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30 Christmas Dinner Ideas – Easy Mains & Sides To Feed A Crowd

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Discover a plethora of festive culinary delights with this list of 30 traditional Christmas dishes from around the world! This carefully curated selection features a variety of sumptuous starters, flavorful mains, irresistible side dishes, and delectable desserts that capture the essence of Christmas.

From classic dishes like the British Roast Turkey and Italian Panettone to more unique fare such as the German Sauerbraten and Australian Pavlova, every dish on our list embodies the holiday spirit in every bite. Make your Christmas meals extra special this year and impress your guests by incorporating these traditional Christmas dishes from across the globe into your festive menu.

30 christmas dinner ideas main dish sides crowd 1

  1. Classic Roast Turkey

A Festive Centerpiece

Your Christmas dinner table wouldn’t be complete without a classic roast turkey. This iconic dish, with its crispy skin and succulent meat, takes center stage, exuding festive vibes. Enjoy the rich, succulent flavors that have become a symbol of holiday gatherings.

Perfect for Sharing

Serving roast turkey is ideal for a family dinner or when entertaining a large number of guests. The hearty dish can feed a crowd, making it perfect for holiday celebrations when everyone comes together.

Make it Unique

Feel free to experiment with various seasonings, stuffing, and sauces to put a personal spin on your roast turkey. From traditional sage and onion stuffing to exotic Moroccan spices, the possibilities are endless. Check this recipe.

  1. Honey Glazed Ham

Sweet and Savory Delight

A honey-glazed ham can add a touch of sweetness to your Christmas dinner. The combination of savory ham with a honey glaze creates an irresistible fusion of flavors that will satisfy both sweet and savory cravings.

A Versatile Option

Ham is a versatile meat that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. From classic mashed potatoes and green beans to exotic pineapple and cranberry relish, there’s no end to the combinations you can create.

Tailor to Your Taste

Experiment with different glazes or spices to personalize your ham. You can add mustard, brown sugar, or even a splash of bourbon to your glaze for a unique twist. Check this recipe.

  1. Prime Rib Roast

An Elegant Choice

A prime rib roast makes for a truly elegant centerpiece at your Christmas dinner. Its rich flavors, tender meat, and impressive presentation can elevate your holiday dining experience.

Fit for a Feast

Prime rib roast is an ideal choice for a grand feast. The large cut can serve many guests, making it a practical choice for large gatherings. Plus, the leftovers make great sandwiches!

Customize Your Roast

You can play around with various herbs, spices, and sauces to customize your prime rib roast. Whether you prefer a simple garlic and rosemary rub or a bold red wine reduction, the choice is yours. Check this recipe.

  1. Seafood Paella

A Taste of the Sea

For a non-traditional but equally festive Christmas dinner, consider a seafood paella. This Spanish dish with its blend of rice, seafood, and vibrant saffron offers a colorful and flavorful alternative to meat-heavy meals.

A Shared Experience

Seafood paella is traditionally cooked and served in a large paella pan, which makes it a great communal dish for sharing. It can spark conversations and add a sense of togetherness to your meal.

Experiment with Seafood

Feel free to use a mix of your favorite seafood in the paella. Shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid are all good options, and a few pieces of fish can also be a nice addition. Check this recipe.

  1. Beef Wellington

A Showstopper Dish

Beef Wellington, with its tender beef, mushroom duxelles, and crispy pastry, is a showstopper dish that’s sure to impress your guests. Despite its sophisticated appearance, it’s relatively simple to make.

A Luxurious Treat

This luxurious dish is perfect for special occasions. The rich, hearty flavors of the beef and the mushrooms, encased in flaky pastry, make for a memorable meal.

Your Personal Touch

Feel free to add your personal touch to the classic Beef Wellington recipe. You can add a layer of prosciutto or use different herbs in the mushroom mixture to suit your tastes. Check this recipe.

  1. Lamb Leg Roast

Sophisticated and Savory

A roasted leg of lamb is a sophisticated, savory dish that adds an elegant touch to your Christmas dinner. The succulent, flavorful meat paired with herbs and spices creates an inviting aroma that fills the home.

Perfect for Family Gatherings

Roasting a whole leg of lamb is ideal for family gatherings. It offers generous servings and pairs wonderfully with various sides, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies.

Make it Your Way

Feel free to experiment with different marinades or rubs. From traditional rosemary and garlic to a zesty lemon and thyme marinade, the options are plentiful. Check this recipe.

  1. Lobster Thermidor

Luxury on a Plate

Treat your family to an indulgent, luxurious meal this Christmas with Lobster Thermidor. This classic French dish, with its rich, creamy sauce and succulent lobster meat, is a festive choice.

Impress Your Guests

The elegance and complexity of Lobster Thermidor are bound to impress your guests. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that makes for a memorable dining experience.

Experiment with Flavors

Personalize your Lobster Thermidor by adding your preferred ingredients. A dash of brandy or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can provide an exciting flavor twist. Check this recipe.

  1. Christmas Nut Roast

A Vegan Delight

For a vegetarian or vegan option, consider a hearty Christmas nut roast. This flavorful dish combines various nuts and veggies for a meat-free main course that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Read also: 20 Lebanese Recipes 

Healthy and Hearty

Nut roast is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to incorporate more fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats into your Christmas dinner.

Tailor to Your Taste

Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, veggies, and spices to customize your nut roast. You can also add some cheese or vegan alternatives for extra flavor. Check this recipe.

  1. Stuffed Cornish Hens

An Individual Treat

Stuffed Cornish hens are an excellent option for smaller gatherings. Each guest gets their own bird, making the meal feel more personalized and festive.

Versatile and Delicious

Cornish hens are small enough to absorb flavors well, making them very versatile. They can be stuffed with a variety of ingredients, from traditional stuffing to wild rice or even fruits.

Customize Your Hens

Feel free to play around with different stuffings and seasonings for your Cornish hens. Try a spicy rub or a sweet glaze to create a unique flavor profile. Check this recipe.

  1. Stuffed Pork Loin

A Flavorful Centerpiece

A stuffed pork loin makes for a beautiful and flavorful centerpiece at your Christmas dinner. The stuffing adds extra flavor to the tender pork, making every bite a delight.

Perfect for a Feast

Pork loin is a generous cut of meat that can serve a crowd. Pair it with sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Experiment with Stuffing

You can get creative with the stuffing for your pork loin. Try using fruits like apples or apricots, different types of cheese, or a variety of herbs and spices. Check this recipe.

  1. Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

A Plant-Based Classic

This Vegan Shepherd’s Pie is a delicious, plant-based version of the traditional dish. Packed with hearty vegetables and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s comfort food at its finest.

A Healthy Twist

This recipe provides all the comfort of the classic dish while being lower in fat and higher in fiber, making it a healthy addition to your Christmas dinner.

Make it Your Own

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to suit your tastes. Consider adding some lentils for extra protein or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Check this recipe.

  1. Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

Sweet and Savory

Baked ham with a brown sugar glaze is a classic Christmas main course. The sweet glaze perfectly complements the salty ham, creating a flavor profile that’s sure to be a hit.

A Festive Favorite

A beautifully baked ham makes a stunning centerpiece for your Christmas table. Paired with traditional sides like mashed potatoes or green beans, it makes for a festive feast.

Personalize Your Glaze

You can experiment with the glaze by adding different spices like cinnamon or cloves, or ingredients like honey or mustard for an extra flavor boost. Check this recipe.

  1. Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad

A Vibrant Addition

Add some color to your Christmas dinner with a roasted beet and citrus salad. The sweet beets and tangy citrus provide a refreshing contrast to heavier main courses.

A Nutrient-Packed Side

This salad isn’t just beautiful, it’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s a delicious way to include more vegetables in your holiday meal.

Mix it Up

Feel free to experiment with different types of citrus or adding other ingredients like goat cheese, nuts, or fresh herbs. Check this recipe.

  1. Christmas Tofurkey

A Vegan Main Course

For a vegan main course, consider a Christmas Tofurkey. This plant-based dish offers a hearty, meaty texture and can be dressed up with all the classic trimmings.

A Cruelty-Free Option

Tofurkey allows you to enjoy the traditional flavors of Christmas while adhering to a vegan or vegetarian diet. It’s a wonderful way to ensure everyone at your table can enjoy the meal.

Customize Your Tofurkey

Feel free to experiment with the seasonings and glaze for your Tofurkey. You can use traditional herbs like sage and thyme or go for a sweet glaze with maple syrup or brown sugar. Check this recipe.

  1. Rack of Lamb with Rosemary and Thyme

An Elegant Option

A rack of lamb is a delicious, elegant main course perfect for Christmas dinner. The tender meat, seasoned with rosemary and thyme, is full of flavor and wonderfully festive.

Ideal for Smaller Gatherings

A rack of lamb is an excellent option for smaller Christmas gatherings, as it typically serves 2-4 people. It’s a delicious and luxurious option that guests will love.

Experiment with Your Recipe

You can modify your rack of lamb recipe by using different herbs or adding a crust made of breadcrumbs or mustard. Check this recipe.

  1. Creamy Mushroom Risotto

A Decadent Side Dish

This creamy mushroom risotto offers a rich and decadent side dish that pairs well with various Christmas dinner main courses. The earthy mushrooms and creamy Arborio rice make for a delicious and comforting combination.

Impressive and Flavorful

Despite requiring careful attention while cooking, risotto is a sure way to impress your guests with its creamy texture and deep flavor profile.

Experiment with Your Ingredients

Feel free to mix up your risotto by adding different types of mushrooms, incorporating cheese, or garnishing with fresh herbs. Check this recipe.

  1. Cranberry and Pecan Stuffed Brussels Sprouts

A Holiday Twist on a Classic Vegetable

Cranberry and pecan stuffed Brussels sprouts offer a festive twist to the humble sprout. The sweetness of the cranberries and the crunch of the pecans perfectly complement the Brussels sprouts.

A Vibrant Side

These stuffed Brussels sprouts are not only tasty, but they’re also a vibrant addition to any Christmas dinner table, adding color and texture to your spread.

Customize Your Stuffing

Feel free to experiment with the stuffing ingredients. You could try adding blue cheese or bacon for an added flavor boost. Check this recipe.

  1. Braised Red Cabbage

A Traditional Side

Braised red cabbage is a traditional side dish that adds a splash of color to your Christmas dinner. The combination of red cabbage, apple, and spices creates a flavorful and festive side dish.

A Versatile Accompaniment

This dish pairs well with a range of Christmas mains, from roast turkey to baked ham, making it a versatile choice for your holiday feast.

Play with Your Spices

Feel free to add more spices to this recipe to suit your tastes, such as star anise, cinnamon, or cloves. Check this recipe.

  1. Butternut Squash Gratin

A Luxurious Side

Butternut squash gratin is a luxurious side dish that’s perfect for a festive Christmas dinner. The creaminess of the gratin combined with the sweetness of the squash makes for a comforting and indulgent dish.

A Winter Staple

Butternut squash is a winter staple and this gratin recipe is a great way to make the most of this seasonal vegetable.

Adaptable Ingredients

Feel free to substitute butternut squash with other types of squash or add additional ingredients such as nutmeg or sage to enhance the flavor. Check this recipe.

  1. Garlic and Herb Roasted Carrots

A Simple Yet Flavorful Side

Garlic and herb roasted carrots offer a simple yet flavorful side dish for your Christmas dinner. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, which pairs beautifully with the garlic and herbs.

A Healthy Addition

Not only are these roasted carrots delicious, but they’re also packed with vitamins and beneficial nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your Christmas feast.

Vary Your Herbs

Feel free to experiment with different herb combinations in this recipe, such as rosemary and thyme or parsley and dill. Check this recipe.

  1. Festive Beetroot and Goat Cheese Salad

A Colorful and Nutritious Starter

This festive beetroot and goat cheese salad combines the earthy taste of beetroot, creamy goat cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette, creating a colorful and healthy start to your Christmas meal.

Impress Your Guests

Despite its simple ingredients, this salad is elegant and vibrant, sure to impress your guests with its visual appeal and layered flavors.

Personalize Your Salad

Feel free to add other ingredients such as candied pecans, fresh herbs, or substitute the cheese with your favorite variety. Check this recipe.

  1. Baked Camembert with Rosemary and Garlic

A Decadent Appetizer

Baked Camembert with rosemary and garlic is a mouthwatering appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. The creamy, melted cheese combined with the aromatic rosemary and garlic is irresistible when served with crusty bread.

Quick and Easy

This recipe is a quick and easy appetizer that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for serving to guests as they arrive and begin to mingle.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add some honey for a sweet and savory twist. Check this recipe.

  1. Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds

A Classic Side Dish

Sautéed green beans with almonds offer a classic and versatile side dish for your Christmas dinner. The crisp-tender green beans paired with crunchy toasted almonds are a delightful addition to any meal.

Healthy and Delicious

Green beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making this side dish a healthy choice for your holiday spread.

Customize It

Feel free to swap the almonds for other types of nuts or add extra flavorings such as lemon zest or grated Parmesan. Check this recipe.

  1. Christmas Spiced Red Cabbage

A Festive Side Dish

Christmas spiced red cabbage is a traditional and festive side dish that’s packed with flavors. The combination of cabbage, apple, and spices creates a comforting and warming dish perfect for the holiday season.

Pairs Well with Christmas Mains

The sweet and tangy flavors of this spiced cabbage complement a variety of Christmas mains, making it a versatile addition to your meal.

Play Around with Spices

Feel free to add more spices to this recipe to suit your taste, such as cloves, nutmeg, or allspice. Check this recipe.

  1. Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic Herb Butter

A Fancy Twist on Roasted Potatoes

Hasselback potatoes with garlic herb butter offer a fancy and flavorful twist on traditional roasted potatoes. The crispy edges and tender center, combined with the savory garlic herb butter, make for a truly irresistible side dish.

Impress Your Guests

These Hasselback potatoes look fancy but are surprisingly easy to make, making them a great way to impress your guests.

Customizable Recipe

Feel free to add cheese, bacon bits, or different herbs to tailor this recipe to your liking. Check this recipe.

  1. Balsamic Glazed Roasted Root Vegetables

A Hearty Side Dish

These balsamic glazed roasted root vegetables offer a hearty and healthy side dish for your Christmas dinner. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze brings out the natural flavors of the root vegetables, creating a deeply flavorful dish.

Read also: 23 Butternut Squash Recipes

Nutrient-Rich

This side dish is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your meal.

Experiment with Your Veggies

Feel free to experiment with different root vegetables according to your preference or what’s in season. Check this recipe.

  1. Winter Fruit Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

A Fresh and Light Side

This winter fruit salad with lemon poppy seed dressing offers a fresh and light side dish, perfect for balancing out the heavier dishes on your Christmas dinner table. The variety of fresh fruits combined with a tangy-sweet dressing makes for a delightful dish.

Colorful and Nutritious

This fruit salad adds a splash of color to your meal and provides a variety of vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for your holiday feast.

Tailor to Your Taste

Feel free to mix and match your favorite winter fruits to make this salad your own. Check this recipe.

  1. Gingerbread Cheesecake

A Festive Dessert

Gingerbread cheesecake brings a festive touch to the classic cheesecake with its spicy gingerbread crust and creamy filling. It’s the perfect dessert to end your Christmas dinner.

Make Ahead

This dessert can be made ahead, giving you more time to focus on preparing your Christmas dinner on the day.

Decorate Your Cheesecake

Feel free to decorate the top of your cheesecake with whipped cream, gingerbread cookies, or a dusting of cinnamon to make it extra festive. Check this recipe.

  1. Mulled Wine

A Warm and Cozy Drink

Mulled wine is a warm, aromatic, and spiced beverage that’s perfect for sipping on a cold Christmas night. The blend of red wine, spices, and citrus makes for a cozy and festive drink.

Entertain Your Guests

This mulled wine is not only delicious but also fills your home with a wonderful aroma, making it perfect for entertaining guests.

Customize Your Spices

Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste or try adding a splash of brandy for extra warmth. Check this recipe.

  1. Yule Log Cake

A Classic Christmas Dessert

Yule log cake, or Bûche de Noël, is a classic Christmas dessert. This chocolatey and creamy cake is not only delicious but also looks impressive on your dessert table.

A Fun Holiday Tradition

Making a Yule log cake can be a fun holiday tradition, and kids especially enjoy the process of decorating the cake to look like a log.

Add Your Twist

Feel free to add your twist to the cake by incorporating different flavors in the filling, such as raspberry, mint, or coffee. Check this recipe.

Conclusion

The epic journey around the world through 30 traditional Christmas dishes ends here, but your culinary adventure is just beginning. Embrace the joy of holiday cooking and explore diverse cuisines by trying out these international delights.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, our list provides easy-to-follow recipes and tips to help you whip up a Christmas feast like no other. Add a global twist to your holiday celebration this year by introducing these dishes to your Christmas menu. Not only will these culinary treasures add variety and excitement to your festive feast, but they also offer an opportunity to learn about different cultures through the universal language of food.

Celebrate this Christmas with an unforgettable culinary experience that will transport your tastebuds to different corners of the world without leaving your kitchen. Happy Holidays!


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