Thinking about shaking things up for your festive feast this year? How about skipping the usual turkey and trying something different? Here are 23 amazing recipes that are perfect for the holidays, and they’re not your typical fare. These dishes are easy to make and are a great way to impress your friends and family with something new. Trust me, your holiday table will be anything but boring!
Instant Pot Char Siu
You know, making Char Siu in an Instant Pot is a game changer for festive feasts. It’s not your typical turkey, but the blend of sweet and savory flavors in tender pork is just irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Char Siu
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Forget the usual pies; Sticky Toffee Pudding is where it’s at! It’s this gorgeous, moist sponge cake drenched in a rich toffee sauce. Every bite feels like a warm holiday hug. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you’re gathered around the table.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Toffee Pudding
Potatoes au Gratin
Potatoes au Gratin offers a rich and comforting alternative to the usual holiday sides. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with creamy cheese and baked to a golden perfection, creating a dish that complements any festive main course. This recipe brings a touch of elegance to the holiday table, balancing tradition with a gourmet twist.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes au Gratin
Dulce de Leche Cookies
Oh, these Dulce de Leche Cookies are a dream for anyone with a sweet tooth. They’re a delightful break from traditional holiday treats. Each cookie is packed with that creamy, caramelized goodness. It’s like a little bite of festive joy!
Get the Recipe: Dulce de Leche Cookies
Instant Pot Duck Confit
Duck Confit in an Instant Pot might sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly straightforward. It’s a luxurious twist on your holiday meal, with meat so tender and flavorful, it’ll have everyone asking for your secret.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Duck Confit
Kolacky
Kolacky are these delightful pastries that add a touch of tradition to your festive spread. They come with different fillings – fruit, cheese, you name it. It’s like a sweet nod to heritage at your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Kolacky
Instant Pot Shrimp
Who says seafood can’t be festive? This Instant Pot Shrimp dish is a fabulous way to diversify your holiday menu. It’s incredibly versatile – great as an appetizer or a main dish. Plus, it’s so quick to make!
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp
Smoked Salmon Dip
This Smoked Salmon Dip is a total crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoked salmon’s richness with a creamy texture makes for an elegant starter. It’s ridiculously easy to make but looks so sophisticated on your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip
Hamentashen
Hamentashen are these unique, triangular pastries, usually enjoyed during Purim, but why not bring them to your festive feast? They offer a delightful variety of fillings and are sure to be a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Hamentashen
Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites
For a more casual holiday gathering, these Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites are fantastic. They’re just like the full-sized poppers, but in a fun, bite-sized form. Easy to make and even easier to eat!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites
Apple Galette
An Apple Galette is this wonderfully rustic yet elegant dessert. It’s less fussy than a traditional apple pie, but trust me, it’s just as delicious. It brings a cozy, homemade feel to your festive feast.
Get the Recipe: Apple Galette
Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon
If you’re looking for something not too sweet, these Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon are just the ticket. They have this lovely subtle sweetness with a hint of citrus and spice. They’re like little bites of holiday comfort.
Get the Recipe: Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon
Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
On a cold evening, there’s nothing like a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup made in the Instant Pot. It’s got all the flavors of the stuffed peppers you love, but in a comforting, sippable form. A great way to warm up your holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
Green Bean Salad
To balance out the rich holiday dishes, this Green Bean Salad is a fresh, vibrant choice. It’s a healthy addition, adding some much-needed greens to your festive feast.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Salad
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
These Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes are adorable! Each one is a perfect, individual dessert with that seasonal pumpkin flavor in a creamy, decadent cheesecake. They’re great for when you want just a little something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Instant Pot Ham
If you’re looking to switch up the traditional turkey, why not try a ham in the Instant Pot? It comes out juicy and full of flavor. It’s a fantastic centerpiece for your festive feast and so effortless to make.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ham
Black Sesame Cookies
For something a little different, these Black Sesame Cookies are a sophisticated treat. They have a unique, nutty flavor that’s just so intriguing. They’ll definitely stand out on your holiday cookie platter.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies
Apple Cider Donut Cake
Imagine all the flavors of an apple cider donut but in a cake! This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s got that familiar taste but presented in a fun, novel way. Definitely a highlight at any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Donut Cake
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
Homemade cranberry sauce in the Instant Pot is a revelation. It’s so simple to make, yet the flavor is just leagues above any canned version. It’s a small touch that can really elevate your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
This Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole is comfort food at its finest. It takes the beloved mashed potatoes and adds a delicious cheesy twist. It’s the kind of indulgent side dish everyone looks forward to at the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
Quaker Oatmeal Cookies
You can’t go wrong with classic Quaker Oatmeal Cookies. They’re a simple, wholesome option that’s always a hit. Perfect for any festive occasion where you want a tried-and-true favorite.
Get the Recipe: Quaker Oatmeal Cookies
Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie
This Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie is a showstopper. The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the crisp phyllo. It’s a fantastic vegetarian option that’s as delicious as it is elegant.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Phyllo Pie