Christmas dinner is a time to gather with loved ones and enjoy delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a small family dinner or a large gathering, the main dish sets the tone for the entire meal. From classic roasts to vegetarian options, there’s a perfect dish for every holiday celebration.
This list includes 21 main dishes that are flavorful, festive, and easy to prepare. Each recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for making your Christmas dinner memorable. Get ready to impress your guests with these delicious Christmas dinner ideas!
1. Roast Turkey with Stuffing
A classic Christmas dish, roast turkey with stuffing never goes out of style. The turkey is perfectly roasted, golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside. The stuffing adds extra flavor and keeps the turkey moist.
Serve it with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting holiday meal.
2. Honey Glazed Ham
Honey-glazed ham is a sweet and savory option for your Christmas feast. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a crispy finish. The ham is tender and juicy, making it a satisfying main dish.
Serve with roasted vegetables and cranberry sauce for a balanced meal.
3. Prime Rib Roast
Prime rib is perfect for a fancy holiday dinner. The beef is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. It’s a luxurious dish that requires little preparation but delivers big results.
Pair it with garlic mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic meal.
4. Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is a showstopper for any special occasion. The beef is wrapped in puff pastry, along with a layer of mushroom filling. It’s rich, savory, and sure to impress your guests.
Serve with a side of roasted potatoes and sautéed spinach.
5. Roast Chicken with Lemon and Herbs
Roast chicken with lemon and herbs is simple yet flavorful. The lemon adds a zesty touch, while the herbs create a fragrant aroma. This dish is lighter than turkey but still packed with flavor.
Pair with roasted potatoes and a fresh green salad.
6. Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Stuffed pork tenderloin is a tender, flavorful main dish. The pork is stuffed with a mixture of herbs and vegetables. It’s easy to make and perfect for the holiday season.
Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
7. Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce
Baked salmon is a light and healthy Christmas dinner option. The fish is tender and flaky, with a fresh dill sauce that adds extra flavor. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a lighter main dish.
Serve with roasted asparagus and quinoa for a healthy meal.
8. Rack of Lamb with Rosemary
Rack of lamb is a sophisticated and delicious dish for Christmas dinner. The rosemary adds a savory touch, and the lamb is roasted to perfection. It’s a great option for those who love tender meat.
Serve with roasted potatoes and a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
9. Chicken Marsal
Chicken Marsala is a rich and flavorful dish. The chicken is cooked in a savory Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners.
Pair with mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts.
10. Slow Cooker Beef Brisket
Beef brisket cooked in a slow cooker is tender and full of flavor. The beef is slow-cooked in a savory sauce, becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a stress-free Christmas dinner.
Serve with mashed potatoes and coleslaw.
11. Vegetarian Lasagna
Vegetarian lasagna is a hearty and filling dish for a Christmas dinner. The layers of pasta, cheese, and vegetables make it a satisfying meal. It’s a great choice for vegetarians and anyone who loves cheesy comfort food.
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.
12. Turkey Meatloaf
Turkey meatloaf is a lighter version of the classic dish. It’s tender and flavorful, with herbs and spices adding a rich taste. This meatloaf is perfect for a simple yet satisfying holiday meal.
Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
13. Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Cranberry orange glazed chicken is a sweet and tangy dish. The glaze is made from cranberries and orange juice, creating a delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for a festive Christmas dinner.
Pair with roasted potatoes and sautéed spinach.
14. Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter
Beef tenderloin with garlic butter is a rich, flavorful option for Christmas. The garlic butter adds richness to the tender beef, making it incredibly tasty. It’s a luxurious dish that’s sure to please.
Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted carrots.
15. Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Sweet and sour meatballs are a fun and festive dish. The meatballs are coated in a tangy sauce made with pineapple and brown sugar. They’re easy to make and great for feeding a crowd.
Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.
16. Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for Christmas. The shrimp are cooked in a garlic butter sauce, creating a rich, savory flavor. It’s a great alternative to heavier meats.
Serve with pasta and a side of garlic bread.
17. Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a comforting and filling dish. The pasta is baked in a cheesy marinara sauce, making it a delicious main dish. It’s a great option for feeding a crowd.
Serve with a simple salad and garlic bread.
18. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a healthy and flavorful option. The peppers are stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, veggies, and ground meat. They’re baked until tender, making them a satisfying meal.
Serve with a side of roasted potatoes.
19. Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a hearty vegetarian dish. The eggplant is breaded, baked, and topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a delicious option for those looking for a meatless main dish.
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.
20. Pork Chops with Apple Sauce
Pork chops with apple sauce are a comforting and flavorful dish. The sweetness of the apple sauce pairs perfectly with the savory pork chops. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for Christmas.
Serve with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes.
21. Lobster Tail with Lemon Butter
Lobster tail with lemon butter is a luxurious and festive dish. The lobster is tender and sweet, and the lemon butter adds a refreshing finish. It’s a great option for those who want a more upscale Christmas dinner.
Serve with a side of roasted asparagus and potatoes.