19 Christmas Dinner Ideas: Main Dishes for the Big Day
Don’t let a morning full of presents have all the fun. Christmas dinner is one of the year’s most special meals. You get to pull out all the stops and make something you’d never make on a weeknight. Here’s a collection of special-occasion faves, with a few picky eater choices thrown in there too.
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Apple Cider Glazed Ham
This is the most requested Christmas main dish at my house. It’s kid-friendly, not too sweet, glazed to perfection, and gorgeous on the table.
Prime Rib Roast
A classic and hearty recipe that will keep the house smelling amazing all evening. Check with your local butcher first, as you may need to order the roast ahead of time (especially around the holidays).
Deep-Fried Turkey
Beautifully browned crispy skin wirh moist, flavorful meat. Say goodbye to boring turkey with this delicious recipe. You'll never make turkey another way.
Pork Tenderloin
This recipe can be made right in a cast iron skillet. It’s quick and easy. Drizzle with the honey balsamic glaze, and it’s a simple, fancy Christmas dinner.
Roast Chicken
Cast iron chicken is great for a smaller crowd and when you don’t want to fuss with a whole roast or turkey. You can pair it with just about any side dish.
Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding
A timeless classic for when you’re really feeling like going old-fashioned. This recipe alone is enough for the table, so you don’t need to go crazy over the sides.
Beef Wellington
Most of the work is done ahead of time for this recipe. (But it does require some work.) It’s well worth it, though. This dish is a true showstopper if you want to wow your guests.
Crown Roast of Pork
Another dish that will really impress your friends and family. I like this as an alternative to turkey (because we just did that for Thanksgiving!). Ask your butcher to tie it up for you ahead of time to save you the hassle.
Rack of Lamb
The lamb roasts in under half an hour – can you believe it?! This is perfect for a smaller crowd. It’s way easier than it looks and is an easy way to mix up the menu a bit.
Roast Duck
If you’re really looking for something that’s different but still easy, try this recipe. It’s not hard, I promise, and duck is a great alternative to chicken or turkey.
Beef Bourguignon
Beef bourguignon for when you really don’t want to cook on the big day. You can make this the day before and heat it up before serving. It’s perfect for a cozy and snowy Christmas evening.
Roasted Pork Loin
This pork loin cooks in one pan in the oven with apples on top that basically turn into a sauce. It’s a family-friendly recipe that can come together quickly without a lot of hands-on prep.
Ossobuco Milanese
For when you’re feeling like Italian, but don’t want fish or pasta. This is a low-and-slow recipe that requires some TLC, but it’s worth it.
Roast Beef Tenderloin
I love to make beef tenderloin when I don’t want to fuss with a roast but still want some red meat on the table. The sauce is made from the pan gravy, to keep things simple. It’s leaner and less fatty than a big roast.
Smothered Chicken
This is for when things have slowed down, and you’ve been running around to other people’s houses all day. Pair it with simple mashed potatoes and rolls, and you’ve got the ultimate cozy Christmas dinner.
Pork Chops with Apples
This slow cooker recipe is perfect when you want a completely hands-off Christmas afternoon. It’s a crowd-pleaser and is great for picky eaters.
Tuscan Chicken
This is a one-skillet recipe for when you’re truly tired of the standard holiday fare. There are never any complaints when I make this meal, and you can dress it up with homemade rolls and a roasted vegetable.
Beef Brisket
Beef brisket is more affordable than a prime rib roast, plus it’s great for feeding a large crowd.
Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Breast
It can never hurt to make some extra chicken for the kids or non-beef eaters. This recipe is super simple and tastes great with whatever sides you’re already making.
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