Christmas has a funny way of showing up before you’ve even had time to catch your breath. One minute you’re telling yourself you’ve got ages, and the next someone’s asking what you’re cooking this year as if you’ve already planned the whole thing. Most people in the UK end up searching for Christmas menu ideas because they want something simple, affordable, and actually doable in a real kitchen, not the TV-style feasts that take three days and a team of chefs.
This guide walks you through everyday Christmas dinner menu ideas that don’t require a huge kitchen or endless prep. Whether you’re feeding a big family, having a small one, cooking veggies, or trying to save a bit of money, you’ll find something that feels realistic. These are dishes real UK households actually cook, the kind you can pull off even if you’ve only got one oven shelf and a toddler grabbing your leg.
Starters That Don’t Stress You Out
Most homes in the UK don’t bother with starters unless there’s a bit of time to spare. But if you fancy something small before the main event, keep it easy.
Prawn Cocktail
It sounds fancy, but it’s basically prawns, lettuce, and a sauce you can whip together in a bowl. It’s quick, it works, and for some families, it’s been the Christmas starter for decades.
Tomato Soup
If you want something warm and comforting, this is your friend. You can make it in advance or buy a nice one and pretend you did. No judgement here.
Smoked Salmon Blinis
These always make you look more organised than you actually are. A bit of salmon, a squeeze of lemon, sorted.
Main Dishes Most UK Families Actually Serve
Christmas dinner doesn’t need five different meats and a spreadsheet. Pick one main dish and build the rest of the meal around it.
Roast Turkey
Still the classic. A turkey crown is easier if you don’t want the faff of a whole bird. It fits in most ovens without a wrestling match.
Honey-Glazed Ham
A lot of people do both turkey and ham, but ham on its own is more than enough for a relaxed Christmas dinner menu. Plus, the leftovers are brilliant.
Roast Chicken
If you’re a smaller household, roast chicken is perfectly fine. Loads of families prefer it because it cooks quicker and tastes excellent with simple seasoning.
Chicken Tikka Masala Roast
A mix of a classic British roast and the flavours people already love from their local curry house. The chicken is marinated in tikka spices, then roasted as usual, so you still get that Sunday-style feel but with a warmer, richer taste. It works well if your family likes a bit of heat on the plate. While ordering from Belfast, don’t forget to check out Dhaka Spice to order the best Chicken Tikka Masala.
Lamb Rogan Josh Pot Roast
If you want something slow-cooked but still festive, this is a great option. The lamb becomes soft and tender, and the sauce gives the whole meal a cosy, winter flavour. It’s hearty without being complicated.
Tandoori Salmon
A lighter option that cooks fairly quickly. The spices pair well with roast potatoes or rice, so you can mix them with traditional sides or go slightly more modern.
Veggie Wellington
If someone in the family is veggie, this saves the day. It looks impressive even if you’re not a confident cook.
The Sides Everyone Looks Forward To
Let’s be honest, people pretend to love the turkey, but it’s the sides that everyone talks about.
Roast Potatoes
Crispy, golden, fluffy on the inside. If you nail these, it almost doesn’t matter what the main is.
Pigs in Blankets
These disappear before you can blink. Make more than you think you’ll need.
Yorkshire Puddings
Half the UK serves these at Christmas now. Nobody argues; everyone eats them.
Stuffing
Whether it’s sage and onion or sausage meat, it brings the whole plate together.
Carrots, Parsnips, Red Cabbage
Easy to roast, colourful, and they make the table look a bit less beige.
Veggie & Vegan Christmas Menu Ideas That Fit in Easily
You don’t need a second kitchen to give people decent plant-based options. Most Christmas food is already half-vegan anyway. Here are a few veggie dishes with an Indian twist.
Vegetable Biryani
A filling dish that doesn’t need loads of sides. It’s full of spices but still gentle enough for mixed family tastes. Great if you need something that feeds both veggie and non-veggie guests. While ordering from London, check out Bejoy Tandoori Restaurant for the best Vegetable Biryani.
Chickpea & Spinach Curry
Simple, warm, and budget-friendly. This fits well on the table if you’re trying to add a plant-based option without extra effort.
Paneer Butter Masala
A very comforting dish. Paneer holds its shape well, and the creamy sauce works alongside classic Christmas sides, too.
Aubergine Masala Bake
Good for households that want something roasted but not meat-heavy. It cooks in one tray and sits nicely next to roast potatoes.
These slot right into your Christmas dinner menu without extra hassle.
Desserts Everyone Somehow Finds Room For
Even when people swear they’re “absolutely done,” there’s always space for pudding.
Christmas Pudding
A true classic. Serve with custard or cream, and it suddenly feels like Christmas.
Yule Log
Chocolate sponge, icing, the whole table will say yes.
Trifle
A very British Christmas tradition. You can make it cheap, cheerful, and in a massive bowl if you’ve got a big family.
Gulab Jamun with Ice Cream
Soft, warm dough balls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s simple to serve and feels a bit different without being too heavy.
Kheer (Rice Pudding)
Similar to British rice pudding but with cardamom and nuts. Light, warm, and familiar enough for everyone at the table.
Gajar Ka Halwa
A carrot-based dessert that tastes richer than it sounds. It’s great for winter because it’s warm and slightly sweet without being over the top. If you are in South Glamorgan, you can order this delicious dessert from Masala Bag.
Mango Kulfi
If you want something cold after a heavy meal, Kulfi is a good shout. It’s creamy and refreshing, and most people in the UK already enjoy mango desserts.
Mince Pies
Quick, warm, and comforting, ideal for those who want something small.
Drinks & Extras That Bring It All Together
You don’t need a bar setup. Just a few favourites people always enjoy:
- Mulled wine
- Hot chocolate
- Fizz for the table
- Baileys
- A little cheese board if people still have the energy
Simple but festive.
If You’d Rather Not Cook at All
More people in the UK are doing part-cook, part-takeaway Christmas meals. It saves time and keeps the day relaxed. You can grab a few sides or starters from your favourite spot and cook the main at home.
You’ll find plenty of options near you on ChefOnline if you’d rather focus on family and let someone else handle the food.
FAQs
1. What’s the easiest main dish for Christmas?
Roast chicken or a turkey crown, both are simple and fit into smaller ovens.
2. How many dishes should go on a Christmas menu?
One main, four or five sides, one dessert. Anything more just makes you tired.
3. What can I serve for veggie guests?
Veggie Wellington, stuffed peppers, roast veg, vegan gravy, easy and filling.
4. What’s the cheapest Christmas meal to cook?
Chicken, roast potatoes, carrots, stuffing, and a simple trifle. Tasty and budget-friendly.
5. Can you mix cooking with takeaway?
Absolutely. Lots of families grab starters or sides from local restaurants. ChefOnline helps you find options near you.
