7 Make-Ahead Christmas Dinner Recipes You Can Prep the Night Before

As Christmas approaches, I often find myself thinking about how to make the holiday dinner both delicious and stress-free. Preparing make-ahead recipes has saved me time and worry in the past. From creamy garlic mashed potatoes to decadent chocolate lava cakes, there are dishes that can be prepped the night before. But what about the main attraction? Let’s explore some fantastic options that can elevate your Christmas dinner without the last-minute rush.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the perfect side dish for your Christmas dinner celebration. These whipped potatoes are smooth, buttery, and infused with rich garlic flavor, making them a comforting and delicious addition to any holiday meal. You can prepare them in advance and simply reheat before serving, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience on the big day.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the Yukon Gold potatoes and then cutting them into uniform chunks (about 1-2 inches). This helps them cook evenly.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
3. Sauté the Garlic: While the potatoes are cooking, peel and mince the garlic cloves. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Drain the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander. Allow them to sit for a minute to let off excess steam.
5. Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash the potatoes to your desired level of smoothness.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed garlic and melted butter to the mashed potatoes. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while continuing to mash, mixing until all ingredients are well combined.
7. Season: Taste the mashed potatoes and season with salt and black pepper to your preference. Adjust the cream or butter if you desire a creamier texture.
8. Prepare for Storage/Serving: If you’re making these in advance, transfer the mashed potatoes to a baking dish. Cover with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes, until warmed through, or microwave until heated.
9. Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy garlic mashed potatoes hot, garnished with chopped chives or additional butter on top, if desired. Enjoy your delicious festive side!

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 Carrots

Honey-Glazed Carrots are a delightful and vibrant side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to your Christmas dinner. These tender and glossy carrots are not only visually appealing, but their rich flavor pairs beautifully with roasted meats and other festive fare. The best part is that they can be prepared ahead of time and simply reheated before serving, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed holiday cooking experience.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Carrots: Begin by washing the carrots thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler, and then cut them into even-sized pieces, either in rounds or diagonally, to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Boil the Carrots: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the carrots and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are just tender but still crisp. Drain the carrots in a colander and set aside.
3. Make the Honey Glaze: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the honey and stir to combine. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it becomes bubbly and slightly thickened.
4. Add the Carrots: Carefully add the cooked carrots to the skillet with the honey glaze. Toss them gently to coat the carrots evenly in the glaze.
5. Season: Add the chopped fresh thyme (if using), salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the carrots absorb the syrupy glaze and become fully coated.
6. Prepare for Storage/Serving: If making in advance, transfer the honey-glazed carrots to a serving dish, cover with foil, and allow to cool before refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve: Remove from heat, give the carrots a final toss in the glaze, and serve warm. Enjoy the sweet, buttery flavor that complements any festive meal!

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

Savory Herb Stuffing

Savory Herb Stuffing is a classic side dish that adds warmth and comfort to your Christmas dinner. This flavorful blend of bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and vegetables is the perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, providing a deliciously textured contrast to your holiday meal. Best of all, it can be made in advance and then baked just before serving, making it an ideal make-ahead option for a stress-free holiday feast.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread: If using fresh bread, start by cutting it into cubes and letting it stale for a few hours or ideally overnight. This will help the bread absorb the broth without becoming too soggy. Alternatively, you can use pre-packaged stuffing cubes.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, fresh parsley, sage, thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Toss to distribute the herbs and seasonings evenly among the bread.
4. Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, starting with 3 cups. Stir the mixture until the bread is moistened but not overly wet. If it seems dry, you can add more broth until desired consistency is reached.
5. Add Eggs (optional): If you prefer a richer stuffing, whisk the eggs in a small bowl and then fold them into the mixture. This step is optional but will help bind the stuffing together when baking.
6. Prepare for Storage/Serving: Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover tightly with foil if preparing ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow the stuffing to come to room temperature, or you can bake it straight from the fridge with a bit of extra baking time.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the stuffing for about 30-40 minutes uncovered, until the top is golden brown and crispy. You may choose to stir it halfway through for even cooking.
8. Serve: Once baked, let the stuffing sit for a few minutes before serving. Fluff gently with a fork and serve warm alongside your Christmas feast. Enjoy the savory, herbaceous flavors that bring the holiday spirit to your table!

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

Slow-Cooked Cranberry Sauce

Slow-Cooked Cranberry Sauce is a delightful and tangy condiment that pairs perfectly with your holiday turkey and other festive dishes. This easy make-ahead recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, sweet-tart sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. By using a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other holiday preparations.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and pick out any that are soft or blemished. Drain and set aside.
2. Mix Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the rinsed cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, orange juice, orange zest, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and water. Stir the mixture until the sugar is evenly distributed among the cranberries.
3. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for about 3 hours. Alternatively, you can cook it on low for about 6 hours, allowing the flavors to develop slowly.
4. Check Consistency: After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid and stir the sauce. The cranberries should have burst and thickened the sauce. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a potato masher or an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency.
5. Cool and Store: Once the sauce has reached your preferred texture, let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Transfer the cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. It can be made up to a week in advance, making it a great stress-free addition to your holiday meal.
6. Reheat if Desired: When it’s time to serve, you can serve the cranberry sauce cold or warm it slightly on the stovetop or in the microwave, as per your preference. Enjoy this deliciously vibrant sauce with your Christmas dinner!

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

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a deliciously savory side dish that perfectly complements any holiday meal, especially your Christmas dinner. The combination of caramelized Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering flavor that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. This make-ahead dish can be prepped early, allowing the deliciousness to shine through when it comes time to serve.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help the Brussels sprouts roast perfectly, allowing them to caramelize and become tender.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim the stem ends. Remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves, then cut them in half from top to bottom.
3. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the bacon slices. Cook until the bacon is crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.
4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet with the remaining bacon grease, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, sautéed garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and balsamic vinegar. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
6. Add Bacon: Chop the crispy bacon into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts, mixing it well to ensure the bacon is mixed throughout.
7. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between the sprouts for proper roasting.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through for even cooking. The Brussels sprouts should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
9. Finishing Touches: Once done, remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top while they are still hot, allowing it to melt slightly.
10. Serve: Serve the roasted Brussels sprouts warm as a savory side dish to your holiday feast. Enjoy this flavorful addition to your Christmas dinner!

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

Classic Beef Wellington

Classic Beef Wellington is an elegant dish perfect for festive occasions like Christmas dinner. This show-stopping entrée features a tender beef fillet coated in a rich mushroom duxelles, wrapped in prosciutto, and encased in golden, flaky puff pastry. Not only is it a delight to the taste buds, but its impressive presentation will wow your guests and make your holiday dinner unforgettable.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef: Season the beef tenderloin generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat and sear the beef on all sides until it is browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). This helps to lock in the juices. Remove the beef from the skillet and let it cool. Brush the beef with Dijon mustard when it’s cool enough to handle.
2. Make the Mushroom Duxelles: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped mushrooms, shallots, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is dry and browned (about 10-15 minutes). Stir in the fresh thyme and season with salt and black pepper. Transfer the mixture to a plate and let it cool completely.
3. Assemble the Wellington: Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Arrange the prosciutto slices in a slightly overlapping layer on the plastic wrap. Spread the cooled mushroom duxelles over the prosciutto evenly.
4. Add the Beef: Place the cooled beef fillet on top of the duxelles-covered prosciutto. Using the plastic wrap, roll the prosciutto and mushrooms around the beef tightly, ensuring there are no gaps. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to secure it and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
5. Prepare the Puff Pastry: On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a rectangle large enough to wrap around the beef. Remove the beef from the plastic wrap and place it in the center of the pastry.
6. Wrap the Beef: Fold the pastry over the beef, sealing the edges well. Trim any excess pastry and crimp the edges to ensure the filling is entirely enclosed. Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wrapped Beef Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the beef reads 125°F (for medium-rare).
8. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the Beef Wellington from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy the delicious layers of flavors in this classic dish.

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

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes are a luxurious dessert that delivers rich flavors and an irresistible gooey center. Perfect for special occasions like Christmas dinner or a romantic evening, these individual cakes are easy to make ahead of time and can be quickly baked just before serving, ensuring a warm and delightful experience for your guests.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Ramekins: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust them with flour, tapping out the excess. This will help the cakes to release easily after baking.
2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
3. Combine Sugar and Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, whole eggs, and egg yolks until well combined and slightly frothy. This step adds air to the mixture, leading to a light texture.
4. Mix in Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture, stirring until evenly combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Add Flour: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay as this will keep the cakes tender.
6. Fill Ramekins: Evenly distribute the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Chill (Optional): If you are making these ahead of time, cover the filled ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. If baking immediately, skip this step.
8. Bake the Cakes: Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes. The edges should be set, while the center remains soft and jiggly.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove the ramekins from the oven and let them cool for 1 minute. Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen the cakes, then invert each ramekin onto a plate. Allow the cakes to sit for 10 seconds before lifting the ramekin off, letting the gooey center flow out.
10. Garnish and Enjoy: Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately, preferably with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.