Christmas Dinner

My friend Jenny emailed me yesterday looking for a dinner idea for two people on Christmas.  I think whether you are cooking for two or twenty you should keep dinner as simple as possible so you can enjoy your time with family.  At the Minch house we usually had Prime Rib.  (My Dad is not a turkey fan and I don't love ham)  This year at the Buechel house I was going to make a Prime Rib but found that a Beef Tenderloin was more economical.  (You can also buy a smaller cut, since there is not much fat waste.)  Here is what we are having in the order I am preparing it, maybe it will help someone else out! 

Hors d' oeuvres (I don't think you need much here, you've been snacking all day)

Bake Brie 

I will make this tonight and put it in the freezer, just let it thaw before you bake.  This recipe has apple and brown sugar, I am substituting dried cranberries for the center.

We will also have a simple cheese and crackers tray.

Main Course

Cranberry Sauce

I will also make these tonight and keep in the refrigerator.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes 

These I will prepare Christmas afternoon, while people are napping and bake before dinner!  I am adding carrots.  

Mashed Potatoes

My sort of Aunt Judy's are the best.  These will also need to be made Christmas day.

Beef Tenderloin

For this it need to marinade 6 hours, so after the presents are open, go in the kitchen to marinade this quick.

Garlic Knots

These are always a hit and quick to make.  If you have kids around let them do it!  

Desert

Pumpkin Cheesecake

What else would we have, it is Matt's favorite!  I am also making this tonight.  Although I did tell Jenny to buy one of those Mrs. Smith's dutch apple pies, they are my favorite!

Have a Merry Christmas!