4 Tasty Meat Alternatives to Serve Instead of Christmas Turkey

Christmas dinner doesn’t always have to be about the traditional roasted turkey. Whether you’re looking for something a little different this year, cooking for a smaller group, or just want to change the flavor profile of your holiday meal, there are plenty of great alternatives that are just as festive and satisfying.

From tender roasts to hearty vegetarian options, these four meat alternatives can easily take the spotlight on your holiday table without sacrificing taste or tradition.

1. Glazed Baked Ham

Baked ham is a popular centerpiece at many holiday tables, and it’s one of the most reliable replacements for Christmas turkey. It’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

What makes ham special is the glaze. Whether you go with a classic honey-mustard glaze, maple and brown sugar, or even something bold like pineapple and clove, a well-glazed ham turns beautifully caramelized in the oven and fills your kitchen with holiday aromas.

Why it’s a great alternative:

Easier and faster to cook than turkey
Less prone to drying out
Leftovers are excellent for sandwiches or breakfast dishes

Tip: Choose a bone-in ham for more flavor and moisture. Let it rest before carving to keep all the juices inside.

2. Beef Wellington

If you want to impress your guests with something elegant, Beef Wellington is a showstopper. This dish wraps a tender beef filet in a layer of mushroom duxelles and puff pastry, creating a crisp, golden crust with juicy meat inside.

Though it’s a bit more advanced than turkey or ham, the effort pays off. The flavors are rich and decadent, making it perfect for a special celebration like Christmas dinner.

Why it’s worth the effort:

Delivers fine-dining presentation
Rich, savory flavor for meat lovers
Looks beautiful as a centerpiece

Tip: Let the Wellington rest after baking to avoid slicing into a soggy crust. Serve with red wine sauce or a creamy horseradish for extra flair.

3. Stuffed Butternut Squash (Vegetarian Option)

For families with vegetarians or anyone looking to cut back on meat, a stuffed butternut squash makes a delicious and beautiful main course. Roasted squash halves are filled with grains like quinoa or wild rice, nuts, cranberries, spinach, and herbs. The result is a dish that’s warm, hearty, and full of texture.

This option is both healthy and festive, offering all the flavors of the season without relying on meat.

Why it’s a standout vegetarian dish:

Colorful and full of holiday flavor
Customizable with seasonal veggies and spices
Can be made ahead and warmed up easily

Tip: Top with a drizzle of maple glaze or crumbled feta to enhance flavor and finish the dish with visual appeal.

4. Roast Duck with Orange Glaze

Duck is rich, flavorful, and feels luxurious—ideal for holiday meals where you want something different from the usual poultry. A roast duck with crispy skin and a sweet-savory orange glaze offers a unique twist on the traditional Christmas roast.

Duck has a stronger taste than chicken or turkey, which makes it ideal for those who enjoy bolder flavors. The fat from duck also renders down beautifully, helping keep the meat moist during roasting.

Why roast duck deserves a place at your table:

Crispy skin and juicy meat create a rich bite
Pairs well with festive sauces like orange or cherry
Great option for smaller gatherings

Tip: Score the duck skin to help the fat render and get the skin crisp. Save the extra duck fat for roasting vegetables later—it’s liquid gold.

Final Thoughts: Create Your Own Christmas Tradition

Changing up your Christmas dinner doesn’t mean losing the warmth or tradition of the holiday. Whether you go with a classic baked ham, impressive beef Wellington, a vegetarian centerpiece like stuffed squash, or an elegant roast duck, what matters is bringing people together to share a meaningful and delicious meal.

Try one of these four turkey alternatives this year, and you might just start a new holiday tradition your guests look forward to every December.