Citrus-Molasses Glazed HamWe are always searching for new ways to utilize Florida citrus, which is plentiful during the holidays in our own backyard. I know you will enjoy this. —Charlene Chambers, Ormond Beach, Florida
Plum PuddingPerfect for holidays or special meals, this chewy plum pudding recipe is packed with sweetness and warm, inviting spices.
Hot Crab DipI have a large family, work full time, and coach soccer and football, so I appreciate recipes that are easy to assemble. This rich, creamy dip is a fun appetizer to whip up for any gathering. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
“Everything” StuffingMy family goes crazy for this stuffing that I make in the slow cooker. It freezes well so we can enjoy it long after Thanksgiving has passed. —Bette Votral, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Standing Rib RoastThis juicy, tender standing rib roast has a savory rub that bakes into a golden brown crust for an impressive but surprisingly easy recipe perfect for a special occasion.
Cornmeal Parker House RollsMy mom deserves the credit for making this recipe a family tradition. These sweet, tender rolls have been on every holiday table at her house for as long as I can remember. —Lisa D. Brenner, Harrisburg, Nebraska
Molded Cranberry-Orange SaladWhen I take this dish to potlucks during the holidays, people always ooh and aah. Feel free to top with whipped cream for added appeal. —Carol Mead, Los Alamos, New Mexico
Salmon MousseSophisticated in presentation yet deceptively simple to make, this salmon mousse will upgrade your garden parties, hors d'oeuvre hours and everyday snack time.
Mocha Yule LogThis eye-catching dessert is guaranteed to delight holiday dinner guests. Chocolate lovers will lick their lips over the yummy cocoa cake, mocha filling and frosting. For a festive touch, I garnish the log with marzipan holly leaves and berries. —Jenny Hughson, Mitchell, Nebraska
Braised & Creamy Vidalia OnionsIn Georgia where sweet Vidalia onions are king, I make big batches of creamy onions as a side dish for grilled chicken and beef. — Elaine Opitz, Marietta, Georgia
Spicy Shrimp & Crab CocktailThis seafood starter is so good that it makes me love a food I usually don't—radishes! This recipe also calls for spicy V8, but Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix works just as well. Serve the cocktail straight up, with tortilla chips or on a bed of butter lettuce. —Heidi Knaak, Liberty, Missouri
Rum BallsWith a punch of rum and a dip in confectioners' sugar, these nutty, chocolaty rum balls are a tasty treat for the holidays—or an adult-themed gathering any time of year.
Swedish MeatballsWhip up a batch of these easy Swedish meatballs for a meal that's all comfort and no fuss!
Cranberry SaladThis cranberry salad (or cranberry fluff salad to some) is an excellent side or dessert recipe. Cranberries, pineapples, green apples and delightful mini marshmallows are all folded together with whipped cream and walnuts for a fluffy yet crunchy dish.
Dilly Cheese BallMy whole family devours this herby cheese spread—even my son, the chef. Serve it with your favorite crackers. —Jane Vince, London, Ontario
Green Bean CasseroleIf green bean casserole is your go-to Thanksgiving side dish, why not make it more often? The creamy, crunchy dish is an easy make-ahead recipe that goes well with a variety of meals.
Pecan TassiesThese pecan tassies are very good for parties and special occasions. You'll probably want to double the recipe, because they'll disappear in a hurry! —Joy Corie, Ruston, Louisiana
Roasted Chicken with RosemaryHerbs, garlic and butter give this hearty meal in one a classic flavor. It's a lot like pot roast, except it uses chicken instead of beef. —Isabel Zienkosky, Salt Lake City, Utah
Deviled EggsOnce you know how to make deviled eggs, you will wonder why you have not been making them for every potluck and backyard barbecue. They are so easy!
Contest-Winning Chocolate Angel Food CakeAt once rich and fluffy, this chocolate angel food cake will be a celebrated delight.
Sweet Potato PuddingFull of spices and topped with marshmallows, this sweet potato pudding recipe is a simple, soulful recipe that shines on any holiday table.
Stuffed MushroomsStuffed mushrooms are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether for a dinner party or just a casual weeknight, these sausage and cheese-filled bites are a breeze to whip up and absolutely irresistible.
Three-Cheese FondueI got this easy recipe from my daughter, who lives in France. It’s become my go-to fondue, and I make it often for our family.—Betty A. Mangas, Toledo, Ohio
Baked AlaskaIt's hard to believe you can make a dessert so visually spectacular at home, but our baked Alaska recipe is actually pretty easy. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite cake and ice creams.
Pretty Duchess PotatoesComfort-food flavor comes in attractive packages that are just the right size! This recipe is a favorite
Christmas dinner or
Thanksgiving menu idea. —
Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Candied Bacon-Wrapped FigsI stuffed figs with cream cheese and wrapped them in bacon and spices for an addictive flavor combo that’s sweet, salty and delicious. You can use dates, too. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon