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Recipes

The ultimate holiday meal: 60 mouthwatering recipes

Get it here: ALL the holiday recipes. We've rounded up our favourites that will take you from breakfast to appetizers to dessert and everything in between.

By Today's Parent
The ultimate holiday meal: 60 mouthwatering recipes

Photo: Maya Visnyei

Sheet Pan Black Bean and Sweet Potato Hash

Sheet pan recipes are here to make your life easier. Throw an egg on top of this simple hash and breakfast for the masses is ready in just 30 minutes. Or, you could scramble eggs instead and add salsa and avocado to the hash for breakfast burritos. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Black Bean and Sweet Potato Hash

A sheet pan with vegetables and an egg on it

Cheese and Sausage Croissant Strata

Strata is a warm, casserole-style breakfast that can be made ahead and popped in the oven once the coffee is on. This one is made with toasted croissants, sausage and plenty of cheese. Get the recipe: Cheese and Sausage Croissant Strata

casserole dish of holiday strataPhoto: Roberto Caruso

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Ham and Cheese Waffles

A little sweet, a little savoury, it’s perfect (and easy) for a special holiday morning meal. Get the recipe: Ham and Cheese Waffles

plate of waffles with ham and cheese insidePhoto: Maya Visnyei

Perfect Soft-Boiled Egg and Soldiers

A perfectly runny yoke is what it’s all about when there’s toast for dipping. Get the recipe: Perfect Soft-Boiled Egg and Soldiers

soft boiled egg in a cup with toast soldiersPhoto: Jodi Pudge

Overnight Barley Porridge

Oatmeal isn’t the only grain that makes for great porridge. Barley is a slightly chewy and nutty-tasting option, chock full of fibre. It’s the perfect hearty make-ahead meal for a hectic holiday morning. Get the recipe: Overnight Barley Porridge

bowl of porridge with berries on topPhoto: Maya Visnyea

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Apple-Cinnamon Monkey Bread

Irresistable monkey bread for breakfast is totally par for the course on a holiday. Gather your little helpers and tighten your apron strings; this monkey bread is fun to make as a team. Get the recipe: Apple-Cinnamon Monkey Bread

plate of fresh monkey breadPhoto: Ryan Szulc

Spiced Apple Oatmeal in Squash Rings

Yes, your kids are eating veggies for breakfast in this yummy spin on oatmeal! (Now keep it to your smug self.) It’s a perfect dish to serve to hungry houseguests, too. Get the recipe: Spiced Apple Oatmeal in Squash Rings

oatmeal in a squash ringPhoto: Roberto Caruso

Snowman Pancakes

Do you want to build a snowman? Of course you do! Especially when it’s delicious snowman pancakes! Get the recipe: Snowman Pancakes

pancakes in the shape of a snowmanPhoto: Maya Visnyei

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Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast

The perfect make-ahead dish for a crowd, this sweet breakfast stays crisp on the outside and keeps a tender, blueberry- and cream-cheese-filled centre. Get the recipe: Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast

 

slice of baked french toast with blueberries

Cheddar and Bacon Scones

A savoury twist on a breakfast favourite, these scones would also work well alongside your holiday feast.  Get the recipe: Cheddar and Bacon Scones

plate of freshly baked sconesPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Maple-Bacon French Toast

Want breakfast ready when you get up? This French toast recipe cooks overnight and will greet you in the morning. Get the recipe: Maple-Bacon French Toast 

two slices of french toast with bacon on topPhoto: Roberto Caruso

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Spanish Chorizo Frittata

To save time, you can make the dish ahead and warm in the oven, or simply serve at room temperature. Get the recipe: Spanish Chorizo Frittata

skillet with sausage frittata

Puffy Pear Pancake

This pancake is so easy—it’s made in the oven! Kids will love it. Get the recipe: Puffy Pear Pancake

skilled with a pear pancake insidePhoto: Ryan Szulc

Kitchen Sink Cheese Omelette

Breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated just because you have a house bursting with guests. The genius of an omelette is it works with virtually any leftover (read: forgotten, wilted) veggies hiding in the fridge. Get the recipe: Kitchen Sink Omelette

skilled with omelette with cheese and veggiesPhoto: Roberto Caruso

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Maple Scones

Sweet and simple, these maple scones are prefect for breakfast, brunch, or an after-school snack. Get the recipe: Maple Scones

plate of fresh sconesPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Dutch Pancakes

Traditionally called pannekoeken, these crepe-like pancakes originated in Belgium and the Netherlands. Try them stuffed with caramelized apples, ham and cheese or jam! Get the recipe: Dutch Pancakes 

fresh dutch pancakes filled with pearPhoto: Maya Visnyea

Quick Kale and Bacon Tart

A delicious way to sneak greens into your kid’s diet—chop the kale finely and it will blend into the filling. Get the recipe: Quick Kale and Bacon Tart

sliced quiche ready to servePhoto: Andrew Grinton

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Maple Hot Chocolate

Try this maple hot chocolate for a classic winter drink with a syrupy-sweet vanilla twist. Get the recipe: Maple Hot Chocolate

tray with mugs of hot chocolatePhoto: Maya Visnyei

Sangria Berry Mocktail

Stir up a fizzy, sweet-tart mocktail for guests of every age to enjoy. Get the recipe: Sangria Berry Mocktail

The ultimate holiday meal: 60 mouthwatering recipesPhoto: Roberto Caruso

Cranberry Cocktail

Cranberry juice is a party staple, but it falls a little flat on the festive front. Our three twists on easy cranberry cocktail recipes will delight everyone (of drinking age) at your party! Get the recipe: Cranberry Cocktail 

two glasses filled with cranberry cocktailPhoto: Maya Visnyei

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Baby Potato Bites

These super-easy mini baked potatoes are ready for a party. Get the recipe: Baby Potato Bites

plate of smoked salmon appetizersPhoto: Roberto Caruso

The Best Hot Crab Dip

If you make crab dip, you’re pretty much the greatest host/guest ever. Get the recipe here: The Best Hot Crab Dip

 

hot crab dip with celery heartsPhoto: Ryan Szulc

Beet and “Greens Pesto” Tart

If your kids find regular beets a bit intimidating, introduce them to golden beets (their milder flavour is closer to carrots) or super-cool striped candy-cane beets. Get the recipe: Beets and ”Greens Pestos” Tart

 

fresh pastry topped with beets and greensPhoto: Jodi Pudge

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Roasted Red Pepper Cheese Dip

This three-ingredient cheese dip is as quick to make as it is to eat! It’s just as perfect for an after-school snack as it is for entertaining. Get the recipe: Roasted Red Pepper Cheese Dip

chips and veggies with red pepper dipPhoto: Roberto Caruso

Tandoori Turkey Meatballs

Stick a toothpick in each meatball for a delicious appetizer your guests will be sure to gobble up. Get the recipe: Tandoori Turkey Meatballs

plate of saucy turkey meatballsPhoto: Ryan Szulc

Ultimate Cheese Plate

Stumped about how to assemble the perfect cheese platter? We’ve got you covered. Get the instructions: Ultimate Cheese Plate

 

cutting board covered in different cheesesPhoto: Andrew Grinton

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Spinach Pie Bites

These Greek-style pockets make for a tasty appetizer. Get the recipe: Spinach Pie Bites

Greek spinach appetizersPhoto: Jodi Pudge

Sweet Potato and Apple Soup

We love this satisfying soup. Our favourite part? The slow cooker does most of the work. Get the recipe: Sweet Potato and Apple Soup

bowl of soup with sour cream swirlPhoto: Andrew Grinton

Kale Salad with Bacon and Dates

Start your holiday meal off with this sweet and savoury salad. Get the recipe: Kale Salad with Bacon and Dates

salad with soft boiled egg on topPhoto: Maya Visnyea

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Roasted Squash and Coconut Soup

This oh-so-creamy soup is sure to become a family favourite. It’s perfect for entertaining guests or as an easy go-to meal Get the recipe: Roasted Squash and Coconut Soup

bowl of squash soupPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Roasted Beet and Apple Salad

The perfect combination of sweet and crunchy, serve this easy-to-prepare roasted beet and apple salad as a side, or even as a meal. Get the recipe: Roasted Beet and Apple Salad

vintage plate with harvest saladPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Zesty Roasted Broccoli

Even the pickest of eaters might be persauded to try these crispy roasted greens. Get the recipe: Zesty Roasted Broccoli

pan with roasted broccoliPhoto: Roberto Caruso

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Lacey-Edged Latkes

Easy fried latkes are a holiday staple. Try it with smoked salmon and a dollop of sour cream on top or with homemade applesauce on the side. Get the recipe: Lacey-Edged Latkes

bento box with mini latkes and sour creamPhoto: Erik Putz

Sheet Pan Ratatouille

Ratatouille called, it’s ready to be your super-simple, in-season side. Harvest veg like butternut squash and leeks get nice and toasty in this one-pan recipe before being drizzled with a delicious olive oil, lemon and garlic dressing. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Ratatouille

Roasted vegetables on a sheet pan

Triple-Cranberry and Maple Compote

Move over, canned cranberries! This simple-as-anything gourmet compote will be the star of your holiday feast from now on. Get the recipe: Triple-Cranberry and Maple Compote

silver dish with cranberry saucePhoto: Maya Visnyei

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Mashed Potato Casserole

Not much beats mashed potatoes—except a cheesy mashed potato casserole studded with golden breadcrumbs. Get the recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole 

casserole full of mashed potatoes with bread crumbsPhoto: Roberto Caruso

Rustic Kale and Bacon Stuffing

Add a new spin to classic stuffing with this easy and delicious rustic dressing. Get the recipe: Rustic Kale and Bacon Stuffing

china dish with kale stuffingPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Sweet Potato Mash with Ginger

Try this fresh new twist on a dinnertime staple. Omit the ginger if your little ones are nervous about spice. Get the recipe: Sweet Potato Mash with Ginger

bowl of mashed sweet potatoesPhoto: Andrew Grinton

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Cider-Sautéed Sausage, Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts

This super-simple stove top recipe is a one-pot marvel. Get the recipe: Cider-Sautéed Sausage, Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts

casserole dish of roasted veggies

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Nothing says comfort food like mashed potatoes. It’s the go-to for most holiday dinners, and the beauty of this recipe—you can make it ahead of time for easy entertaining. Get the recipe: Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

large casserole full of mashed potatoesPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Pan-Roasted Parsnips and Brussels Sprouts

Don’t let the Brussels sprouts turn you away, when roasted, they take on a sweet flavour. Get the recipe: Pan-Roasted Parsnips and Brussels Sprouts

dish of roasted veggiesPhoto: Maya Visnyei

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Coconut Chickpea Curry

Satisfy any vegetarian or vegan guests at your table with this flavourful but not-too-spicy curry. Get the recipe: Coconut Chickpea Curry

plate of curry on ricePhoto: Maya Visnyea

Simple Braised Brisket with Lemon-Parsley Garnish

Not only is this recipe delicious, it’s also make-ahead. Your day just got easier. Get the recipe: Simple Braised Brisket with Lemon-Parsley Garnish

plate of roast and carrotsPhoto: Jodi Pudge

Cranberry-Cider Glazed Ham

Need something impressive—and secretly easy—to feed a crowd? Glazed ham goes a long way. Serve it sliced and drizzled with sauce or pile slices on squishy buns for the kids. Get the recipe: Cranberry-Cider Glazed Ham

large glazed ham on holiday tablePhoto: Roberto Caruso

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Lemon-Thyme Roasted Turkey with Cider Gravy

Treat your family to a gourmet dinner with this delicious roasted turkey recipe. Get the recipe: Lemon-Thyme Roasted Turkey with Cider Gravy

plate of thanksgiving foods including turkey, cranberry and stuffingPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Crispy Oven-Baked Trout

If you prefer to serve fish at your holiday table, this super-simple Parmesan- and panko-crusted trout recipe is a real winner. Get the recipe: Crispy Oven-Baked Trout

plate of crispy fishPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Rosemary and Garlic Roast Chicken

If you’re playing host to a smaller crowd, this juicy roasted chicken is a quick and easy solution to tackling a big turkey with all the fixings. Get the recipe: Rosemary and Garlic Roast Chicken

roasted chicken on a plate with gravyPhoto: Maya Visnyei

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Roasted Perch Fillets and Squash with Cilantro Lime Drizzle

Want to know the easiest holiday meal ever? This roasted perch and squash dish. The whole thing is ready in 25 minutes. Who said prepping for a big meal has to be stressful? Get the recipe: Roasted Perch Fillets and Squash with Cilantro Lime Drizzle

Platter with roasted fish and squashPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Holiday Chip Cookie Cake

Forgo a traditional cake in favour of this festive cookie cake! Get the recipe: Holiday Chip Cookie Cake

Large chocolate chip cookies stacked on a pedestal with vanilla icing in-between and green and red candy chips on topPhoto: Tony Lanz

Mini Pumpkin Pie Tarts

Prevent the battle of who got the bigger piece with these individual mini pumpkin pie tarts. They’re as delicious as they are adorable. Get the recipe: Mini Pumpkin Pie Tarts

plate with pumpkin pie tarts and cute toppersPhoto: Maya Visnyei

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Apple and Pear Superfood Crumble

Pumpkin seeds and flaxseeds give this fruity crumble a nutritious boost. Get the recipe: Apple and Pear Superfood Crumble

bowl of apple crumble with ice creamPhoto: Roberto Caruso

Cranberry Upside-Down Cake

Don’t fear the upsidedown factor! Place a serving plate over the pan and flip the cake before it cools completely. Replace any cranberries left behind on the parchment paper, and no one will know! Get the recipe: Cranberry Upside-Down Cake

Cake topped with candied cranberriesPhoto: Maya Visnyei

Spicy Gingerbread Cake

This moist and delicious cake keeps well as long as it’s tightly wrapped, but that can mar the beauty of the glaze. Be sure to drench in icing just before serving. Get the recipe: Spicy Gingerbread Cake

plate of glazed bundt cakePhoto: Ryan Szulc

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Mini Cheesecakes with Cherry Sauce

Who can resist these sweet little cheesecakes with a tart cherry sauce? We sure can’t. Get the recipe: Mini Cheesecakes with Cherry Sauce

cherry cheesecakePhoto: Jodi Pudge

Triple-Chocolate Ice Cream Pie

This super chocolatey pie is a snap to put together and it’s a great one for kids to help with. Chocolate shavings add an elegant touch. Get the recipe: Triple-Chocolate Ice Cream Pie

plate of chocolate ice cream piePhoto: Jodi Pudge

Apple-Berry Brown Betty

Turn to your faithful slow-cooker to churn out this comforting brown betty. The pectin in the apple peel will help to thicken the dish. Get the recipe: Apple-Berry Brown Betty

bowl of apple and berry crisp with dollop of vanilla ice cream on topPhoto: Roberto Caruso

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Brown Butter Shortbread

The nutty flavour of brown butter is a modern twist on this quintessential Christmas cookie. But, diehard traditionalists, don’t fret! You can make a great classic shortbread simply by skipping the brown butter prep and using room-temp butter in its place. Get the recipe: Brown Butter Shortbread

pie plate filled with shortbreadPhoto: Ryan Szulc

Cranberry and Maple Eton Mess

Short on time? Substitute storebought meringues and cranberry sauce to make this dessert super quickly. Get the recipe: Cranberry and Maple Eton Mess

parfait cup filled with fancy dessertPhoto: Ryan Szulc

Almond Butter Cake

Dense and chewy like a brownie, this cake tastes as if it came from a European pastry shop (but is easily stirred together in one bowl). Get the recipe: Almond Butter Cake

 

The ultimate holiday meal: 60 mouthwatering recipesPhoto: Maya Visnyei

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Mini Meringue Tarts

A cute minature of the classic, lemon meringue. Get the recipe: Mini Meringue Tarts

 

mini lemon tarts topped with meringuePhoto: Jodi Pudge

Read more: 11 satisfying winter breakfast recipes 10 freezer-friendly cookie recipes 10 comforting casserole recipes

This article was originally published on Dec 05, 2018

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