7 Easy Christmas Dinner Ideas That Lean on Sheet Pans and Baking Dishes

Absolutely effortless Christmas dinner ideas await you, featuring sheet pans and baking dishes—discover how to simplify your holiday feast!

When it comes to planning a stress-free Christmas dinner, I’ve found that relying on sheet pans and baking dishes makes everything so much easier. These versatile tools not only save time but also help create those beautiful presentations we all aim for. From herb-roasted turkey to vibrant side dishes, I’ve gathered a few ideas that might inspire your holiday feast. Let’s explore some delicious options that could transform your festive table.

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast With Veggies

herb infused roasted turkey dinner

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Veggies is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a Christmas dinner. This succulent turkey breast is infused with aromatic herbs and roasted to perfection, while accompanying seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to the plate. It’s a festive option that not only tastes amazing but also makes the kitchen smell heavenly!

Ingredients Quantity
Turkey breast (bone-in) 3-4 pounds
Olive oil 1/4 cup
Fresh rosemary, chopped 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme, chopped 2 tablespoons
Fresh sage, chopped 1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1 teaspoon
Carrots, cut into chunks 2 medium
Potatoes, cut into chunks 2 medium
Green beans, trimmed 2 cups
Onion, quartered 1 large
Chicken broth 1 cup
Lemon, sliced 1

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients well to create a herb paste.
  3. Prep the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Place it on a roasting pan and use your hands to spread the herb mixture all over the turkey, ensuring that the mixture is evenly coated, including under the skin for extra flavor.
  4. Add the Vegetables: In the same roasting pan, add the chunks of carrots, potatoes, onion, and green beans around the turkey. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables gently to coat them.
  5. Add Chicken Broth: Carefully pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the turkey moist and will produce a flavorful base for gravy later.
  6. Roast the Turkey: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey breast reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey with the pan juices every 30 minutes to ensure it stays moist.
  7. Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy turkey.
  8. Serve: After resting, slice the turkey breast and serve it alongside the roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the pan juices over the turkey for added flavor.

Enjoy this delicious Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Veggies as the centerpiece of your holiday feast!

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Sheet Pan Beef Tenderloin With Garlic Mashed Potatoes

sheet pan beef tenderloin

Sheet Pan Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a sumptuous and elegant dish that brings together perfectly roasted beef and creamy mashed potatoes, all cooked conveniently on one sheet pan. This dish is ideal for a festive Christmas dinner, allowing you to impress your guests with minimal fuss while delivering rich flavors and hearty satisfaction.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef tenderloin 2 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh rosemary, chopped 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme, chopped 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 6 cloves
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1 teaspoon
Potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 pounds
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Butter 4 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup
Green onions, sliced 1/4 cup (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prepare the Beef Tenderloin: Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season all sides generously with salt and black pepper. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic. Rub this herb mixture all over the beef to ensure it is well coated.
  3. Prep the Potatoes: In a large pot, place the cubed potatoes and cover them with water. Bring them to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  4. Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add heavy cream, butter, salt, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the drained potatoes. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. You can adjust the consistency by adding more cream if needed. Set aside.
  5. Prepare the Sheet Pan: On a large sheet pan, spread the prepared garlic mashed potatoes evenly on one half of the pan, creating a bed for the beef tenderloin. Place the seasoned beef tenderloin on the other half of the pan.
  6. Roast the Dish: Put the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, or your desired doneness. Stir the potatoes occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  7. Rest the Meat: Once the beef is done, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Allow the beef tenderloin to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices for a tender result.
  8. Finish the Potatoes: While the beef rests, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the garlic mashed potatoes and return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and create a slight crust.
  9. Serve: Slice the beef tenderloin and serve it alongside the garlic mashed potatoes. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious, festive dinner!
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Baked Honey-Glazed Ham With Brussels Sprouts

honey glazed festive ham

Baked Honey-Glazed Ham with Brussels Sprouts is a delightful and festive dish that’s perfect for a Christmas dinner. This sweet and savory ham pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts for a colorful and flavorful meal. The honey glaze caramelizes during baking, resulting in a beautiful crust that not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish visually stunning for your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in ham 8-10 pounds
Honey 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Dijon mustard 1/4 cup
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Fresh Brussels sprouts 1.5 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and place it on a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern with shallow cuts, about 1 inch apart, which will help the glaze to penetrate and enhance the flavor.
  3. Make the Honey Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt until well combined. This glaze will provide a sweet and tangy flavor to the ham.
  4. Apply the Glaze: Brush a generous amount of the honey glaze over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring that it seeps into the scored cuts. Reserve some glaze for basting later.
  5. Bake the Ham: Tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes.
  6. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: While the ham is baking, rinse and trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the stems and halving larger ones. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
  7. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: About 30 minutes before the ham is done, spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Add the Brussels sprouts to the oven alongside the ham. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
  8. Glaze and Caramelize: During the last 20 minutes of baking, remove the foil from the ham and continue to bake, allowing the glaze to caramelize and develop a beautiful golden color.
  9. Rest and Serve: Once the ham has reached the desired temperature and the Brussels sprouts are nicely roasted, remove both from the oven. Allow the ham to rest for about 15 minutes before carving. Serve the sliced ham with the roasted Brussels sprouts on the side. Enjoy this delicious festive dish with your loved ones!
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One-Pan Lemon Parmesan Salmon With Asparagus

lemon parmesan salmon asparagus

One-Pan Lemon Parmesan Salmon with Asparagus is a light and flavorful dish that makes for an easy, yet impressive centerpiece for your Christmas dinner. This dish showcases tender salmon fillets topped with a zesty lemon and Parmesan crust, perfectly complemented by roasted asparagus spears. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal option for festive gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Salmon fillets 4 (6 oz each)
Fresh asparagus 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your salmon and asparagus roast evenly.
  2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  3. Arrange the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus spears and trim the tough ends. Place them in a single layer on one side of the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, then toss lightly to coat.
  4. Prepare the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper, then brush the lemon mixture generously over the tops of the fillets.
  5. Add Parmesan Topping: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the topped salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-covered for a deliciously crispy finish.
  6. Combine on the Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the other side of the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart from the asparagus.
  7. Bake the Dish: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The asparagus should be tender yet still vibrant in color.
  8. Serve: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the salmon and asparagus to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Enjoy this healthy and flavorful dish as part of your Christmas dinner spread!

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Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers

mediterranean stuffed bell peppers

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers are a vibrant and wholesome dish that blends colorful bell peppers with a mixture of savory ingredients, creating a delightful meal bursting with flavor. These peppers are typically filled with a mixture of quinoa or rice, vegetables, spices, and feta cheese, offering a satisfying and nutrient-rich option for your Christmas dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers (any color) 4 large
Quinoa (cooked) 1 cup
Cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 cup
Cucumber (diced) 1 cup
Red onion (diced) 1/2 medium
Kalamata olives (sliced) 1/2 cup
Feta cheese (crumbled) 3/4 cup
Fresh parsley (chopped) 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Dried oregano 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that it’s ready for baking the stuffed peppers.
  2. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Rinse the bell peppers under cold water, then slice the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. You can keep the tops for later use, or discard them. Lightly drizzle the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
  3. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Add the chopped parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
  4. Stuff the Peppers: Generously spoon the quinoa mixture into each hollowed-out bell pepper, packing it in lightly as you go. Be careful not to overstuff, as the filling should fit comfortably.
  5. Bake the Stuffed Peppers: Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish (about 1/4 inch) to help create steam and keep the peppers tender during baking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
  6. Cooking Time: Bake the covered peppers for about 25-30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred on the edges.
  7. Serve: Once done, carefully remove the peppers from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, and enjoy your Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers warm!
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Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

comforting chicken rice casserole

Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and straightforward dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. This one-dish wonder is perfect for Christmas dinner as it is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with family and friends.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken (shredded) 2 cups
Long-grain rice 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Cream of chicken soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Frozen mixed vegetables 1 cup
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Shredded cheese (optional) 1 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, long-grain rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish to ensure even cooking.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes.
  6. Add Cheese (Optional): After 45 minutes, remove the foil. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole alongside other festive dishes at your Christmas dinner.
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Festive Dessert: Sheet Pan Cranberry Apple Crisp

cranberry apple crisp dessert

Sheet Pan Cranberry Apple Crisp is a delightful and easy dessert that combines tart cranberries with sweet apples, topped with a buttery oat crumble. This festive treat is perfect for Christmas dinner, offering a warm and comforting end to the meal, and it can be conveniently baked on a single sheet pan for effortless serving.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cranberries 2 cups
Apples (peeled and sliced) 4 medium
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Oats (rolled) 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the crisp.
  2. Prepare the Fruit: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh cranberries and sliced apples. Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Gently toss the fruit mixture until well coated in the sugars and spices.
  3. Transfer to Sheet Pan: Spread the cranberry-apple mixture evenly on a greased or parchment-lined sheet pan for easy cleanup. Make sure the fruit is distributed in a single layer for even baking.
  4. Make the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Add Topping to Fruit: Evenly sprinkle the oat crumble mixture over the cranberry and apple layers on the sheet pan, ensuring it covers the fruit well.
  6. Bake the Crisp: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
  7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. Serve warm, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra festive touch. Enjoy your delicious Sheet Pan Cranberry Apple Crisp!