# The Ultimate Recipes for the Ideal Holiday Feast

The festive season is approaching, and for many, this time of year represents family, friends, and, naturally, delightful dishes. Whether you’re throwing a gathering or joining one, it’s vital to have a variety of recipes from breakfast through dessert. Here’s a resource to assist you in crafting the ideal holiday spread.

## Breakfast and Brunch

Begin your holiday days with a satisfying breakfast or brunch. Think about dishes such as:

– **Eggnog French Toast**: A joyous variation on a traditional breakfast meal, ideal for a snug morning.
– **Cranberry Orange Scones**: These scones are filled with seasonal flavors and pair well with a cup of coffee.
– **Breakfast Casserole**: Simple to make ahead, this dish blends eggs, cheese, and your choice of sausage or vegetables.

## Snacks and Appetizers

Keep your guests pleased with a selection of snacks and starters:

– **Festive Cheese Board**: Provide a variety of cheeses, nuts, fruits, and crackers for an easy yet refined appetizer.
– **Stuffed Mushrooms**: These small bites are packed with a flavorful blend of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
– **Spiced Nuts**: A sweet and spicy treat that’s ideal for snacking throughout the day.

## Main Course

For the highlight of your holiday meal, consider these choices:

– **Prime Rib Roast**: A timeless option that never fails to impress. Pair with a rich au jus and horseradish sauce.
– **Glazed Ham**: A sweet and savory choice that’s easy to make and always a crowd favorite.
– **Roast Turkey**: Classic and ageless, serve it with all the accompaniments for a complete holiday dinner.

## Sides

Side dishes give you the opportunity to be inventive. Here are some suggestions:

– **Garlic Mashed Potatoes**: Rich and tasty, these are essential for any holiday gathering.
– **Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon**: A wonderful way to savor this seasonal vegetable.
– **Sweet Potato Casserole**: Topped with marshmallows or pecans, this dish is both delightful and savory.

## Desserts

No holiday spread is complete without desserts. Indulge in these sweet delights:

– **Pumpkin Pie**: A holiday classic, serve with whipped cream for the ideal conclusion to your meal.
– **Chocolate Yule Log**: A festive and stunning dessert that’s bound to please.
– **Holiday Cookies**: From sugar cookies to gingerbread, there’s a cookie for everyone. Take a look at my [Holiday Cookie Guide](https://www.closetcooking.com/21-cookies-for-holidays/) for additional ideas.

## Homemade Holiday Food Gifts

If you’re seeking homemade holiday food gifts, consider:

– **Jams and Preserves**: A sweet present that can be savored long after the festive season.
– **Infused Oils and Vinegars**: Great for the enthusiastic cook, these enhance the flavor of any dish.
– **Homemade Chocolates**: An indulgent treat that’s sure to be valued.

For more inspiration, check out my [Homemade Holiday Food Gifts](https://www.closetcooking.com/9-homemade-holiday-gift-ideas/) guide.

With these recipes and suggestions, your holiday season is guaranteed to be filled with delectable dishes and treasured moments. Enjoy the celebrations and happy cooking!

# Eggs Benedict: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe

Eggs Benedict is a timeless brunch favorite that merges sophistication with comfort, making it perfect for holidays, weekends, or memorable events. This scrumptious recipe showcases smooth hollandaise sauce, savory ham, and delicately poached eggs, all set atop a toasted English muffin. Despite its refined look, Eggs Benedict is surprisingly simple to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.

## What is Eggs Benedict?

Eggs Benedict features a toasted English muffin adorned with a slice of Canadian bacon, a flawlessly poached egg, and a drizzle of luxurious hollandaise sauce. This dish not only looks appealing but also provides a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.

### Key Features:
– **Skill Level**: Easy for beginners, thanks to a simple blender hollandaise sauce and an uncomplicated poaching technique.
– **Ingredient Swaps**: Canadian bacon can be substituted with ham, smoked salmon, or crispy bacon.
– **Time-Saving Tip**: For speedy assembly, consider using pre-made hollandaise sauce or pre-sliced Canadian bacon.

## Ingredient Notes

1. **English Muffins**: Any variety of English muffin performs well. In a pinch, toasted or halved dinner rolls can suffice.
2. **Canadian Bacon**: Options include ham, smoked salmon, or crispy bacon.
3. **Eggs**: Fresher eggs retain their shape better during poaching. Use a slotted spoon to gently lift them from the water.
4. **Hollandaise Sauce**: While store-bought sauce is a convenient option, homemade blender hollandaise offers unmatched flavor and texture.
5. **Variations**: Try variations like incorporating creamy spinach (Eggs Benedict Florentine) or salmon (Eggs Benedict Royale) for a personalized touch.

## The Simplest Hollandaise Sauce

Creating hollandaise sauce is easy and can be accomplished in a blender within minutes. If you prefer to avoid raw egg yolks, you may choose a packet mix or the double boiler method.

### Steps to Prepare Hollandaise:
1. Combine egg yolks, fresh lemon juice, and seasonings in a blender.
2. Blend on low while gradually adding melted butter until the mixture is thick and creamy.

## How to Prepare Eggs Benedict

### Instructions:
1. **Make Hollandaise**: Prepare the hollandaise sauce and set it aside.
2. **Toast Muffins**: Position English muffins and Canadian bacon on a sheet pan and broil until lightly toasted.
3. **Poach Eggs**: Poach the eggs and place them atop each half of the toasted English muffins with Canadian bacon.
4. **Serve**: Season each half and drizzle with hollandaise sauce. Serve promptly.

## Tips for Perfect Eggs Benedict

– Add a teaspoon of vinegar to the poaching water to help the egg whites stay intact.
– To prep in advance, poach eggs beforehand, cool in ice water, and reheat in simmering water for a minute.
– Keep a gentle simmer in the poaching water to prevent ragged egg whites.
– Drain poached eggs on paper towels before adding them to the muffins.
– If hollandaise thickens too much, whisk in a small splash of warm water to adjust the consistency.

## How to Store and Reheat

– Refrigerate poached eggs in cold water for up to two days. Toasted muffins and Canadian bacon can be stored separately for up to four days.
– Reheat poached eggs by placing them in simmering water for 30 to 60 seconds.
– Hollandaise sauce is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated with a splash of warm water if needed.

## Conclusion

Eggs Benedict is a flexible and appetizing brunch choice that can be tailored to accommodate various preferences. Whether you’re serving it for a special event or a leisurely weekend breakfast, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Savor the delightful combination of flavors and the joy of crafting a classic brunch delight!

# This Simple Stuffing Recipe: A Holiday Classic

This Simple Stuffing Recipe is a cherished favorite for every holiday meal. With easy-to-find ingredients and countless 5-star ratings, it’s **reliable each time**! Celery and onions are mixed with bread, broth, and seasonings, then baked until golden, creating the ultimate stuffing recipe with a buttery-sage taste and crispy edges.

## Ingredient Insights for Stuffing

Homemade stuffing is a dish many look forward to during Thanksgiving. Here are the essential ingredients:

– **Bread**: Any kind of stale bread is suitable for stuffing. A combination of white and wheat bread is typical. Tear them into small pieces and allow them to dry on the countertop to soak up the broth. Pre-packaged dried bread cubes may also be used; however, if they are seasoned, lessen the salt while continuing to incorporate herbs.

– **Celery/Onions**: These create the flavor foundation of the stuffing. Sauté them in butter until soft.

– **Seasonings**: Poultry seasoning contributes the traditional turkey stuffing taste with a mix of sage, thyme, and rosemary. Ground sage can serve as an alternative.

– **Broth**: Chicken or turkey broth provides moisture. The quantity required will depend on the kind of bread used and its dryness level.

– **Add-ins**: This recipe is adaptable and can feature additional ingredients like shredded carrots, raisins, dried cranberries, or cooked sausage.

## Bread Selection for Stuffing

Bread is the core component of stuffing, and ensuring it is thoroughly dried before incorporating broth is essential. This helps it absorb the broth and flavors without turning mushy.

If possible, purchase the bread several days ahead, cube it, and let it dry out on the counter. Any bread type works well, including sourdough or cornbread. If using store-bought dried bread cubes, they might need a bit more broth.

**Tip**: Freshly cubed bread can be dried quickly in the oven by spreading it out in a single layer at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid toasting or browning them.

## The Ultimate Crunchy Golden Edges

Baking stuffing in a casserole dish results in crunchy edges and a buttery, tender center. You can also cook it in a Crock Pot, which guarantees that both the turkey and stuffing cook evenly and safely.

**Stuffing a Turkey**: If utilizing this stuffing to fill a turkey, ensure it cools in the refrigerator for a minimum of 45 minutes. Fill the turkey just prior to roasting to avoid it sitting at an unsafe temperature for too long. The stuffing’s center should reach 165°F.

## Make Ahead and Freezing Guidelines

**How To Prepare Ahead**: Stuffing can be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator in a casserole dish. Prepare the stuffing without baking and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Before baking, allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. You may need to add 5 to 10 minutes to the cooking time.

**How To Freeze Stuffing**: For those who enjoy turkey dinner leftovers, stuffing can be frozen for up to 4 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave. Bake in a casserole dish for 15 to 20 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.

## Simple Stuffing Recipe

### Ingredients
– 13-16 slices of stale bread (approximately 12 cups)
– 1 cup butter
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
– 1 cup fresh parsley (optional)
– 2-4 cups chicken or turkey broth
– Salt and pepper to taste

### Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and poultry seasoning. Sauté until soft, about 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes, onion mixture, parsley, and any fresh herbs.
4. Pour 1 cup of broth over the mixture and toss. Gradually incorporate more broth until the cubes are moist but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, dot with additional butter if desired, and cover.
6. Bake for 35 minutes, uncover, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

### Nutrition Information (per serving)
– Calories: 185
– Carbohydrates: 16g
– Protein: 3g
– Fat: 11g
– Saturated Fat: 6g
– Cholesterol: 27mg
– Sodium: 462mg
– Potassium: 175mg
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugar: 2g

This Simple Stuffing Recipe is certain to become a treasured element of your holiday traditions, offering warmth and flavor to your festive celebrations.

# Crock Pot Mac and Cheese: A Family Favorite

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is a cherished dish that has turned into a classic at family events and holiday festivities. With little prep time required, this creamy, cheesy indulgence reliably garners enthusiastic praise from both grown-ups and children alike.

## Ideal for Any Occasion

This slow cooker macaroni isn’t merely a side dish; it complements baked ham beautifully for a cozy Sunday dinner or can be enjoyed as a delightful holiday accompaniment. The charm of this recipe lies in its ease and the consistent perfect outcome, making it a preferred choice for busy chefs.

### Essential Features of This Recipe

– **Distinct Ingredients, Incredible Flavor**: The blend of components crafts a rich flavor profile that surprises and pleases.
– **Consistent Texture**: Unlike many other macaroni and cheese recipes, this one guarantees that the pasta maintains its structure and avoids becoming soggy.
– **Swift Prep Time**: With roughly 10 minutes of preparation, the slow cooker handles the rest, enabling you to concentrate on other dishes or spend quality time with family.
– **Easily Adjustable**: This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings and can stay warm in the slow cooker until it’s time to serve.
– **Wide Appeal**: It’s a favorite that everyone enjoys, making it a dependable option for any event.

## Why This is the Ultimate Crockpot Mac & Cheese Ever

### 1. Precooked Pasta

To achieve the perfect texture, it’s crucial to precook the pasta. Boil the macaroni for about 2 minutes less than the package directions to ensure it doesn’t become too soft during the slow cooking process.

### 2. Unique Sauce Ingredients

This recipe steers clear of typical ingredients like Velveeta or evaporated milk, using instead a distinctive mixture that incorporates mayonnaise. This unconventional selection keeps the sauce smooth and creamy without sacrificing flavor. The mayonnaise is unnoticeable in taste yet vital for preserving a silky texture throughout the cooking process.

## How to Create Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Creating this delightful mac and cheese is simple and quick:

1. **Boil the Pasta**: Cook the macaroni noodles for 1-2 minutes shorter than package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.

2. **Prepare the Ingredients**: While the pasta is boiling, shred sharp cheddar cheese and gather all other components.

3. **Combine and Cook**: Add all ingredients into a 4-quart slow cooker. Cook on high for 2 hours or low for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

4. **Serve**: Enjoy hot, and watch it vanish!

## Tips for Perfection

– **Pasta**: Make sure the pasta is firm after boiling; rinsing halts the cooking process.
– **Cheese**: Freshly shredded cheese yields the best results, but pre-shredded cheese can be used as well.
– **Cooking Time**: Check the pasta early as slow cookers can differ in temperature.
– **Slow Cooker Size**: A 4-quart slow cooker is perfect for a single batch. If using a larger 6-quart slow cooker, keep a close eye on the cooking time.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and mix it with the pasta just before cooking.
– **Oven Option**: If desired, this dish can also be baked in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes covered and 30 minutes uncovered.

## Nutritional Information

Each serving of this creamy mac and cheese contains approximately:
– **Calories**: 464
– **Carbohydrates**: 31g
– **Protein**: 27g
– **Fat**: 47g
– **Sodium**: 917mg

This Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is not just a delightful meal but also a practical choice for any dining occasion, ensuring that you can savor delicious comfort food with minimal effort. Be it for a festive feast or a casual family dinner, this recipe is bound to impress.

# A Spatchcock Turkey: The Quickest, Simplest, Most Attractive Turkey You’ll Ever Prepare

Turkey is a cherished meat, often compared to a more flavorful version of chicken. Although it can be a sizable bird that provides ample leftovers, the endeavor is truly rewarding. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion, a perfectly roasted turkey can serve as an eye-catching centerpiece.

## What is Spatchcock Turkey?

Spatchcocking denotes the method of taking out the backbone of the turkey and flattening it before roasting. This approach provides numerous benefits compared to cooking an intact bird:

– **Uniform Cooking**: The thighs are not concealed by the legs, promoting consistent cooking.
– **Crispier Skin**: The flattened form exposes more skin to heat, yielding a crunchier texture.
– **Enhanced Presentation**: A spatchcocked turkey is visually impressive on the table.
– **Immediate Gravy and Stock**: The backbone and excess can be utilized to create gravy and stock immediately.

## How to Spatchcock a Turkey

1. **Preparation**: Dry the turkey with paper towels and place it breast side down in a large, clean sink or roasting pan.
2. **Detach the Backbone**: With kitchen shears, cut along the backbone, beginning at the tail and working up to the neck. Repeat on the opposite side to completely remove the backbone.
3. **Trim Excess**: Remove any leftover fat or skin, including the tail and neck fat.
4. **Flip and Flatten**: Turn the turkey over so the breast is facing upwards. Press down on the breastbone firmly until you hear a crack, flattening the bird.
5. **Season**: Rub the turkey with oil and generously season with salt and pepper.

## Cooking Times for Spatchcock Turkey

– **11-12 lb turkey**: Approximately 75 minutes
– **12-14 lb turkey**: About 1 hour 25 minutes
– **14-16 lb turkey**: Roughly 1 hour 35 minutes
– **16-18 lb turkey**: Around 1 hour 50 minutes
– **18-20 lb turkey**: Close to 2 hours

Always check with a meat thermometer to ensure the breast hits 150°F and the thighs reach 165°F.

## Is Brining Necessary for Your Turkey?

Spatchcock turkey generally remains juicy and flavorful without brining. However, if brining is part of your routine, feel free to continue that tradition. For those who have never brined, skipping it may avoid excessively salty meat.

## What Size Turkey is Best?

Spatchcocking works optimally with smaller turkeys, ideally under 14 lbs. Larger turkeys need more oven and baking sheet space, which might not be suitable for everyone.

## Reasons to Make a Spatchcock Turkey

1. **Utilize the Backbone**: You can create gravy and stock right away using the backbone.
2. **Quick Cooking**: A spatchcocked turkey can roast in as little as an hour and twenty minutes.
3. **Crispy Skin**: The flat shape exposes all the skin to heat, achieving a crispy finish.
4. **Even Cooking**: The method guarantees that both white and dark meat cook uniformly.

## How to Carve a Spatchcock Turkey

1. **Detach the Legs and Wings**: Cut through the joints where the thighs connect with the body and the wings meet the breast.
2. **Remove the Breasts**: Slice down the center near the breastbone, following the bone’s contour to remove the breast in a single piece.
3. **Slice and Arrange**: Cut the breast into uniform slices and present on a platter alongside the legs and wings.

## Sides and Stuffing

While a spatchcock turkey can be simply seasoned with salt and pepper, incorporating a citrus herb butter can elevate the flavor. Accompany the turkey with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

### Spatchcock Turkey Recipe

**Serves**: 8

**Ingredients**:
– 1 medium onion, peeled and quartered
– 1 orange, halved
– 1 lemon, halved
– 2 stalks celery, roughly chopped
– 10-12 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 whole turkey (11-12 lbs)
– 1 tbsp oil
– Salt and freshly ground pepper

**Rosemary Citrus Butter**:
– 1/4 cup butter, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, leaves only
– 6 cloves garlic
– Zest of 1 orange
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
– 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 tsp black