Ultimate Holiday Recipes

Ultimate Holiday Recipes

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Which one would YOU get rid of these holiday recipes? Whether it’s the turkey, potato salad, rolls, pies, ham, mac & cheese, stuffing, cranberry sauce, or cornbread, each recipe is a holiday favorite. Curious about how to make one (or all) of them? Dive into the full details of these holidays recipes down.

The holiday season is all about gathering with loved ones and sharing delicious meals. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, these easy and mouthwatering recipes will make your feast unforgettable.

From a perfectly roasted turkey to creamy mac and cheese, these dishes are sure to impress.

1. Easy No-Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey

A juicy, golden-brown turkey is the centerpiece of any holiday table. This recipe ensures a flavorful and tender bird with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs), thawed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  • 4 garlic cloves, peeled
  • Fresh herbs (optional, for stuffing)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and paprika.
  4. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and rub half of the butter mixture underneath. Spread the remaining butter over the outside of the turkey.
  5. Stuff the turkey cavity with onion, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs (if using).
  6. Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Cover loosely with foil.
  7. Roast for about 3-4 hours, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices. Remove the foil during the last hour to allow the skin to brown.
  8. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
  9. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

2. Classic Potato Salad

This creamy and tangy potato salad is a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs perfectly with any holiday meal.

Ingredients:

  • 5 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 6 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
  • 2 cups mayonnaise
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Paprika (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and let cool.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the potatoes, eggs, onion, and celery to the bowl. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  4. Sprinkle paprika on top for garnish.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

3. Soft Dinner Rolls

These fluffy, buttery dinner rolls are a must-have for any holiday feast. They’re soft, warm, and absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add the egg, melted butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape them into balls. Place them in a greased baking dish.
  6. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter before serving.

4. Meat Pie Recipe

This hearty meat pie is a comforting dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s packed with savory flavors and encased in flaky puff pastry.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 sheets puff pastry
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the oil in a pan and sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the beef and cook until browned.
  2. Add the carrot, potato, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Line a pie dish with one sheet of puff pastry. Add the meat filling.
  5. Cover with the second sheet of puff pastry. Seal the edges and cut a slit in the top.
  6. Brush with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.

5. Tangy Honey Glazed Ham

This sweet and tangy ham is a holiday classic that’s easy to prepare and always a hit.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (5 lb) fully cooked ham
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Score the ham and place it in a roasting pan.
  3. In a bowl, mix the honey, mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, and cloves. Brush this mixture over the ham.
  4. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
  5. Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

6. Homemade Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, this mac and cheese is a holiday favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook until thickened.
  4. Stir in the cheese, salt, and pepper until melted.
  5. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni. Serve hot.

7. Best Stuffing Recipe

This classic stuffing is packed with savory flavors and is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday turkey.

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf crusty bread, cubed
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes.
  3. In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until soft.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the bread, sautéed vegetables, broth, eggs, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
  5. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes until golden.

8. Cranberry Sauce

This tangy and sweet cranberry sauce is a holiday staple that’s incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup orange juice

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and orange juice.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the cranberries burst.
  3. Let cool and refrigerate until ready to serve.

9. Golden Sweet Cornbread

This moist and slightly sweet cornbread is the perfect side dish for your holiday feast.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch pan.
  2. In a bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
  3. Stir in the egg, milk, and oil until combined.
  4. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Read as well on how prepare Gourmet Comfort Foods

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare these holiday recipes in advance?
A: Yes! Many of these dishes, like the cranberry sauce, stuffing, and potato salad, can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze these dishes?
A: Some dishes, like the meat pie and dinner rolls, freeze well. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

These holiday recipes are designed to make your festive meals stress-free and delicious. From the star of the show, the roasted turkey, to the comforting sides like mac and cheese and stuffing, every dish is crafted to bring joy to your table.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes are easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Happy cooking and happy holidays!

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