These holiday main courses (that aren't turkey) offer a deliciously different way to create a festive meal. If you're paring down your usual gathering but still want to celebrate, these recipes provide an impressive centerpiece without the commitment of a whole turkey.

What's Great About These Main Courses
- These dishes require less prep time than a traditional holiday meal, so you can spend more time with loved ones or just relaxing.
- They’re easy to make but still feel festive and special.
- Many budget-friendly choices are included, so you can enjoy great flavors without breaking the bank.
- Perfect for smaller gatherings, making it easy to create a memorable holiday meal.
From French onion pot roast to simple roasted chicken, each recipe is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and something special for your holiday table. These dishes bring all the warmth of the season, making your celebration memorable—no turkey required.
Baked manicotti

This baked manicotti, stuffed with a three-cheese blend and topped with a savory Italian sausage tomato sauce, makes a cozy and satisfying holiday main. Made with a mix of fresh and pantry ingredients, it delivers homemade flavor in a fraction of the time—a perfect addition to your festive table.
Simple roasted chicken

This simple whole roasted chicken is a perfect, crowd-pleasing choice for the holidays. With crispy skin and juicy meat, it’s seasoned simply with salt and pepper, while fresh herbs and lemon slices flavor the pan drippings. Delicious, versatile, and perfect for a small holiday gathering.
Baked ziti with sausage

This baked ziti with sausage is a holiday favorite—it’s easier than lasagna but still packed with flavor and plenty of cheese! Italian sausage adds tons of flavor, allowing us to keep the ingredient list simple. This easy, comforting dish is sure to be a family favorite at any holiday gathering.
Short ribs

Here’s some good old comfort food, perfect for a holiday meal! In this recipe, short ribs are braised in a rich, flavorful sauce made with onions, carrots, celery, garlic, red wine, tomato sauce, beef broth, and spices. The sauce is just as delicious as the ribs—serve with mashed potatoes in lieu of gravy for a deliciously different festive dish.
French onion pork chops

These French onion pork chops bring together the rich flavors of French onion soup with juicy pork chops, making them a delicious option for an intimate holiday dinner. It’s also an affordable choice for feeding a smaller gathering. As a plus, this easy, one-pan recipe comes together in about 30 minutes.
Chicken francaise

Chicken francaise is a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a holiday celebration. Thin chicken cutlets are dredged in seasoned flour, dipped in egg, and gently fried in olive oil and butter. The pan drippings make a flavorful white wine and lemon sauce, which is drizzled over the chicken and served on a bed of pasta.
Thank you for reading, and I hope this collection inspires your holiday dinner planning! Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and, of course, delicious food!
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