The magic of Christmas Eve often begins around the dinner table. Whether your family loves traditional dishes or tries something new every year, this is the time to gather, cook, and celebrate the flavors of the season.

From succulent prime rib to creamy seafood pasta, these Christmas Eve dinner ideas will help you plan a feast that’s festive, comforting, and unforgettable.

🥩 A Showstopping Centerpiece: How to Cook Prime Rib

If you’re wondering how to cook prime rib, here’s the secret: slow roasting and patience. This rich, marbled cut becomes beautifully tender when cooked low and slow.

Pro Tips:

  • Start with a well-marbled rib roast, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
  • Roast at a low temperature (around 250°F / 120°C) until the inside reaches medium-rare.
  • Let it rest at least 20 minutes before slicing — this locks in all those savory juices.
👉 Try serving it with: Homemade horseradish sauce.
Delicious & Easy Prime Rib Roast Recipe By Joe
I made this for many holidays. This was a great recipe that I used. You should let the meat and rest on the counter 3 hours before cooking but not required.
CookpadJoe
Easy Christmas 🎄 Prime Rib 🦴 Recipe By Crock Pot Girl 🤡
Don’t let the cooking method scare you , it really does work !!! 😃
CookpadCrock Pot Girl 🤡

🥔 Comforting Classics: Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice baked potatoes are the ultimate side dish for Christmas Eve. Crispy on the outside and creamy inside, they’re easy to prep ahead.

Make it festive:

Mix the mashed potato filling with sour cream, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, then top with chives for color.

💡 Make-ahead tip: You can bake and fill them earlier in the day, refrigerate, then warm them before serving.
Twice Baked Potato Skins Recipe By Leelumae
I took two classics and combined them for a delicious appetizer or side dish!
CookpadLeelumae
Mel’s New York Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe By Melodyortizz
The best I have ever had!!!
Cookpadmelodyortizz

🥦 A Holiday Favorite: Green Bean Casserole

This green bean casserole has earned its place as a holiday must-have. Crunchy onions, tender green beans, and creamy sauce — the perfect balance of texture and flavor.

For a fresh twist, swap the canned soup for homemade mushroom sauce and top with fried shallots for extra crunch.

👉 Pair it with crispy dinner rolls for a comforting side that everyone will love.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe By My Rad Kitchen | Eva
Tender green beans, mixed into a creamy base of canned cream of mushroom soup then topped with a generous layer of crispy onions, this dish bakes up crispy, bubbly and golden brown.
CookpadMy Rad Kitchen | Eva
Green Bean Casserole Recipe By Shari Meyer
Great recipe for Green Bean Casserole.
CookpadShari Meyer

🍝 Italian Inspiration: Stuffed Shells and Lasagna

Christmas Eve often leans Italian for many families — and stuffed shells or lasagna make a hearty, crowd-pleasing main course.

Options to try:

💡 Serve alongside: Garlic bread and a simple Caesar salad.
Stuffed Shells With Spinach Recipe By Adrianne Onofrei
CEO and first-time author John Legere puts it all on the table with a one of a kind cookbook, #SlowCookerSunday – Leadership, Life and Slow Cooking with CEO and Chef, John Legere, featuring 52 timeless slow cooker recipes, plus advise to take from the kitchen to the office peppered throughout. These…
CookpadAdrianne Onofrei
Traditional Lasagna Recipe By Jeremy Daley
This is meant to serve as a basic template for creating lasagna. You don’t have to follow the recipe to a “T”. However, the ingredients I’ve listed here are my own preferences, including to let sit covered overnight in the refrigerator. Try mushrooms if you want. Add vinegar or sugar if the marinara…
CookpadJeremy Daley
Lasagna With Broccoli And Tomatoes Recipe By Visciola Versilia
Imagine a lasagna that combines the creaminess of plant-based cream with the freshness of broccoli, creating a unique and surprising culinary experience. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a lighter, more plant-based alternative to classic lasagna, without sacrificing the rich, satisfying f…
CookpadVisciola Versilia

🎁 A Taste of Tradition: Tamales for Christmas Eve

For many families, tamales are a beloved holiday tradition. These flavorful masa parcels filled with meat, cheese, or beans bring warmth and nostalgia to the table.

You can make tamales ahead and steam them just before dinner — they’re perfect for sharing.

Chicken In Salsa Verde Tamales Recipe By Pawon Indo Bule
#12plates Recipe courtesy of Pati Mexican Table (patijinich.com/chickengreensalsatamal/)
CookpadPawon Indo Bule
Tamales Easy Peasy Recipe By Agclause
I tried these for the first time and couldn’t believe how easy and delicious they turned out. Just had to share!
Cookpadagclause

🦞 Elegant and Easy: Seafood Pasta

If you prefer something lighter but still luxurious, try seafood pasta. It’s quick to prepare and feels restaurant-worthy.

Ideas:

💡 Pro tip: Use good olive oil and fresh herbs — simplicity is key for seafood dishes.
Linguine With Shrimp And Pesto Recipe By Rosalba Cecere
It turned out to be a surprisingly delicious treat! Yesterday I wanted to try a new flavor, and this creative combination came to mind as a way to use up what I had in the fridge. Thanks to @laura. C. for suggesting this community to share recipes.
Cookpadrosalba cecere
Spaghetti And Crab Meat Recipe By Cool Jewel
Great recipe for Spaghetti and Crab Meat.
CookpadCoolJewel

🥖 Don’t Forget the Dinner Rolls

No holiday table is complete without soft, buttery dinner rolls. They’re perfect for soaking up sauces and bringing everything together.

Brush them with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt just before serving. Bonus: the aroma of fresh-baked bread makes the kitchen smell like Christmas magic.

Sweet Hawaiian Dinner Rolls 🍍 Recipe By Mad Cook
The fluffiest and most delicious dinner rolls you ever had! This is the recipe my family is constantly requesting I make for any gathering. #bread #dinner #dinnerrolls
CookpadMad Cook
Sourdough Soft Dinner Rolls Simple And Delicous :P Enjoy Recipe By Farang31
I am a sourdough novice compared to most but once you start growing and making your own recipes from your Starter (mines called Britney) you cant help love the amazing taste and health benefits of using sourdough instead of yeast. Try these Amazing dinner rolls - great with soup or pate or for slide…
Cookpadfarang31

🍰 Sweet Finishes and Festive Touches

Round off your Christmas Eve dinner with something sweet. Think chocolate yule log, or warm apple crumble served with vanilla ice cream.

For drinks, mulled wine, spiced cider, or peppermint hot chocolate will add a cozy finishing note.

Yule Log With Meringue Mushrooms Recipe By Ele & Viv
The traditional French Christmas Yule Log, made with coconut and meringue mushrooms. ~Ele
CookpadEle & Viv
Apple Crumble Recipe By Chris O505
This recipe my young mate Sarah Lent sent me. Said it was a winner and after trying it- I agree. Very easy to make and a lovely desert.
CookpadChrisO505

🕯️ Hosting Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas Eve

  • Plan ahead: Prep sides like casseroles and potatoes the day before.
  • Set the mood: Candles, music, and a few simple decorations go a long way.
  • Keep it flexible: Offer vegetarian options like stuffed shells or lasagna.
  • Enjoy the process: Cooking together can become part of your family tradition

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What should I serve for Christmas Eve dinner?
Prime rib, tamales, seafood pasta, or lasagna are classic crowd-pleasers. Add sides like twice baked potatoes or green bean casserole.

How early can I prep my dishes?
Most sides can be made a day ahead and reheated. Prepare your prime rib a few hours before serving for best flavor.

Can I make a vegetarian Christmas Eve dinner?
Yes — stuffed shells, vegetable lasagna, and roasted vegetable sides work beautifully.

🎄 A Feast to Remember

Christmas Eve dinner isn’t just about food — it’s about tradition, comfort, and togetherness. Whether you’re roasting prime rib or rolling tamales, the key is to cook with love and share the joy of the season.

If you have your own favorite Christmas Eve recipe, share it on Cookpad — and inspire others to make their holiday table unforgettable.

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