Turn the simplest ingredients into a special two-course Christmas dinner on a budget that serves 6. From tender brined turkey thighs, to inventive roast sides and a stunning, French-inspired pud, this festive feast tastes anything but budget! Explore more Christmas recipes for further seasonal inspiration.
Every Christmas dinner needs a spectacular centrepiece, and this bacon-wrapped turkey is just that. Thighs are a great (and cheaper) alternative to cooking a whole turkey and take a fraction of a time in the oven. Brine the meat up to 2 days ahead to add extra flavour and juiciness. Get even further ahead by buttering and bacon-wrapping the day before, so all you need to do on the big day is put it in the oven.
This stuffing can be made up to two days ahead and is made using just 5 ingredients! Simply combine fried onions with herbs and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and crisp. This is the perfect accompaniment to the brined roast turkey thighs.
Bring restaurant flavours to your roasties! These crispy potatoes are flavoured with ground black pepper, rosemary, and Grana Padano. Prepare these up to 2 days in advance; simply coat the parboiled potatoes in the herby, cheesy flour, then leave to chill.
Wow your guests with a fantastic homemade gravy! Made with carrots, onions and flavoured with rosemary, this easy gravy is made in just one pan. If you fancy getting ahead, you can make this up to 3 months in advance and freeze it! Defrost the day before and enjoy with all the trimmings.
Tip: Make this gravy vegetarian by using vegetable stock.
Transform your carrots by glazing them with butter and caramelised brown sugar. This festive side dish can be cooked the day before, so all you need to do on the big day is reheat them!
Whether you love them or hate them, these sprouts are sure to convert some of the haters out there. Tender sprouts are coated in brown butter, then topped with crispy garlic crumbs. Give yourself more time by making the breadcrumbs up to four days ahead and keep them in an airtight container.
This impressive cranberry sauce is made using just 4 ingredients and is sure to impress your guests. Filled with lots of festive flavours, including orange and rosemary, this sauce pairs perfectly with roasted turkey. Use frozen cranberries so you can reduce your food waste.
Tip: You can make this up to 3 months in advance and freeze ahead and defrost the night before.
There’s always room for pudding! Finish your Christmas dinner off with a bang with this festive-inspired tarte Tatin. You can make and assemble this the day before, so all you need to do on the day is put it in the oven. Serve with a generous dollop of brown sugar-whipped cream and grab a spoon.
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