Alternative Main Features to Turkey for Christmas Dinner

For many, Christmas dinner conjures up images of a perfectly roasted turkey, with all the trimmings. 

However, as delicious as it can be, turkey isn’t to everyone’s taste or it may simply be time to try something new. 

If you’re thinking of shaking up your festive feast this year, there are a variety of alternative main features that can be just as special, flavourful, and festive. Here are some fantastic substitutes to consider for your Christmas table.

1. Roast Beef

A classic choice for any special occasion, roast beef can bring a hearty and rich flavour to your Christmas dinner. Opt for a prime rib or a tender fillet, seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and thyme for a truly luxurious dish. The robust flavours pair perfectly with traditional sides like roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and a rich red wine gravy. Beef offers a comforting yet indulgent alternative that will certainly impress your guests.

2. Glazed Ham

A succulent glazed ham is another fantastic substitute for turkey. Ham is easy to prepare, and the sweet glaze – often made with honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup – provides a delightful contrast to the salty, savoury meat. You can serve it hot or cold, making it a versatile option for both formal and casual gatherings. The leftovers are ideal for sandwiches or adding to a Boxing Day buffet!

3. Goose

Historically, goose was a popular choice for Christmas before turkey took over as the dominant bird on the table. With its rich, full flavour and crisp, golden skin, roast goose is an indulgent centrepiece that feels celebratory. While it’s fattier than turkey, this makes it incredibly moist and flavourful. Goose fat can also be saved and used to make the most amazing roast potatoes!

4. Lamb

For those who prefer a more tender and succulent meat, roast lamb could be the perfect choice. The rich, earthy flavours of lamb, especially when paired with herbs like rosemary and mint, provide a delicious contrast to the lighter taste of turkey. A leg of lamb or a slow-roasted shoulder can be the star of the table, served with roasted vegetables, mint sauce, and perhaps a Mediterranean twist like roasted garlic and lemon.

5. Vegetarian Wellington

For vegetarians, or those looking to reduce their meat intake, a vegetarian Wellington makes a stunning and satisfying centrepiece. This dish typically involves a flaky puff pastry encasing a filling of mushrooms, nuts, lentils, or even butternut squash, seasoned with festive herbs. It’s a showstopper of a dish, with layers of texture and flavour, and pairs beautifully with all the usual Christmas sides like Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and roast potatoes.

6. Salmon en Croute

For a lighter but still luxurious alternative, salmon en croute is an elegant dish to serve at Christmas. The salmon, wrapped in buttery puff pastry along with spinach or a creamy dill sauce, makes for a sophisticated and delicious main. It's a particularly good option for those who may prefer seafood, and it offers a lovely contrast to the heavier, meatier choices. Pair it with new potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a crisp white wine for a refreshing festive meal.

7. Nut Roast

For a truly plant-based option, the nut roast has long been a staple of vegetarian and vegan Christmas dinners. Far from being bland or dry, modern recipes for nut roasts incorporate a wide variety of flavours and textures, including chestnuts, walnuts, mushrooms, lentils, and herbs. 

With the right seasoning, it can be an incredibly tasty alternative to a meat dish. Serve with vegan gravy, cranberry sauce, and all the usual Christmas trimmings.

8. Duck

Duck is another richly flavoured bird that can serve as a delightful alternative to turkey. Its dark, tender meat, combined with crispy skin, offers a more intense and luxurious taste. Whether you opt for a whole roast duck or duck breasts, it pairs beautifully with festive sauces like orange or cherry, and can be served with sides such as red cabbage, roasted carrots, and creamy mash.

9. Stuffed Squash

For those seeking a more unique vegetarian option, roasted stuffed squash makes for a visually striking and hearty main course. You can fill the squash with a mixture of grains, nuts, dried fruits, and herbs, then roast it until tender and caramelised. The combination of the naturally sweet squash and savoury stuffing creates a delicious balance of flavours that even meat-eaters will love.

10. Pork Loin

A roast pork loin, especially when stuffed with herbs, garlic, or even apples, can be a fantastic option for Christmas dinner. The crackling adds a delightful crunch, while the tender meat offers a satisfying alternative to turkey. Serve it with roasted root vegetables, apple sauce, and perhaps a sage and onion stuffing to keep the meal festive.

Choosing an alternative to turkey doesn’t mean compromising on tradition or flavour. Whether you opt for a rich roast beef, a succulent ham, or a creative vegetarian Wellington, there’s an abundance of options to suit every taste and preference. 

With a bit of creativity, your Christmas dinner can be just as special and memorable, giving you the perfect opportunity to try something new while still enjoying all the festive joy of a Christmas feast.

This year, why not break from tradition and surprise your guests with a new star of the show?