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Home » Recipe Collections

25 Unique Holiday Recipes You Didn’t Know You Needed

Published: Nov 3, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

The holiday season is all about discovering new flavors and creating unforgettable dishes. With a lineup of unique holiday recipes, there's something surprising for everyone, from sweet treats to savory delights. These recipes bring twists to traditional dishes, blending bold ingredients with classic touches that make them special!

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

Squash Casserole with Stuffing

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

When it comes to side dishes, Squash Casserole with Stuffing is a hidden gem. This dish brings together the smoothness of squash and the savory notes of stuffing in every forkful. Perfect for a family dinner, it sneaks in plenty of hearty flavor that feels just right for the holidays. Trust me, it’ll become a new staple at your festive table.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

Pumpkin Blondies

Close-up image of a batch of cooked White Chocolate Pretzel Pumpkin Blondies arranged on a tray.
Pumpkin Blondies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Imagine a sweet treat that combines the best parts of a brownie and a pumpkin pie - well, that’s exactly what you get with Pumpkin Blondies. Just picture a holiday gathering where these will be the unexpected star. They’re rich, gooey, and have an incredible pumpkin flavor that screams autumn. It’s like taking a bite of fall in every piece.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Blondies

Vegan Stuffing

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

Even if you're not vegan, Vegan Stuffing can surprise your taste buds in the best way. With all the festive flavors you crave, it’s a dish that caters to everyone around the table. It’s hearty and full of those comforting tastes you expect from stuffing. No one will miss the usual ingredients with this dish on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

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.

The classic green bean casserole gets a makeover with Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese. It brings creamy goodness into the mix that elevates the dish to new levels. Perfect for that holiday spread, it ensures even the pickiest eaters will dig in happily. You're basically guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

Vegan Turkey Roast

Vegan Turkey Roast in a glass baking dish on a countertop, garnished with herbs.
Vegan Turkey Roast. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Missing the traditional turkey? Not with Vegan Turkey Roast you won’t! This alternative keeps the festive spirit alive without compromising on flavor. It’s crafted to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike around the table. Holiday dinners have a new star with this roast.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Turkey Roast

Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes with a slice of butter and a golden spoon.
Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Whipping up Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes means getting fluffy and flavorful potatoes in no time. It's a game-changer for any holiday dinner where time is of the essence. These potatoes come out creamy with a delicious garlic kick that pairs well with everything on your plate. It’s a side dish that won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce

A close up view of cranberry sauce in white bowl, with a spoon and oranges in the background.
Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Give your usual cranberry side an upgrade with Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce. It transforms the familiar from the can into something special. Adding a bit of flair to your holiday spread, it’s both simple to make and a crowd-pleaser. Everyone will be reaching for a spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Add some appetizers to your spread like Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. They pack a punch of flavor with every bite and are perfect before the big meal. Just the right touch of savory, they’ll keep everyone happy while they wait. A real appetizer hit at any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots With Honey

Top view of glazed carrots with honey in a bowl.
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots With Honey. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Get some veggies in the mix with Air Fryer Glazed Carrots With Honey. The carrots come out tender and sweet with a delicious glaze. It’s a lighter side that pairs well with all the richer holiday dishes. Plus, the air fryer makes it quick and easy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots With Honey

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

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

Break from the norm with Sweet Potato Kale Salad on your holiday menu. This vibrant dish mixes roasted sweet potatoes with fresh kale in a wonderful way. It stands out as both hearty and healthful, making it a nice change from heavier dishes. A real highlight at any festive meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Cheesy Hash Browns

Cheesy hash browns.
Cheesy Hash Browns. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

Comfort food at its best, Cheesy Hash Browns belong on any holiday table. They combine the crispy texture of hash browns with gooey cheese that melts in your mouth. Everyone loves them, and they fit well next to any main dish. Definitely a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hash Browns

Vegetable Casserole

Overhead image of vegetable casserole in a dish.
Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Go for something hearty with Vegetable Casserole to round out your holiday meal. It features a range of veggies in a rich and hearty sauce. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a nutritious option. Keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast

A white bowl with slow cooker Italian pork roast, potatoes and carrots.
Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Think about how perfect Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast could be for your holiday meal. It’s hearty, tender, and full of flavor cooked right in your slow cooker. All the comforting Italian spices make this dish an easy favorite. It frees up your oven for all those other holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Take regular potatoes to the next level with Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-refreshing, it’s a hit at any meal. Ideal for holiday dinners, it pairs well with most main dishes. Expect this one to be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Creamy cheesy broccoli soup with a spoon in a bowl.
Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those cold holiday nights, Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup is a perfect fit. This soup blends rich cheese with fresh broccoli in a way that warms you right up. It’s both hearty and refreshing for any guest at your dinner. Having it in the mix is a surefire way to make everyone feel at home.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Sheet-Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Close-up image of sheet pan paprika and chicken and veggies.
Sheet-Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Cook up a fuss-free meal with Sheet-Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies for your holiday dinner. Everything roasts together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The paprika flavor ties it all together nicely. It’s a perfect way to incorporate some balance into the meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet-Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Pistachio Fluff Salad

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Pistachio Fluff Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Dessert meets salad with Pistachio Fluff Salad, a light and sweet treat perfect for ending a meal. With its creamy texture and nutty finish, it stands out among other dessert options. Holiday gatherings just seem to call for something a bit different, and this fits the bill. Guests always want to know the secret behind its unique taste.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Fluff Salad

Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff

A bowl of easy vegan mushroom stroganoff placed on a wooden board.
Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you want hearty and homey, Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff is where it’s at. This dish combines rich, creamy sauce with tender mushrooms, and it's comforting. Perfect for a holiday meal or a comforting family dinner, it stands out by being meatless yet oh-so-refreshing. It’s a real game-changer at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff

Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Sausage breakfast casserole on a plate with a fork.
Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Start the day right with Sausage Breakfast Casserole. It's perfect for those big holiday breakfasts with family and friends. The rich, savory sausage combines perfectly with eggs and cheese for a hearty start. Just the thing to keep everyone satisfied until the big dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Top view of Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Spruce up your side dishes with Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries. The mix of bacon and pecans with sweet cranberries brings out the best in Brussels sprouts. It’s a dish that feels festive and tastes just right for those special meals. A bit of everything in each bite keeps it interesting.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Close-up image of maple pecan pie bar.
Maple Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a sweet end to your meal, Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a great choice. These bars capture the taste of pecan pie in a convenient, easy-to-eat form. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they’re just the right balance of sweet and nutty. Watch these disappear from the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Easy Mushroom Gravy

CLose-up image of a laddle filled with easy mushroom gravy.
Easy Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Make everything better with Easy Mushroom Gravy ladled over your favorite dishes. It brings rich, earthy tones to the table that complement any holiday spread. Simple to make, yet it has a big impact on flavor. Keep it on hand for when you need that extra something.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mushroom Gravy

Easy Pot Roast Crock Pot

Overhead image of easy pot roast crock pot on a plate.
Easy Pot Roast Crock Pot. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Keep things simple yet savory with Easy Pot Roast Crock Pot. This roast comes out tender and full of flavor from slow cooking. It fits well with any holiday feast, freeing you up to enjoy the day. It’s one of those dishes everyone will praise you for making.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pot Roast Crock Pot

Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs on a plate.
Swedish Meatballs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everyone loves meatballs, but Swedish Meatballs bring new layers of flavor to the table. These meatballs are tender and cooked in a sauce that’ll have everyone coming back for more. They are perfect for holiday dinners or even a cozy evening meal. Making these meatballs part of your spread means plenty of happy tummies.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs

Apple Crisp

Two plates of apple crisps.
Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

End the night on a high note with Apple Crisp. This dessert combines sweet, spiced apples with a crunchy topping that's simply irresistible. Great for a holiday meal or just because, this dish feels like a hug in dessert form. Your guests will love the nostalgic flavors.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp

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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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