to please. A sticky honey glaze and caramelized pineapple rings create a sweet and tangy combination that pairs perfectly with the salty ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 pineapple, sliced into rings
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the surface if desired.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get some of the sticky goodness into the scored lines.
5. Arrange pineapple rings around the ham, tucking them into the scored lines for added flavor and texture.
6. Cover the roasting pan with foil and bake for 1 hour.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy garlic mashed potato dish, served with a savory gravy that’s sure to please. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Gravy ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add garlic, milk, and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. For the gravy, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add 1 cup of chicken or beef broth, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Creamy Green Bean Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. This creamy casserole combines tender green beans, savory ground beef, and a rich mushroom gravy, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup french-fried onions
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender.
3. Brown ground beef in a skillet, then add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked green beans with the meat mixture. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with french-fried onions and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping: A Classic Southern Delight!
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunch and nutty flavor of pecans, creating a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in heavy cream and beaten egg until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with chopped pecans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Add a touch of homemade charm to your holiday meals with this simple recipe for cranberry sauce. This classic condiment is made with just a few ingredients and requires minimal effort, but packs a big flavor punch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and orange juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Traditional Stuffing with Sage and Sausage
Traditional Stuffing with Sage and Sausage: A savory blend of bread, sausage, and herbs that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Delicious Side Dish
This recipe brings together the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts and the smoky savory flavor of bacon, resulting in a tasty side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
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
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this simple yet satisfying recipe, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
This beloved Thanksgiving dessert is a staple for a reason – the perfect blend of pumpkin puree, spices, and creamy whipped cream. This recipe yields a smooth, creamy pie that’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 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)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger 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.
6. Allow pie to cool before topping with whipped cream (see below).
Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Beat cream and sugar together until stiff peaks form. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pecan Pie with Caramel Drizzle
Pecan Pie with Caramel Drizzle: A Rich and Decadent Dessert
This classic pecan pie recipe is elevated to new heights with a sweet and sticky caramel drizzle. Perfect for special occasions or as a indulgent treat, this dessert is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– Caramel drizzle (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Stir in the melted butter and pecan halves until the nuts are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
5. Allow the pie to cool completely before drizzling with caramel.
Caramel Drizzle:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Combine the cream, butter, and sugar in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 350°F. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before drizzling over the cooled pie.
Gingerbread Cookies with Icing
Get cozy with these classic gingerbread cookies, infused with the warmth of ginger and the sweetness of icing. Perfect for snacking or gifting, these chewy treats are a holiday season staple.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt in a medium bowl.
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 just combined. Add water as needed to form a dough.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2-3 drops lemon juice
Mix powdered sugar and butter until smooth. Add lemon juice, as needed, to achieve desired consistency.
Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg
Celebrate the season with this rich and creamy Eggnog Cheesecake, infused with the warm spices of nutmeg. This decadent dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
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 cup eggnog
– 3 large eggs, separated
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggnog, eggs (one at a time), and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Stir in ground nutmeg.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until center is set.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Get ready to treat your taste buds with this refreshing twist on classic chocolate bark. This Peppermint Chocolate Bark is a perfect combination of rich, velvety chocolate and invigorating peppermint, making it an ideal snack for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint crunch or crushed candy canes (optional)
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped peppermint candies or crushed peppermint wafers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and dark chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. If using, sprinkle the peppermint crunch or crushed candy canes on top of the bark.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
As the cold winter months approach, a warm and comforting cup of spiced mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fire. This classic recipe combines the richness of red wine with the warmth of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Star anise (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and lemon slices.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. 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 temperature.
4. Add the brown sugar and water to the pot, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. You can add a star anise to the pot for added depth of flavor, if you like.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional orange slices and cinnamon sticks if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows
Cozy up with a rich and creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows recipe that’s perfect for any time of the year!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6-8 marshmallows (mini or regular, whichever you prefer!)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and chocolate chips over low heat, whisking constantly.
2. Once the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth, add in the heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Whisk until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
5. Add 1-2 marshmallows per mug (or as many as you like!) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Festive Cheese Ball with Crackers
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday gatherings with this easy-to-make cheese ball recipe, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crackers of your choice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese, chopped nuts, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix well until combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the cheese ball on crackers or your favorite snack. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a no-bake affair.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy, cheesy dip is a party favorite that’s perfect for game days, gatherings, or just because. With its rich flavor profile and addictive texture, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until warm and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Spinach and Artichoke Dip!
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your entertaining game with this elegant and flavorful appetizer. A wheel of creamy brie cheese is baked to perfection, served alongside a tangy cranberry sauce that perfectly balances the richness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp orange juice
– 1 tsp grated orange zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, cranberries, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the cranberry mixture over the brie, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the cranberries are caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Quiches with Ham and Cheese
These bite-sized quiches are packed with flavor and perfect for snacking, parties, or even a quick breakfast on-the-go. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying these tasty morsels in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini muffin tin liners
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of cooked ham (diced)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Divide the egg mixture among the mini muffin tin liners.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese, diced ham, and a pinch of pepper over the egg mixture in each liner.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top of each quiche.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your holiday guests with these 20 festive recipes for cozy gatherings. From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with pecan topping, and from traditional stuffing with sage and sausage to spiced mulled wine, there’s something for everyone on this list. Enjoy a variety of savory and sweet dishes, including creamy green bean casserole, roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, and more. Perfect for holiday parties or family gatherings, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your table.
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