Christmas is the perfect time to get loved ones together and serve a meal that brings warmth, joy, and tradition to the dinner table. Whether you serve a classic holiday dinner or one a little more modern, the right dishes can make your celebration a memorable one. Below are 20 of the tastiest Christmas dinner menu ideas to inform your holiday eating.
No Christmas dinner is complete without a beautiful roasted turkey. Infused with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, a golden-brown turkey basted in herb butter offers a juicy, savoury centrepiece for your holiday table. Serve it with a side of creamy turkey gravy and cranberry sauce for a classic holiday taste.
Slow-roasted, honey-baked glazy ham is a holiday staple in most diets. The honey-glazed mustard, caramelized to golden sweetness, provides a balance of salt and sweetness to perfection, and a single bite is a temptation. Serve with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
For a show-stopping main event, consider a prime rib roast. Rubbed with pepper, salt, and garlic and slow-roasted to tender perfection, it’s fabulous with a rich au jus and creamy horseradish sauce. Roasted Brussels sprouts and buttery rolls round out the indulgent delight.
Savoury stuffing made with crusty bread, sautéed onions, celery, and fragrant herbs is a must-have side. Add some sausage or cranberries for added flavour, and it will be improved. Add some turkey gravy on top for extra richness.
No Christmas meal is complete without traditional Christmas pudding. This rich, dense dessert is loaded with nuts, dried fruit, and spices, and steamed. Top it with a generous serving of brandy sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a Christmas dessert that will become an annual tradition.
Smothered and silky mashed potatoes are a timeless side dish that works with anything. Whipped in butter, cream, and a pinch of garlic, they taste rich and silky and melt in your mouth. Add fresh chives or crispy fried onions on top for extra flavour.
A great combination of caramelized Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch to your holiday table. Complete with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to heighten the flavour. Add some toasted pecans or cranberries for a bonus festive flavour.
Soft, fluffy dinner rolls fresh from the oven are a must-have for soaking up all the delicious gravies and sauces on your plate. A little honey butter brushed on top makes them even more delightful. Serve warm with a pat of melting butter for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Tart and sweet cranberry sauce add a refreshing contrast to the rich and savoury flavours of Christmas dinner. Whether homemade or store-bought, this festive condiment is a staple on every holiday table. Try adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
An irresistible side dish is a classic green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions. The creamy mushroom sauce and tender green beans create a comforting, nostalgic addition to your meal. Sprinkle with shredded cheese before baking for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Bright and flavourful, glazed carrots bring a pop of colour and sweetness to your dinner table. Roasted with honey, butter, and fresh thyme, they are both simple and delicious. A sprinkle of sea salt enhances their natural sweetness.
One traditional British Christmas main course, Yorkshire pudding is an ethereal, light side that is made up of a simple batter of milk, eggs, and flour. Served alongside prime rib or roast beef, it soaks up the flavour beautifully. Offer generous help of beef gravy for the best flavour.
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs are an easy yet delicious side dish that pairs well with any main course. Toss them in olive oil and parmesan cheese for extra crispiness.
Elegant and flavourful, bacon-wrapped asparagus is a simple dish that adds sophistication to your Christmas dinner. The smoky, salty bacon enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a fresh and zesty finish.
Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, baked mac and cheese is a favourite among guests of all ages. A crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavour.
Pecan pie is the ideal choice for a pie to take off the table with a holiday flavour. With its buttery crust and sweet, nutty filling, this pie cannot be resisted. Finish it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for complete decadence.
Roasting chestnuts over an open flame isn’t just a lyric in a Christmas carol song—it’s a delicious tradition. The warm, nutty bites are a holiday delight that will please everyone. Eat them plain or toss them in a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet alternative.
Spicy and warm mulled wine is the perfect beverage to accompany your feast. Made with red wine, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, it’s a warm drink to sip by the fire. Top with a cinnamon stick and orange slice as a garnish for a celebratory flair.
Start your meal with a beautifully arranged cheese and charcuterie board featuring an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, and nuts. It’s an excellent appetizer for guests to nibble on before dinner. Pair with a glass of red or white wine for a sophisticated start.
A classic eggnog is rich, creamy, and full of holiday cheer. Whether spiked or not, it’s a holiday drink that pairs perfectly with Christmas treats. Finish with a dusting of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic topping.
Final Thoughts
Planning the ultimate Christmas dinner menu is all about getting a balance of traditional favourites and new intriguing alternatives. Whatever your choice is between classic and novel, these 20 menu ideas will make your holiday meal taste great and become memorable. What’s included in your Christmas dinner menu this holiday season?
