Delicious Holiday Foods Our Family Loves

The holidays are a wonderful time to gather around the table with loved ones, share in laughter, and, of course, enjoy some incredible food. Over the years, I’ve developed a few favorite holiday recipes that have become staples in our family celebrations. These dishes aren’t just about the flavors (though that’s certainly part of it!)—they’re about creating memories, sharing comfort, and celebrating the season's blessings. Here are a few of my go-to holiday recipes that bring warmth to our gatherings. I hope they find a place on your holiday table as well!

Smoked Turkey on the Traeger

When it comes to Thanksgiving, a traditional roasted turkey is lovely, but a smoked turkey takes things to a whole new level. I haven't looked back since we started smoking our turkey on the Traeger. This method not only creates a deliciously tender and smoky turkey but also keeps the oven free for other dishes—a huge bonus when juggling a big holiday meal. While we loosely follow this Traeger recipe, I love the flexibility that smoking provides and the way it fills the air with that unmistakable, savory aroma. Once you try it, you might find yourself joining the smoked turkey tradition, too!

Fresh Fall Salad

When invited to holiday gatherings, I always like to bring something green and refreshing to balance the richness of other dishes. This fresh fall salad is a crowd-pleaser that combines crisp greens, seasonal fruits, nuts, and a tangy dressing. Not only does it add a beautiful pop of color to the table, but it’s also a lighter option that helps balance out heavier sides and sweets. This recipe is one of my favorites to bring along, and I love that it’s simple, refreshing, and packed with flavor.

Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete in our family without my homemade crockpot mac and cheese. I started making it years ago, and it quickly became a favorite—especially with my teenage boys! They look forward to it every year. I like to give it a little extra kick with more garlic powder and pepper, making it rich and savory. My tip: undercook the pasta the day before, as it will soften more in the crockpot, and stir it frequently, adding milk throughout the day to keep it creamy. Here’s a recipe similar to the one I use. This dish is a time-saver and a comforting, cheesy side that never lasts long at our table.

Friendsgiving Dessert: Easy Apple Crisp

Friendsgiving is something we do every year, and I love it! It is so wonderful to gather with our friends who feel like family, sharing stories, laughter, and good food. I’m bringing dessert this year, and I decided on an easy apple crisp recipe! I’m grabbing some dairy-free ice cream for my girl and me, who’s like her mama and can’t eat ice cream. Sounds festive and delicious and wayyyy easier than pie! With sweet and tart apples, cinnamon, and crunchy topping, it’s the perfect cozy dessert for gathering with friends.

Peppermint White Chocolate Popcorn

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without my peppermint white chocolate popcorn. I make this treat for my husband’s coworkers, our neighbors, and I include it in every gift basket we give out. It’s an easy-to-make snack that everyone loves and has become a holiday tradition in its own right. Here’s the simple recipe:

Ingredients:

  • Salted white popcorn (not buttered)

  • White melting chocolate

  • Crushed peppermint candy canes

Instructions:

  1. Spread popped popcorn on parchment paper, removing any unpopped kernels.

  2. Melt the white chocolate in the microwave or on the stove, stirring frequently until smooth.

  3. Use a spoon to drizzle the melted chocolate over the popcorn, and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top as you go.

  4. Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature, then break into pieces.

This peppermint popcorn is perfect for snacking, sharing, and even adding to gift baskets. The combination of sweet white chocolate, crunchy popcorn, and refreshing peppermint makes it irresistible.

Bringing It All Together

The holiday season is as much about the food we share as the company we keep. These recipes are more than just dishes—they’re traditions that have grown with our family over the years. Each brings a unique flavor to our holiday table, and each carries memories of past celebrations, laughter, and time spent together.

If you’re looking to add a new dish to your holiday rotation, I hope one of these recipes finds its way into your kitchen. Here’s to making delicious food, creating new memories, and sharing in the joy of the season and from my family to yours—wishing you a holiday season filled with warmth, flavor, and love.

Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!

 
 
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