The holidays are all about good company, joyful moments, and, let’s face it, unforgettable food. With 19 festive recipes, this lineup is ready to turn any gathering into a celebration on a plate. Whether you’re hosting or just showing up with a dish, these favorites are built to impress without the stress.
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Smoked Salmon Dip
Holiday appetizers don’t have to be complicated to impress your guests. Smoked Salmon Dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare ahead of time. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers or serving with fresh vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip
Potatoes au Gratin
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with this classic. Potatoes au Gratin is a rich and creamy side that pairs well with almost any main course. It’s a staple at many holiday dinners, and for good reason – it’s simply irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes au Gratin
Apple Galette
Sometimes, the simplest desserts are the most impressive. Apple Galette is a rustic French tart that’s easier to make than pie but just as delicious. It’s a great way to showcase seasonal apples and impress your guests with your baking skills.
Get the Recipe: Apple Galette
Swirled Garlic Bread
No holiday meal is complete without some form of bread on the table. Swirled Garlic Bread takes the classic side dish to a new level with its eye-catching presentation. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults at your holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Garlic Bread
Instant Pot Shrimp
Holiday cooking doesn’t always have to be time-consuming. Instant Pot Shrimp is a quick and easy dish that can be prepared in minutes. It’s perfect for those busy holiday evenings when you want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp
Apple Cider Donut Cake
Bring the flavors of fall to your holiday dessert table with this twist on a seasonal favorite. Apple Cider Donut Cake combines the best parts of two beloved treats into one delicious dessert. It’s a great way to end a holiday meal or enjoy with a cup of coffee on a chilly morning.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Donut Cake
Green Bean Stuffing Casserole
Holiday side dishes often steal the show, and this one is no exception. Green Bean Stuffing Casserole combines two traditional sides into one hearty dish. It’s a great way to save oven space and impress your guests with a unique take on classic flavors.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Stuffing Casserole
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Spice up your holiday appetizer spread with a modern twist on a classic. Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are a healthier version of the popular snack that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. They’re quick to make and perfect for serving at holiday parties or game-day gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Individual desserts are always a hit at holiday gatherings. Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes offer all the flavor of a traditional pumpkin pie in a bite-sized package. They’re easy to serve and allow guests to sample multiple desserts without feeling overwhelmed.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Instant Pot Duck Confit
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Level up your holiday main course with a dish that’s traditionally time-consuming but made easy. Instant Pot Duck Confit brings a touch of French elegance to your table in a fraction of the time. It’s a great way to impress your guests with a gourmet meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Duck Confit
Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Roasting a chicken can be a hassle, but Air Fryer Whole Chicken makes it quicker and easier. This option gives you a great way to prepare poultry. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a regular weeknight, it’s versatile for any table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
There’s something comforting about mashed potatoes, and Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole takes that to the next level. Perfect for gatherings, it’s a simple way to make potatoes the star of the side dishes. This is a great addition to balance your festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
Skip the store-bought kind because Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce offers a fresh way to enjoy this holiday staple. Quick to make, it’s a great choice for busy cooks. Its tart and sweet profile pairs well with main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
Egg Nog Bundt Cake
Holiday desserts get an upgrade with Egg Nog Bundt Cake, offering a seasonal twist on a classic treat. It’s a flavorful dessert that stands out during celebrations. Perfect for serving after meals, it feels festive and special.
Get the Recipe: Egg Nog Bundt Cake
Pommes Duchesse
Classic side dishes like Pommes Duchesse bring elegance to any holiday meal. Shaped into decorative portions, they make potatoes feel fancier. Serve them alongside your main course for a polished plate.
Get the Recipe: Pommes Duchesse
Rocky Road Cookies
Dessert lovers will enjoy Rocky Road Cookies, combining familiar flavors in a fun way. They’re perfect for snacking during holiday gatherings. Share them with guests or keep them as a sweet treat for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Rocky Road Cookies
Green Bean Salad
Crunchy textures and fresh flavors make it a standout side for holiday meals. Green Bean Salad adds a refreshing touch to tables filled with heavier dishes. Its light nature complements the rich, festive classics everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Salad
Instant Pot Ham
Instant Pot Ham is a centerpiece that fits perfectly with any traditional spread. Bold flavors and tender bites make it a holiday favorite. It pairs seamlessly with side dishes, creating a well-rounded feast for the season.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ham
Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies
Warm bites of chocolate goodness offer a comforting finish to festive meals. Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies are chewy, rich, and ideal for sharing with loved ones. Perfect for pairing with a cozy drink or enjoying by the fireplace.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies
Robin Donovan is an AP syndicated writer, recipe developer, food photographer, and author of more than 40 cookbooks including the bestsellers Ramen Obsession and Ramen for Beginners. Her work is featured by major media outlets including Huffington Post, MSN, Chicago Sun-Times, Orlando Sentinel, Buzzfeed, Cooking Light, Mercury News, Seattle Times, Pop Sugar, and many others. More about Robin