20 of the Best Recipes to Cook in December

Introduction

December is a month filled with festive flavors, comforting classics, and the joy of gathering around the table. It’s the perfect time to indulge in warming soups, celebratory roasts, and decadent desserts. Whether you’re hosting loved ones or looking to make weeknight meals extra special, these 20 best recipes will inspire delicious moments all month long.

Why These Are the Best December Recipes

These dishes stand out for their seasonal ingredients, crowd-pleasing potential, and versatility. From slow-cooked mains that fill your home with inviting aromas to cozy bakes and cookies that satisfy every sweet tooth, each recipe was selected for flavor, ease, and that special touch of December magic.

The 20 Best Recipes to Cook in December

Here’s your go-to list for December cooking—with options for every occasion, from casual dinners to holiday celebrations.

• 1. Creamy Potato Leek Soup – A classic, creamy bowl of warmth that’s perfect for chilly nights.
• 2. Holiday Glazed Ham – Sweet, savory, and stunning—a centerpiece fit for any gathering.
• 3. Root Vegetable Gratin – Layers of winter roots baked in a cheesy, herby cream sauce.
• 4. Chicken Marsala – Tender chicken cutlets in a rich, mushroom-studded wine sauce.
• 5. Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast – Juicy, tender beef with a savory crust, ideal for special occasions.
• 6. Pear, Walnut & Blue Cheese Salad – Crisp, sweet, and tangy with a festive feel.
• 7. Butternut Squash Risotto – Creamy comfort with a touch of holiday color and flavor.
• 8. Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized sprouts with the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
• 9. Slow Cooked Beef Stew – A hearty, savory stew perfect for cold winter nights.
• 10. Gingerbread Cookies – Classic, spiced cookies that double as holiday decorations.
• 11. Pan Seared Salmon with Citrus Salsa – Bright, fresh, and healthy for lighter December meals.
• 12. Festive Baked Brie – Gooey cheese topped with cranberries and nuts, wrapped in pastry.
• 13. Roast Chicken with Root Vegetables – A simple, satisfying family dinner.
• 14. Chocolate Peppermint Brownies – Fudgy brownies with a peppermint twist.
• 15. Mulled Wine – Warm, spiced, and aromatic—perfect for holiday sipping.
• 16. Vegetarian Chili – Hearty beans and vegetables in a smoky, spicy broth.
• 17. Garlic Parmesan Knots – Soft rolls loaded with savory flavor for snacking or holiday dinners.
• 18. Apple Cranberry Crisp – Tart fruit topped with a buttery oat crumble.
• 19. Sausage & Herb Stuffing – Moist, fragrant, and delicious alongside any roast.
• 20. Eggnog French Toast – A festive holiday breakfast that’s easy to make ahead.

💡Meal Planning Tip: Save this recipe collection to instantly create a consolidated shopping list. CookifyAI will sort ingredients by category, making holiday grocery runs easy and efficient.

Weekly Meal Planning

December can mean packed calendars and less time to figure out meals. These best-in-season recipes are ideal for meal prepping or planning your week ahead. Schedule these recipes on CookifyAI to automatically merge ingredients, generate shopping lists, and reduce food waste.

Weekly Planning Benefits:

• Consolidates overlapping ingredients from multiple recipes
• Sorts your list by store aisles for fast, organized shopping
• Reduces food waste with precise ingredient calculations
• Keeps you inspired and on-track during a busy month

Pro tip: Plan hearty stews and roasts early in the week for great leftovers, and save those festive desserts and drinks for weekend celebrations.

Instructions

Since this is a collection, see individual recipe instructions for details (search within your meal planning app or trusted recipe source). The process for each generally includes prepping key ingredients, following step-by-step cooking methods, and storing or serving as needed.

Cook and Prep Times

Times will vary by recipe, but December meals often involve:

• Prep Time: 15–40 minutes (per recipe)
• Cook Time: 20–180 minutes (depending on dish—soups and stews may simmer longer)

Total Time: Plan for 1–3 hours for special roasts and holiday bakes; 45 minutes or less for most weeknight dinners.

Make This December Delicious

These 20 recipes capture the spirit of the season—warm, festive, and full of comfort. With a bit of planning and the help of tools that simplify your shopping and prep, December’s meals can be as joyful as the holidays themselves.