Make the last meal of the year the best one yet with these reader-approved New Year's dinner ideas.
50 Best New Year’s Dinner Ideas to Ring in 2025
Updated on Dec. 02, 2024
1
/
50
Seafood Soup
Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Salmon, shrimp, white wine, diced tomatoes
Level: Easy
If you bought too much seafood for your NYE bash, make a big batch of soup with shrimp, salmon and any extra fish you have on hand. It’s delightfully warming and perfect when paired with a crusty baguette.
“Salmon, shrimp and loads of chopped veggies make this chowder a hearty, herby meal-in-a-bowl. It’s just the perfect homemade fish soup.” —Recipe contributor Valerie Bradley, Beaverton, Oregon
2
/
50
Best Lasagna
Total Time: 1 hour, 50 minutesMain Ingredients: Lasagna noodles, ground beef, Italian sausage, ricotta cheese
Level: Intermediate
Prep a pan of lasagna (or two) for a New Year’s Eve buffet table. You can ask guests to bring a side to share, or complete the spread with salad and a roasted vegetable dish. Garlic bread and breadsticks are always a good idea, too.
“Want to know how to make lasagna for a casual holiday meal? You can’t go wrong with this deliciously rich meat lasagna recipe. My grown sons and daughter-in-law request it for their birthdays, too.” —Recipe contributor Pam Thompson, Girard, Illinois
3
/
50
Roasted Duck
Total Time: 1 hour, 55 minutesMain Ingredients: Duck, ground cloves, sugar, salt
Level: Easy
Duck is a fantastic option for a special occasion meal, but you may need to plan ahead to make it happen. Call a local form or butcher to see whether they have duck in stock so you’ll know if you have to place a special order before the holidays. The effort is well worth the result when you try the succulent, savory roast.
“When I was growing up, my grandma raised and butchered turkey ducks. She always served duck for the holidays and other family events throughout the year. I always thought it was better than turkey! While finding a dressed duck can be difficult, I do occasionally purchase the smaller ducks available in the grocery store, just so my family can enjoy something that was a special part of my past.” —Recipe contributor Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
4
/
50
Pork & Chive Pot Stickers
Total Time: 1 hour, 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Pot sticker wrappers, ground pork, chives
Level: Intermediate
This recipe is the perfect New Year’s Eve project. The task of folding the gyoza wrappers to form a pleated pouch is finicky, but with practice, your pot stickers will look restaurant-worthy.
“Here’s my top make-ahead appetizer. They are a lot more nutritious than the ones you get at a restaurant. My three kids are old enough to cook these themselves, right from the freezer.” —Recipe contributor Marisa Raponi, Vaughan, Ontario
5
/
50
Bacon-Wrapped Steak
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef tenderloin steaks, bacon strips, portobello mushrooms, Scotch
Level: Easy
The only thing better than a flawlessly cooked filet is one wrapped in bacon. Plus, the Scotch-flavored sauce will make you question where this recipe has been hiding all your life.
“I got the idea for bacon-wrapped filet mignon when I saw some on sale in the grocery store. The rest was inspired by my husband because he once made a Scotch and ginger ale sauce. I originally made this in the oven, but it works equally well in the air fryer!” —Recipe contributor Mary Kay LaBrie, Clermont, Florida
6
/
50
Eggplant Rollatini
Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese
Level: Intermediate
Your vegetarian guests will appreciate a veggie-forward dish like lightly fried eggplant rolled up around a ricotta filling and smothered in sauce. If you’re running low on time, skip the homemade marinara and go the store-bought route.
“These authentic Italian eggplant roll-ups can take some time to prepare, but the end result is restaurant-quality. Your family will request this recipe time and again.” —Recipe contributor Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana
7
/
50
Orange Pomegranate Salmon
Total Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Salmon, navel orange, pomegranate seeds
Level: Easy
Here’s a showstopping salmon entree that’s worthy of a celebratory affair thanks to ruby red pomegranate seeds and bright orange citrus wheels. Serve with roasted baby potatoes and asparagus for a well-rounded dinner on New Year’s Eve.
“A colorful, festive salmon dish makes an impressive addition to your holiday table—and it is as delicious as it is beautiful. What will no one guess? How easy it is to cook. I serve this with roasted baby potatoes and asparagus for a showstopping meal that is wonderful for special occasions.” —Recipe contributor Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey
8
/
50
Beef Osso Buco
Total Time: 7 hours, 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef shanks, diced tomatoes, carrots
Level: Intermediate
Authentic osso bucco is made even better with the addition of a zesty gremolata drizzle. Although you can use veal shanks instead of beef, the latter tend to be easier to find and less expensive.
“Treat holiday guests to elegant comfort food at its best. Our osso buco beef boasts a thick, savory sauce complemented by the addition of gremolata, a chopped herb condiment made with lemon zest, garlic, and parsley.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
9
/
50
Broiled Lobster Tail
Total Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Lobster tails, butter, lemon wedges
Level: Intermediate
Elegant dinner parties call for lobster dinner—just without all the legwork that comes with extracting the meat. Broiled tails are a mess-free way to enjoy the succulent crustacean, especially when served alongside chimichurri or lemon-chive compound butter.
“No matter where you live, these succulent, buttery lobster tails are just a few minutes away. Here in Iowa, we use frozen lobster with delicious results, but if you’re near the ocean, by all means use fresh!” —Recipe contributor Lauren McAnelly, Des Moines, Iowa
10
/
50
Horseradish-Encrusted Beef Tenderloin
Total Time: 1 hour, 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef tenderloin roast, horseradish, garlic
Level: Intermediate
If you’re hosting an intimate dinner at home, this tender beef encased in a golden horseradish crust will have everyone begging for more. Luckily, the recipe makes enough for eight, but you can always double it for your party size.
“Wow your friends and family with this tender beef encased in a golden horseradish crust. Roasted garlic boosts the robust flavor even more.” —Recipe contributor Laura Bagozzi, Dublin, Ohio
11
/
50
Lemony Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Angel hair pasta, scallops, lemon juice
Level: Easy
Most pasta dishes will weigh you down well before the ball drops, but angel hair tends to be on the lighter side. We especially love this version that combines lemony scallops and radishes for a bit of crunch.
“This delicate dish tastes so bright with a touch of lemon and tender sauteed scallops. Serve with crusty whole grain bread, and you have an impressive dinner that comes together in a flash.” —Recipe contributor Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey
12
/
50
Dutch Oven Pizza
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Pizza dough, marinara sauce, shredded cheese, spicy pork sausage, mushrooms
Level: Easy
Skip the late-night takeout and bake a Dutch oven pizza with all your favorite toppings. We guarantee it will be done long before your delivery shows up (cold).
“We created this Dutch oven pizza to get more use out of our favorite piece of cookware. We couldn’t believe how well it turned out! If you’re not a mushroom fan, feel free to substitute different toppings.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
13
/
50
Mushroom and Sweet Potato Potpie
Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, shiitake mushrooms, portobello mushrooms
Level: Intermediate
Who says potpies have to be laden with meat? Earthy mushrooms, baked sweet potato rounds and a bottle of beer combine for greatness in this savory, vegetarian-friendly potpie that epitomizes comfort food.
“The last time I was in the U.S., I had an amazing mushroom and beer potpie at a small brewpub. It was so rich and comforting. I tried numerous versions when I got home and I think I’ve come pretty close!” —Recipe contributor Iben Ravn, Copenhagen, Denmark
14
/
50
Sausage Ratatouille
Total Time: 45 minutesMain Ingredients: Sweet Italian sausage links, green beans, green peppers
Level: Easy
For any ratatouille naysayers out there, may we remind you of a beloved film that catapulted this French-Provençal dish to fame? Our version is easier than the confit byaldi ratatouille that Remy makes in the movie, but it will satisfy any hungry guests at your gathering.
“You’ll feel like a great chef when you serve this veggie-packed dish that party guests will rave about. Don’t let the ingredient list fool you: Pantry staples and an easy-cook method make this one a cinch.” —Recipe contributor Janine Freeman, Blaine, Washington
15
/
50
Spanish-Style Paella
Total Time: 45 minutesMain Ingredients: Saffron, shrimp, chicken, Spanish chorizo links
Level: Easy
If a trip to Europe is out of the cards this NYE, do yourself (and the fam) a favor with the next best thing: a one-pot paella dinner inspired by the flavors of Spain. Brimming with generous chunks of sausage, shrimp and veggies, this saffron-scented paella is ready in just 45 minutes.
“If you enjoy cooking ethnic foods, this hearty rice dish is wonderful. It’s brimming with generous chunks of sausage, shrimp and veggies.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
16
/
50
Pork Chops with Apples and Stuffing
Total Time: 1 hourMain Ingredients: Pork loin chops, stuffing mix, apple pie filling
Level: Easy
You can never go wrong with apples and cinnamon—especially when pork chops are involved. Plus, this recipe only has four ingredients, so it’s an easy choice for any New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day dinner.
“The heartwarming taste of cinnamon and apples is the perfect accompaniment for these tender pork chops. The dish is always a winner with my family. Because it calls for only four ingredients, it’s a main course I can serve with little preparation.” —Recipe contributor Joan Hamilton, Worcester, Massachusetts
17
/
50
Gorgonzola Shrimp Pasta
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Penne pasta, shrimp, Gorgonzola cheese, dried cranberries
Level: Easy
This creamy Gorgonzola sauce feels decadent when paired with plump pink shrimp and penne pasta. Don’t have time to pick up fresh shrimp? Frozen will work just fine, or swap in chicken if your crowd doesn’t love seafood.
“This creamy pasta dish is so quick and easy to make. It’s perfect for weeknights, but feels special enough for company.” —Recipe contributor Robin Haas, Hyde Park, Massachusetts
18
/
50
Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce
Total Time: 1 hourMain Ingredients: Chicken breast, prosciutto, Madeira wine
Level: Intermediate
Warning: This dish may cause cravings. There’s nothing better than chicken rolled up with prosciutto and mozzarella, coated in bread crumbs and baked until golden brown in a Madeira wine sauce.
“We host a large group for holiday meals, and these pinwheels always go over well alongside the regular dishes. I often double this recipe and use two 13×9-inch pans.” —Recipe contributor Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
19
/
50
Slow-Cooker Duck Breasts
Total Time: 4 hours, 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Duck breasts, condensed cream of mushroom soup, white wine, dried herbs
Level: Intermediate
The first step when cooking duck is to use a sharp knife to score the fat with a tight diamond pattern. Then, brown the duck breasts in a skillet until crispy and succulent. Keep the duck fat and use it to make hash browns on New Year’s Day.
“My husband and son are duck hunters, and I am always trying to find new ways to cook the meat. I created this slow-cooker duck breast dish a couple of years ago, and it instantly became a family favorite. The flavors of the herbs really compliment the duck.” —Recipe contributor Sherri Melotik, Oak Creek, Wisconsin
20
/
50
Chicken Potpie Galette with Cheddar-Thyme Crust
Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken, thyme, sharp cheddar cheese, mushrooms
Level: Intermediate
This gorgeous galette takes a traditional chicken potpie and gives it a fun, open-faced spin. The rich filling and flaky cheddar-flecked crust add a homey taste, but you can fill the galette with any combination of meat, cheese and veggies. It would be just as amazing, for example, with sausage, golden beets and kale.
“This gorgeous galette takes traditional chicken potpie and gives it a fun open-faced spin. The rich filling and flaky cheddar-flecked crust make it taste so homey. It’s lovely for fall and winter dinners, but you can enjoy it anytime.” —Recipe contributor Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
21
/
50
Crab-Stuffed Manicotti
Total Time: 50 minutesMain Ingredients: Manicotti shells, lump crabmeat, ricotta cheese
Level: Intermediate
If you’re torn between seafood and pasta for New Year’s Eve dinner, combine the best of both worlds in this tasty crab-stuffed manicotti. The sauce is perfectly rich and creamy, but you can customize it based on your preferences. Give it extra zing with a dash of garlic salt, Cajun seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes.
“I love pasta and my husband loves seafood. I combined them to create this dish, and he raved that it’s the best meal ever.” —Recipe contributor Sonya Polfliet, Anza, California
22
/
50
Chunky Southwest Chili
Total Time: 2 hoursMain Ingredients: Dried ancho chiles, beef stew meat, V8 juice
Level: Intermediate
Planning on watching the countdown from your couch? A piping hot bowl of chili would be the perfect companion. V8 juice, guajillo chiles and cumin-infused beef broth take this one to the next level.
“What started out as a mild, basic chili has evolved over the years into one with a powerful punch!” —Recipe contributor Shawn Barto, Palmetto, Florida
23
/
50
Slow-Cooker Beef Burgundy
Total Time: 7 hours, 45 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef chuck roast, bacon strips, Burgundy wine
Level: Easy
If there’s ever a day that calls for enlisting the help of your slow cooker, this would be it. Why spend the last day of the year stuck in the kitchen when you could be finishing those New Year’s resolutions you never got around to? This elegant braised beef dish will taste like you’ve been tending to it for hours.
“Tender cubes of beef are braised in a wine sauce with savory vegetables. I made this slow-cooker beef Burgundy often when I worked full time. It’s good over noodles or mashed potatoes.” —Recipe contributor Sherri Mott, New Carlisle, Indiana
24
/
50
Blue Cheese-Mushroom Stuffed Tenderloin
Total Time: 1 hour, 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Portobello mushrooms, beef tenderloin roast, blue cheese
Level: Intermediate
Everyone will rave about this terrific beef tenderloin recipe—even long after the party ends! Few can resist a perfectly cooked roast, especially when it’s stuffed with savory mushrooms and blue cheese.
“Here’s my go-to entree for just about any special occasion. Filled with a savory stuffing, the sliced tenderloin looks and tastes like a specialty from an upscale restaurant.” —Recipe contributor Joyce Conway, Westerville, Ohio
25
/
50
Glazed Smoked Chops with Pears
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Pork chops, pears, onion
Level: Easy
Pork is one of the most versatile proteins that pairs well with a myriad of ingredients. For fancified chops to ring in the new year, use pears and honey, which lend a sweet note to the dish.
“My husband would eat pork chops every day if he could. Luckily, they’re good prepared in all sorts of ways, including with pears.” —Recipe contributor Lynn Moretti, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
26
/
50
Salmon with Horseradish Pistachio Crust
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Salmon, bread crumbs, pistachios, horseradish
Level: Easy
This delicious salmon recipe is a real winner. The nutty coating is so tasty that we might use it to add a crunchy texture to chicken and pork, too! Not into pistachios? Swap in almonds or pecans.
“Impress everyone at your table with this elegant but easy salmon that’s delicious and nutritious. You can substitute scallions for shallots if you like.” —Recipe contributor Linda Press Wolfe, Cross River, New York
27
/
50
Stuffed Whole Cabbage
Total Time: 2 hoursMain Ingredients: Cabbage, ground beef, rice
Level: Intermediate
In addition to eating black-eyed peas, some people believe eating cabbage on New Year’s brings good fortune. This year, skip serving cabbage as a side dish and opt for a whole head instead.
“My husband’s great about trying new recipes. I had to experiment with this one before getting just right.” —Recipe contributor Wyn Jespersen, Suffield, Connecticut
28
/
50
Spicy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Total Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Fettuccine, shrimp, Alfredo sauce
Level: Easy
This classic pasta dish is kicked up a notch with spicy shrimp. Start with a jar of your favorite Alfredo sauce, or whip up a batch of homemade Alfredo sauce to customize the flavor.
“I make this pasta a lot because it’s something my family never seems to get tired of. The sauce is so fast to make, I can get it done while the pasta is cooking. In the past, I have also added red peppers and spinach. And who’s to say you couldn’t add mushrooms?” —Recipe contributor Stephanie Beluk, Sharpsburg, Georgia
29
/
50
Crown Roast of Pork
Total Time: 2 hours, 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Pork loin crown roast, mushrooms, cubed bread
Level: Easy
Name a more impressive NYE entree than a crown roast of pork sitting on a bed of mushroom dressing! Surprisingly, the recipe is super easy to make, too. It’s such a hit that every reviewer has given it five stars.
“It looks so elegant that everyone thinks I spent a lot of time on this roast. But it’s actually so easy! The biggest challenge is to remember to order the crown roast from the meat department ahead of time.” —Recipe contributor Betty Claycomb, Alverton, Pennsylvania
30
/
50
Barbecue Chicken and Apple Bread Pudding
Total Time: 1 hour, 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Cornbread mix, chicken, apple, barbecue sauce
Level: Intermediate
Bread pudding is not just for dessert. If you’ve never added barbecued chicken and apples to the old-fashioned dish, it’s high time you do.
“To me, bread pudding is the epitome of comfort food and it’s simply too good to reserve only for dessert. This sweet-and-savory twist on the classic is a delicious new way to enjoy an old favorite.” —Recipe contributor Shauna Havey, Roy, Utah
31
/
50
Ravioli with Creamy Squash Sauce
Total Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Cheese ravioli, winter squash, heavy whipping cream
Level: Easy
One reviewer also suggested adding a bit of basil pesto and a little nutmeg or sage to really bring out the squash flavors.
“Store-bought ravioli speeds assembly of this cozy, restaurant-quality dish that tastes so good your family won’t notice it’s meatless.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
32
/
50
Miso Butter Roasted Chicken
Total Time: 1 hour, 55 minutesMain Ingredients: Whole chicken, white miso paste, mushrooms
Level: Intermediate
Sheet pan veggies and a spatchcocked chicken with a butter-miso paste is a fuss-free recipe anyone can master. Pro tip: The miso mixture on the chicken will appear very dark while roasting, but that’s when you know it’s almost done.
“I love this recipe because most of the work is done at the beginning. Look for a spatchcocked chicken in your grocery store or ask the butcher to prepare the bird. Once it’s in the oven, there’s ample time to set the table and talk.” —Recipe contributor Stefanie Schaldenbrand, Los Angeles, California
33
/
50
Traditional Lamb Stew
Total Time: 1 hour, 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Lamb stew meat, potatoes, carrots
Level: Easy
If your idea of the ultimate New Year’s Eve is a night that begins with a big pot of stew that rolls into leftovers on New Year’s Day, then this is the recipe for you. This classic stew features braised chunks of lamb, onions, carrots and potatoes, plus a bouquet of fresh herbs.
“This lamb stew recipe is a delicious, nourishing and economical dish. The flavor improves if you make the stew the day before you serve it.” —Recipe contributor Margery Richmond, Fort Collins, Colorado
34
/
50
Smoked Brisket
Total Time: 8 hours, 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef brisket, Worcestershire sauce, hickory-flavored liquid smoke
Level: Advanced
A big platter of mouthwatering smoked brisket is ideal for large groups who like to graze, take a break and then come back. Set up a DIY sandwich station with buns, pickled toppings and an array of sauces, and your job as host is complete.
“This is a delicious, nourishing and economical dish. The flavor improves if you make the stew the day before you serve it.” —Recipe contributor Margery Richmond, Fort Collins, Colorado
35
/
50
Bacon-Wrapped Turkey
Total Time: 2 hours, 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Turkey, bacon strips, butter
Level: Intermediate
Thanksgiving isn’t the only occasion that calls for turkey! If you need a New Year’s Day dinner idea, this one is just novel enough to fit the bill. The blanket of bacon adds flavor while also keeping the meat moist. The best part? Making the bacon weave is easier than it looks!
“Everything’s better with bacon, including turkey! This impressive take on the holiday favorite gets a blanket of bacon, which not only adds flavor but helps keep the turkey juicy. The best part? It’s easier than it looks!” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
36
/
50
Seared Scallops with Minted Pea Puree
Total Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Peas, scallops, mint, smoked paprika
Level: Easy
If scallops fall under “special occasion seafood” in your household, here’s a worthy way to prepare them. Blitz together a bright green puree of peas and mint, then plate the seared scallops on top of the sauce.
“I’m always in the mood for mint, whether it’s in a mojito or alongside a roasted leg of lamb. As a seafood lover, I came up with this blend of my favorite herb and shellfish.” —Recipe contributor Teerawat Wiwatpanit, Chicago, Illinois
37
/
50
Beef Enchiladas Verdes
Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground beef, Velveeta, chopped green chiles, corn tortillas
Level: Intermediate
Looking to incorporate south-of-the-border flavor into your party fare? Make these easy beef enchiladas with a cheesy verde sauce. Prep the casserole a day ahead, then bake it off right before guests arrive.
“These beef enchiladas verdes are easy to make ahead and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. After quickly cooking the tortillas in hot oil, I layer them between paper napkins to soak up excess oil.” —Recipe contributor Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
38
/
50
Slow-Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Total Time: 6 hours, 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken thighs, celery ribs, carrots, chicken broth
Level: Easy
There’s a reason chicken and dumplings have so many famous fans—looking at you, Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn—it’s because the retro dish is pure comfort food that always hits the spot. Yes, it can be tedious to make the dumpling dough, but after you get that sorted, it’s a slow-cooker breeze from there.
“Here’s a homey dish that people just can’t wait to dive in to! Yes, you can have slow-cooker chicken and dumplings. The homemade classic takes a bit of work but is certainly worth it.” —Recipe contributor Daniel Anderson, Kenosha, Wisconsin
39
/
50
Spice-Crusted Steaks with Cherry Sauce
Total Time: 1 hour, 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef tenderloin steaks, dried cherries, port wine
Level: Easy
Meat lovers will undoubtedly be pleased with these cast-iron skillet steaks with a port wine reduction sauce studded with cherries.
“If you’re hosting meat lovers, these impressive cast-iron skillet steaks are guaranteed to please. They’re perfect for a special-occasion dinner without too much fuss.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
40
/
50
Stuffed Salmon
Total Time: 45 minutesMain Ingredients: Rice, cream cheese, imitation crabmeat, salmon
Level: Intermediate
A creamy, herbaceous crab mixture is stuffed into a small pocket in salmon filets, which are then baked to perfection to create an easy yet elegant entree.
“You could get stuffed salmon from a big-box store, but my fillets are loaded with flavor from crab, cream cheese and savory herbs. We love them.” —Recipe contributor Mary Cokenour, Monticello, Utah
41
/
50
Country Chuck Roast with Mushroom Gravy
Total Time: 2 hours, 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef chuck roast, mushrooms, light beer
Level: Easy
This recipe creates tender pieces of roast beef swimming in an umami mushroom gravy. It might take a while to cook, but the end result is more than worth it.
“This tender, savory roast practically melts in your mouth. It looks a bit complex, but the hands-free oven time makes it my go-to company recipe on a cold day.” —Recipe contributor Mary Kay LaBrie, Clermont, Florida
42
/
50
Buttery Grilled Shrimp
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Shrimp, lemon juice, butter
Level: Easy
If you’re in the mood for surf and turf this New Year’s, try whipping up this buttery grilled shrimp recipe. It’s easy, delicious and tastes fantastic with steak.
“This is easy and delicious! These shrimp are great with steak. For a special occasion, you can also brush the sauce on lobster tails and grill them.” —Recipe contributor Sheryl Shenberger, Albuquerque, New Mexico
43
/
50
Glazed Cornish Hens with Pecan-Rice Stuffing
Total Time: 2 hours, 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Cornish game hens, unsweetened apple juice, pecans, rice
Level: Intermediate
These petite Cornish game hens bake up beautifully. They have a gorgeous golden brown shine and a sweet, tangy flavor. You can prepare the stuffing on the side (as dressing) or stuff it inside the poultry.
“Cornish hens bake up with a lovely golden brown shine when they are basted with my sweet and tangy glaze. The traditional rice stuffing has some added interest with crunchy pecans and sweet golden raisins.” —Recipe contributor Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
44
/
50
Pork with Gorgonzola Sauce
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Pork tenderloins, Gorgonzola cheese, Dijon mustard
Level: Easy
Tender pork gets a cheesy finish in this under-30-minute recipe that’s fit for company. Pair it with your favorite vegetable side—we like steamed broccoli, sauteed green beans or a mixed green salad to keep the rest of the meal on the lighter side.
“A tangy Gorgonzola cheese sauce dresses up tender slices of pork. Served alongside steamed broccoli, this special entree is sure to create a memorable holiday meal.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
45
/
50
Turkey Crepes
Total Time: 1 hour, 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Turkey, flour, peas, carrots
Level: Intermediate
Think of this delicious dinner idea like a turkey potpie rolled up in crepe form. Using frozen peas and carrots for the filling also saves you the hassle of chopping your own when you could be setting the table or popping bottles of bubbly.
“This savory crepe recipe has been passed down through many generations in my family. You can also use any leftover turkey filling for turkey pot pie.” —Recipe contributor Andrea Price, Grafton, Wisconsin
46
/
50
Cheesy Chicken Parmigiana
Total Time: 40 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken breast, tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese
Level: Intermediate
Bring the Italian restaurant vibes into your kitchen this NYE with a bottle of red, a bottle of white and your appetite. This cheesy chicken Parmesan will have everyone reaching for seconds and thirds.
“My husband used to order chicken parmigiana at restaurants. Then I found this recipe in our local newspaper, adjusted it for two and began making the beloved dish at home. After more than 50 years of marriage, I still enjoy preparing his favorite recipes.” —Recipe contributor Iola Butler, Sun City, California
47
/
50
Beef Tenderloin Roast
Total Time: 55 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef tenderloin, garlic, olive oil
Level: Easy
For anyone who thinks making a tenderloin roast is tricky, allow us to introduce you to this four-ingredient rub. Simply rub olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper onto the tenderloin and roast the beef in the oven to create a spectacular main dish to feed a crowd for New Year’s Day dinner.
“I love the simplicity of this easy beef tenderloin recipe. Olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper—just add the tenderloin and pop it in the oven. In an hour or so you’ve got an impressive main dish to feed a crowd. This leaves you with more time to visit with family and less time fussing in the kitchen.” —Recipe contributor Mary Kandell, Huron, Ohio
48
/
50
Baked Spaghetti
Total Time: 1 hour, 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Spaghetti, ground beef, pasta sauce
Level: Intermediate
This one’s ideal for kids—but beloved by grownups, too. This baked spaghetti with meat sauce is nearly perfect as is, but you can easily swap in ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to the beef. For a slightly spicier and more flavorful option, try ground sausage.
“This is my grandchildren’s most-loved dish. It feels like a special dinner and is so cozy for cooler months.” —Recipe contributor Louise Miller, Westminster, Maryland
49
/
50
Lobster Tartlets
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Lobster meat, phyllo tart shells, white cheddar cheese
Level: Easy
A night that calls for seafood, Champagne and lots of finger foods could surely benefit from the addition of lobster tartlets as an appetizer or side. Top them with chives or green onions for a pop of color.
“I love lobster, so I created these gems. They are perfect appetizers for a cocktail party or family dinner. Top with chives or green onions for color.” —Recipe contributor Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario
50
/
50
Beef Daube Provencal
Total Time: 5 hours, 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Beef chuck roast, red wine, diced tomatoes
Level: Intermediate
Daube is a French slow-cooked stew that’s usually made with beef, vegetables, garlic and herbs. If you’re lucky enough to have access to venison, try this gamey meat for even more melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
“This dish is perfect on cold winter days, especially after we have been out cutting wood or white-tail hunting. If you are lucky enough to have venison, try it here for melt-in-your-mouth goodness.” —Recipe contributor Brenda Ryan, Marshall, Missouri
