Kick off the holiday season with a memorable Christmas Eve dinner that will leave you feeling merry and bright! In many European countries, December 24th is the main event, not just a warm-up for the big day. Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones for a sumptuous feast, filled with all your favorite dishes. With these mouth-watering ideas, you can create a double dose of festive fun that will make Christmas Day feel like a quiet, relaxing interlude by comparison.
From creamy mashed potatoes and comforting mac and cheese to the star of the show – glazed ham or roast beef – this list has got your entire meal covered. And who knows? You might just start a new family tradition!
Fish Pie
A traditional favorite in both New England and Britain, fish pie is a staple during the holiday season. While I’ve enjoyed it with mashed potatoes on top as well as sliced, like scalloped potatoes, this phyllo pastry version has taken my breath away. Not only does it look impressive, but it’s also a welcome change from the rich meats often served during this time of year.
Whether you’re looking for a new twist on a classic or a dish to impress your guests, this fish pie with phyllo is sure to satisfy.
Bacon Wrapped Turkey Breast
Say goodbye to traditional Christmas Eve cooking stress with a game-changing twist on turkey breast. For those who find plain turkey underwhelming, this recipe is the perfect remedy. And let’s be real – everything is better with bacon! To create this show-stopper, you’ll simply brine the turkey breast, wrap it in crispy bacon, and let the oven do its magic.
Braised Beef Short Ribs
The mention of braised short ribs instantly evokes the essence of Christmas cheer within me. There’s something undeniably magical about sinking your teeth into a tender piece of beef smothered in a rich, sweet, and savory broth that’s been slow-cooked to perfection. The aroma wafting from the kitchen is an added bonus, as it fills every corner of your home with an irresistible scent that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
British Christmas Pudding
As the holiday season approaches, you’re likely busy preparing a variety of sweet treats for Christmas Day. However, consider deviating from your usual dessert routine on Christmas Eve and indulge in something new and exciting. The British Christmas pudding is an excellent choice to add some variety to your festive spread.
Often misunderstood as American-style pudding, this traditional British treat is actually a dense fruitcake packed with dried and candied fruits, offering a delightful change of pace from the usual sugary indulgences.
Beef Wellington
Create a memorable Christmas Eve dinner experience with your loved ones by making Gordon Ramsay’s iconic beef Wellington. Despite its reputation for being challenging, I assure you that it’s surprisingly achievable as long as you begin with high-quality steak. With the right ingredients, you’ll be on track to deliver a mouth-watering dish that will impress even the most discerning palates.
Roasted Goose
Looking for a show-stopping main course to impress your loved ones this Christmas Eve? Consider serving a whole roasted goose instead of the usual turkey or ham. Not only is goose a more unique and exciting option, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare. By following our simple recipe, you’ll learn how to achieve a perfect medium-rare doneness and a crispy, golden-brown skin that will have everyone raving.
But here’s the best part: the rendered fat from cooking the goose can be repurposed into an incredibly indulgent roasted potato dish on Christmas Day. Simply toss diced potatoes with some of that glorious goose fat, along with some herbs and spices, and roast them in the oven until they’re golden brown and utterly irresistible.
Filipino-style Pineapple Glazed Ham
In the Philippines, Christmas celebrations are no exception to the European tradition of commemorating December 24th as a festive occasion. This Filipino Christmas Eve recipe is an exemplary representation of this cultural affinity, boasting extraordinary flavors and aromas. Slow-cooked in a brine of pineapple juice, lemon-lime soda, brown sugar, beer, and spices, the ham delivers a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and savory notes that are simply phenomenal.
Cauliflower Cheese
While it’s true that Christmas is often associated with indulgent dishes, it’s easy to forget the humble veggie in all the festive fuss. And let’s be real, even a dish like cauliflower cheese – which may seem like a healthy option at first glance – can quickly turn into a calorie bomb thanks to its rich, creamy sauce. But fear not! Because beneath that cheesy topping lies a treasure trove of nutritious cauliflower florets just waiting to be enjoyed.
Cheesy Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Imagine a majestic Christmas tree crafted from fluffy, springy cheese-filled bread – too visually stunning to resist taking a bite. Its sheer deliciousness trumps its aesthetic appeal, making it an irresistible treat. While the tree itself is impressive, it’s not yet festive enough for Christmas Eve without some decorative flair. To elevate this edible masterpiece, simply sprinkle pomegranate arils and rosemary sprigs across its branches to create a truly show-stopping centerpiece.
Garlic Butter Lamb Chops
Lamb enthusiasts unite! For those who, like me, can’t get enough of the gamey flavor, lamb chops are an ideal choice for Christmas Eve dinner. The combination of garlic, butter, and thyme sauce elevates these tender and richly flavored lamb chops to a whole new level. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, savory delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Potatoes au Gratin (Dauphinoise)
Indulge in the delightful Dauphinoise, a French culinary treasure that’s surprisingly easy to love despite its challenging name. This iconic dish comprises thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich mixture of butter, cream, and cheese. To prepare, simply stack the potatoes, pour the sauce over them, and bake until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly. The addition of thyme lends an earthy depth to the dish, making it a repeat offender on your menu.
Red Wine Poached Pears
A Christmas feast is incomplete without a sweet finale. And what better way to conclude your meal than with a refreshingly elegant treat that elevates the humble pear to new heights? This deceptively simple dessert involves poaching whole pears in a rich mixture of red wine, sugar, and spices, resulting in a mouthwatering masterpiece that’s sure to impress. For the recipe, click here.
Pork Tenderloin with Creamy Mustard Sauce
The pinnacle of culinary delights is reached when tender pork tenderloin is smothered in a rich and tangy mustard and tarragon sauce. While the pork itself is undoubtedly the main attraction, it’s the bold flavors of the sauce that truly steal the show. In fact, this mouthwatering condiment is so exceptional that you might find yourself indulging in silence, savoring every last drop.
Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta Bake
Imagine the savory aroma of tender pasta, infused with the rich flavors of buttered spinach and earthy mushrooms. As you savor each bite, the subtle tang of Parmesan cream sauce elevates the dish to new heights. And then, just when you think it’s perfect, a melted mozzarella surprise takes everything to an indulgent level – the ultimate Christmas Eve culinary delight.
Standing Rib Roast Recipe (Prime Rib Au Jus)
Elevate your Christmas Eve celebrations with this mouth-watering rib roast that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Its tender and succulent texture, combined with a perfectly pink center and crispy outer crust, makes it a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering. The addition of thyme, garlic, mustard, and cracked black pepper adds depth and complexity to the dish, while the use of bacon grease takes it to the next level.
With every bite, you’ll be treated to a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Roast Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Sauce
In my opinion, any culinary creation infused with the rich flavors of red wine is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This beef tenderloin dish is no exception – its unyielding tenderness makes it a pleasure to savor, requiring nothing more than a gentle nudge of your fork to release its velvety texture. The bold, full-bodied notes of the red wine in the au jus elevate every bite to new heights, imbuing each morsel with an unparalleled depth of flavor.
And yet, despite its sophisticated appearance, this dish is surprisingly accessible and easy to prepare – a true gem that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Pan-Seared Filet Mignon Bordelaise
Transform your Christmas celebration into an unforgettable experience with the indulgent flavors of pan-seared filet mignon Bordelaise. This sumptuous dish is typically reserved for special occasions at a fine dining restaurant, but now you can recreate its sophistication and charm in the comfort of your own home. To achieve this level of elegance, all you’ll need are top-notch steaks and a straightforward bordelaise sauce recipe.
Once you’ve mastered it, be prepared to make it a staple on your holiday table – and for many gatherings to come.
Sheet Pan Christmas Dinner with Beef Tenderloin
For cooks who value simplicity, this recipe is a game-changer. The beauty of this dish lies in its efficiency – both the main course and side dishes can be cooked simultaneously on a single sheet pan, minimizing kitchen workload and cleanup. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy tender and juicy tenderloin, accompanied by perfectly roasted red potatoes and mushrooms, all ready in under an hour.
