Christmas dinner brings families together around the table every year, and we all have our favourite recipes. This year, whether you’re planning a traditional roast, adding your own creative twists, or searching for show-stopping recipes, the key is crafting a meal that every guest will adore, no matter their dietary requirements or preferences.
From classic staples to modern favourites, this guide will help you curate the perfect Christmas dinner menu. Let’s explore how you can make this year’s holiday feast truly magical.
Christmas Dinner Must-Haves
At the heart of every successful Christmas feast are the timeless dishes we all know and love. These crowd-pleasers never fail to set the tone for a cosy and joyous celebration.
A roast bird
Many people in the UK would argue that it's not a Christmas dinner at all if there's no roast bird in the middle of the table! While there are some really wild and fun alternatives out there (scroll down below to find one of our favourite alternatives!) our roast capon is one step further than a traditional turkey, and absolutely delicious. Although of course, we do sell turkeys, too.
Tasty festive side dishes
Every family has favourite Christmas dinner trimmings. Salty, savoury pigs-in-blankets are one of our favourites (and our recipe in Drogo's Kitchen might be the best pigs-in-blanket recipe... ever.)
Stuffing with a twist
We love this slightly sweet, super savoury, very herbal Apricot Sausage & Brioche Stuffing, which you cook in a baking tray, rather than stuffing inside your Christmas bird. It gets crispy in all the right places, but remains moist throughout and custardy from the eggs. It really deserves at place at your Christmas dinner table and we believe it will become a firm family favourite.
Roast potatoes with flair
There's not much point reinventing the wheel with the humble roast potato. But we played around with different fats and discovered the glassiest, crispiest potatoes came from using Iberico pork fat, rather than vegetable oil, olive oil, or even goose fat! Add a sprinkle of truffle dust for something really special.
Christmas desserts to wow
If you've got space for afters, keep it relatively light with a fruit-based dessert like a show-stopping, creamy pavlova. Although raspberries aren't in season, frozen ones work perfectly in this dessert.
Cheese to finish your Christmas meal in style
It's not really Christmas until a cheese board has placed in front of you, stacked high with different cheeses, jams, chutneys and assorted crackers. Even if you're not hungry, you'll definitely find space for a small slice (or five) of one of our artisan cheeses.
Something a Bit Different: Add Unique Touches to Your Feast
Every family has their own nostalgic festive foods and traditional recipes, but sometimes adding a couple of new and exciting dishes to your Christmas menu creates a truly memorable meal. Here are some ideas to customise your menu:
- Roast Suckling Pig: Slowly roasting this whole pig until juicy and tender would be an alternative to the usual roast bird centrepiece that would really get your relatives talking!
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Blue Cheese & Fig Cups: A fun and delightful appetiser that’s equal parts sweet and savoury.
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Mini Lobster Rolls: There's something festive about lobster! This is an elegant starter that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
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Grilled Tiger Prawns with Seaweed Butter: A light yet indulgent option; perfect for seafood lovers or pescatarians at the Christmas dinner table.
- Rum & Pecan Custard Tartlets: A nutty, festive alternative to the traditional mince pie that your family will love this Christmas.
Explore more recipes for inspiration in Drogo’s Kitchen, where we share gourmet recipes to elevate your festive feast.
FAQs: Everything You Need for a Perfect Christmas Dinner
How can I make my family's Christmas dinner special?
Bring back the annual family favourites, but maybe try something a bit new, too! You could add an new ingredient into a classic dish for a bit of a surprise without compromising on tradition, like rich bone marrow butter running through your mash, or truffle in your bread sauce.
What are some quick and easy sides for Christmas dinner?
Simply roasted vegetables and bitter winter salads come together in no time. They're easy to prepare, and bring balance to rich centrepieces like roasted birds and hams.
What are some unique dishes to elevate my Christmas dinner?
Seafood is a fun way to change up your Christmas dinner menu, when so often the meal is based around meats and poultry. Browse our luxury seafood selection for the best shellfish and fish. You could also take inspiration from our guide to the Feast of Seven Fishes!
