Easy christmas eve dinner ideas for family (kid friendly) 

Christmas is more than just a holiday—it’s a time to slow down, connect with loved ones, and create memories that last a lifetime. At the heart of it all is food. Whether it’s the aroma of something delicious in the oven or the joy of everyone gathered around the table, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals hold a special place in every family’s celebration.

But between last-minute gift wrapping, entertaining guests, and managing excited kids, preparing a full-scale dinner can feel overwhelming. That’s why this blog is here—to help you plan easy, stress-free, and kid-friendly Christmas Eve dinner ideas that bring your family together without wearing you out.

We’ve rounded up thoughtful and tasty suggestions to simplify your planning. From buffet-style menus that everyone can enjoy to non-traditional Christmas dinners that bring fresh flavor to your table, you’ll find plenty of inspiration. We’ll also cover fun and kid-approved recipes that will actually get eaten, along with make-ahead meals so you can relax when the time comes.

Feeding a crowd? No problem—we’ve got easy dinner ideas perfect for large groups that won’t leave you scrambling. Prefer to dine out? We’ll share some restaurant options open on Christmas Eve. And if you love learning about food traditions from around the world, we’ve included that too.

So grab a cup of cocoa, take a deep breath, and dive into our guide to creating memorable, joyful, and delicious easy christmas eve dinner ideas for family—especially the little ones.

Easy Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas for Family

The night before Christmas should feel cozy, joyful, and peaceful—not spent juggling 10 pots on the stove. That’s why easy, one-dish or minimal-prep dinners are ideal for Christmas Eve. These meals save time, reduce cleanup, and still deliver that festive, home-cooked feel everyone loves.

One-Pan Baked Ziti

Comforting, cheesy, and perfect for a crowd, baked ziti is always a winner. You can assemble it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and just pop it in the oven an hour before dinner. Add ground beef or sausage for extra heartiness, or keep it vegetarian with ricotta and spinach.

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Toss in chuck roast, carrots, potatoes, onion, and seasoning in the morning, and by dinner, you’ve got a tender, flavorful meal with almost no effort. Serve it with rolls or mashed potatoes for a filling option everyone will love.

Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies

This is a great choice if you want something healthy, quick, and low-maintenance. Just season your chicken pieces, add your favorite chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, or Brussels sprouts), and roast it all together on a sheet pan. One pan = minimal cleanup!

Pasta Bar with Mix-Ins

Turn dinner into a DIY event. Boil a couple of pasta types (like penne and spaghetti), lay out sauces (marinara, Alfredo, pesto), and offer toppings like shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and cheese. Let everyone create their own plate. Kids especially love the freedom!

Sloppy Joe Sliders with Salad

These mini sandwiches are super easy to make and always a hit with kids. Serve them with a simple green salad or veggie sticks. You can even use Hawaiian rolls to add a sweet twist.

Why Simple Meals Work Best

Choosing simple, filling meals for Christmas Eve gives you time to enjoy the evening instead of spending it in the kitchen. These dishes are stress-free, satisfying, and easy to scale for larger groups—making them the perfect way to kick off your holiday celebrations.

Kid-Friendly Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas

When it comes to feeding kids on Christmas Eve, the key is to keep things fun, familiar, and finger-friendly. Think playful presentation, simple ingredients, and interactive meals that get them excited to sit at the table. Here are some creative and delicious ideas that will have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds:

Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Take classic meatloaf and make it kid-sized! These are baked in muffin tins, which means they cook faster and are the perfect portion for little hands. Add a dab of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top, and serve with mashed potatoes.

Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

Creamy mac and cheese is always a win—but sneak in some steamed broccoli for a healthy twist. You can make it in one pot or bake it with a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch.

DIY Pizza Night

Let the kids be chefs! Set out mini pizza crusts, sauce, cheese, and toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives. Kids will love building their own pizza creations—and they’re more likely to eat what they made themselves.

Pigs in a Blanket

These bite-sized favorites are perfect for tiny appetites. Wrap mini sausages in crescent roll dough and bake until golden. Serve with ketchup, mustard, or honey mustard dipping sauce.

Christmas Tree Quesadillas

Use cookie cutters to shape quesadillas into trees. Add green spinach tortillas, melted cheese, and even festive red bell peppers for decoration. Fun to make, and even more fun to eat!

Tips to Keep Kids Happy at the Table

• Keep portions small and kid-sized
• Include one or two foods they already love
• Let them help with prep—they’ll be more excited to eat
• Serve food family-style so they can choose what goes on their plate
• Don’t stress—fun and comfort are the goals!
  

With these kid-friendly Christmas Eve dinner ideas, you can enjoy a joyful, low-fuss evening that keeps everyone smiling.

Make-Ahead Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas

Want to truly relax and enjoy your Christmas Eve? Make-ahead meals are your best friend. Preparing your dinner in advance means less stress, fewer dishes, and more time with family. These comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes can be assembled or cooked the day before and simply baked or reheated when it’s time to eat.

Lasagna or Baked Pasta Casseroles

Lasagna is a classic make-ahead meal that feeds a crowd. Layer noodles, cheese, sauce, and your choice of meat or veggies. Assemble it the day before, refrigerate, then bake it an hour before dinner. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Chicken Enchiladas

Filled with seasoned chicken and cheese, enchiladas are easy to roll up ahead of time. Store them in a baking dish covered in sauce. On Christmas Eve, just bake them until bubbly. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or a festive rice dish.

Stuffed Shells

These jumbo pasta shells filled with ricotta, spinach, or ground beef can be made early and stored in the fridge. Pour marinara sauce over the top and bake when ready. They reheat well and feel extra special for the holiday.

Freezable Soups & Stews

Soups like creamy potato, chicken noodle, or beef stew can be made days in advance and even frozen. Just reheat on the stove or in a slow cooker while you set the table or enjoy a holiday movie.

Tips for Prepping the Day Before

• Assemble casseroles in foil pans for easy cleanup
• Label containers with reheating instructions
• Use airtight containers for soups and stews
• Chop veggies, marinate meats, and prep salads in advance
  

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerated meals should be used within 2–3 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warm, or use the microwave for smaller portions. Soups reheat best over low heat on the stove.

Make-ahead meals help you focus on what truly matters—being present with your family.

Non-Traditional Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas

Not every holiday meal needs to include ham, turkey, or mashed potatoes. In fact, breaking from tradition can make your Christmas Eve even more memorable. Whether your family craves bold flavors or just wants to try something new, these non-traditional dinner ideas will spice up your celebration.

Taco Night or Mexican Fiesta

Set up a festive taco bar with seasoned meats, beans, tortillas, and all the fixings—cheese, salsa, guacamole, lettuce, and more. Add Mexican rice and chips with queso for a colorful, customizable dinner that everyone can enjoy.

Sushi Platters or Poke Bowls

Keep it light and fresh with a sushi spread or poke bowl station. Pre-made sushi trays are easy to pick up from your local grocery store or sushi restaurant. For poke bowls, let guests build their own with rice, veggies, raw or cooked fish, and sauces.

Indian Curry Buffet

Serve a variety of curries like butter chicken, chickpea tikka masala, or lamb rogan josh. Add naan bread, basmati rice, and a cucumber yogurt dip for a complete meal. It’s warm, flavorful, and perfect for a winter evening.

BBQ Ribs and Cornbread

If your family loves smoky, southern comfort food, BBQ ribs are a fun twist. Pair them with baked beans, mac and cheese, and sweet cornbread. You can even prep the ribs in a slow cooker and finish them in the oven.

Mediterranean Spread

Offer a mix of hummus, falafel, grilled chicken or lamb, fresh veggies, pita bread, and tzatziki. It’s colorful, healthy, and allows for easy customization.

Why It’s Okay to Skip the Ham or Turkey

The magic of Christmas isn’t in the menu—it’s in the moments shared. So if your family prefers tacos to turkey, go for it! Non-traditional meals bring fresh energy, reflect your tastes, and make the holiday feel truly your own.

Christmas Eve Menu Ideas for Buffet-Style Dinners

Hosting a buffet-style dinner on Christmas Eve is a great way to keep things casual, interactive, and stress-free—especially when feeding a large or mixed-age group. Guests can serve themselves, kids can pick their favorites, and you can enjoy more time relaxing instead of plating meals. Here’s how to build a festive and flavorful buffet:

Best Finger Foods & Grazing Table Items

Start with a spread of easy-to-eat finger foods. Think:

• Deviled eggs
• Stuffed mushrooms
• Bruschetta or crostini
• Veggie cups with ranch dip
  These bite-sized options kick off the meal and encourage mingling.
  

Mini Sandwiches

Offer a variety of mini sandwiches using slider buns or croissants. Great combos include:

• Ham and cheese with honey mustard
• Turkey and cranberry
• Roast beef with horseradish aioli
  Serve warm or cold with pickles on the side.
  

Cheese and Charcuterie Boards

Create a stunning board with a mix of:

• Cheeses (cheddar, brie, gouda)
• Cured meats (salami, prosciutto)
• Crackers, nuts, olives, dried fruits, and fresh grapes
  It’s both a centerpiece and a crowd-pleaser.
  

Hot Appetizers

Keep hot options warm in slow cookers or chafing dishes. Favorites include:

• BBQ or Swedish meatballs
• Buffalo wings or honey garlic wings
• Spinach and artichoke dip with bread chunks
  

Cold Salads

Pasta salad, potato salad, and coleslaw are easy to prep ahead and add variety to the buffet. Add a leafy green salad with festive toppings like pomegranate seeds or candied pecans.

Desserts & Drinks

Wrap it up with cookies, brownies, and holiday favorites like peppermint bark or mini cheesecakes. For drinks, offer hot cocoa, sparkling cider, and a make-your-own mocktail station.

Buffet-style dinners make Christmas Eve both delicious and delightful for everyone.

Simple Christmas Eve Menu Ideas for a Buffet

When it comes to a simple Christmas Eve buffet, less is more—aim for a few crowd-pleasing dishes that can be served with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Sample Simple Buffet Menu

• Baked Ham: Pre-cooked and glazed with brown sugar and mustard for easy serving.
• Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed with garlic and butter for a fresh, light side.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy, and easy to serve with butter.
• Cookies: A variety of sweet treats, like sugar cookies or gingerbread, to end the meal.

Easy-to-Serve Dishes

Focus on dishes that don’t need reheating or can be served at room temperature. Consider:

• Fresh veggie platters with dip
• Cheese and cracker boards
• Simple salads, like mixed greens with vinaigrette

These minimal yet impactful dishes allow for an effortless, stress-free Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas for Large Groups

Feeding a large group on Christmas Eve can be overwhelming, but with the right crowd-pleasing options, it’s all about preparing big batches of hearty dishes that everyone will enjoy.

Crowd-Pleasing Casseroles

Casseroles are great for large groups because they can be made ahead and easily served in portions. Consider options like green bean casserole or potato gratin that can feed a crowd without a lot of fuss.

Large Trays of Baked Ziti or Lasagna

Pasta dishes like baked ziti or lasagna are perfect for big gatherings. You can make these in large trays and serve with a side of garlic bread. They are filling and satisfying, and you can prepare them in advance.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Slow-cooked pulled pork can be served in buns with coleslaw on top. It’s a delicious and easy-to-eat option for large groups, especially if kids are involved.

Big-Batch Chili or Stew

Prepare a large pot of chili or beef stew that’s packed with flavors and nutrients. It can be served with cornbread or crackers, making it a hearty and satisfying choice.

Self-Serve Taco or Pasta Bars

Set up a self-serve taco or pasta bar where guests can build their own creations. This makes meal prep simpler and gives everyone the chance to customize their dinner.

Serving & Seating Tips

For large groups, consider setting up buffet-style serving stations to reduce wait times. Ensure ample seating with a mix of tables and casual spots to make everyone feel comfortable.

Easy Christmas Day Dinner Ideas for Family

Christmas Day dinner should feel like a special occasion without being overly complicated. Simple yet classic dishes can create a festive atmosphere while keeping preparation manageable.

Oven-Roasted Turkey or Chicken

The star of Christmas dinner is often roast turkey or chicken. Roasting a turkey is straightforward—season with herbs, garlic, butter, and a bit of lemon, and let the oven do the work. If you prefer a smaller meal, opt for roast chicken as a simpler and quicker alternative. Both can be served with a flavorful gravy made from pan drippings.

Honey-Glazed Ham

Another holiday favorite is honey-glazed ham. It’s sweet, savory, and easy to prepare. Simply bake the ham with a glaze made from honey, mustard, and brown sugar. The result is a tender, caramelized outer layer that everyone will love.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a must-have side dish. Make them creamy and fluffy by adding butter, cream, and seasoning to taste. You can even prepare them ahead of time and reheat them before serving.

Roasted Vegetables

A mix of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts, adds a colorful and healthy touch to your meal. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs, then roast until golden and tender.

Green Bean Casserole

A classic side like green bean casserole pairs perfectly with any main dish. Combine cooked green beans with cream of mushroom soup, topped with crispy fried onions for added crunch.

Dinner Rolls & Cranberry Sauce

Warm dinner rolls and homemade cranberry sauce complement the meal and add that festive touch. Serve the rolls fresh from the oven, and the sauce can be made ahead and chilled.

Simple Dessert Ideas

Finish with a sweet note by serving pie, brownies, or cookies. Apple pie, pumpkin pie, or a chocolate fudge brownie are simple, crowd-pleasing options.

These easy yet traditional Christmas Day dishes allow you to enjoy the holiday without the stress of complex preparation.

Simple Christmas Day Dinner Ideas for Family

When planning Christmas Day dinner, simplicity can still bring maximum flavor. The one main + two sides formula is perfect for making a memorable meal without overwhelming yourself.

Rotisserie Chicken + Roasted Carrots + Mac & Cheese

Pick up a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time, and pair it with roasted carrots tossed in olive oil and herbs. Add a creamy side of mac and cheese, which can be made in advance and baked while the chicken rests.

Sheet Pan Salmon + Mashed Potatoes + Salad

For a lighter option, roast salmon on a sheet pan with lemon and herbs. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh salad made from seasonal greens, nuts, and a tangy dressing.

Minimal Dishes, Maximum Flavor

By keeping your menu simple, you can focus on quality ingredients that shine. These easy-to-prepare dishes provide a festive and delicious Christmas Day meal without the hassle.

Christmas Eve Dinner Restaurants (If You Don’t Want to Cook)

For those who prefer a stress-free Christmas Eve, dining out can be an excellent option. While it may not have the same homely charm as a homemade dinner, it comes with its own set of benefits and challenges.

Pros and Cons of Dining Out

Pros:

• No cooking or cleaning required.
• Relaxed atmosphere without the pressure of meal prep.
• Opportunity to try different cuisines or enjoy traditional favorites.
  
  Cons:
  
• Higher costs for meals and tips.
• Limited availability, especially if you don’t make a reservation early.
• The risk of crowded restaurants and long waits.
  

Popular Restaurant Chains Open on Christmas Eve

Many popular chains, like Denny’s, IHOP, and The Cheesecake Factory, remain open, offering festive menus or classic comfort food. These places are reliable and easy to find.

Local Family-Friendly Options

Explore local family-friendly restaurants that may offer special Christmas Eve menus or buffets. These places can provide a cozier, more intimate dining experience.

Call Ahead Tips and Reservation Advice

To avoid waiting, always call ahead or make reservations. Some restaurants may have limited hours or require early booking, especially on such a busy evening.

Dining out on Christmas Eve can be a great option for a relaxing and enjoyable evening with loved ones.

Christmas Eve Food Traditions Around the World

Christmas Eve dinners are celebrated with a variety of unique food traditions across the world. Each culture adds its own special touch to the holiday meal.

Italy: Feast of the Seven Fishes

In Italy, Christmas Eve is marked by the Feast of the Seven Fishes, where families enjoy multiple seafood dishes such as shrimp, clams, and cod. This tradition symbolizes the wait for the birth of Christ, with fish representing purity.

Mexico: Tamales and Pozole

In Mexico, families gather to enjoy tamales—corn dough filled with meats or vegetables—and pozole, a hearty soup made from hominy and pork. These dishes are central to Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) celebrations.

Poland: Wigilia with 12 Vegetarian Dishes

Poland’s Wigilia tradition includes a festive dinner of 12 vegetarian dishes, representing the 12 apostles. Common dishes include borscht, pierogi, and carp. The meal begins when the first star is sighted in the sky.

Germany: Roast Goose and Potato Salad

In Germany, a traditional Christmas Eve dinner features roast goose served with potato salad and red cabbage. It’s a hearty meal that has been passed down through generations.

U.S. Variations – Regional Favorites

In the U.S., different regions have their own favorites. Southern families may enjoy gumbo, while New Englanders might serve clam chowder.

Incorporating Cultural Traditions

You can incorporate these cultural dishes into your own celebration by offering a mix of traditional and personal favorites, creating a multicultural and festive meal.

FAQ’s

Conclusion

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners are a time for creating cherished memories with family and friends, and the meal is at the heart of these celebrations. Whether you opt for a simple one-pan dinner, a buffet spread, or try something non-traditional, there are endless ways to make your holiday meal both easy and delicious.

As you plan your holiday dinners, remember: the magic is in togetherness, not perfection. You don’t need to stress over complicated recipes or elaborate spreads. Instead, focus on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where everyone can enjoy each other’s company.