7 Christmas Dinner Recipes for People Who Crave Old-School Holiday Flavor

As the holiday season approaches, I often find myself reminiscing about the cherished flavors of Christmas dinners past. There’s something truly comforting about the classic dishes that have stood the test of time. From the rich aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey to the sweet notes of honey-glazed ham, I can’t help but crave those familiar tastes. If you’re in search of that nostalgic holiday experience, let’s explore some timeless recipes that can bring back those cherished memories.

Classic Roast Turkey With Herb Butter

Roast turkey is a timeless centerpiece for any holiday feast, particularly during Christmas. This classic recipe features a beautifully browned turkey infused with herb butter, which keeps the meat moist and delicious. With a crispy skin and succulent flavor, this roast turkey will be the star of your Christmas dinner table.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is the ideal temperature for roasting a turkey evenly.

2. Prepare the Herb Butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until well blended. This herb butter will add fantastic flavor to your turkey.

3. Prepare the Turkey:

• Remove the turkey from the packaging and remove the neck and giblets from the cavity (you can save these for gravy or stock if desired). Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
• Using your hands, gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast and legs. Be careful not to tear the skin.

4. Apply the Herb Butter: Take the herb butter mixture and spread it under the skin, particularly over the breast and legs. Rub any remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey. This will help with browning and flavor.

5. Season the Cavity: Generously season the cavity of the turkey with salt and pepper. Place the quartered onion, carrots, and celery inside the cavity for added flavor while roasting.

6. Tie the Legs: If desired, tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine to promote even cooking and a nice presentation.

7. Place in Roasting Pan: Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. This allows air to circulate around the turkey for even cooking.

8. Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the turkey moist and can be used for gravy later.

9. Roast the Turkey: Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices. The cooking time will vary depending on the weight of the turkey; a general rule is 13 minutes of cooking time per pound.

10. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, not touching the bone.

11. Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

12. Carve and Serve: Carve the turkey and serve it on a platter, accompanied by your favorite holiday sides. Enjoy your classic roast turkey with herb butter at your Christmas dinner!

Sale

Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...

• The Original Pro Chopper – TikTok’s favorite veggie slicer and one of the top-rated kitchen gadgets of the season! Simple to use, set up, and...

$49.99 −$20.00 $29.99

BUY ON AMAZON

Honey-Glazed Ham With Pineapple

Honey-glazed ham with pineapple is a delightful dish that adds a touch of sweetness to your Christmas dinner table. The juicy ham is infused with a luscious honey glaze and complemented by the tropical flavor of pineapple, making it a favorite for festive gatherings. Not only does it offer a beautiful presentation, but it also provides a savory-sweet balance that pleases everyone’s palate.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature ensures that the ham warms up evenly without drying out.
2. Prepare the Ham: Place the fully cooked ham on a large roasting pan. If the ham has a rind, you may want to score it in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze to penetrate and creates a beautiful presentation.
3. Make the Honey Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth. Remove from heat.
4. Apply the Glaze: Brush half of the honey glaze over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored areas if applicable.
5. Add Pineapple: Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the ham, securing them with whole cloves to hold them in place. This adds flavor and a beautiful topping to the glaze.
6. Roast the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it in the preheated oven and roast for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until heated through, occasionally basting with the remaining honey glaze every 30 minutes.
7. Finish and Serve: Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove the aluminum foil and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to caramelize the glaze and give it a nice golden color. Let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve the sliced ham with the pineapple topping for a delicious holiday treat.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...

• Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get fresh shredded cheese, cutting the food...

$29.97

BUY ON AMAZON

Creamy Mashed Potatoes With Garlic

Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic are a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with any festive meal, especially during the holidays. This dish features rich, buttery potatoes blended with the irresistible flavor of roasted garlic, creating a smooth and creamy texture that will delight your guests. Perfectly seasoned and enhanced with cream and butter, it’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the garlic cloves in aluminum foil with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: While the garlic is roasting, peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. This ensures they cook evenly. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water, adding a pinch of salt.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
4. Drain the Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. This helps them steam a little, which makes for fluffier mashed potatoes.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins directly into the pot with the potatoes. Add the melted butter and heavy cream to the potatoes.
6. Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired level of smoothness. If you prefer them extra creamy, you can continue to mix while gradually adding more cream until you achieve the desired consistency.
7. Season: Taste the mashed potatoes and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. If you’d like, stir in the chopped chives for an added fresh flavor and a pop of color.
8. Serve: Transfer the creamy mashed potatoes to a serving dish, optionally garnishing with a sprinkle of additional chives or a pat of butter on top. Enjoy this delicious side at your Christmas dinner!

Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...

• 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage methods. Never worry about spoilage ever...

$99.00

BUY ON AMAZON

Green Bean Casserole With Crispy Fried Onions

Green bean casserole with crispy fried onions is a beloved dish that combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crunchy fried onions for added texture and flavor. This comforting casserole is a staple on holiday tables and adds a festive touch to any meal while being easy to prepare.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Green Beans: Trim the ends off the fresh green beans and rinse them under cold water. If you prefer a more tender texture, you can blanch the beans by boiling them for about 3-4 minutes, then plunging them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
4. Add the Green Beans: Add the prepared green beans to the soup mixture and stir gently to coat the beans evenly in the sauce.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Top with Fried Onions: Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the green bean mixture. If you like, you can also add grated cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the onions on top are golden and crispy.
8. Serve: Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Serve warm as a delicious side dish to complement your festive holiday meal. Enjoy!

Sale

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...

• Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast

$59.99 −$24.00 $35.99

BUY ON AMAZON

Traditional Stuffing With Sausage and Sage

Traditional stuffing with sausage and sage is a classic side dish that brings warmth and flavor to any holiday meal. This savory stuffing combines bread cubes, spicy sausage, fresh sage, and aromatic vegetables, creating a hearty accompaniment to turkey or ham. It’s perfect for those looking to add a touch of tradition to their Christmas dinner.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your stuffing bakes evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Bread Cubes: If your bread is not stale, cut a loaf into cubes and place it on a baking sheet. Toast the bread cubes in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until they are slightly dry and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
3. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it is fully browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
4. Sauté Vegetables: Add the butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking for approximately 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and translucent. Stir in the chopped sage and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, and the sautéed vegetable mixture. Pour in the chicken or turkey broth gradually, mixing gently until the bread is moistened but not soggy.
6. Add Eggs: In a small bowl, beat the eggs and then fold them into the stuffing mixture. This will help bind the stuffing together.
7. Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure the flavors are well distributed throughout the stuffing.
8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Bake the Stuffing: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is cooked through.
10. Serve: Once baked, remove the stuffing from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This traditional stuffing with sausage and sage is sure to be a hit at your holiday table!

Sale

Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...

• 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches

$39.99 −$12.00 $27.99

BUY ON AMAZON

Cranberry Sauce With Toasted Walnuts

Cranberry sauce with toasted walnuts is a delightful and tangy condiment that perfectly complements your holiday feast. This dish combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the crunch and richness of toasted walnuts, creating a naturally sweet and nutty sauce that’s a vibrant addition to your Christmas dinner table. It’s not only easy to make but can also be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient side.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prep the Walnuts: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped walnuts out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool.
2. Cook the Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and orange juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. The cranberries will start to pop and break down, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes.
3. Add Flavor: Once the cranberries have cooked down, stir in the cinnamon, salt, and orange zest. This will add depth to the flavor profile of your sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Incorporate Walnuts: After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and gently fold in the toasted walnuts. This adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the sauce.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Once cooled, transfer it to a serving dish or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. This sauce can be made up to a week in advance, making it perfect for a stress-free holiday preparation.
6. Enjoy: Serve your cranberry sauce chilled or at room temperature alongside your Christmas dinner, allowing everyone to enjoy the vibrant flavors it brings to the table.

Sale

Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...

• 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units (oz/lb:oz/fl'oz/g/mL), tare function, and includes 2 AAA...

$13.99 −$3.00 $10.99

BUY ON AMAZON

Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Pie With Whipped Cream

Old-fashioned pumpkin pie is a timeless dessert that brings the warm flavors of autumn to your holiday table. With its creamy pumpkin filling and buttery, flaky crust, this pie is often the star of Christmas dinners, evoking nostalgia and comfort. Topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream, it’s a treat that everyone will love.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Oven and Crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you’re using a homemade pie crust, roll it out and place it into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges as desired. If using a store-bought crust, ensure it’s thawed and fitted into the dish.
2. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Mix these ingredients well until fully combined.
3. Add Eggs and Dairy: Crack the eggs into the pumpkin mixture and stir until incorporated. Then add the heavy cream, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and creamy without any lumps.
4. Pour into Crust: Carefully pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust, filling it to just below the rim.
5. Bake the Pie: Place the pie on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) without opening the door, and continue baking for an additional 40-50 minutes. The pie is done when the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the Pie: Once baked, remove the pumpkin pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least two hours. This will help the filling to firm up further.
7. Serve: Once cooled, slice the pie into wedges and serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy this classic dessert with family and friends during your festive celebrations!