Because holiday main dish recipes don't have to be predictable.
Skipping the turkey this year makes room for something a little more special on your holiday table. Serve a main course that feels festive and tastes incredible, but still keeps the warm, family‑friendly spirit we all love around the holidays.
Each of these holiday dinner recipes below brings the “show-stopper” vibe without following the turkey tradition.
1. Baked Ham
This Baked Ham with pineapple brown sugar glaze tastes like something you'd get at a fancy holiday dinner, but it’s incredibly simple to make.
2. Beef Tenderloin
Few things beat Beef Tenderloin for a special occasion – it’s buttery, bold, and ideal for a holiday dinner that needs to feel like a treat.
3. Rack of Lamb
Rack of Lamb feels like it belongs in a high-end restaurant, but this version is surprisingly simple and delivers a show-stopping holiday centerpiece.
4. Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Slow Cooker Pot Roast is rich, deeply flavored, and perfect when you want something cozy, low-effort, and guaranteed to impress. Did I mention it's made in the slow cooker? So easy.
5. Lobster Tail
Lobster Tails feel like a splurge, but it’s surprisingly simple to make at home. With my step-by-step tips, it becomes an easy holiday dinner that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
6. German Rouladin
Rouladen is tender, rolled beef filled with savory goodness. It's an old-school favorite that’s perfect when you want something traditional but a little different.
7. Crab Legs
Crab Legs might sound intimidating, but they are so simple! Our guide walks you through exactly how to cook crab legs, how to serve them, where to buy them, and what to look for.
8. Prime Rib
Prime Rib makes the kind of holiday dinner people talk about for weeks. It’s rich, juicy, and surprisingly simple with the right method.
9. Seared Scallops
Seared Scallops add an elegant twist to the holiday table, especially if you're going for something lighter, quicker, and still seriously impressive.
10. Personalized Homemade Pizza
Be the star host by letting your guests personalize a Homemade Pizza this year. To make it extra special, make our amazing homemade Pizza Sauce. Check out all of our pizza recipes.
11. Short Rib Ragu
Short Rib Ragu is one of those meals that tastes like you spent all day on it – rich, flavorful, and perfect over pasta for a holiday dinner that feels special but low-key.
12. Marinated Flank Steak
Marinated Flank Steak looks and tastes fancy, but it's made with only 5 ingredients and is so easy and quick.
13. Mexican Tamales
Mexican Tamales are a flavorful holiday main that you can make ahead and serve with all your favorite toppings for a fun, hands-on meal.
14. Swedish Meatballs (with Egg Noodles)
Swedish Meatballs in a creamy, savory sauce are pure holiday comfort, especially when served over buttery homemade Egg Noodles for a meal that feels both cozy and special.
15. Baked Salmon
Baked Salmon offers a lighter take on a holiday main, with flaky, flavorful fish that feels refined without being fussy.
16. Homemade Lasagna
Nothing says comforting and crowd-pleasing like Homemade Lasagna layered with meat, a flavorful red sauce, béchamel white sauce, and melty cheese. It’s always a hit on holiday tables.
17. Blintzes
Blintzes have a creamy, lightly sweet cheese filling tucked inside delicate crepes. They make a cozy and elegant option for a holiday brunch or a lighter dinner.
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