12 Make-Ahead Christmas Dishes Guests Always Love

The holiday season can get hectic, but with the right dishes, you can make your Christmas meal stress-free and delicious. From savory appetizers to indulgent desserts, there are plenty of crowd-pleasing options that can be prepared in advance. These make-ahead dishes offer big flavor with minimal day-of effort, allowing you to spend more time with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for hearty sides, flavorful mains, or sweet treats, these dishes will be sure to impress your guests and make your holiday meal a memorable one.

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Christmas Pudding

Christmas pudding is a traditional holiday dessert that can be made weeks or even months ahead, making it ideal for stress-free holiday entertaining. For the ingredients, you will need 1 cup of suet, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of currants or raisins, 1/2 cup of mixed peel, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of brandy, and 1/2 cup of milk. Begin by mixing all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, brandy, and milk, then stir this mixture into the dry ingredients until everything is well incorporated. Grease a pudding basin and pour the mixture inside. Cover the basin tightly with foil and steam for about 3-4 hours.

After the pudding has cooled, store it in a cool, dry place until ready to serve. On Christmas Day, simply reheat it by steaming it for another 1-2 hours. To serve, drizzle it with brandy butter or custard for extra richness. Christmas pudding is a beloved dessert that not only brings tradition to your meal but also enhances the festive atmosphere. Its deep, spiced flavors and rich texture make it a perfect ending to your holiday meal, and it’s an excellent choice for make-ahead preparation.

Cheese Balls

Cheese balls are a beloved holiday appetizer that can be prepared days in advance, making them perfect for busy Christmas preparations. For the ingredients, you will need 2 blocks of cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped green onions, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 cup of chopped pecans or crushed crackers for coating. To prepare, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth, then add the shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and green onions. Mix until fully incorporated. Form the mixture into a ball using your hands, then roll the ball in the chopped pecans or crushed crackers to coat evenly. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

When ready to serve, simply place the cheese ball on a serving platter with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggies, or sliced bread. This cheese ball is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor from the sharp cheddar and tangy Worcestershire sauce. It can be made ahead of time, which means you have more time to focus on other holiday dishes. The great thing about cheese balls is their flexibility; you can add extras like chopped cranberries, bacon bits, or herbs to suit your taste. It’s a delicious and festive option that never fails to be a hit at parties.

Creamy Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that is easy to make ahead and reheat. For this dish, you will need 5 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of heavy cream, salt and pepper to taste, and 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess. Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into uniform chunks. Place them in a large pot of cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for a smoother texture. Stir in the butter, heavy cream, and sour cream (or cream cheese), then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Once the mashed potatoes are prepared, transfer them to a large baking dish. You can cover and refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze them for later use. On Christmas Day, simply reheat the potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. If desired, top with a little more butter and a sprinkle of parsley before serving. The result is a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect alongside any holiday main course, from glazed ham to roasted turkey. By making the potatoes ahead of time, you reduce the stress of last-minute preparations while still serving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole is another favorite side dish that can be made ahead of time and easily reheated. To make this dish, you will need 2 cans of whole kernel corn (drained), 1 can of cream-style corn, 1 box of cornbread mix, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, cornbread mix, sour cream, melted butter, and shredded cheese. Mix everything until well combined. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

Once baked, allow the corn casserole to cool completely, then cover it and refrigerate. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. The casserole is sweet, savory, and hearty, making it a perfect side dish for your Christmas spread. Its rich, creamy texture pairs wonderfully with any holiday meal, and the convenience of making it ahead makes it a holiday lifesaver. Whether you serve it as a side to a roast or a vegetarian option, it is sure to be a crowd favorite.

Braised Beef

Braised beef is a tender, flavorful main dish that works wonderfully for Christmas dinners and can be made ahead of time. For the ingredients, you will need a 3-4 pound beef chuck roast, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 large onion, 3 garlic cloves, 2 cups of beef broth, 1 cup of red wine, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and herbs such as thyme and rosemary. Start by searing the beef chuck roast in a large pot with olive oil over medium-high heat until all sides are browned. Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened, then add the beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs. Return the beef to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.

Once the beef is done, remove it from the pot and allow it to cool. You can refrigerate the beef and braising liquid overnight, then reheat the dish on Christmas Day. To serve, slice the beef and drizzle with the braising liquid. The flavors will have intensified, making it even more tender and savory. Braised beef is perfect for a holiday main dish because it requires minimal effort while offering rich, comforting flavors that are sure to impress your guests. Paired with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, this dish is a showstopper for any Christmas meal.

Glazed Ham

A glazed ham is a classic Christmas dish that can be prepped ahead of time, saving you time on the big day. For this dish, you will need a 7-10 pound bone-in ham, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup of honey. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, and then mix the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey in a bowl. Brush the glaze over the ham and bake for about 1.5-2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the glaze. Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest before slicing.

You can make the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The beauty of a glazed ham is that it’s incredibly flavorful and offers a nice balance of sweet and savory. You can slice the ham beforehand and keep it in the fridge, then simply reheat it in the oven. This allows you to focus on other dishes while still serving a showstopping main. Glazed ham is a perfect choice for a holiday feast, offering a festive touch and delicious flavors that everyone will love.

Cheesecake Trifles

Cheesecake trifles are a delightful dessert that layers rich cheesecake with fruit, cake, and whipped cream, creating a decadent and festive treat. To make the filling, you will need 2 cups of cream cheese, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a store-bought sponge cake or ladyfingers. Begin by whipping the cream cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy. Slice the sponge cake or ladyfingers into pieces, and layer them in a trifle dish, followed by a layer of cheesecake filling. Add a layer of your favorite fruits, such as berries or caramelized apples, then repeat the layers. Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld together.

The best part about cheesecake trifles is how customizable they are. You can change up the fruits or even add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel for extra richness. The dessert is perfect for make-ahead preparation since it needs time to set, and it looks stunning when served in a large glass dish or individual portions. With its combination of smooth, creamy cheesecake and the added textures from the cake and fruit, it’s a dessert that appeals to all ages. Plus, it’s easy to scale up to feed a crowd, making it a go-to option for your holiday gathering.

Mince Pies

Mince pies are a classic British holiday dessert, and their rich, spiced filling wrapped in a buttery pastry makes them an absolute favorite. For the filling, you will need 1 jar of mincemeat (or make your own with dried fruit, brandy, and spices), 1 package of pie pastry, 1 egg (for egg wash), and optional brandy or rum for a bit of added flavor. To prepare, roll out the pie dough and cut it into circles to fit your muffin tin or pie tins. Spoon the mincemeat mixture into each pastry base and then top with a smaller circle of dough or decorative lattice. Brush the tops with egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.

You can prepare these pies ahead of time by baking them and allowing them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container for up to a week. Alternatively, you can prepare them unbaked and freeze them to bake fresh when needed. Mince pies are a fantastic make-ahead dessert because they can be served either warm or at room temperature. The sweet, spiced filling pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and brings a taste of tradition to your holiday menu.

Savory Pastries

Savory pastries, such as spinach and feta or sausage rolls, are easy-to-make dishes that are perfect for appetizers or side dishes during Christmas celebrations. For ingredients, you will need puff pastry, 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of spinach (frozen or fresh), garlic, olive oil, and seasoning. You can also substitute the spinach for other fillings like sautéed mushrooms or sausage. Start by sautéing garlic and spinach until the spinach wilts. If using fresh spinach, chop it up before adding it to the pan. Let it cool before mixing with ricotta and seasoning to taste. Roll out your puff pastry and fill it with the mixture, rolling it into logs or rectangles. Cut into individual portions and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

These savory pastries can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days or frozen for longer storage. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or bake them fresh if you prefer. Their flaky crust and flavorful fillings make them a hit with guests and an excellent addition to any holiday spread. The variety of filling options makes these pastries versatile enough to cater to different tastes, whether you opt for vegetarian or meat-based options.

Make-Ahead Gravy

Gravy is an essential part of any Christmas meal, and making it ahead of time not only saves you stress on the big day but also enhances the flavor. For the ingredients, you will need 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of turkey or chicken stock, 1/2 cup of pan drippings (optional), and salt and pepper to taste. Start by melting the butter in a saucepan and whisking in the flour to create a roux. Let it cook for a minute or two until it becomes lightly golden, then gradually add the stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. If you have pan drippings from your roast turkey or chicken, you can add them for an extra layer of flavor. Season with salt and pepper, then allow it to simmer for 10-15 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Once prepared, let the gravy cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit more stock or water if necessary to adjust the consistency. Making gravy ahead of time not only saves you precious minutes on Christmas Day but also gives the flavors more time to meld together. It’s a simple way to elevate your meal without the last-minute scrambling, ensuring you have a delicious accompaniment for your turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.

Christmas Cookies

Christmas cookies are a holiday tradition, and making a batch ahead of time ensures you have sweet treats ready for guests at a moment’s notice. Popular choices include sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies, and snickerdoodles. To prepare, you will need 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, and 1 egg. For sugar cookies, cream the butter and sugar together, then mix in the egg, flour, baking soda, and salt. Roll out the dough and cut into festive shapes, such as stars, trees, or snowflakes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden. After they cool, decorate with royal icing or sprinkles if desired.

These cookies can be stored in airtight containers for up to a week, or you can freeze them to keep them fresh for even longer. They are perfect for holiday parties, giving as gifts, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. The best part is that the dough can be made in advance and chilled for up to three days, so you can bake it when you’re ready. Whether you go for traditional favorites or get creative with new flavors, Christmas cookies are a must-have sweet treat.

Stuffing

Stuffing is a quintessential part of Christmas dinners, and preparing it ahead of time makes your holiday meal stress-free. For the ingredients, you will need 1 loaf of bread (cubed), 1/2 cup of butter, 1 large onion, 3 celery stalks, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of sage, and salt and pepper to taste. Start by sautéing the onion and celery in butter until soft. Then, add the cubed bread into the pan, followed by the chicken broth, thyme, sage, and seasonings. Mix until well combined, and transfer the stuffing to a baking dish. Cover and refrigerate it for up to two days or freeze it for longer storage.

On Christmas Day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), uncover the stuffing, and bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. This dish can be prepared in advance and even frozen, allowing you to focus on other tasks on the day. The stuffing will stay moist on the inside while becoming beautifully crisp on top, providing the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The combination of herbs, savory broth, and tender bread makes this a comforting side dish that’s always a hit.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.