A Festive Feast: Classic and Creative Christmas Dinner Recipes | AbsoluteBlack

Christmas dinner is the heart of the holiday season. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes will help you create an unforgettable holiday feast. From the classic roasted turkey to festive desserts, you’ll have everything you need for a delicious celebration!

The Classic Centerpiece: Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

Ingredients:

• 1 (12-14 pound) turkey, thawed
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• Fresh herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary), chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Combine softened butter, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Loosen the turkey’s skin and rub herb butter underneath and over the skin.
• Stuff the turkey cavity with onion, carrots, and celery.
• Place turkey in a roasting pan and pour chicken broth over the bottom.
• Roast for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
• Let rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Sides to Savor:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Boil peeled potatoes until tender, mash with butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
• Add roasted garlic, chives, or cheese for extra flavor.

Stuffing (Traditional or Creative)

• A classic bread stuffing with celery, onion, and herbs is always a hit.
• Consider variations with sausage, cranberries, or chestnuts for added flavor.

Green Bean Casserole (Elevated)

• Sauté fresh green beans with shallots and garlic.
• Top with homemade crispy fried onions instead of canned.
• A creamy mushroom sauce binds it all together.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

• Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Roast until tender and caramelized.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Cranberry Sauce (Homemade)

• Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and a cinnamon stick.
• Add a splash of Grand Marnier or port for a festive touch.

Decadent Desserts:

Classic Christmas Pudding

• A rich and fruity steamed pudding, often served with brandy butter.

Pecan Pie

• A sweet and nutty pie with a flaky crust.

Yule Log (Bûche de Noël)

• A chocolate sponge cake rolled with cream and decorated to resemble a log.

Gingerbread Cookies

• A fun activity for all ages, and a delicious treat to enjoy during the holidays.

Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas Dinner

• Plan ahead: Make a menu and shopping list well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
• Prep in advance: Chop vegetables, make cranberry sauce, and prepare stuffing the day before.
• Delegate tasks: Ask family members to bring sides or desserts, making it a collaborative effort.
• Don’t be afraid to simplify: Use store-bought ingredients or focus on a few key dishes.
• Enjoy the process: Remember, Christmas dinner is about spending time with loved ones, so relax and savor the moment.

With these recipes and tips, you'll create a Christmas dinner that’s delicious, memorable, and filled with joy. Happy holidays!

Happy cooking!