The Christmas season is all about sharing delicious meals with family and friends. From traditional roasts to creative, modern dishes, the main course is the star of the holiday feast. To help you plan your perfect Christmas menu, we’ve compiled a list of 25 of the best Christmas mains and entrees. These recipes are sure to bring joy and flavor to your holiday table, whether you prefer classic dishes or new culinary experiences.
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Roast turkey is a staple at many Christmas dinners. To make it extra special, rub the turkey with a herb butter made from sage, thyme, and rosemary. The butter gives the bird a crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. Pair with cranberry sauce and stuffing for a classic holiday meal.
Honey-Glazed Ham
A honey-glazed ham is a centerpiece that never disappoints. The sweet and savory glaze made from honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard caramelizes as it bakes, giving the ham a gorgeous, glossy finish. Serve it with roasted potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.
Prime Rib Roast
For a luxurious Christmas main, prime rib roast is the way to go. Seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and black pepper, this roast has a rich flavor that stands out. Cook it to a perfect medium-rare and serve with a side of creamy horseradish sauce.
Beef Wellington
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish, Beef Wellington is an elegant choice. This tender beef fillet is wrapped in puff pastry and baked until golden brown. The layers of pastry, mushroom duxelles, and prosciutto make it a flavorful and indulgent option.
Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce
For a lighter, yet sophisticated entree, baked salmon is an excellent choice. The salmon is seasoned with lemon and garlic and served with a creamy dill sauce. It’s a healthy alternative to heavier meats and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables.
Rack of Lamb with Mint Pesto
Lamb is a festive choice for Christmas, and a rack of lamb with mint pesto offers a fresh twist. The mint pesto adds a burst of flavor, while the lamb itself remains tender and juicy. Serve with mashed potatoes or a winter salad.
Roast Duck with Orange Glaze
Roast duck is rich and flavorful, making it a perfect choice for a special Christmas dinner. The orange glaze adds a sweet and tangy balance to the gamey duck. Serve with wild rice or roasted parsnips for a festive flair.
Pork Crown Roast
A pork crown roast is as visually impressive as it is delicious. The roast is seasoned with garlic, thyme, and a touch of apple cider vinegar, giving it a savory flavor with a hint of sweetness. Serve with apple stuffing or roasted Brussels sprouts for a true holiday feast.
Stuffed Chicken Roulade
For something a little different, try a chicken roulade stuffed with spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes. The roulade is rolled, baked, and sliced into pinwheels, making it a visually appealing and tasty dish. This entree is perfect for smaller gatherings.
Mushroom and Chestnut Pie (Vegetarian)
For your vegetarian guests, a mushroom and chestnut pie is hearty and delicious. The pie is filled with sautéed mushrooms, chestnuts, and leeks in a savory gravy, all encased in a flaky pastry. It’s a satisfying meatless option that’s full of festive flavors.
Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is tender and flavorful, especially when coated in a blend of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs. The herb crust gives the pork a lovely crunch, while the inside remains juicy. Serve with roasted carrots and potatoes for a balanced meal.
Glazed Cornish Hens
If you’re hosting a smaller gathering, glazed Cornish hens are an elegant choice. These individual birds are roasted with a sweet glaze of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. They make for a beautiful presentation on the plate and are perfect for intimate holiday dinners.
Braised Short Ribs
Slow-cooked braised short ribs are tender, fall-off-the-bone delicious. Cooked in red wine with garlic and herbs, the ribs develop deep, rich flavors. Serve over mashed potatoes or polenta for a warming, comforting dish.
Vegan Lentil Loaf
A vegan lentil loaf is a hearty and flavorful alternative to traditional meat dishes. Made with lentils, vegetables, and oats, this loaf is packed with protein and nutrients. Glazed with tomato sauce and baked, it’s sure to please both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Roast Goose with Cranberry Sauce
Roast goose is a traditional Christmas dish that’s full of flavor. The rich, dark meat pairs beautifully with a tart cranberry sauce. Serve it with braised red cabbage and mashed potatoes for a festive meal that harks back to classic holiday traditions.
Maple-Glazed Pork Loin
Pork loin is a tender cut of meat that’s enhanced by a maple glaze. The glaze, made with maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar, creates a sweet and tangy crust. Serve with roasted root vegetables for a wintery feast.
Chicken and Leek Pie
For a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare ahead, a chicken and leek pie is a great option. The creamy filling of chicken, leeks, and mushrooms is encased in a buttery pastry, making it a family favorite for Christmas dinner.
Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce
Seared duck breast is a sophisticated choice for a Christmas main. The richness of the duck is perfectly balanced by a sweet cherry sauce. Serve with roasted potatoes and a green salad for an elegant holiday meal.
Vegetarian Nut Roast
A nut roast is a classic vegetarian option for Christmas. Made with nuts, grains, and vegetables, this roast is packed with flavor and texture. Serve it with gravy and all the trimmings for a plant-based festive feast.
Garlic and Rosemary Lamb Shank
Lamb shanks slow-cooked with garlic and rosemary become melt-in-your-mouth tender. The rich gravy that forms during cooking is perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or couscous, making this dish a comforting and flavorful main.
Stuffed Acorn Squash (Vegetarian)
For a colorful vegetarian option, try stuffed acorn squash. The squash is filled with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, and pecans, then roasted until tender. It’s a festive and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for the holiday table.
Slow-Roasted Pork Shoulder
Pork shoulder is a budget-friendly cut that becomes incredibly tender when slow-roasted. Seasoned with garlic, paprika, and cumin, this roast is full of flavor and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter
Salmon makes for a lighter alternative to traditional meats. Pan-seared with a lemon butter sauce, this dish is fresh and flavorful. Serve with a side of asparagus or a winter salad for a healthy and delicious meal.
Chestnut-Stuffed Turkey Breast
For a unique twist on the traditional turkey, try a chestnut-stuffed turkey breast. The chestnut stuffing adds a sweet and nutty flavor, while the turkey remains tender and moist. It’s a great option for smaller gatherings or as a second meat dish.
Roast Vegetable Tart (Vegetarian)
A roast vegetable tart is a beautiful and tasty vegetarian option. The tart is filled with roasted vegetables like butternut squash, bell peppers, and zucchini, all topped with goat cheese and baked in a puff pastry shell. It’s a colorful and flavorful addition to any Christmas table.