24 Traditional Christmas dishes, ranked from timeless favorites to holiday letdowns
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Sometimes the holidays aren’t about presents, movies, or decorations, but about the dishes that find their way onto the table year after year.
While some of these meals feel like they were sent straight from heaven, others seem to exist only to test our patience.
Food is tied to tradition, yet tradition doesn’t always guarantee enjoyment. With that in mind, here’s my ranking of the most classic Christmas foods, starting from the absolute best to the ones I’d rather skip forever.
1. Standing Rib Roast
To me, a standing rib roast is like the Rolls-Royce of beef cuts, and it sets the tone for a true holiday feast. The marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor create a centerpiece that feels luxurious and memorable. No other meat commands the table in quite the same way, both visually and taste-wise. If you want to impress guests, this is the undisputed champion.
2. Mashed Potatoes
I’ve yet to meet a potato I didn’t like, but mashed potatoes hit especially hard at Christmas. Creamy, smooth, and the perfect partner for gravy, they practically beg for a spot next to roast beef or turkey. The comfort factor they bring is unmatched and always makes the meal feel complete. It’s no wonder they top so many polls of favorite holiday foods.
3. Gingerbread
Few flavors evoke Christmas quite like gingerbread, with its blend of spices and warming aroma. Whether in cookie or cake form, it’s a holiday staple that feels cozy and festive. However, it’s only truly magical when made with fresh spices rather than tired jars from years past. Done right, it’s an unforgettable treat that makes the season smell like joy.
4. Popovers
Golden, airy, and just the right balance of crispness and softness, popovers are the breakfast or dinner rolls we deserve at Christmas. Spread them with butter, jam, or even honey, and they quickly vanish from the table. The British Yorkshire pudding equivalent also pairs beautifully with beef roasts. Either way, these hollow delights deliver festive satisfaction.
5. Lasagna
Lasagna may not be the first dish that comes to mind for Christmas, but it’s earned its place on many tables. Layers of pasta, cheese, and rich sauce make it hearty, comforting, and communal. In parts of Italy, it’s even a Christmas Eve tradition, often made with béchamel. No matter the style, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
6. Deviled Eggs
The humble egg transforms into party gold when turned into deviled eggs. Creamy yolk filling, a dash of paprika, and endless garnish options keep them versatile and addictive. At Christmas parties, they vanish faster than you can count. They’re snackable, flavorful, and always welcome.
7. Stuffing
Stuffing is one of those rare sides that somehow gets sidelined outside the holidays, even though it’s universally adored. The savory mix of bread, herbs, and broth creates a dish that feels both rustic and luxurious. It works beautifully with turkey, chicken, or even as a standalone casserole. The versatility makes it an essential part of the Christmas spread.
8. Baked Ham
Few foods scream “Christmas” like a glossy, clove-studded ham. The sweet glaze mingles perfectly with salty pork, creating a nostalgic main dish. Its leftovers also make some of the best sandwiches you’ll ever eat during the holiday week. For many families, ham is the true star of the season.
9. Bûche de Noël
A yule log cake isn’t just dessert—it’s edible art. From the rolled sponge cake to the creamy filling and chocolate frosting, it’s both delicious and whimsical. Decorations like meringue mushrooms and sugar “moss” only add to the charm. It’s a showstopper that tastes as magical as it looks.
10. Pigs in Blankets
Bite-sized, flaky, and crowd-pleasing, pigs in blankets are holiday appetizers that never fail. Wrapped in pastry and often shaped into festive wreaths, they bring joy with every bite. Adults turn into kids again when these hit the table. Easy, fun, and irresistible, they’re a must-have.
11. Coquito
This Puerto Rican drink is eggnog’s creamy, coconut-based cousin. Sweet, spiced, and often spiked with rum, it captures holiday cheer in a glass. Unlike traditional nog, it doesn’t rely on raw eggs, making it more approachable for many. It’s festive, flavorful, and highly sip-worthy.
12. Dinner Rolls
Soft, buttery, and perfect for everything from soaking up gravy to holding slices of ham, rolls are unsung heroes. They’re not the main event, but meals feel incomplete without them. Their versatility makes them essential for leftovers, too. Warm, fluffy, and always welcome, they’re comfort in bread form.
Also read: 10 easy holiday traditions to make the season special at any age
13. Charcuterie Board
Equal parts art and indulgence, charcuterie boards are the social butterflies of holiday parties. Meats, cheeses, olives, and crackers combine to create endless combinations. They invite grazing, chatting, and lingering over food. For many, it’s the perfect holiday starter.
14. Tamales
Wrapped in corn husks and filled with spiced meat or cheese, tamales are a tradition as much as a food. They represent family, culture, and celebration for many who prepare them during Christmas. Each bite is flavorful, hearty, and rich in history. They’re gifts you can eat and are better than anything under the tree.
15. Hot Chocolate
Rich, velvety, and nostalgic, hot chocolate fuels countless holiday traditions. It pairs perfectly with decorating the tree, watching movies, or warming up after the snow. Spiking it with liquor or topping it with homemade marshmallows elevates it even more. It’s cozy in a cup and essential for winter.
16. Mulled Wine
Warm, spiced, and fragrant, mulled wine is like a festive hug in liquid form. It transforms inexpensive red wine into something magical. Citrus and spices blend together for a drink that’s both soothing and celebratory. Perfect for cold nights, it’s Christmas in a mug.
17. Sugar Cookies
Decorated with care and often beautiful, sugar cookies still manage to fall flat in taste. The royal icing is cloyingly sweet, and the base offers little to balance it. They’re better to look at than to eat. Pretty, but forgettable.
18. Roast Turkey
Turkey already had its moment in November, and by December, it feels repetitive. Dryness is always a risk, and the holiday deserves something more exciting. Between beef, ham, and duck, better options exist. For Christmas, this bird belongs on the bench.
Also read: Who should you REALLY be tipping this holiday season? The answer might shock you!
19. Peppermint Bark
Peppermint and chocolate are divisive partners, and for me, they simply don’t mix. The mint overpowers the chocolate, leaving a toothpaste-like aftertaste. Despite its festive look, it’s a treat I’ll always pass on. A seasonal misstep, in my book.
20. Panettone
This Italian bread may come in pretty boxes, but inside it’s often dry and uninspired. Studded with raisins and candied fruit, it feels more like punishment than pleasure. The best way to enjoy it is by drowning it in custard. Otherwise, it’s forgettable.
21. Eggnog
Custard in a cup may be traditional, but that doesn’t make it appealing. Heavy and overly rich, eggnog is more a novelty than a pleasure. Homemade versions improve the flavor, but it’s still tough to drink in large amounts. For me, once a year is more than enough.
22. Candy Canes
Candy canes are better as decoration than as dessert. They look cheerful on trees and gingerbread houses, but underwhelm as candy. Essentially, mint sugar shaped into a hook, they lack depth of flavor. Festive, but not tasty.
23. Mince Pies
Despite their history, modern mince pies fall flat for many. Dried fruit, suet, and candied peel create a filling that’s heavier than delightful. The flavors feel dated, and the texture is unappealing. They’re traditional, but not tempting.
24. Fruitcake
Dense, heavy, and packed with candied fruit, fruitcake remains the most infamous Christmas dish. Its reputation as a joke gift is well-earned. Even alcohol can’t redeem its texture or flavor. For me, it’s the bottom of the holiday barrel.
Read next: A menu for the heart: Finding comfort, connection, and care this holiday season
What do you think—did your favorite holiday dish land where it truly belongs, or do you feel something was unfairly placed too low? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know which food deserves top billing on the Christmas table in your home.
While some of these meals feel like they were sent straight from heaven, others seem to exist only to test our patience.
Food is tied to tradition, yet tradition doesn’t always guarantee enjoyment. With that in mind, here’s my ranking of the most classic Christmas foods, starting from the absolute best to the ones I’d rather skip forever.
1. Standing Rib Roast
To me, a standing rib roast is like the Rolls-Royce of beef cuts, and it sets the tone for a true holiday feast. The marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor create a centerpiece that feels luxurious and memorable. No other meat commands the table in quite the same way, both visually and taste-wise. If you want to impress guests, this is the undisputed champion.
2. Mashed Potatoes
I’ve yet to meet a potato I didn’t like, but mashed potatoes hit especially hard at Christmas. Creamy, smooth, and the perfect partner for gravy, they practically beg for a spot next to roast beef or turkey. The comfort factor they bring is unmatched and always makes the meal feel complete. It’s no wonder they top so many polls of favorite holiday foods.
3. Gingerbread
Few flavors evoke Christmas quite like gingerbread, with its blend of spices and warming aroma. Whether in cookie or cake form, it’s a holiday staple that feels cozy and festive. However, it’s only truly magical when made with fresh spices rather than tired jars from years past. Done right, it’s an unforgettable treat that makes the season smell like joy.
4. Popovers
Golden, airy, and just the right balance of crispness and softness, popovers are the breakfast or dinner rolls we deserve at Christmas. Spread them with butter, jam, or even honey, and they quickly vanish from the table. The British Yorkshire pudding equivalent also pairs beautifully with beef roasts. Either way, these hollow delights deliver festive satisfaction.
5. Lasagna
Lasagna may not be the first dish that comes to mind for Christmas, but it’s earned its place on many tables. Layers of pasta, cheese, and rich sauce make it hearty, comforting, and communal. In parts of Italy, it’s even a Christmas Eve tradition, often made with béchamel. No matter the style, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
6. Deviled Eggs
The humble egg transforms into party gold when turned into deviled eggs. Creamy yolk filling, a dash of paprika, and endless garnish options keep them versatile and addictive. At Christmas parties, they vanish faster than you can count. They’re snackable, flavorful, and always welcome.
24 Traditional Christmas dishes, ranked from timeless favorites to holiday letdowns. Image source: Getty Images / Unsplash
7. Stuffing
Stuffing is one of those rare sides that somehow gets sidelined outside the holidays, even though it’s universally adored. The savory mix of bread, herbs, and broth creates a dish that feels both rustic and luxurious. It works beautifully with turkey, chicken, or even as a standalone casserole. The versatility makes it an essential part of the Christmas spread.
8. Baked Ham
Few foods scream “Christmas” like a glossy, clove-studded ham. The sweet glaze mingles perfectly with salty pork, creating a nostalgic main dish. Its leftovers also make some of the best sandwiches you’ll ever eat during the holiday week. For many families, ham is the true star of the season.
9. Bûche de Noël
A yule log cake isn’t just dessert—it’s edible art. From the rolled sponge cake to the creamy filling and chocolate frosting, it’s both delicious and whimsical. Decorations like meringue mushrooms and sugar “moss” only add to the charm. It’s a showstopper that tastes as magical as it looks.
10. Pigs in Blankets
Bite-sized, flaky, and crowd-pleasing, pigs in blankets are holiday appetizers that never fail. Wrapped in pastry and often shaped into festive wreaths, they bring joy with every bite. Adults turn into kids again when these hit the table. Easy, fun, and irresistible, they’re a must-have.
11. Coquito
This Puerto Rican drink is eggnog’s creamy, coconut-based cousin. Sweet, spiced, and often spiked with rum, it captures holiday cheer in a glass. Unlike traditional nog, it doesn’t rely on raw eggs, making it more approachable for many. It’s festive, flavorful, and highly sip-worthy.
12. Dinner Rolls
Soft, buttery, and perfect for everything from soaking up gravy to holding slices of ham, rolls are unsung heroes. They’re not the main event, but meals feel incomplete without them. Their versatility makes them essential for leftovers, too. Warm, fluffy, and always welcome, they’re comfort in bread form.
Also read: 10 easy holiday traditions to make the season special at any age
13. Charcuterie Board
Equal parts art and indulgence, charcuterie boards are the social butterflies of holiday parties. Meats, cheeses, olives, and crackers combine to create endless combinations. They invite grazing, chatting, and lingering over food. For many, it’s the perfect holiday starter.
14. Tamales
Wrapped in corn husks and filled with spiced meat or cheese, tamales are a tradition as much as a food. They represent family, culture, and celebration for many who prepare them during Christmas. Each bite is flavorful, hearty, and rich in history. They’re gifts you can eat and are better than anything under the tree.
15. Hot Chocolate
Rich, velvety, and nostalgic, hot chocolate fuels countless holiday traditions. It pairs perfectly with decorating the tree, watching movies, or warming up after the snow. Spiking it with liquor or topping it with homemade marshmallows elevates it even more. It’s cozy in a cup and essential for winter.
16. Mulled Wine
Warm, spiced, and fragrant, mulled wine is like a festive hug in liquid form. It transforms inexpensive red wine into something magical. Citrus and spices blend together for a drink that’s both soothing and celebratory. Perfect for cold nights, it’s Christmas in a mug.
17. Sugar Cookies
Decorated with care and often beautiful, sugar cookies still manage to fall flat in taste. The royal icing is cloyingly sweet, and the base offers little to balance it. They’re better to look at than to eat. Pretty, but forgettable.
18. Roast Turkey
Turkey already had its moment in November, and by December, it feels repetitive. Dryness is always a risk, and the holiday deserves something more exciting. Between beef, ham, and duck, better options exist. For Christmas, this bird belongs on the bench.
Also read: Who should you REALLY be tipping this holiday season? The answer might shock you!
19. Peppermint Bark
Peppermint and chocolate are divisive partners, and for me, they simply don’t mix. The mint overpowers the chocolate, leaving a toothpaste-like aftertaste. Despite its festive look, it’s a treat I’ll always pass on. A seasonal misstep, in my book.
20. Panettone
This Italian bread may come in pretty boxes, but inside it’s often dry and uninspired. Studded with raisins and candied fruit, it feels more like punishment than pleasure. The best way to enjoy it is by drowning it in custard. Otherwise, it’s forgettable.
21. Eggnog
Custard in a cup may be traditional, but that doesn’t make it appealing. Heavy and overly rich, eggnog is more a novelty than a pleasure. Homemade versions improve the flavor, but it’s still tough to drink in large amounts. For me, once a year is more than enough.
22. Candy Canes
Candy canes are better as decoration than as dessert. They look cheerful on trees and gingerbread houses, but underwhelm as candy. Essentially, mint sugar shaped into a hook, they lack depth of flavor. Festive, but not tasty.
23. Mince Pies
Despite their history, modern mince pies fall flat for many. Dried fruit, suet, and candied peel create a filling that’s heavier than delightful. The flavors feel dated, and the texture is unappealing. They’re traditional, but not tempting.
24. Fruitcake
Dense, heavy, and packed with candied fruit, fruitcake remains the most infamous Christmas dish. Its reputation as a joke gift is well-earned. Even alcohol can’t redeem its texture or flavor. For me, it’s the bottom of the holiday barrel.
Read next: A menu for the heart: Finding comfort, connection, and care this holiday season
