Holiday cravings don’t wait for December, especially when dishes like these steal the spotlight at every gathering. With 17 family favorites that practically define festive cheer, they’ll have everyone asking, “Is it that time of year yet?” Honestly, if there’s one way to keep relatives happy and quiet, it’s with food they’ll never stop requesting.
Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm soup to make everything feel right. Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup combines simplicity and comfort in every spoonful. It’s a hit at family gatherings, proving that sometimes the simplest dishes make the biggest impact. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a requested favorite, long before the first snowfall.
Get the Recipe: Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
Old Fashioned Ham Salad
Have you ever had a dish that brings back memories of family picnics and holiday gatherings? That’s what Old Fashioned Ham Salad does. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers or filling sandwiches, making it versatile for any occasion. This dish has a way of disappearing quickly at get-togethers, making it clear it’s a beloved classic your family will start asking about way before December.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad
Au Gratin Potato Stacks
For anyone looking for a twist on a familiar favorite, Au Gratin Potato Stacks offer just that. These individual portions are not only fun to make but also irresistibly crispy and cheesy. They’re a sophisticated yet straightforward side that can steal the show at any dinner table. Expect plenty of requests for these long before the holiday season kicks in.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks
Cranberry Bars
If you’re after something sweet that also brings a bit of tartness to the table, Cranberry Bars are the answer. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, making them a hit at any gathering. These bars have a way of evoking the festive spirit, making them highly requested as soon as the leaves start to change color. They might just become a staple for more than just the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bars
Turkey & Apple Panini
Sometimes, it’s the unexpected combinations that create the most memorable dishes. Turkey & Apple Panini does just that by combining savory turkey with the crisp sweetness of apple. This sandwich is a game-changer for lunch or dinner, offering a delicious twist that your family will crave. It’s proof that holiday flavors can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, long before the festive decorations are up.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor, Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer are your go-to. They come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside every single time. This dish showcases how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. Your family will be asking for these sweet potatoes well before the holiday season starts.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are one of those appetizers that make you wonder why they’re not the main course. They pack a flavorful punch in a small package, making them perfect for any gathering. These mushrooms are a sophisticated yet easy-to-make choice that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Don’t be surprised if they become a year-round request, not just a holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
If you think you’re not a fan of Brussels sprouts, this Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds might just change your mind. This dish takes a humble vegetable and turns it into a star side dish with the rich flavor of brown butter and the crunch of almonds. It’s a guaranteed way to impress your guests and convert the skeptics, making it a sought-after dish well before it’s time to deck the halls.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars
Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars are for those who believe dessert should be a highlight of the meal. These bars are a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth, combining rich cookie butter with a crunchy streusel topping. They’re so good, you’ll want to make an extra batch. Expect these to be on your family’s wish list long before the holiday lights are turned on.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars
Smoked Beef Tenderloin
When it’s time to impress, Smoked Beef Tenderloin is the dish you turn to. This main course is both tender and full of flavor, guaranteed to make any dinner feel like a special occasion. It’s the kind of dish that has guests marveling at your cooking skills, and it’s requested well in advance of the holiday season. Prepare to have this on your menu for every major gathering.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Tenderloin
Baked Brie in a Bowl
Introducing a starter that will boost your appetizer game, Baked Brie in a Bowl. It’s creamy, it’s delicious, and it pairs wonderfully with your favorite crackers or bread. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a win-win for any host. Your family will likely start asking for it as soon as the weather turns cool, making it a pre-December favorite.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie in a Bowl
Cranberry Cosmosa
Ready for a festive twist on your traditional drinks? Cranberry Cosmosa mixes the tartness of cranberries with the bubbly texture of your favorite sparkling wine, creating a cocktail that’s both refreshing and celebratory. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal or gathering, ushering in the festive spirit. Expect requests for this refreshing cocktail to start rolling in early.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cosmosa
Sausage Stuffing
No holiday meal is complete without a savory side, and Sausage Stuffing delivers just that. It’s savory, it’s hearty, and it complements any main dish perfectly. This stuffing has a way of disappearing fast, making it clear it’s a must-have at your table. Look forward to your family asking for this stuffing to be a part of meals even before the holiday season is in full swing.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffing
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets are the perfect example of how elegant appetizers can be simple to make. They’re light, they’re flavorful, and they look like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Ideal for impressing guests or treating your family to something special, these tartlets will become a go-to request for any festivity. It’s a dish that brings a touch of elegance, long before the holidays arrive.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Cold Crab Dip
If you need a go-to appetizer that’s both delicious and easy to whip up, look no further than Cold Crab Dip. It’s creamy, it’s rich, and it’s got just the right amount of seafood flavor. This dip is always a hit, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a holiday feast. Your family will likely ask for it throughout the year, not just when it’s cold outside.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip
Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema
Looking for a dish that’s as flavorful as it is visually appealing? Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema hits all the right notes. It combines tender pork with the tangy freshness of lime, all served on a crispy piece of bread. This appetizer is sure to get everyone talking and is perfect for any occasion. Expect it to become a frequent request, not only during the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
For those who believe that chocolate and mint are a match made in heaven, Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are a must-try. These cookies are indulgent, rich, and have that perfect hint of mint to make them stand out. They’re ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth and bringing a bit of holiday cheer. Don’t be surprised if these cookies are in high demand long before the festive season begins.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies