As the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve, you’re probably thinking about what to serve to your loved ones as they gather around the table. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or keeping things cozy with just a few close friends, these 18 festive recipes are sure to impress.
From classic roast turkey and beef wellington to sweet treats like pumpkin pie and chocolate yule log cake, we’ve got everything you need to make your Christmas Eve celebration truly unforgettable. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this holiday season one to remember!
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Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter: A Classic Thanksgiving Recipe
Elevate your holiday feast with this simple yet impressive roast turkey recipe, featuring a flavorful herb butter that’s sure to please.
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
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 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 softened butter, parsley, sage, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the herb butter mixture.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform regular mashed potatoes into a flavorful delight with this simple recipe that combines the richness of butter and cream with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or whole milk, stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
A sweet and tangy glaze elevates this classic ham to a new level, perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, honey, mustard, brown sugar, and cloves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Score the fat layer on the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
5. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush with the glaze, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Bake the ham for 2-3 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
A comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, this recipe combines tender potatoes with a rich and creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer.
3. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with one-third of the cheddar cheese.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 with the remaining potatoes and cheese.
5. Pour in milk, making sure potatoes are completely covered.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Bean Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French-fried onions for a deliciously simple casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the chopped onion in butter until tender.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
5. Add the cooked green beans and sautéed onions to the soup mixture. Mix well.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the French-fried onions evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef Wellington
Elevate your dinner party with this iconic dish, featuring tender beef wrapped in a flaky puff pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) filet mignon, tied with kitchen twine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season beef with salt, pepper, garlic, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Let cool.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a large rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick.
5. Place cooled beef in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg and fold over beef, pressing gently to seal.
7. Place Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush top with remaining egg wash.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet and sticky, these Honey Glazed Carrots are a perfect side dish for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and elegant accompaniment that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots, peeled
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they’re evenly coated.
4. Spread carrots out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and apple cider vinegar.
6. Brush the honey glaze over the carrots, making sure to coat them evenly.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic, this recipe elevates the humble macaroni and cheese to a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in milk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
8. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb-Crusted Prime Rib
Elevate your special occasion or holiday meal with this mouthwatering Herb-Crusted Prime Rib recipe, featuring a blend of fresh herbs and a savory crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-7 pound) prime rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, rosemary, garlic, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the prime rib roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
A classic Thanksgiving dessert, this pumpkin pie is a staple of the holiday season. With its creamy whipped cream topping, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup 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)
– Whipped cream topping ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons sugar
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 place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with pumpkin mixture and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
6. Allow pie to cool completely before topping with whipped cream.
Whipped Cream Topping:
1. In a large bowl, beat heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread whipped cream over cooled pumpkin pie and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake
This Eggnog Cheesecake is a perfect dessert for the holiday season, with its creamy texture and rich eggnog flavor. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually add eggnog and vanilla extract; beat until combined.
6. Pour batter into crust.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely on wire rack.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Cookies
A refreshing twist on classic chocolate chip cookies, these peppermint treats are perfect for the holiday season. With crushed candy canes and dark chocolate chips, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
A delicious twist on traditional Brussels sprouts, this recipe adds smoky bacon to bring out the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, balsamic vinegar, and any accumulated juices.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe
A classic Southern dessert, this sweet potato casserole is topped with a layer of fluffy marshmallows and baked to perfection. A delicious twist on traditional sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3. Add heavy cream, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Loin
Sweet and savory, this Apple Cider Glazed Pork Loin is a perfect centerpiece for your next dinner party. A rich glaze infused with the flavors of apple cider, maple syrup, and spices elevates this classic pork loin to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork loin
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Chocolate Yule Log Cake
Create a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday gathering with this rich and decadent Chocolate Yule Log Cake. With its velvety chocolate ganache and buttery cake, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cake is set.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before spreading with chocolate ganache (recipe not included).
7. Roll cake into a tight log shape and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm Up with Spiced Mulled Wine
As the weather cools down, a glass of spiced mulled wine is just what you need to warm up and cozy up by the fire. This recipe combines the classic flavors of red wine, spices, and citrus to create a deliciously aromatic drink perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it mulled for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the spiced wine into individual cups or a serving jug.
5. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people
Christmas Eve Lasagna
A classic Italian dish with a festive twist, perfect for your Christmas Eve celebration.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
7. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of ricotta mixture, and finally a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and cover with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 festive Christmas Eve recipes! From classic comfort dishes like Roast Turkey with Herb Butter and Garlic Mashed Potatoes to sweet treats like Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream and Eggnog Cheesecake, there’s something for everyone. Plus, enjoy some savory sides like Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham and Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows, or go all out with show-stopping dishes like Classic Beef Wellington and Herb-Crusted Prime Rib. Whatever your taste buds desire, this collection has got you covered.
