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Festive Cheer In Every Bite With 19 Holiday Favorites

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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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Low angle shot of an air fried whole chicken.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip in a bowl with crackers and veggies for dipping.
Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Overhead shot of potatoes au gratin cooked in an oval baking dish.
Potatoes au Gratin. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Overhead shot of an apple galette on parchment with fresh apples on the side.
Apple Galette. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

A loaf of bread with garlic and onions on a cutting board.
Swirled Garlic Bread. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Cooked shrimp in a green and white striped bowl, garnished with parsley.
Instant Pot Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Overhead shot of this apple bundt cake on a cake stand with apples in the background.
Apple Cider Donut Cake. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Green Bean Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.
Green Bean Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Bacon wrapped jalapenos on a white plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes with whipped cream stars on top.
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Overhead shot of a confit duck leg with orange sauce and star anise pods.
Instant Pot Duck Confit. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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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

Low angle shot of an air fried whole chicken.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Masshed potato casserole in a baking dish with a cracker crumb topping.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Cranberry sauce in a white bowl garnished with orange zest and star anise pods.
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Low angle shot of a wedge of eggnog cake on a glass plate.
Egg Nog Bundt Cake. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Pommes duchesse on a white plate wiht parsley.
Pommes Duchesse. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

A close-up of a chocolate cookie topped with marshmallows, chopped nuts, and drizzled with chocolate. Background includes other cookies and scattered marshmallows.
Rocky Road Cookies. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

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

Low angle shot of green bean salad with fried onions and dry ricotta on a white plate.
Green Bean Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Sliced ham with oranges and mint.
Instant Pot Ham. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Stack of hot cocoa cookies on a plate.
Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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

Founder, Writer, Recipe Developer at All The Noodles

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

By on December 26th, 2024

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