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Home » Recipe Collections

29 Must-Try Holiday Recipes That Will Make Entertaining Easy

Published: Dec 12, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Must-try holiday recipes can make entertaining a breeze, whether you’re hosting a crowd or keeping it cozy with family. These recipes are great for bringing people together without spending hours in the kitchen. From hearty mains to easy sides, every dish is designed to keep things simple while still impressing your guests. The focus is on big flavors, easy prep, and reliable results, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the season. If you’re looking for dishes that are perfect for sharing and effortless to make, this list has you covered.

An overhead image of mushroom wellington in a serving plate.
Easy Mushroom Wellington (Vegan). Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast

Overhead image of garlic herb prime rib roast on a serving dish.
Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast features tender beef seasoned to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. This luxurious dish is a must-try for creating an elegant and memorable centerpiece for your holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast

Vegan Stuffing

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

Vegan stuffing combines wholesome, plant-based ingredients to deliver rich, hearty flavors. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, it’s a crowd-pleaser that complements any holiday spread beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Buffalo Chicken Ravioli Casserole

Cheesy chicken casserole in a white dish.
Buffalo Chicken Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Buffalo chicken ravioli casserole pairs bold, creamy flavors with effortless preparation, making it a holiday must-try. This crowd-friendly dish is perfect for festive gatherings when time is limited.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Ravioli Casserole

Easy Mushroom Wellington

An overhead image of mushroom wellington in a serving plate.
Easy Mushroom Wellington. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Easy Mushroom Wellington combines savory mushrooms and fresh herbs, all wrapped in flaky pastry. This beautiful Meatless Thanksgiving option doubles as a stunning and flavorful holiday centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mushroom Wellington

Air Fryer Roast Beef

A plate of air fryer roast beef.
Air Fryer Roast Beef. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Air fryer roast beef delivers tender, juicy slices with a perfectly seasoned crust in just a fraction of the time. It’s a must-have for festive entertaining, offering both simplicity and impressive presentation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roast Beef

Stuffed Acorn Squash

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

Stuffed acorn squash with quinoa features a mix of sweet and savory flavors, paired with a delightful texture. It’s an eye-catching addition to your holiday menu and a thoughtful choice for plant-based options.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

A plate of Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy.
Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy brings together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and creamy sauce in a flaky crust. This comforting recipe is a must-try centerpiece for cozy holiday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Vegan Turkey Roast

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

Vegan turkey roast made with chickpeas and seitan offers a hearty texture and rich flavors. With quick prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a perfect homemade main for festive family meals.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Turkey Roast

Holiday Beef Wellington

Slices of Holiday Beef Wellington on a wooden board.
Holiday Beef Wellington. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Holiday Beef Wellington wraps tenderloin in mushroom duxelles and puff pastry, creating an indulgent, golden-baked centerpiece. This must-try recipe combines elegance with unbeatable flavor for your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Beef Wellington

Tater Tot Casserole

An image of cooked tater tot casserole.
Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole layers crispy, golden tater tots over a savory vegetable filling for a nostalgic main dish. This fun and hearty Meatless Thanksgiving recipe is a must-try for guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken cordon bleu casserole combines tender chicken, ham, and creamy cheese in a one-pan dish. This make-ahead recipe is an excellent way to serve hearty, classic flavors at your holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu 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.

Green bean casserole with cream cheese is a quick, easy side dish that complements any festive meal. Whether you use fresh or canned green beans, it’s a must-try recipe to share with family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

Smoked Ribeye Roast (Cap-Off)

Ribeye Roast on a wooden board.
Smoked Ribeye Roast (Cap-Off). Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked ribeye roast (cap-off) delivers rich, juicy beef with a subtle smoky flavor and tender texture. This impressive holiday recipe is a must-try for creating a show-stopping centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast (Cap-Off)

Squash Casserole with Stuffing

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

Squash casserole with stuffing combines roasted squash, green chiles, and creamy mushroom soup for a hearty holiday side. Its comforting flavors make it a must-try addition to festive meals.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

A whole chicken on a plate with slices of lemon and some greens.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air fryer whole chicken features crispy, golden skin and juicy meat with minimal effort. This easy-to-prepare main dish is a must-try centerpiece for enhancing your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

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.

Savory sweet potato casserole brings together roasted sweet potatoes, garlic, and a honey walnut topping. This festive must-try dish balances sweetness and earthiness, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

A plate of German pot roast beef with a sauce being poured over it.
Slow Cooker German Pot Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker German Pot Roast combines tender beef, onions, and a tangy gravy for a rich and hearty dish. This must-try recipe introduces comforting, traditional flavors to your holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

Vegetable Pot Pie

An image of vegetable pot pie in a baking dish, with a portion missing.
Vegetable Pot Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetable pot pie combines seasonal vegetables in a creamy sauce beneath a golden, flaky crust. This Meatless Thanksgiving must-try is perfect for guests seeking a comforting and satisfying main.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Pot Pie

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes on a white plate with parsley.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes offers juicy chicken and crispy parmesan potatoes in under 30 minutes. This must-try recipe simplifies holiday cooking while delivering big flavors.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

An image of two stuffed spaghetti squashes on a white plate with a fork slicing a part of one of the squashes.
Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed spaghetti squash with roasted vegetables, herbs, and cheese creates a light yet satisfying main dish. This easy Meatless Thanksgiving must-try recipe is a visual and culinary highlight for the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Air Fryer Chuck Roast

Overhead image of air fryer chuck roast in a serving dish.
Air Fryer Chuck Roast. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Air fryer chuck roast delivers juicy, flavorful beef with a crispy crust in less time than traditional methods. This must-try recipe is perfect for creating an effortless yet impressive holiday centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chuck Roast

Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower

A close up view of whole roasted cauliflower.
Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Whole roasted gochujang cauliflower packs bold, spicy flavors and a stunning presentation. This must-try Meatless Thanksgiving recipe is sure to turn heads and elevate your holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower

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.

Maple Dijon chicken sheet pan combines tangy, sweet glaze with roasted vegetables and crispy bacon. This quick and must-try recipe is a convenient way to bring bold flavors to your holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole

Chicken alfredo broccoli bake cooking in dish on rack.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Chicken broccoli alfredo casserole blends tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce in one hearty dish. This must-try holiday recipe offers a comforting option for busy festive evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole

Sticky Thai Chicken

An image of four sticky Thai chicken on a pan.
Sticky Thai Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sticky Thai chicken thighs bring vibrant, Asian-inspired flavors to your holiday table in just 30 minutes. This bold and easy-to-make must-try recipe adds variety to your festive menu.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Thai Chicken

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Cheesy chicken stuffed eggplant on a baking sheet.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cheesy chicken-stuffed eggplant combines hearty chicken filling with melted cheddar in a quick, 30-minute recipe. This must-try dish is a flavorful and practical choice for holiday entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Beef Wellington Without Mushrooms

A close-up image of a beef wellington without mushrooms.
Beef Wellington Without Mushrooms. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Beef Wellington Without Mushrooms wraps tender beef in golden puff pastry for a refined holiday main. This mushroom-free must-try recipe is an elegant centerpiece option for festive meals.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Without Mushrooms

Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes

Crispy, brown-skinned chicken roasted with shallots and radishes on a sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Radishes roast together to create a simple yet flavorful dish. This must-try recipe is perfect for adding a hearty, rustic element to your holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes

Traeger Smoked New York Strip Roast

New York Strip Roast on a wooden board.
Traeger Smoked New York Strip Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Traeger Smoked New York Strip Roast blends tender, flavorful beef with subtle smoke for a festive treat. This must-try holiday centerpiece is both easy to prepare and a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked New York Strip Roast

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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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