18 Festive New Year Day Dinner Recipes Delicious

Posted on April 7, 2025

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As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, families and friends come together to ring in a new year. What better way to celebrate than with a deliciously festive meal? Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering at home or attending a grand party, we’ve got you covered with these 18 show-stopping New Year’s Day dinner recipes.

From classic beef Wellington to decadent chocolate tiramisu, and from savory prime rib roasts to indulgent lobster tails, our collection of dishes is sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings. So go ahead, break out the party hats and noisemakers, and get ready to kick off the new year in style with these unforgettable recipes.

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast
Elevate your dinner party with this tender and flavorful prime rib roast, crusted with a blend of fragrant herbs. Perfect for special occasions or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-5 pound) prime rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and garlic.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the prime rib roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Impress your dinner guests with this indulgent and flavorful dish, featuring succulent lobster tails smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 lobster tails (1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse lobster tails under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each tail.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lobster is cooked through and opaque white.
7. Garnish with parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates

Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates
Elevate your appetizer game with Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates! Sweet and savory flavors combine in a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for parties or snacking.

Ingredients:

– 12 pitted dates, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dates, cream cheese, and honey until well combined.
3. Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each date mixture with two pieces of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Creamy Truffle Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Truffle Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this decadent recipe featuring the rich flavors of truffles and cream.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon truffle oil (or 1/2 teaspoon dried truffle powder)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, heavy cream, garlic, truffle oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chives or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

A sweet and tangy twist on a classic side dish, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while adding a rich and savory balsamic glaze.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey until well combined.
5. Remove Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with garlic and balsamic glaze.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon

Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon
This classic French dish is a hearty, flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cold winter evening. With tender beef, rich mushrooms, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup Burgundy wine (or substitute with red wine)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes, then remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add wine, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Return beef to the pot, cover, and transfer to a slow cooker or oven (300°F). Cook for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (slow cooker) or 1-2 hours (oven)

Pomegranate Glazed Ham

Pomegranate Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory Pomegranate Glazed Ham recipe. A perfect combination of juicy ham, tangy pomegranate glaze, and crunchy brown sugar crust.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the fat layer in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Brush the pomegranate glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.

Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Wild Mushroom Risotto

Wild Mushroom Risotto
Savor the earthy flavors of the wild forest with this hearty risotto recipe, showcasing a medley of wild mushrooms.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (e.g., chanterelle, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
3. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed, stirring occasionally.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add mushrooms; continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

Baked Brie with Cranberry Compote

Baked Brie with Cranberry Compote
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory combination: creamy baked brie cheese paired with a tangy cranberry compote. Perfect for parties, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the brie cheese to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and thyme.
4. Place the brie cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and top with the cranberry compote.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the compote is bubbly.
6. Serve warm with crackers, fruit, or bread.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Citrus and Herb Roasted Turkey

Citrus and Herb Roasted Turkey
This recipe combines the bright flavors of citrus and herbs with a perfectly roasted turkey, perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
– 2 lemons, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and honey.
4. Stuff the turkey cavity with citrus segments and herb mixture.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 30 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for an additional 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3.5 hours

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your side dish game with this elegant and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the savory goodness of prosciutto. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6-8 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Wrap each asparagus spear with a prosciutto slice, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Classic Beef Wellington

Classic Beef Wellington
Classic Beef Wellington Recipe

A show-stopping centerpiece for any dinner party, Classic Beef Wellington is a timeless dish that combines tender beef fillet with rich mushroom duxelles and flaky puff pastry.

Ingredients:

– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef fillet
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), finely chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 cup cognac or beef broth
– 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef fillet with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Sear the beef for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned. Let it cool completely.
4. Roll out puff pastry to a large rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick.
5. Spread the cooled beef with mushroom duxelles and sprinkle with cognac or broth.
6. Place the beef in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
7. Brush edges of pastry with butter and fold over the beef to form a tight seal.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the deep flavors of caramelized onions with the creaminess of Gruyère cheese, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spread cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the onions.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Brush pastry with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Spiced Red Wine Poached Pears

Spiced Red Wine Poached Pears
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this elegant and aromatic dessert. Sweet pears infused with the flavors of warm spices and rich red wine make for a perfect treat to serve to guests.

Ingredients:

– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Syrah)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel, core, and halve the pears.
3. In a large saucepan, combine red wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and sliced orange.
4. Add the pear halves to the saucepan, leaving some space between each.
5. Cover the saucepan with parchment paper and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and stir in sugar and honey.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon sticks if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that highlights the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
5. Scoop roasted squash flesh into the pot and add broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
7. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree soup until smooth.
8. If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream for added richness.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Chocolate Espresso Tiramisu

Chocolate Espresso Tiramisu
This Italian-inspired dessert combines the deep flavors of espresso and dark chocolate to create a decadent treat perfect for coffee lovers. With its creamy mascarpone cheese and ladyfinger layers, this tiramisu is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine espresso and sugar; stir until dissolved.
2. Dip ladyfingers into the espresso mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side; they should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese with softened butter, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a serving dish; top with half the mascarpone mixture, then repeat the layers.
5. Drizzle whipped cream over the top and sprinkle with chocolate chips.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes to assemble, refrigerate for at least 3 hours

Grand Marnier Soufflé

Grand Marnier Soufflé
Elevate your dinner party with this impressive and delicious Grand Marnier Soufflé, infused with the citrusy flavors of Grand Marnier liqueur.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup Grand Marnier liqueur
– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with granulated sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, salt, and flour. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens. Let cool slightly.
3. Whisk in egg yolks and Grand Marnier liqueur.
4. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into the cooled egg yolk mixture.
5. Pour into prepared soufflé dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Sparkling Cranberry Champagne Cocktail

Sparkling Cranberry Champagne Cocktail
Celebrate with this refreshing and flavorful cocktail perfect for any occasion. Sparkling cranberry champagne is a delightful combination of tart and sweet, sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup champagne
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– 1/4 teaspoon lime zest
– Ice cubes
– Fresh cranberries for garnish, if desired

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the cranberry juice, followed by the champagne.
3. Top with sparkling water.
4. Add simple syrup and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh lime zest or a few cranberries, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.

Summary

Ring in the new year with these 18 delicious dinner recipes, perfect for a festive celebration. From classic prime rib roast to decadent chocolate espresso tiramisu, there’s something for everyone on this list. Impress your guests with herb-crusted prime rib roast, garlic butter lobster tails, and bacon-wrapped stuffed dates. Or try some new twists like slow-cooked beef bourguignon or roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to make your New Year’s Day dinner unforgettable.

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