When it comes to Christmas dinner, the main course is what everyone remembers most. A great entrée can bring the table together, spark conversation, and leave guests raving long after the plates are cleared. These 13 recipes offer something special for any holiday celebration, combining flavors, textures, and ideas that stand out. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or a cozy meal, these dishes will make your Christmas table unforgettable.
Pan-Seared Cod With Fennel-Tomato Ragout
This dish combines flaky cod with a savory ragout of fennel, tomatoes, and onions, ready in under 40 minutes. The cod’s mild flavor absorbs the rich, slightly sweet tomato sauce, creating a harmonious bite. The ragout’s earthy fennel and tender texture elevate the cod, making it a light yet satisfying option. Serve it with crusty bread or greens for a complete meal.
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Cajun Style Baked Turkey Breast With Vegetables
This baked turkey breast is seasoned with Cajun spices and roasted with a medley of root vegetables in about 90 minutes. The turkey is juicy and spiced with a smoky heat, while the vegetables soak up the flavorful drippings. This is a balanced dish that delivers protein and vegetables in one pan. It’s perfect for a stress-free holiday meal.
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Stuffed Potato Patties With A Mushroom Filling
Soft mashed potatoes are shaped into patties and filled with a savory mushroom mixture, ready in 45 minutes. The filling’s umami-rich flavor complements the crispy golden crust of the potato exterior. These patties are hearty, vegetarian, and versatile for pairing with salads or sauces. They’re a crowd-pleasing option for festive gatherings.
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Easy Weeknight Slow Cooker Chicken Marinara
This slow-cooker chicken marinara takes about 4-6 hours to cook, combining tender chicken breasts with a rich tomato sauce. The marinara, infused with garlic and Italian herbs, clings to the juicy chicken, making it flavorful and comforting. This recipe pairs beautifully with pasta or a fresh side salad. Its simplicity is ideal for busy holiday preparations.
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Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner
Moroccan salmon is baked alongside cauliflower, lemons, and olives, ready in about 30 minutes. The salmon’s richness is balanced by the tangy citrus and briny olives, with warm spices adding depth. This one-pan dish is flavorful and visually vibrant, perfect for a low-effort centerpiece. Serve it with couscous or crusty bread to complete the meal.
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Chicken Marbella
Chicken Marbella features bone-in chicken thighs baked with prunes, capers, and a splash of white wine in about 90 minutes. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors results in a bold and balanced dish. The prunes bring sweetness, while the capers and wine add acidity and brightness. This recipe offers a unique blend of flavors for a memorable holiday meal.
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Mujadara
Mujadara combines caramelized onions, lentils, and rice, ready in about 45 minutes. The dish’s comforting flavors come from the earthy lentils, the sweetness of slow-cooked onions, and fragrant spices. It’s a vegetarian dish with a satisfying texture and depth of flavor. Pair it with yogurt or a simple salad for a wholesome holiday option.
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Pomegranate Glazed Whole Salmon
Whole salmon is baked with a glaze of pomegranate molasses and honey, ready in 40 minutes. The glaze provides a sweet-tart flavor that enhances the salmon’s natural richness. This vibrant dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious, making it a holiday showstopper. Serve it with roasted vegetables or grains for a balanced meal.
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Baked Creamy Salmon
This baked salmon features a creamy garlic sauce and is ready in about 30 minutes. The tender fish is complemented by the sauce's richness, with a touch of herbs for balance. It’s a comforting yet elegant option for any dinner table. Pair it with potatoes or steamed greens for a satisfying holiday entrée.
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Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Ground chicken is blended with spices and herbs and then grilled on skewers for about 25 minutes. The kebabs are juicy, with a slightly smoky flavor from the grill and a balance of fresh herbs. These versatile kebabs are perfect with pita, salad, or a tahini drizzle. They’re a festive and flavorful addition to a holiday meal.
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Whole Roasted Cauliflower In Smoky Tomato Sauce
A whole cauliflower is roasted and smothered in a smoky tomato sauce, ready in about an hour. The cauliflower’s nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sauce’s tangy, smoky depth. This dish is hearty, plant-based, and visually striking, making it an excellent centerpiece. Serve it as a main or alongside other holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: Whole Roasted Cauliflower In Smoky Tomato Sauce
Low Carb Instant Pot Pot Roast- Pressure Cooker Pot Roast
This pot roast, cooked with vegetables and herbs in an Instant Pot, is ready in under 90 minutes. The tender beef is infused with flavors from garlic, thyme, and a savory broth. The low-carb recipe is hearty and satisfying without being heavy. It’s a great option for keeping the holiday meal wholesome yet indulgent.
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Pan Fried Duck Breast Recipe With Berry Apple Compote
Duck breast is pan-fried and served with a compote of berries and apples, ready in 40 minutes. The fruity, tangy compote balances the duck’s rich, tender meat. This dish offers an elegant presentation with bold flavors. It’s ideal for those seeking a refined yet straightforward holiday entrée.
Get the Recipe: Pan Fried Duck Breast Recipe With Berry Apple Compote
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