20 Festive Potato Recipes for Christmas Dinner

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are scrambling to come up with a menu that will impress our loved ones. But let’s be real – sometimes the star of the show can be something as simple and comforting as mashed potatoes. This year, why not take your potato game to the next level with some creative and delicious recipes? From classic comfort foods to innovative twists and visually stunning dishes, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 festive potato recipes that are sure to become a new family tradition at your Christmas dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or the main event, these mouthwatering options are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy mashed potato recipe infused with the warmth of garlic. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, these potatoes are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chives or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
This classic recipe yields a rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Thinly sliced potatoes, gooey cheese, and a crispy topping make this scalloped potato dish a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and softened butter. Toss until potatoes are well coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Create a layered effect by arranging half of the potato mixture in the dish, followed by half of the cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat steps 3-4, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle paprika and black pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Roasted Rosemary Garlic Potatoes

Roasted Rosemary Garlic Potatoes
This recipe yields crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside potatoes infused with the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic. Perfect as a side dish or topped with your favorite protein.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, toss the potatoes with the garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes and toss again to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the potatoes in a single layer.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.
7. Remove from oven, let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Twice-Baked Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar

Twice-Baked Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar
Transform ordinary baked potatoes into an indulgent delight by adding crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a hint of garlic. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 large baking potatoes
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving a thin layer around the skin.
4. In a bowl, combine potato flesh, crumbled bacon, grated cheese, minced garlic, and melted butter. Mix well.
5. Stuff each potato shell with the potato mixture, dividing it evenly among the four potatoes.
6. Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes

Christmas Tree-Shaped Potato Gratin

Christmas Tree-Shaped Potato Gratin
Elevate your holiday menu with this show-stopping Christmas tree-shaped potato gratin, perfect for serving at your next festive gathering.

Ingredients:

– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Create the Christmas tree shape by arranging the potato mixture in a triangular formation, starting from the bottom of the dish and working up.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Honey Glazed Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Honey Glazed Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection and then glazed with a sweet and sticky honey mixture.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup pure honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and 1 tablespoon of warm water until smooth.
7. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and brush the honey glaze all over them.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the glaze is sticky and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Loaded Potato Casserole with Sour Cream and Chives

Loaded Potato Casserole with Sour Cream and Chives
Loaded Potato Casserole with Sour Cream and Chives: A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful twist on classic potato casserole!

Ingredients:

– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and salt. Toss until potatoes are well coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Layer half of the potato mixture in the prepared dish. Top with sour cream, cheddar cheese, and chopped chives.
5. Repeat layers, starting with potatoes, then sour cream, cheese, and chives.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until top is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes

Enjoy your loaded potato casserole!

Herbed Red Potato Salad with Cranberries

Herbed Red Potato Salad with Cranberries
This refreshing potato salad combines the natural sweetness of red potatoes with the tanginess of cranberries and a hint of fresh herbs, making it perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 large red potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped parsley, cooled potatoes, cranberries, and garlic to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (boiling potatoes) + chilling time

Potato and Leek Soup with Crispy Pancetta

Potato and Leek Soup with Crispy Pancetta
This rich and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of tender potatoes, sweet leeks, and crispy pancetta creates a harmonious balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices pancetta, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine potatoes, leeks, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
2. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
3. Stir in heavy cream and butter until melted.
4. Meanwhile, cook pancetta in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
5. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy pancetta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Spicy Smashed Potatoes with Parmesan

Spicy Smashed Potatoes with Parmesan
Get ready to elevate your potato game with this bold and savory recipe! Spicy smashed potatoes infused with crispy Parmesan cheese make for a mouthwatering side dish that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4 large Russet potatoes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and dry the potatoes.
3. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to smash each potato into rough chunks, leaving some texture.
4. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss smashed potatoes with the spice mixture until coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes

Christmas Spiced Sweet Potato Mash

Christmas Spiced Sweet Potato Mash
Get ready to add a touch of festive flair to your holiday table with this delicious and aromatic sweet potato mash. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Scoop out the flesh and mash in a bowl.
4. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Mix well.
5. Stir in heavy cream and melted butter until smooth.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Potato Latkes with Cranberry Apple Sauce

Potato Latkes with Cranberry Apple Sauce
Potato Latkes with Cranberry Apple Sauce: A Delicious Hanukkah Tradition

This recipe combines the classic potato latke with a sweet and tangy cranberry apple sauce, perfect for your next Hanukkah celebration.

Ingredients:

– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cranberry apple sauce (see below)

Cranberry Apple Sauce:

– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped apple
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Grate potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture.
2. In a bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Add the beaten egg and mix until a dough forms.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of potato dough into the oil. Flatten slightly with a spatula.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm latkes with cranberry apple sauce.

Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes to make the latkes and about 10 minutes to prepare the cranberry apple sauce.

Garlic Butter Roasted Baby Potatoes

Garlic Butter Roasted Baby Potatoes
A flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of baby potatoes with a rich garlic butter flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the baby potatoes and softened butter. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Add the minced garlic and toss again to distribute evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the potato mixture in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Puff Pastry Potato Tart with Gruyère

Puff Pastry Potato Tart with Gruyère
This elegant tart combines the richness of puff pastry with the comfort of potatoes and the sophistication of Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner party.

Ingredients:

– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange potato slices in a single layer, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Dot potatoes with butter and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold pastry edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Baked Hasselback Potatoes with Thyme

Baked Hasselback Potatoes with Thyme
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and aromatic recipe for Baked Hasselback Potatoes with Thyme. This Scandinavian-inspired dish is perfect for any occasion, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal effort.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 large potatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, grated cheddar cheese (for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub and slice the potatoes into thin slits, leaving a small border at the top.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, salt, and garlic powder (if using). Brush the mixture evenly onto the potato slices.
4. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Potato and Sausage Stuffing with Sage

Potato and Sausage Stuffing with Sage
This recipe combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the warmth of sausage and the earthiness of sage, perfect for a cozy holiday gathering. This stuffing is easy to make ahead and can be cooked in under an hour.

Ingredients:

– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add diced potatoes, butter, onion, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in chopped sage.
6. Stuff mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping: A classic Southern side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in heavy cream and beaten eggs until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is set.
6. Remove from oven and top with mini marshmallows.
7. Return to oven and bake an additional 2-3 minutes, or until marshmallows are lightly toasted.
8. If using pecans, sprinkle on top of the marshmallows before serving.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Golden Potato Rolls with Herb Butter

Golden Potato Rolls with Herb Butter
These golden potato rolls are infused with the natural sweetness of mashed potatoes and topped with a fragrant herb butter, making them the perfect accompaniment to your next meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 large potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme) for the herb butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, warm water, yeast, and melted butter. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and beaten egg to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. While the rolls are baking, mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs.
8. Brush the herb butter over the warm rolls before serving.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Potato and Caramelized Onion Galette

Potato and Caramelized Onion Galette
A savory galette filled with sweet caramelized onions and tender potatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Arrange potatoes in a single layer on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Top potatoes with caramelized onions, spreading evenly.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush top with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Christmas Leftover Potato Hash

Christmas Leftover Potato Hash
Turn yesterday’s Christmas dinner leftovers into a tasty breakfast or brunch with this simple potato hash recipe. Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, it’s a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy a delicious meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 2 tablespoons grated cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, olive oil, onion, garlic, and peas and carrots. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potato mixture is golden brown and crispy on top.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a delicious Christmas dinner with these 20 festive potato recipes! From classic mashed potatoes and scalloped potatoes, to sweet potato casseroles and savory latkes, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at cheesy twice-baked potatoes, roasted rosemary garlic potatoes, or honey glazed sweet potatoes. Don’t forget the potato gratins, soups, salads, and tarts that are sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a main course or side dish, these recipes will add some holiday cheer to your table.

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