The holidays are the best time to celebrate with family, friends, and lots of festive food. I’ve gathered over 30 Holiday Recipes for Christmas, New Years — and the occasional December birthday, ahem — to help you create memorable events and moments with main courses, appetizers, drinks, and desserts. And, of course, soup!
Festive Soups
Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the soup inside’s delightful! Nothing says cozy gathering like a bowlful of comforting soup to warm up after an afternoon of sledding and snowman-building.
Italian Wedding Soup
Welcome the holiday cheer with a bowl of heartwarming Italian Wedding Soup! This recipe is a holiday must-have, perfect for cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations. Sausage meatballs flavor this simple brothy pasta soup. Italian Wedding Soup is a celebration in a bowl, a real crowd-pleaser and a lovely addition to your holiday feast traditions.
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Beef Stroganoff Soup
Inspired by the timeless classic, Beef Stroganoff Soup warms your holiday dining experience with its succulent seared beef, immersed in a rich, sour-cream-infused broth. Each spoonful is pure comfort food, featuring tender egg noodles that perfectly complement the creamy base. Ideal for those crisp, chilly evenings, this Beef Stroganoff Soup is a holiday indulgence that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Buffalo Blue Cheese Chicken Soup
Buffalo Blue Cheese Chicken Soup has all of the spicy goodness of buffalo chicken wings, but in soup form. This soup is a holiday table showstopper, blending the heat of hot sauce with perfectly seasoned chicken, and a creamy blue cheese and ranch sauce, swirling into the mix to balance the heat with mouthwatering creaminess. Perfect for warming up those chilly holiday nights.
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Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Discover a world of rich flavors with this Hungarian Mushroom Soup, a must-have for your holiday feast! Earthy, savory wild mushrooms and generous amounts of paprika create a deeply flavorful and robust soup that's both comforting and satisfying. Elegant and memorable, this soup will complement your holiday dinners and impress your guests.
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Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon
Get ready to cozy up this holiday season with a bowl of the most comforting Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon you've ever tasted! Perfect for those frosty evenings, this rich and savory soup is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl, guaranteed to delight your guests and bring an extra dose of joy to your holiday table.
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Mock Turtle Soup
Step back in time this holiday season with the old timey delight of Mock Turtle Soup, a charming and unique addition to a festive holiday menu. Ground beef or ground turkey provides the base for layers of complex flavors and textures. Easy preparation makes this a most welcome item on the menu and your guests will be treated to a rich, comforting bowl of soup.
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Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers
The food highlight of any party is the selection of appetizers! Me and mine regularly make entire holiday meals out of just appetizers, so we always make our favorites to share with family and friends.
Christmas Wreath Appetizers
Add a touch of holiday magic to your appetizer spread with these lovely Christmas Wreath Appetizers! Effortlessly easy yet impressively festive, these appetizers are the perfect finger food, featuring an herby cream cheese spread topped with bright and merry chopped veggies, on fluffy crescent dough rolls.
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Figs Prosciutto
Treat your guests to a scrumptious platter of Figs Prosciutto. The natural sweetness of fresh figs, the creamy tang of goat cheese, and the smoky saltiness of prosciutto combine for a well-balanced flavor sensation. Perfect for a holiday brunch or as a sophisticated addition to your festive spread.
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Sweet & Spicy Cauliflower Bites – 2 Ways
A healthier game or party day appetizer that doesn’t wimp out on flavor, Sweet & Spicy Cauliflower Bites are you-can’t-stop-at-one delish. Enjoy them two ways: the fiery zing of sriracha cauliflower bites or or the sweeter, gentler heat of BBQ gochujang cauliflower bites — both with that irresistible sweet-and-spicy combo. It’s party finger food that’s also a clever way to get in an extra serving of vegetables in otherwise indulgent holiday fare!
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Fried Deviled Eggs
A unique but lovely twist on classic deviled eggs, Fried Deviled Eggs are inspired by the legendary Jacques Pepín, who originally named his creation Eggs Jeannette in honor of his mother. Imagine the creamy, flavorful filling of traditional deviled eggs, but with an exciting twist — each stuffed egg half is gently pan-fried, intensifying the flavors and adding a delightful texture. They pair wonderfully with a variety of cuisines and are destined to be the shining stars of your holiday appetizer table.
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Bacon-wrapped Potatoes
Few can resist the lure of a bacon-focused appetizer! These Bacon-wrapped Potatoes, paired with a creamy BBQ ranch dipping sauce are an irresistible finger food that's baked in the oven — no messy frying!
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Snacks & Nibbles
One of the best parts of holiday get-togethers, in this nibbler’s opinion, is grazing on a variety of savory snacks. The recipes in this list are also perfect for cozy nights at home in front of a movie with your favorite beverages. And your favorite people!
Dill Pickle Chickpeas
Add a zesty twist to your snacking repertoire with these delightful Dill Pickle Chickpeas! These chickpeas are baked to crispy perfection, then seasoned with a snappy dill pickle flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of the satisfying crunch with the tangy pickle seasonings makes these Dill Pickle Chickpeas an utterly unique treat for holiday nibbling.
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Homemade Cheez-Its Crackers
Light up your holiday gatherings with these irresistible Homemade Cheez-Its, the ultimate party snack that's sure to be a hit! Each bite of these homemade crackers is bursting with addictive, cheesy flavor, making them impossible to resist. So get ready to be hailed as the snack champion at your holiday parties with these delectably crunchy, homemade Cheez-Its!
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Gougeres (French Cheese Puffs)
Bake your way into the heart of French pâtisserie with these delightful, tender, cheesy Gougères! Perfect as party appetizers or a charming addition to your brunch spread, these savory pate a choux pastries are simply irresistible.
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Prosciutto-wrapped Breadsticks
A twist on the classic appetizer, these Prosciutto-wrapped Breadsticks feature tasty aged cheese and aromatic herbs wrapped in a layer of savory, crispy prosciutto. A delightfully crunchy addition to your holiday snack spread, these appetizers can be made ahead in just 15 minutes.
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Parmageddon Popcorn – the Best Homemade Popcorn
Popcorn cooked in coconut oil is the popcorn lover's answer to movie theater popcorn, right at home. Seasoned generously with freshly grated parmigiano reggiano cheese, black pepper, and mustard powder (yes!), Parmaggedon Popcorn is perfect for those holiday movie marathons or as a crave-worthy snack for your merry gatherings
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Dips & Spreads
No holiday appetizer table is complete without a selection of tasty dips and crave-worthy spreads. Keep the crackers, chips, and crudite stocked, and let your guests snack out!
Pistachio Cranberry Cheese Ball
Everyone loves a good cheese ball, and this Pistachio Cranberry Cheese Ball is the bomb. A delicious combination of salty pistachios, sweet-tart dried cranberries, and creamy cheeses, this holiday spread is a beautiful mosaic of holiday colors and flavors. So easy to prep, and make-ahead friendly!
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Dried Beef Cheese Ball
Bring a timeless favorite to your holiday festivities with the classic Cheese Ball with Dried Beef, a centerpiece that's as delicious as it is decorative. At the heart of this appetizing spread is a rich, creamy cheese base, expertly seasoned with savory, oniony flavors that create a depth of taste. But the real charm lies in its outer layer, where it's generously rolled in finely chopped dried beef, adding a delightful texture and a burst of savory goodness. Perfect for serving with a variety of crackers, this Dried Beef Cheese Ball is more than just an appetizer; it's a festive gathering point for friends and family.
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Triple Layer Guacamole Dip
Unveil a show-stopping centerpiece at your holiday celebrations with the Triple Layer Guacamole Dip, a colorful and delectable treat that's sure to be the talk of the party! This isn't just any dip; it's a delightful trio of everyone's favorite flavors, artistically layered to create a visual and taste sensation. The top layer features a savory salsa, bursting with fresh, zesty flavors. Next comes a luscious layer of creamy, cheesy spread, rich and smooth, providing a perfect contrast. And finally, the star of the show, a layer of classic, velvety guacamole, rich and full of flavor.
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Layered Veggies & Hummus Dip
An easy to make, crowd-pleasing dip featuring your favorite chopped and marinated veggies spread over a layer of creamy hummus. The colorful array of vegetables is beautiful and enticing on the plate. Serve with sturdy chips and scoop up this tasty, irresistible treat. Layered Veggies & Hummus Dip is healthy and vegetarian and Blue Zones friendly.
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Spicy Pimento Cheese
Spice up your holiday celebrations with this bold and flavorful twist on traditional pimento cheese! Infused with a smoky kick and just the right amount of heat, this Spicy Pimento Cheese spread is not just a spread; it's a statement. Whether spread on crackers, used as a dip, or as a unique sandwich filling, this creamy, cheesy spread is a must-try for a little extra warmth and excitement this holiday season.
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Cranberry Avocado Salsa
Add a splash of color and a burst of fresh flavor to your holiday table with this beautiful Cranberry Avocado Salsa! Perfect as a unique dip for chips or as a complement to your holiday dishes, it's a refreshing change of pace.
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Baked Artichoke Olive Dip
No holiday appetizer selection is complete without the incredibly delicious Baked Artichoke Olive Dip, a true crowd-pleaser. Rich and creamy, it combines the tender, earthy taste of artichokes with the briny, distinct flavor of olives, creating an unforgettable dip. Baked to perfection, this dip emerges from the oven with a golden top and a warm, inviting aroma that beckons everyone to gather around. Perfect for dipping your favorite breads, crackers, or veggies, this Baked Artichoke Olive Dip is more than just an appetizer; it's a centerpiece of your holiday spread.
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Mediterranean Salsa
Kickstart your holiday festivities with this unique and delicious Mediterranean Salsa, a dip that's sure to become the star of your party! This salsa is not just unique; it's a captivating medley of Mediterranean flavors featuring the deep, rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes, the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, the tangy punch of olives, and the creamy, crumbly goodness of feta cheese. Serve with pita chips and let the yuletide merriness begin!
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Cozy, Comforting Dinners
If you hosting dinner parties or overnight guests, these main entree recipes will feed and nourish your people with their hearty comforts.
Chicken & Dumplings
Welcome your guests this holiday season with the ultimate comfort food, classic Chicken and Dumplings, a dish that epitomizes warmth and togetherness. It's the perfect meal for those chilly winter nights, bringing family and friends closer around the dinner table. Serving this dish to your visiting guests during the holidays is more than just feeding them; it's about creating a cozy, memorable experience that encapsulates the joy and comfort of the season.
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Shrimp Etouffee
Shrimp Etouffee is a winter favorite, brimming with succulent shrimp and infused with rich Creole seasonings, creating a symphony of flavors that will warm you from the inside out. This delightful stew brings a taste of Southern hospitality and warmth to your holiday table. Get ready for your guests to be enchanted by this heartwarming, flavorful, and festive dish, a true highlight of any winter gathering!
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Chicken Tikka Masala
Delight your family and guests this holiday season with the irresistible flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala, a dish where the vibrant world of Indian spices meets the culinary tradition of Britain. This rich, curried delight is a rich blend of aromatic spices, simmered in a savory tomato base that envelops each piece of tender chicken in bold, flavor. A warming dish perfect for snowy nights.
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Dijon Beef Stew
Bring a touch of gourmet elegance and heartwarming satisfaction to your holiday table. Classic beef stew gets a flavor boost with sauce infused with zesty Dijon mustard and smooth cognac. A hearty meal built to warm the bones on chilly days, tender Dijon Beef Stew is delish served over egg noodles or, for a change of pace, cheesy grits.
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Festive Drinks and Beverages
A merry cocktail or beverage can set the festive holiday mood. Keep your guests well-hydrated with a selection tasty tipples.
Holiday Party Punch
A beautiful Holiday Party Punch that takes mere minutes to make and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Fruity and effervescent, with gorgeous coloring, this Party Punch shines at all types of gatherings, from festive yuletide parties to cozy fireplace evenings with the family. Non-alcoholic with suggestions to make it otherwise.
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New Year’s Margarita
Toast to new beginnings and cherished memories with this delicious New Year's Margarita, the perfect addition to your special holiday celebrations! As the clock ticks towards midnight, indulge in this deliciously fruity and frosty concoction, crafted to add an extra sparkle to your festivities.
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Zesty Lemon Lime Mojitos
Add a refreshing twist to your holiday celebrations with these Zesty Lemon Lime Mojitos, a big-batch cocktail that's perfect for parties! These mojitos blend the tangy goodness of lemons and limes with the invigorating spice of ginger, creating a taste sensation that's both invigorating and delicious. Prepared in a large batch, these mojitos are ideal for holiday entertaining, allowing you to spend less time mixing drinks and more time mingling with your guests.
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Sweet Treats
I’m definitely a savory foods girl, but a few sweets during the holidays are a real treat. This collection includes some unique favorites from my must-make list.
Chocolate Whoopie Pies
Embrace the festive spirit with these delightful Chocolate Whoopie Pies, a perfect sweet treat for the bustling holiday season! Soft, rich chocolate cakes sandwich a luscious creamy filling, each one adorned with sparkly, colored sugar that twinkles like holiday lights. Whether you're sharing them at a party, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them with family, these Chocolate Whoopie Pies are sure to be a hit, bringing a sweet, easy, and oh-so-chocolaty joy to your holiday celebrations. Get ready to make your holidays a little sweeter and a lot more memorable with these adorable, delicious treats!
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Italian Rainbow Cookies
This classic layer cookie features seven layers of sweet confectionery, layered in chocolate. Absolutely show-stopping on the plate, these Italian Rainbow Cookies are sure to impress with their stunning colors and delectable flavor.
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Hungarian Shortbread
Delight your guests this holiday season with Hungarian Shortbread, a sweet and tender bar cookie dessert that effortlessly combines simplicity with elegance. Tender, sandy layers of shortbread surround delicious schmear of your favorite jam or preserves. The choice of tangerine jam adds a delightful sweet-citrusy twist, making these shortbread bars a unique and irresistible holiday treat.
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Chocolate Caramel Pecan Pie Bars
Bring some holiday indulgence to your table with these Chocolate Caramel Pecan Pie Bars, a delightful twist on everyone's favorite pie. Easy to make and even easier to love, these Chocolate Caramel Pecan Pie Bars are ideal for serving a crowd, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this heavenly confection.
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Dark Chocolate Pistachio Brittle
All the wonderful crunch of a buttery brittle, Dark Chocolate Pistachio Brittle goes the extra mile, full of flavor and nutty goodness. It's the perfect finger food sweet treat for the holidays!
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S’mores in a Jar
The classic campfire treat reimagined, S'mores in a Jar is the perfect dessert for any holiday occasion and combines fun, flavor, and convenience! These aren't just s'mores; they're a delightful twist on the beloved treat, baked to perfection in adorable single-serving mason jars. Each jar is a self-contained world of gooey, chocolatey, marshmallowy goodness, capturing the essence of s'mores … without the usual mess. Perfect for holiday parties and family gatherings.
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I hope you enjoyed browsing this collection of holiday recipes and found something that will delight your guests and make a merry yuletide celebration even brighter. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s to all!
