The holidays can get so busy, but that’s exactly why I love 10+ Giada’s Easy Make-Ahead Christmas Recipes. They’re packed with cozy, festive flavors like sweet maple butter, cheesy baked pasta, and hearty roasted veggies. Each dish feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with friends and family around the table.
What’s even better is how easy these recipes are to prep in advance. From creamy overnight oats for busy mornings to a comforting strata for brunch, there’s something for every moment. Pair them with your favorite sides, and you’re all set for a stress-free holiday season!
1. Giada Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Maple Brown Butter
These soft, fluffy sweet potato gnocchi are like little bites of holiday comfort. Tossed in a buttery maple sauce with crispy sage, they’re sweet, savory, and perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends.
Make them ahead and freeze for easy prep on Christmas day. Pair with roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a meal that feels fancy but is super simple!
2. Giada Sticky Baked Chicken Wings Recipe
These sticky baked wings are a crowd-pleaser with their sweet, spicy, and tangy glaze. The mix of honey, lime, and chili gives them a finger-licking, bold flavor that’s great for any holiday party.
Bake them ahead of time, reheat, and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Perfect for sharing, these wings are always a hit!
3. Giada Slow-Cooker Saffron Rice with Chicken Sausage
This slow-cooker saffron rice is packed with flavor and so easy to make. Tender chicken sausage, fresh veggies, and warm spices come together in a hearty, colorful dish that’s perfect for Christmas dinner.
Prep it in the morning and let it cook while you relax! Serve as a main dish or alongside roasted meats for a festive, stress-free meal.
4. Giada Make-Ahead Cioppino
Warm up your holiday table with a seafood stew bursting with fresh flavors. The tomato broth, simmered with fennel and white wine, perfectly complements the clams, mussels, shrimp, and salmon for a festive dinner centerpiece.
Get a head start by prepping the broth in advance, so all that’s left is adding the seafood when you’re ready to serve. It’s a cozy, elegant dish for Christmas Eve or any winter gathering.
5. Giada Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables
Layers of roasted veggies, gooey cheese, and pasta baked to perfection make this dish a holiday favorite. The combination of marinara sauce and smoky mozzarella brings a comforting, homemade vibe to every bite.
Assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven before dinner. Pair with a crisp salad or garlic bread for an easy, crowd-pleasing main course.
6. Giada Sausage, Spinach, and Apple Strata
A hearty mix of savory sausage, sweet apples, and melty cheese creates the ultimate breakfast casserole. Every layer is packed with flavor, from tender bread cubes to the creamy egg custard.
Prep it the night before, so all you need to do is bake and serve. Add coffee and fruit for a holiday brunch everyone will love.
7. Giada Overnight Oats
Oats and chia seeds soak up almond milk overnight, transforming into a creamy, ready-to-go breakfast. Topped with fruit and crunchy almonds, it’s a fresh, healthy start to your day.
Perfect for busy mornings or casual holiday breakfasts, you can customize it with your favorite seasonal toppings, like cranberries or pears.
8. Giada Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole
Golden, cinnamon-sugar-topped French toast casserole is a holiday breakfast dream come true. Blueberries add a burst of sweetness, while a hint of lemon zest keeps it light and fresh.
Prepare it the night before for an effortless morning bake. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, and watch it disappear in no time!
9. Giada Big Batch Roasted Veggies
A mix of broccoli, cauliflower, squash, and more makes these roasted veggies an easy favorite. Each piece turns caramelized and golden, with tender centers and crispy edges—a perfect addition to your holiday table.
Roast ahead and reheat, or serve at room temperature. These versatile veggies pair wonderfully with any main dish or can shine as a healthy, crowd-pleasing side.
10. Giada De Laurentiis Arancini Di Riso
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these Italian rice balls are pure comfort food. Stuffed with mozzarella and coated in golden breadcrumbs, each bite is a cheesy delight.
Make a batch ahead and fry them fresh before serving as an appetizer or snack. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
11. Giada Broiled Salmon and Fennel Salad
Flaky broiled salmon tops a refreshing salad of arugula, fennel, and basil. A tangy Dijon dressing ties it all together, creating a light yet satisfying dish.
This salad is easy to prep in advance—just assemble before serving. It’s a vibrant, elegant choice for holiday lunches or dinner starters.
