Christmas dinner is one of the most beloved holiday meals. Families across the world gather together on Christmas Day to enjoy festive dishes and treats. The menu often includes timeless classics as well as new twists on old favorites. From appetizers to desserts, Christmas dinner is filled with delicious possibilities.
What are some popular Christmas dinner appetizers?
Christmas appetizers help kick off the big meal. Classic options like cheese, fruit and veggie platters are always crowd-pleasers. More sophisticated starters include options like:
- Shrimp cocktail
- Smoked salmon
- Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus
- Crab cakes
- Bacon-wrapped scallops
- Stuffed mushrooms
- Bruschetta
- Pâté
Festive appetizers like bacon-wrapped chestnuts, baked brie en croute or mini Yorkshire puddings with roast beef also help make the meal feel special.
What are the most popular main dishes for Christmas dinner?
The centerpiece of Christmas dinner is often a succulent main course. For many families, classics like roast turkey, glazed ham and prime rib are must-haves. Here are some of the most popular Christmas dinner mains:
Roast Turkey
Turkey is a traditional Christmas mainstay in many parts of the world. A roasted whole turkey is the festive centerpiece of the meal. Alternatives like turkey breast or boneless rolls can feed smaller gatherings. Classic side dishes include mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy.
Baked Ham
Smoked or honey-baked ham is another extremely popular Christmas main. The sweet and salty meat pairs well with scalloped potatoes, roasted veggies and fruit sauces. Smaller hams and bone-in halves can serve smaller groups.
Prime Rib
For beef lovers, a standout roast like prime rib is the ultimate holiday treat. The flavorful, tender meat can be served au jus or with horseradish cream. Yorkshire puddings, roasted potatoes and creamed spinach make excellent accompaniments.
Rack of Lamb
Rack of lamb delivers a elegant yet unfussy alternative to traditional roasts. The mild, faintly sweet meat can be crusted with herbs or spices and served with champagne gravy. Sides like braised carrots, parsnips or creamy polenta complement it nicely.
Beef Tenderloin
Filet mignon and other tenderloin cuts also make refined Christmas dinner options. Seared, roasted or topped with sautéed mushrooms, beef tenderloin cuts melt-in-your-mouth. Potatoes, asparagus and Brussels sprouts are natural pairings.
Goose
In many parts of Europe, goose is the customary Christmas bird. Savory roasted goose can be served with lingonberry sauce. Potatoes, root vegetables and sauerkraut provide tangy contrasts to the rich meat.
Lasagna
For families who prefer not to serve meat, lasagna makes a perfect vegetarian Christmas main. The layered Italian classic offers comfort and richness everyone can enjoy. Spinach, cheese, mushroom and veggie lasagnas are all festive options.
Other Popular Mains
Beyond the classics, families often get creative with unique mains like:
- Duck or rabbit confit
- Rack of venison
- Cornish game hens
- Beef Wellington
- Crown roast of pork
- Seafood boil or cioppino
- Lobster tails
- Tamales
- Risotto cakes
What are some classic Christmas dinner side dishes?
In addition to the main event, Christmas dinner menus typically feature several traditional side dishes and trimmings. Here are some classic Christmas meal accompaniments:
Potatoes
Potatoes are nearly universal Christmas dinner staples. Roast potatoes, mashed potatoes, Hasselback potatoes, twice-baked potatoes, potato gratin and more all make appearances. Potatoes pair perfectly with rich holiday entrees.
Stuffing or Dressing
Bread-based stuffing or dressing provides the perfect bed for roast turkey or chicken. Flavors like sage, celery, mushrooms and sausage enhance stuffing’s savory profile.
Green Bean Casserole
For many American families, Christmas dinner is not complete without this comfort food combining green beans, creamy mushroom soup and crispy fried onions. Canned beans and soup make it effortless.
Cranberry Sauce
Tart, vibrant cranberry sauce balances the richness of holiday meats. Homemade is simple, but canned sauce is a staple most kitchens keep on hand too.
Carrots and Parsnips
Roasted carrots and parsnips bring bright colors and complementary sweetness to the plate. Honey, brown sugar or maple syrup enhance their natural flavors.
Brussels Sprouts
Buttery roasted Brussels sprouts are a popular vegetable at Christmas gatherings. Toasted nuts or bacon liven up their subtle flavor.
Winter Squash
Hearty roasted acorn or butternut squash slices are right at home on a holiday spread. Brown sugar and spices add seasonal flair.
Rolls and Biscuits
Warm breads round out Christmas feasts. Fluffy biscuits, soft rolls and popovers are ideal for sopping up rich pan sauces and gravies.
What are some classic Christmas desserts?
Saving room for something sweet is a must. Festive Christmas desserts cap off dinner on a high note. Here are some of the most popular Christmas sweets:
Cookies
What would Christmas be without cookies? Sugar cookies, gingerbread people, spritz cookies and more star at Christmas dessert tables. Here’s just a sampling of beloved holiday cookie flavors:
- Sugar cookie
- Gingerbread
- Shortbread
- Snowball cookie
- Linzer
- Biscotti
- Rugelach
- Spritz
- Thumbprint
Fruitcake
The famous Christmas cake gets a bad rap, but homemade fruitcake made with quality ingredients can be delicious. Brandy, rum or bourbon-soaked fruitcakes keep well for holiday gifting too.
Buche de Noel
This festive French Yule log cake shaped like a log is a dramatic Christmas dessert. Chocolate sponge cake is filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with decorative “bark” and mushrooms.
Stollen
This German Christmas bread contains fruit, nuts and spices. The dense, golden loaf is coated in powdered sugar or glazed.
Panettone
Italy’s dome-shaped Christmas sweet bread contains raisins and candied citrus. Fresh panettone is a treat, but dry varieties work well for French toast too.
Kulkuls
These traditional cookies from India get their unique shape from twisting the dough before baking. Flavored with ghee, nutmeg, coconut and more, they pair well with tea.
Coconut Cake
In the southern U.S., a towering coconut layer cake is a popular alternative to fruitcake. Frosting options range from silky white to fluffy whipped cream cheese.
Pepparkakor
These crunchy gingerbread cookies from Sweden are traditionally rolled very thin and embossed with decorative patterns.
Other Popular Desserts
Beyond traditional choices, Christmas dessert menus can include:
- Pies
- Trifles
- Petit fours
- Puddings
- Hot chocolate
- Eggnog
- Custards
- Cakes
- Sweet breads
Conclusion
Christmas dinner menus truly run the gamut and vary by region, family backgrounds and tastes. Whether focused on classics or new favorites, the unifying theme of Christmas meals is abundance and celebration. With savory centerpieces, comforting sides, and delightful sweets, Christmas dinner brings loved ones together over delicious food and making memories.