As the snowflakes start to fall and the fireplace crackles to life, there’s nothing quite like spending Christmas Eve with loved ones. But what makes this special night even more magical is the delicious feast that brings everyone together. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just wanting to indulge in some holiday cheer, we’ve got you covered with these 20 festive recipes for a cozy Christmas Eve.
From classic comfort foods like roasted prime rib and creamy baked mac and cheese, to sweet treats like peppermint chocolate yule log and eggnog cheesecake, our menu has something for everyone. And don’t forget the sides – think cheesy scalloped potatoes, rosemary parmesan dinner rolls, and of course, a show-stopping gingerbread trifle.
As you plan your Christmas Eve spread, remember that it’s all about creating warm, fuzzy feelings around the dinner table. So gather ’round, and let us help you make this holiday season one to remember.
Roasted Garlic and Herb Prime Rib
Elevate your special occasion with this mouthwatering prime rib recipe, infused with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-7 pound) prime rib roast
– 3 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, toss garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the garlic mixture evenly over the prime rib roast.
4. Place thyme and rosemary sprigs on top of the garlic.
5. Roast the prime rib for 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the roast and desired level of doneness.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Bacon
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying macaroni dish smothered in a creamy sauce and crispy bacon bits. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, cheesy sauce, and crumbled bacon in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
This classic glazed ham recipe is a crowd-pleaser, featuring a sweet and sticky honey glaze paired with caramelized pineapple rings. Perfect for holidays or special occasions!
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, cloves, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores.
5. Arrange pineapple chunks on top of the ham, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Bake for 15 minutes per pound, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours for a 4-6 pound ham
Garlic Butter Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic roasted turkey recipe, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the turkey.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Loosely fill the turkey’s cavity with the lemon quarters.
5. Rub the garlic butter mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for about 3-3 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Baste the turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes during cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork Roast
Elevate your weeknight meals with this sweet and savory slow cooker recipe that combines tender pork roast with the tangy flavors of cranberries. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound boneless pork roast
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the pork roast with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together cranberries, brown sugar, honey, and mustard.
3. Place the pork roast in the slow cooker and top with the cranberry mixture.
4. Pour in chicken broth and cover the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Thyme
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and flavorful recipe, featuring tender potatoes, a velvety cheese sauce, and the subtle aroma of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add potatoes in a single layer; cook for 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine cream, cheddar, Parmesan, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Arrange potatoes in an even layer.
5. Pour cheese sauce over potatoes, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef Wellington
Experience the elegance of a French-inspired dish with this classic recipe for Beef Wellington, a tenderloin of beef wrapped in puff pastry and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season beef with flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a large rectangle. Place beef in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
3. Spread mushroom duxelles over the beef, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg and fold pastry over beef, pressing gently to seal.
5. Place Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
6. Brush top of pastry with remaining butter and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Impress your guests with this elegant and flavorful rack of lamb dish, perfect for special occasions. The combination of fragrant herbs and crispy crust adds a delightful texture to the tender lamb.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 bone) rack of lamb
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb rack, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the lamb, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the lamb on a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans Recipe
Transform the humble Brussels sprout into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish. The combination of roasted Brussels sprouts, toasted pecans, and pure Canadian maple syrup will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. In a small skillet, toast pecans over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
6. Remove Brussels sprouts from oven and sprinkle toasted pecans over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your gathering with this sweet and savory Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce recipe. This indulgent appetizer is perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Remove the brie cheese from its packaging and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the cranberry sauce over the brie, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Dot the top of the brie with the softened butter.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly puffed.
6. Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
Get ready to cozy up with this delicious Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding, perfect for fall gatherings or a comforting dessert any time of the year. This moist and flavorful treat combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the comfort of bread pudding.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together bread, pumpkin puree, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with whipped cream or caramel sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Yule Log
Create a festive and delicious dessert this holiday season with our Peppermint Chocolate Yule Log. This sweet treat combines the richness of chocolate with the invigorating flavor of peppermint, perfect for a winter wonderland gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 4-6 candies)
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade chocolate cake (approximately 12 inches long)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the chocolate cake according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Melt chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
4. Stir in crushed candy canes and peppermint extract.
5. Assemble the Yule Log by spreading the melted chocolate mixture on top of the cooled cake, leaving a 1-inch border at the ends.
6. Top with whipped cream and decorate with additional crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time:
None! This recipe is a no-bake treat.
Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
Celebrate the holiday season with this creamy eggnog cheesecake on a crunchy gingersnap crust. This show-stopping dessert is sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap cookies, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crushed gingersnap cookies, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
3. Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by eggnog and vanilla extract.
6. Pour cheesecake batter over the crust.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Mulled Wine Poached Pears
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this elegant and flavorful dessert: poached pears infused with the warm, spicy aroma of mulled wine. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 orange, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add brown sugar, honey, and sliced orange to the pot. Stir until dissolved.
4. Peel the pears, leaving stems intact. Place them in a single layer in a large baking dish.
5. Pour the mulled wine mixture over the pears, making sure they are fully covered.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until pears are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Trifle with Whipped Cream
A show-stopping dessert perfect for the holiday season, this gingerbread trifle combines moist cake, sweet spices, and creamy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (250g) crushed gingerbread cookies
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the ground cinnamon and nutmeg to the whipped cream mixture; mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed gingerbread cookies and softened butter. Mix until crumbs are evenly moistened.
4. To assemble the trifle, place half of the gingerbread crumb mixture in a 9×13-inch serving dish. Top with half of the whipped cream mixture.
5. Repeat the layers: add the remaining gingerbread crumb mixture, followed by the remaining whipped cream mixture.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Apple Cider Sangria
Perfect for crisp fall evenings or cozy gatherings with friends, this Spiced Apple Cider Sangria is a delicious and refreshing twist on traditional sangria. The combination of apple cider, spices, and wine creates a flavorful and aromatic drink that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well)
– 2 cups of apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.
2. Stir well to combine and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, add the sliced orange and lemon to the pitcher.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes steeping time)
Rosemary Parmesan Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner table with these flavorful rolls infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary and the nutty taste of parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down dough and mix in olive oil, chopped rosemary, and parmesan cheese.
7. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
8. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart: A sweet and savory masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese with a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
4. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
5. Spread cooked onions evenly over the tart crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Top with shredded Gruyère cheese.
6. Fold edges of crust up over the filling to create a crusty border. Brush egg wash over crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Transform a humble squash into a creamy, comforting soup perfect for any season. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of butternut squash, roasted to perfection and blended with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Place on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor. Add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and broth. Blend until smooth.
5. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half and blend until combined.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Elevate your holiday treats with this refreshing twist on classic peppermint bark. Crunchy peppermint candies and rich dark chocolate come together for a decadent and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (such as candy canes or peppermint crunch)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or vegetable shortening)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the crushed peppermint candies and shortening until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
Summary
Get ready to delight your loved ones this Christmas Eve with these 20 festive recipes. From classic dishes like Roasted Garlic and Herb Prime Rib and Garlic Butter Roasted Turkey to sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding and Peppermint Chocolate Yule Log, there’s something for everyone. Try Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork Roast for a tender and flavorful main course, or Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans for a delicious side dish. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy night in, these recipes are sure to make your Christmas Eve merry and bright.
