The Christmas season is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing stories, and, of course, enjoying delicious food. The centerpiece of your holiday meal is often the main dish, which sets the tone for the entire feast. Whether you prefer traditional flavors or are looking to try something new, there are plenty of mouth-watering options to satisfy your family and guests. Here are 21 delicious Christmas holiday main dishes that will make your celebration truly memorable.
1. Classic Roast Turkey
A holiday favorite, roast turkey is a timeless main dish that never goes out of style.
What to Include:
- Season the turkey with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage.
- Serve with homemade gravy and cranberry sauce.
- Pair with traditional sides such as stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green beans.
2. Honey Glazed Ham
A sweet and savory honey glazed ham is perfect for those who want a twist on the classic turkey.
What to Include:
- Glaze the ham with a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
- Bake until caramelized and serve with roasted vegetables.
- Add a side of cheesy scalloped potatoes for a comforting touch.
3. Prime Rib Roast
For a more elegant holiday feast, a prime rib roast offers rich flavors and tender meat.
What to Include:
- Season with garlic, rosemary, and black pepper for a flavorful crust.
- Serve with horseradish sauce and au jus for dipping.
- Accompany with roasted root vegetables and Yorkshire pudding.
4. Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Impress your guests with a beautifully presented herb-crusted rack of lamb.
What to Include:
- Coat the lamb with Dijon mustard and a mixture of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs.
- Roast to perfection and serve with mint jelly.
- Pair with creamy polenta or a fresh green salad.
5. Stuffed Acorn Squash
For a vegetarian option, stuffed acorn squash makes for a colorful and nutritious centerpiece.
What to Include:
- Fill the squash with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and spices.
- Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Serve alongside a green salad for a light complement.
6. Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is a show-stopping dish that combines tender beef with a flavorful mushroom duxelles and flaky pastry.
What to Include:
- Use a high-quality cut of beef and wrap it in prosciutto and puff pastry.
- Serve with a red wine reduction sauce.
- Accompany with roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
7. Maple-Glazed Salmon
For a lighter option, maple-glazed salmon offers a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s perfect for the holidays.
What to Include:
- Marinate the salmon in a mixture of maple syrup, soy sauce, and garlic.
- Bake or grill until flaky and serve with wild rice.
- Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side.
8. Traditional Beef Stroganoff
A comforting dish, beef stroganoff is rich, creamy, and perfect for a cozy holiday meal.
What to Include:
- Use tender beef strips sautéed with onions and mushrooms in a creamy sauce.
- Serve over egg noodles or rice for a hearty meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added color.
9. Roast Duck with Orange Sauce
Roast duck brings a gourmet touch to your holiday dinner, especially when paired with a zesty orange sauce.
What to Include:
- Roast the duck until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Prepare a sauce with fresh orange juice, zest, and ginger.
- Serve with wild rice and sautéed greens.
10. Cranberry Glazed Chicken
Chicken can be just as festive as turkey, especially when glazed with a tangy cranberry sauce.
What to Include:
- Bake or grill chicken breasts, brushing them with a cranberry glaze.
- Serve with sweet potato mash and roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.
11. Vegetarian Mushroom Risotto
Creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and hearty option that can please vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
What to Include:
- Use Arborio rice and cook slowly with broth for a creamy texture.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms and finish with Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with a fresh arugula salad for balance.
12. Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Colorful stuffed peppers are not only beautiful but also packed with flavor.
What to Include:
- Fill bell peppers with a mixture of rice, chickpeas, olives, feta cheese, and spices.
- Bake until the peppers are tender and serve with tzatziki sauce.
- Pair with a Greek salad for a refreshing side.
13. Coq au Vin
This classic French dish of chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, and lardons is perfect for a cozy holiday gathering.
What to Include:
- Cook the chicken slowly to infuse it with rich flavors.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with buttery mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
14. Baked Ziti with Spinach
Baked ziti is a hearty pasta dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd during the holidays.
What to Include:
- Combine ziti pasta with marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach.
- Bake until bubbly and golden.
- Serve with garlic bread and a simple side salad.
15. Citrus-Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is tender and easy to prepare, especially when glazed with a citrus sauce.
What to Include:
- Marinate the tenderloin in a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, and garlic.
- Roast until cooked through and serve with roasted sweet potatoes.
- Accompany with sautéed green beans for a fresh touch.
16. Ratatouille
For a colorful and healthy option, serve a ratatouille filled with seasonal vegetables.
What to Include:
- Layer sliced eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers with tomato sauce.
- Bake until tender and serve with crusty bread.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
17. Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs
For an easy and flavorful dish, balsamic glazed chicken thighs are a perfect choice.
What to Include:
- Marinate chicken thighs in balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic.
- Roast until caramelized and serve with roasted vegetables.
- Add a side of quinoa or rice to round out the meal.
18. Seafood Paella
Bring a taste of the sea to your holiday table with a festive seafood paella.
What to Include:
- Combine rice with shrimp, mussels, clams, and chorizo for flavor.
- Season with saffron and serve with lemon wedges.
- Pair with a crisp white wine for a refreshing drink option.
19. Enchiladas with Holiday Twist
Give traditional enchiladas a holiday twist by using seasonal ingredients.
What to Include:
- Fill tortillas with shredded turkey or chicken and enchilada sauce.
- Top with cheese and bake until bubbly.
- Serve with a side of festive Mexican street corn.
20. Chicken and Waffles
For a fun and unexpected twist, serve chicken and waffles as a holiday main dish.
What to Include:
- Fry or bake crispy chicken tenders and serve them on top of warm waffles.
- Drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet and savory experience.
- Pair with a side of mixed greens to balance the meal.
21. Traditional Lasagna
A classic lasagna is always a hit during the holidays, offering layers of flavor and comfort.
What to Include:
- Layer noodles with ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, ground beef, and mozzarella.
- Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.
Conclusion: A Feast for the Holidays
With these 21 delicious Christmas holiday main dishes, you’re sure to impress your family and friends. Each dish offers a unique flavor profile, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you prefer traditional options like roast turkey or want to try something new like seafood paella, these recipes will make your holiday table truly festive. Embrace the spirit of the season by preparing a meal that brings people together and creates lasting memories. Happy holidays!
