22 Festive Dinner Recipes for a Crowd

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Hashbrown Casserole With Ham

Hashbrown Casserole With Ham. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This hashbrown casserole with ham is pure comfort in a dish, combining golden, crispy hashbrowns with light, fluffy eggs and savory chunks of ham. Every bite is a perfect mix of textures and flavors, making it hearty enough to satisfy a hungry crowd. It’s easy enough to whip up for a relaxed weekend breakfast or brunch, yet impressive and flavorful enough to serve at holiday gatherings. Warm, cheesy, and full of wholesome ingredients, this casserole is the kind of dish that disappears fast and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Simple to make but always a crowd-pleaser, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole With Ham

Potato Casserole With Bacon

Potato Casserole With Bacon. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

These creamy mashed potatoes are comfort food at its finest, rich and buttery with just the right amount of seasoning. Topped with smoky, crispy bacon and a golden layer of crunchy breadcrumbs, every bite is a perfect combination of textures and flavors. They’re easy to make ahead, which means less stress on the big day and more time to enjoy with family and friends. This side dish is truly a holiday classic that disappears from the table faster than you can serve it. Warm, indulgent, and irresistibly delicious, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole With Bacon

Chicken Spaghetti

Chicken Spaghetti. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This ultra-creamy spaghetti is loaded with tender, juicy chicken and smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce that everyone will love. Every bite is comforting and indulgent, making it the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I’ve made this for friends and family countless times, and it’s always a hit—no one can resist asking for seconds. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve when you want to impress. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this dish quickly becomes a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Spaghetti

Instant Pot Beef Stew

Instant Pot Beef Stew. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef and hearty vegetables that soak up every bit of its rich, flavorful broth. It brings all the warmth and nostalgia of old-fashioned home cooking, but with the convenience of a quick, weeknight-friendly meal. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while giving you a satisfying, hearty dinner in no time. Each bite is cozy, flavorful, and exactly what you crave when you want something both comforting and effortless. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table and come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef Stew

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This dish brings together tender, flavorful beef and perfectly saucy rice, all generously topped with gooey, melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, with every bite packed with rich, savory flavors that feel like a warm hug. Even better, it’s much quicker and easier to make than classic stuffed peppers, without sacrificing any of the taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a hearty, cheesy meal that everyone will love. Simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious, it’s a dinner you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Holiday Rib Roast with Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Pan Sauce

Holiday Rib Roast with Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Pan Sauce. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Looking for an elegant holiday dinner that will truly impress? This rib roast is show-stopping, tender, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect centerpiece for Christmas or any festive occasion. The rich pan sauce, made with caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, adds a luxurious depth that pairs beautifully with the juicy roast. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet approachable, ideal for creating a memorable meal with family and friends. Every bite is savory, comforting, and exactly what you want on a special holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Rib Roast with Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Pan Sauce

Cranberry Pesto Stuffed Lamb

Cranberry Pesto Stuffed Lamb. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

This stuffed American lamb recipe is a stunning centerpiece for any holiday dinner, featuring a vibrant cranberry pesto made with fresh basil, mint, garlic, and toasted pine nuts. The bright, tangy flavors of the pesto perfectly complement the rich, savory lamb, creating a dish that’s both festive and deeply satisfying. It’s ideal for winter gatherings, offering a show-stopping presentation that will impress your guests. Easy enough to prepare ahead, yet elegant enough to make the occasion feel special, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of celebration to the table. Every bite is a delightful balance of herbaceous, fruity, and savory notes that embody the spirit of the season.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pesto Stuffed Lamb

Mimi's French Onion and Consomme Rice with Mushrooms

Campbell's beef consomme rice recipe in a white casserole dish with a wooden spoon inside.
Mimi's French Onion and Consomme Rice with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Little Black Skillet.

Mimi’s French Onion and Consommé Rice with Mushrooms is the kind of side dish that feels both indulgent and effortlessly comforting. Tender long-grain rice is cooked in a rich blend of beef consommé and French onion soup, while fresh mushrooms and a touch of butter add layers of earthy, savory flavor. Once baked, it comes out perfectly golden, fragrant, and full of warmth—an absolute crowd-pleaser at holiday dinners, especially when served alongside prime rib or roast beef. The dish is wonderfully versatile too; you can switch up the mushrooms or toss in fresh herbs to make it your own. It’s a recipe that manages to feel like a cozy family tradition while remaining fresh and exciting every time you make it.
Get the Recipe: Mimi's French Onion and Consomme Rice with Mushrooms

Smoked Spiral Ham with Maple Bourbon Glaze

Smoked Spiral Ham with Maple Bourbon Glaze. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Why spend a fortune at the honey-baked ham store when you can make something even more delicious at home? This ham is slathered in a rich maple-bourbon glaze that caramelizes perfectly, creating a sticky, sweet crust that’s bursting with flavor. Every bite is tender, juicy, and packed with just the right balance of sweetness and warmth from the bourbon. It’s no wonder this has become one of our most requested recipes for the holidays. Serving it at your next gathering is guaranteed to impress friends and family alike.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spiral Ham with Maple Bourbon Glaze

Grilled Spatchcock Turkey

A carved grilled turkey on a wooden board with gravy and salad nearby.
Grilled Spatchcock Turkey. Photo credit: Camp Grill Eat.

Brining the turkey in a simple apple cider mixture and then grilling it spatchcocked over indirect heat creates a bird that’s incredibly juicy and tender, with skin that turns beautifully golden and crisp. This method not only makes the turkey the star of your holiday table, but it also keeps the leftovers exciting, perfect for sandwiches or wraps the next day. The combination of moist meat and crackling skin delivers a texture and flavor that everyone will rave about. It’s a straightforward technique that brings gourmet results without hours of fuss, making your holiday meal both impressive and stress-free. Every bite is a delicious balance of savory richness and subtle sweetness from the cider brine, sure to become a new favorite tradition.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Spatchcock Turkey

Butter-Basted Smoked Prime Rib

Butter-Basted Smoked Prime Rib. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This smoked prime rib is pure indulgence, cooked low and slow to achieve a tender, juicy interior and a perfectly flavorful crust. Basted in rich butter throughout the cooking process, every bite bursts with savory goodness that melts in your mouth. It makes an impressive centerpiece for any dinner, from holiday feasts to special family gatherings. The smoky aroma fills the kitchen, drawing everyone to the table, while the buttery, seasoned crust adds a touch of elegance to the presentation. Whether served with classic sides or something a little adventurous, this prime rib is guaranteed to be a showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Butter-Basted Smoked Prime Rib

Boeuf Bourguignon - Beef Stewed with Mushrooms, Red Wine and Bacon

Boeuf Bourguignon - Beef Stewed with Mushrooms, Red Wine and Bacon. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Boeuf Bourguignon is a classic French dish that never fails to impress with its deep, rich flavors. Tender chunks of beef are slowly simmered in red wine, allowing the meat to soak up all the aromatic herbs and savory seasonings. The result is a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth dish that’s perfect for special dinners or cozy evenings at home. Each bite is layered with flavor, from the hearty beef to the silky sauce and vegetables. It’s a timeless recipe that brings a touch of elegance and warmth to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Boeuf Bourguignon - Beef Stewed with Mushrooms, Red Wine and Bacon

Roast Chicken with Apples

Roast Chicken with Apples and onions in a white baking dish close up.
Roast Chicken with Apples. Photo credit: Make It Skinny Please.

This Roast Chicken with Apples is the kind of dish that wraps you up in cozy, comforting flavors with every bite. Juicy, tender chicken pairs beautifully with sweet, caramelized apples, creating a perfect balance of savory and fruity notes that feels like fall on a plate. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a lazy Sunday supper, or a relaxed dinner party with friends and family, this recipe fits the bill. Even better, it’s incredibly easy to make and ready in just 25 minutes, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal. Simple, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, it’s the kind of dish everyone will want on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Roast Chicken with Apples

Dutch Oven Pork Tenderloin

Sliced roasted pork tenderloin garnished with parsley on a white plate, with a striped cloth in the background.
Dutch Oven Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Mama's on a Budget.

This Dutch Oven Pork Tenderloin is incredibly moist and tender, packed with rich, savory flavors that make every bite satisfying. Cooking it all in one pot means the pork stays juicy while the accompanying vegetables and seasonings soak up all the delicious juices. It’s the kind of meal that feels comforting and homemade, yet comes together quickly enough for busy weeknights. Perfect for family dinners or even a small gathering, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. Simple, flavorful, and hearty, it’s a one-pot wonder you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Pork Tenderloin

Creamy Baked Ziti

Tender baked ziti in a casserole pan.
Creamy Baked Ziti. Photo credit: The Cookin' Chicks.

This Creamy Baked Ziti is pure comfort in every bite, with tender pasta smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce and topped with gooey, melty cheese. Made with just five simple ingredients, it’s surprisingly easy to pull together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The combination of cheesy, saucy, and slightly crispy edges hits all the right notes, giving you that classic Italian flavor everyone loves. It’s a warm, hearty dish that’s sure to disappear fast at the dinner table, and it’s even better when served with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad. Truly, this casserole is one of those meals that feels like a big, comforting hug on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Baked Ziti

Baked Creamy Salmon

Baked Creamy Salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This baked salmon with creamy garlic sauce and tender potatoes is the ultimate weeknight sheet pan meal. In just 30 minutes, you get perfectly cooked salmon topped with a rich, velvety sauce that’s packed with flavor. The potatoes roast alongside the fish, soaking up some of the sauce and becoming soft and flavorful. It’s a simple, fuss-free dinner that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for a busy evening. Every bite is comforting, savory, and utterly satisfying, making it a meal the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Baked Creamy Salmon

Chicken Marsala

Freshly squeezed sugar free lemonade in a mason jar with lemon slices and basil leaves.
Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Sage Alpha Gal.

This Chicken Marsala is a comforting yet elegant dish, featuring juicy, tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, buttery mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. The sauce is deeply flavorful, with a perfect balance of savory mushrooms and slightly sweet wine that coats every bite. It pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even a simple rice pilaf, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Add a side of seasonal vegetables for color and freshness, and you have a dinner that feels special without being complicated. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this recipe is a delicious way to bring a touch of restaurant-style elegance into your home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala

Gorgonzola Pasta with Olives alla Cenere

Easy gorgonzola pasta with olives alla cenere.
Gorgonzola Pasta with Olives alla Cenere. Photo credit: The Pasta Project.

In Italy, this dish is known as pasta alla cenere, a wonderfully simple yet surprisingly gourmet pasta that combines creamy gorgonzola and briny olives for a bold, flavorful bite. With just three main ingredients, it’s a testament to how delicious minimal cooking can be. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick but still satisfying. At the same time, it’s elegant enough to serve to guests without feeling like you spent hours in the kitchen. The tangy, rich flavors and silky sauce make this pasta truly memorable, standing out among other easy recipes.
Get the Recipe: Gorgonzola Pasta with Olives alla Cenere

Meatball Mac and Cheese

Overhead view of a cast iron skillet full of meatball mac and cheese.
Meatball Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pumpkin 'N Spice.

This Meatball Mac and Cheese is pure comfort in a bowl, filled with tender homemade Italian meatballs and a gooey blend of two cheeses. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for a family dinner or a casual get-together, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make. Each bite is rich, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether served as a hearty main course or a flavorful side, it’s warm, satisfying, and downright irresistible. Perfect for cozy nights when everyone wants something filling and delicious!
Get the Recipe: Meatball Mac and Cheese

Turkey Tenderloin Instant Pot

A platter or turkey tenderloin breasts and a bowl of mashed potatoes.
Turkey Tenderloin Instant Pot. Photo credit: The Feathered Nester.

If you’re feeding a small family but still want a festive, flavorful meal, this Instant Pot turkey tenderloin is a perfect choice. The pressure cooker keeps the turkey incredibly moist and tender, so every bite is juicy and full of flavor. Even better, you can cook the turkey, potatoes, and gravy all in one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze. It’s a wonderfully simple way to enjoy a holiday-style dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for cozy gatherings, this dish delivers all the festive flavors with none of the stress!
Get the Recipe: Turkey Tenderloin Instant Pot

Ham Steak Sheet Pan Dinner

Ham Steak Sheet Pan Dinner on white plate.
Ham Steak Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Easy Recipes For One.

This Ham Steak Sheet Pan Dinner is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver, bringing a hearty, home-cooked meal to the table with almost no fuss. Tender, flavorful ham steaks roast alongside crisp-tender green beans and golden baby potatoes, all on one pan, so the flavors have a chance to mingle and deepen as they cook. It’s the kind of dinner that smells amazing while baking and tastes even better on the plate. With minimal prep and only one pan to clean, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Comforting, flavorful, and effortless, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy a wholesome meal any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steak Sheet Pan Dinner

Sheet Pan Ham Dinner

Sheet Pan Ham Dinner. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This sheet pan ham dinner is a simple yet impressive way to serve a hearty meal, whether it’s for a festive holiday gathering or a busy weeknight. Everything cooks together on one pan, making it easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor. The ham turns perfectly tender and savory, while the accompanying vegetables roast to a delicious caramelized finish. It’s a comforting, all-in-one dinner that looks beautiful on the table and tastes even better. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Ham Dinner

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