20 Festive Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas

Chef John's Perfect Prime Rib

Perfectly pink prime rib will never go out of style, especially on special occasions. Plus, with just five ingredients, it couldn't be simpler (but you do need to follow Chef John's formula to a T).

Perfect Turkey

Nothing feels quite as at home on a holiday table as a brown, juicy turkey. This recipe was written specifically for an 18-pound bird, but you can adjust the measurements to fit your needs.

World's Best Lasagna

We're not exaggerating when we say this lasagna is the best on the planet. It's a labor of love, but so worth it.

Honey Glazed Ham

"Better than the famous honey baked ham at the store," user Kim Kebabjian DeWall says of this top-rated recipe. "I have some good tips! I used an ordinary Kirkland spiral ham from Costco ... about 8 pounds. I think buying a spiral ham is key because all the glaze can get into the slices."

Cornish Game Hens with Garlic and Rosemary

Looking for a classy Christmas Eve dinner idea? These traitional Cornish game hens certainly fit the bill.

Maple Salmon

This incredibly popular salmon recipe is beloved for a reason: It's easy and delicious. You only need about an hour to put this Christmas Eve dinner together.

Oven Pot Roast

Who doesn't love a good rump roast? Tip: This recipe makes excellent gravy.

Easy Meatloaf

This Easy Meatloaf is holiday comfort food incarnate. For the ultimate classic dinner, serve with Basic Mashed Potatoes.

Chef John's Roast Christmas Goose

Here's a gorgeous, traditional Christmas roast that's shockingly easy to prepare.

Juicy Roasted Chicken

If you want to skip the turkey or ham this year, this beautiful Juicy Roasted Chicken is a tasty (and affordable) option.

Fabulous Beef Tenderloin

"This beef tenderloin will melt in your mouth. We've had it for both of our Christmas dinners this year (2 families) and got RAVE reviews from everyone," says user Debbie Wright. "Hard to believe it's so easy to prepare!"

Chef John's Coq Au Vin

You can't go wrong with this classic French recipe. Though you may be tempted to opt for chicken breasts, please don't — they just won't work with the braise like thighs will, according to Chef John.

Balsamic Roasted Pork Loin

This pork loin is a real crowdpleaser. This simple meal requires only four easy-to-find ingredients.

Beef Wellington

"This is a very easy recipe that I learned when I was living in England," says user Normala. "Note that Beef Wellington should always be served with the center slightly pink. Enjoy!"

Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Recipe

This quick holiday pasta is full of seasonal flavors like butternut squash and sage.

Hearty Vegetable Lasagna

Satisfy the vegetarians at your table with this hearty and (surprisingly simple) veggie-packed lasagna.

Christmas Eve Manicotti

Developed with Christmas Eve in mind, this classic manicotti will please even the pickiest of eaters.

Lobster Tails Steamed in Beer

"Wow! Wow! Wow! What a great recipe," raves user JDVMD. "And so simple and quick. I used a whole bottle of Michelob Lite because I did four lobster tailes and added about 1/2 teaspoon of fresh minced garlic. Couldn't believe at how quick this came together."

Blackened Salmon Fillets

This Cajun-style salmon is perfect for the spicy food lovers in your life.

Butcher's Steak (Hanger Steak)

Who doesn't love a classic steak? Tip from Chef John: Make sure to take the time to trim it well.

More Food for the Feast

• Celebrate Christmas Eve Italian-Style with the Feast of the Seven Fishes
• Christmas Eve Appetizers to Get the Party Started
• Browse All Christmas Recipes