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Home » Recipe Collections

33 Holiday Recipes That Make Hosting a Breeze

Published: Dec 11, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Holiday recipes don’t have to mean long hours in the kitchen or juggling a dozen dishes at once. This lineup is perfect for anyone who wants to keep hosting stress-free while still impressing their guests. Think simple prep, great flavors, and recipes that let you enjoy the party as much as everyone else. Whether you’re throwing a big bash or a cozy dinner, these recipes are all about making your holiday season a little easier and a lot more festive.

An overhead view of skillet with stuffing and a fork and spoon in it.
Vegan Stuffing Recipe. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Squash Casserole with Stuffing

An image of Squash Casserole in a baking dish.
Squash Casserole with Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This squash casserole with stuffing is a delicious and hearty side dish that is perfect for the holidays. Made with roasted yellow squash, hatch chiles, and condensed mushroom soup, it will please everyone at your table!
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A close up view of three stuffed acorn squash placed in a serving plate.
Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A delicious, vegan dish for your next holiday gathering! This stuffed acorn squash recipe with quinoa is easy to follow and sure to please a crowd with it's sweet and savory flavors and mix of textures!
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Instant Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip

A close up photo of instant pot spinach artichoke dip placed in a white bowl with wooden spoon in the side.
Instant Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy Instant Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip recipe is perfect for any holiday party or game day! It can be easily made vegan to fit your dietary restrictions too!
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip

Vegan Stuffing

An overhead view of skillet with stuffing and a fork and spoon in it.
Vegan Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan stuffing recipe is perfect for your holiday feast, whether it's Thanksgiving or Christmas! It's made with healthy, wholesome ingredients and tastes delicious!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

An angled shot of savory sweet potato casserole served in a baking dish.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This savory sweet potato casserole is a delicious and healthy alternative to the traditional sweet potato casserole. Made with sweet potatoes, garlic, with a delicious honey walnut topping, this casserole is perfect for a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner!
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

A  Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese topped with a golden-brown crust and garnished with sliced green onions.
Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This classic green bean casserole with cream cheese is a quick and easy casserole that comes together in no time. It can be made with fresh or canned green beans, and is the perfect holiday side dish for the family.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

Beet & Goat Cheese Salad

Close-up of Grilled Beetroot Goat Cheese Salad in a bowl.
Beet & Goat Cheese Salad. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Grilled Beetroot Goat Cheese Salad with roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts. A quick, flavorful, and customizable salad perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Beet & Goat Cheese Salad

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Enjoy this easy copycat Panera broccoli cheddar mac and cheese at home. It’s creamy, comforting, and ready in just 20 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Chicken and Queso Rice Bake

Close-up image of Chicken and Queso Rice Bake garnished with fresh chopped parsley on a plate.
Chicken and Queso Rice Bake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Make this easy chicken and queso rice bake for a quick dinner. It’s cheesy, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Queso Rice Bake

Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

A serving of Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan in a plate.
Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Try this maple Dijon chicken sheet pan for a quick dinner. It’s packed with flavor from a sweet, tangy glaze, crispy bacon, and roasted veggies!
Get the Recipe: Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

Stuffed Pepper Soup

Overhead image of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
Stuffed Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This comforting stuffed pepper soup is the ultimate cozy meal for cooler nights! I love stuffed peppers, and making it into a hearty tomato-based soup brings out all the best flavors!
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Soup

Couscous Salad With Tofu

A fresh, colorful, and wholesome bowl of vegan couscous salad with tofu and a drizzle of dressing to finish it off.
Couscous Salad With Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan couscous salad with tofu and a lemon juice dressing is a light, refreshing side for Thanksgiving. Its fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a nice contrast to the richer dishes on your holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Couscous Salad With Tofu

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Overhead image of best broccoli salad with creamy dressin on a bowl.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Broccoli salad with bacon, cranberries, and creamy dressing provides a mix of crunch, sweetness, and savory notes. Easy to prepare, this Thanksgiving side balances out heavier dishes and adds a fresh dimension to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Close-up image of sweet potato kale salad in a bowl.
Sweet Potato Kale Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Kale salad with prunes, pomegranate, and feta, dressed with a tangy homemade vinaigrette, adds texture and bold flavor to the Thanksgiving table. It serves as a fresh and hearty side that complements the rich dishes of the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Close-up image of sweet potato gnocchi.
Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Homemade sweet potato gnocchi with a roasted garlic sauce brings comforting flavors and textures to the Thanksgiving table. Whether as a side or main, its rich sauce and tender gnocchi impress holiday guests with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Sweet and Creamy Goat Cheese Salad with Fruit and Cranberry

Sweet and Creamy Goat Cheese Salad with Fruit and Cranberry. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This goat cheese salad combines fresh ingredients like arugula, cucumbers, and cranberries, topped with a lemon vinaigrette. It’s a light and vibrant choice for Thanksgiving cranberry recipes, perfect for meals beyond the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Creamy Goat Cheese Salad with Fruit and Cranberry

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A lasagna being dished up.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This vegetarian lasagna is filled with flavor and is a great fit for Thanksgiving gatherings where impressing guests is key. Its hearty nature and satisfying texture make it a standout option for the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Smoked Sweet Onion Honey Glazed Ham

Smoked Sweet Onion Honey Glazed Ham. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Smoking a sweet onion honey-glazed ham on a pellet grill adds a touch of sweetness and deep smoky flavors, making it a great main for Thanksgiving. With minimal effort, this recipe ensures a juicy, flavorful ham that will impress your guests and elevate your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Onion Honey Glazed Ham

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker apple cider brined turkey breast combines moist and tender turkey with autumn flavors. An easy yet impressive Thanksgiving recipe that balances tradition with simplicity, perfect for a holiday spread or any seasonal celebration.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

Savoury Steak and Squash Salad

Savoury Steak and Squash Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Steak and squash salad with apple maple vinaigrette adds a fresh and lighter option to the Thanksgiving table. Featuring seasonal ingredients like squash and cranberries, it’s a festive salad that offers a welcome contrast to the heavier holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: Savoury Steak and Squash Salad

Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Maple-roasted rainbow carrots feature a hint of sweetness from maple syrup, balanced by cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Topped with goat cheese and pomegranate, these colorful carrots make an eye-catching side for special occasions or holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole features steamed broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce and bacon. It's a delicious weeknight dinner or holiday side dish, ready in 30 minutes and practically making itself.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Honeycrisp Salad

Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp Honeycrisp apples and a spiced cider vinaigrette combine in this easy-to-make salad. It’s a great addition to fall meals, whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or preparing for a festive holiday meal. A simple yet fresh choice for Easy Greens!
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Holiday Beef Wellington

Holiday Beef Wellington. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This holiday beef Wellington makes a stunning centerpiece for Thanksgiving, showcasing tender beef wrapped in puff pastry with rich ingredients like prosciutto, mushrooms, and shallots. Its elegant appearance belies its straightforward preparation, making it a memorable choice.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Beef Wellington

Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Fiesta chicken pasta casserole combines chicken, corn, black beans, tomatoes, sour cream, and Tex-Mex seasonings for a flavorful bake. Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for an easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights or holiday gatherings, where it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Close-up image of cripsy vegan roasted potatoes.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crispy vegan roasted potatoes with a lemon-thyme dressing are a bright, flavorful addition to any Thanksgiving table. With their simple preparation and bold flavors, they perfectly complement heavier holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket

Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Cranberry holiday beef brisket brings together cranberries, garlic, and herbs for a savory dish. It’s a flavorful way to incorporate cranberries into your Thanksgiving cranberry recipes, making it a standout entrée for your meal.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket

Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing

Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chestnut stuffing made with cornbread cubes, sausage, mushrooms, fennel, and winter herbs delivers a hearty, flavorful side for Thanksgiving. The mix of savory and sweet elements, along with the texture of chestnuts and cornbread, makes it a standout holiday dish.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Every bite of this cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is filled with flavor, making it a standout at any holiday gathering. Whether for Thanksgiving or a cozy meal, it’s easy to make and sure to be finished quickly.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This vibrant dish features butternut squash, wild rice, walnuts, and pomegranate seeds, adding seasonal flair to your Thanksgiving potluck. Its versatility as a main or side enriches the holiday spread with bold, festive flavors.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Buttermilk Brined Turkey

A buttermilk brined roasted surrounded by festive holiday side dishes.
Buttermilk Brined Turkey. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Buttermilk brined turkey uses rosemary, thyme, and sage, along with tangy buttermilk, to ensure a moist, tender main course for Thanksgiving. The herbs and buttermilk add depth of flavor to this classic holiday centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Brined Turkey

Apple, Gouda and Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Apple, Gouda and Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Apple, Gouda, and Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a great choice for a hearty family brunch. The combination of apples, sausage, and Gouda adds depth to this dish, making it a warming option for holiday mornings.
Get the Recipe: Apple, Gouda and Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing

Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer whiskey, sausage, and cranberry stuffing is an easy way to bring savory and sweet flavors to your holiday table. This quick dish is an exciting addition to your Thanksgiving cranberry recipes and makes for a unique stuffing choice.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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