As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a feast fit for the occasion.
New Year’s is a time for gatherings, new beginnings, and of course, delicious food!
If you’re looking to make your holiday table truly special, these 25+ meat recipes are designed to impress and satisfy.
From classic roasts to unique, flavor-packed creations, this collection offers something for everyone, whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a cozy family dinner.
These recipes bring a variety of flavors and cooking styles to the table—from succulent braised ribs and herb-crusted lamb to tangy orange-glazed duck.
Each dish is crafted to offer bold flavors, unforgettable aromas, and that wow-factor perfect for ringing in the new year.
So get ready to explore a feast of flavors and find the ideal recipe that will make your New Year’s celebration an unforgettable one.
25+ Delicious New Year’s Meat Recipes to Wow Your Guests
With these 25+ meat recipes, you’ll have all you need to create a New Year’s feast that’s unforgettable.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for close family or hosting a festive gathering, each recipe here brings something unique and delicious to the table.
As you savor the bold flavors and beautiful presentations, you’ll be setting the stage for a year filled with warmth, joy, and memorable meals.
Embrace the spirit of celebration and indulge in these crowd-pleasing dishes that capture the essence of the holiday season.
Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast
This Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast is a showstopper that guarantees a memorable New Year’s feast. The crusty, flavorful herbs combined with the juiciness of the rib make for a mouthwatering experience. Perfectly seasoned, this prime rib roast brings out the natural flavors of the meat while adding a touch of sophistication to your celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 (5-pound) bone-in prime rib roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a rack in the center of the oven.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper to create a herb paste.
- Pat the prime rib roast dry with paper towels. Rub the herb paste all over the surface of the roast.
- Place the roast on a roasting pan, bone-side down. Roast in the oven at 450°F for 20 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Remove from the oven and let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
This prime rib roast is tender, juicy, and packed with herby flavors that’ll satisfy any crowd. Slice and serve with your favorite sides for a truly festive and impressive New Year’s dinner.
Sticky Honey-Glazed Ribs
Sticky Honey-Glazed Ribs are the ultimate indulgence to ring in the New Year with a touch of sweetness and spice. The honey glaze adds a delicious caramelized layer on top of tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, making it a finger-licking dish that’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs
- 1 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Season the ribs with salt and pepper and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cover the ribs with foil and bake for 2.5 hours until tender.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and ginger. Simmer until thickened, about 5–10 minutes.
- Remove the ribs from the oven and brush them generously with the honey glaze.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and return the ribs to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes or until caramelized and sticky.
These Sticky Honey-Glazed Ribs offer a mix of sweetness and tanginess that balances beautifully with the tender meat. Each bite is packed with flavor, making this dish a must-have for New Year’s celebrations.
Garlic and Herb Lamb Chops
Garlic and Herb Lamb Chops bring an elegant twist to the New Year’s table with their rich, succulent flavor profile. The tender lamb, seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, will have guests savoring every bite. These lamb chops are simple to prepare but full of bold, aromatic flavors.
Ingredients:
- 8 lamb chops
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb chops and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the lamb chops for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
- Remove from heat and let the chops rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
These Garlic and Herb Lamb Chops are perfect for a cozy yet festive New Year’s meal. The fresh herbs and garlic enhance the lamb’s natural flavors, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
Spiced Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Sauce
Spiced Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Sauce is a luxurious way to kick off the New Year. The tenderloin is seasoned with a warm blend of spices and cooked to perfection, then served with a rich, velvety red wine sauce that elevates its flavors to new heights. This dish is perfect for a special dinner, adding elegance and depth to your New Year’s spread.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-pound) beef tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix coriander, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Rub this spice mixture all over the beef tenderloin.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the tenderloin on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the tenderloin to a roasting pan and roast in the oven for about 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- Meanwhile, in the skillet, sauté shallots until softened. Add red wine and beef broth, simmering until reduced by half. Stir in the butter.
- Remove the tenderloin from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve with the red wine sauce.
This spiced beef tenderloin is tender, flavorful, and decadent, making it a fitting centerpiece for your New Year’s meal. The red wine sauce adds a luxurious touch, leaving guests craving more.
Moroccan Lamb Tagine
Moroccan Lamb Tagine is a fragrant and warming dish that adds an exotic twist to New Year’s celebrations. Slow-cooked with aromatic spices, apricots, and chickpeas, this dish combines tender lamb with a complex blend of flavors. The result is a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth stew that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds lamb shoulder, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup dried apricots
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or tagine over medium heat. Sear the lamb cubes until browned.
- Add onions and garlic to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Add apricots, chickpeas, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the lamb is tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over couscous or rice.
This Moroccan Lamb Tagine is rich in spices and textures, delivering a comforting and unique taste. Perfect for a New Year’s gathering, it provides a taste of adventure to start the year on an exciting note.
Balsamic-Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Balsamic-Glazed Pork Tenderloin is an elegant yet simple dish that’s ideal for ringing in the New Year. The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy note to the tender, juicy pork, creating a beautifully caramelized crust. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced and festive meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1.5-pound) pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until browned.
- In a small bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and rosemary. Pour this glaze over the pork in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice and drizzle with any remaining glaze from the pan.
This Balsamic-Glazed Pork Tenderloin is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The glaze brings a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a flavorful and sophisticated option for your New Year’s celebration.
Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is a traditional and crowd-pleasing centerpiece for New Year’s gatherings. The sweet and tangy glaze forms a beautiful caramelized crust on the outside, while keeping the ham moist and flavorful on the inside. This recipe is easy to prepare and serves a large group, making it perfect for holiday festivities.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8–10 pound) fully cooked ham
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and cloves until smooth.
- Brush half of the glaze mixture over the ham, covering it evenly.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 1.5 hours.
- Remove the foil, brush the ham with the remaining glaze, and continue to bake for another 30 minutes, or until caramelized and golden.
- Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
This Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is sweet, savory, and tender, creating a delicious main course for New Year’s celebrations. The glaze adds a burst of flavor that complements the ham beautifully, making it an irresistible dish for your guests.
Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is a luxurious and impressive dish that’s perfect for special occasions like New Year’s. This classic recipe features tender beef tenderloin wrapped in savory mushroom duxelles, prosciutto, and a flaky puff pastry crust. Each slice reveals beautifully layered flavors and textures that are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 (2-pound) beef tenderloin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 pound mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 6 slices prosciutto
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. Sear it in olive oil over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Let it cool.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and cook the mushrooms with thyme until all moisture is evaporated. Set aside to cool.
- Lay out prosciutto slices on a piece of plastic wrap, overlapping slightly. Spread the mushroom mixture over the prosciutto.
- Place the beef tenderloin on top and roll it up tightly using the plastic wrap. Chill for 15 minutes.
- Roll out the puff pastry, then wrap it around the beef, sealing the edges with beaten egg.
- Place the wrapped beef on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 40–45 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Beef Wellington is the epitome of elegance, with a buttery, flaky crust encasing juicy, flavorful beef. This dish is a perfect choice for an indulgent New Year’s meal that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Cajun-Spiced Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Cajun-Spiced Grilled Shrimp Skewers bring a bit of spice and bold flavor to your New Year’s party. These shrimp skewers are coated in a zesty Cajun seasoning that complements their natural sweetness. Grilled to perfection, these shrimp are juicy, smoky, and perfect for an appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers, about 4–5 shrimp per skewer.
- Grill the skewers for 2–3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Remove from the grill and garnish with parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.
These Cajun-Spiced Grilled Shrimp Skewers are quick to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors. The hint of spice paired with the freshness of lemon makes each bite irresistible, making these shrimp skewers a hit at any New Year’s celebration.
Braised Short Ribs in Red Wine
Braised Short Ribs in Red Wine is a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for an indulgent New Year’s dinner. The short ribs are slowly braised in a red wine sauce with aromatic herbs and vegetables, resulting in tender, fall-apart meat infused with deep flavors. This dish is hearty, elegant, and ideal for a cozy holiday meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups red wine
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Pour in red wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, then add beef broth, rosemary, and thyme.
- Return the ribs to the pot, cover, and braise in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender.
- Remove from the oven, skim any excess fat, and serve with the rich sauce.
Braised Short Ribs in Red Wine are melt-in-your-mouth delicious with a sauce that’s rich and flavorful. This hearty, comforting dish is sure to make your New Year’s dinner unforgettable, perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Pomegranate-Glazed Duck Breast
Pomegranate-Glazed Duck Breast brings a festive flair to your New Year’s menu with its combination of succulent duck and tangy-sweet pomegranate glaze. The slightly crispy skin and juicy interior make this dish elegant and flavorful, while the pomegranate glaze adds a beautiful color and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 4 duck breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Score the skin of the duck breasts in a crosshatch pattern, season with salt and pepper.
- Place the duck breasts skin-side down in a cold skillet. Heat over medium heat and cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5 minutes.
- Flip the duck and sear the other side for 2 minutes, then transfer to the oven and roast for 6–8 minutes, until medium-rare.
- In a saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, and rosemary. Simmer until reduced and thickened.
- Remove duck from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, slice, and drizzle with the pomegranate glaze. Garnish with pomegranate seeds.
Pomegranate-Glazed Duck Breast is juicy and flavorful, with a beautifully crispy skin and a sweet-tart glaze that makes each bite burst with flavor. This dish adds sophistication to your New Year’s celebration and is sure to impress your guests.
Garlic Rosemary Roasted Leg of Lamb
Garlic Rosemary Roasted Leg of Lamb is a classic choice for a celebratory meal, combining tender, juicy lamb with aromatic garlic and rosemary. This dish is easy to prepare yet feels special, perfect for creating a festive atmosphere for New Year’s. Each slice of this lamb roast is flavorful and satisfying, making it a memorable main course.
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-5 pound) leg of lamb, bone-in
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix garlic, rosemary, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade all over the leg of lamb, covering it thoroughly.
- Place the lamb on a roasting rack and roast in the oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
- Remove from the oven, cover with foil, and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
This Garlic Rosemary Roasted Leg of Lamb is packed with savory flavors from the garlic and herbs, and the roasting process creates a tender, juicy interior. This dish is both impressive and comforting, making it a wonderful centerpiece for a New Year’s celebration that your guests will love.
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is an elegant dish that brings a gourmet touch to your New Year’s celebration. The rack is coated with a flavorful blend of herbs and breadcrumbs, creating a crispy crust that complements the tender and juicy lamb inside. This sophisticated recipe is a show-stopping main course for any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of lamb (about 2 pounds each), trimmed
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the racks of lamb with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the lamb racks until browned on all sides. Remove from heat.
- Brush each lamb rack with Dijon mustard, then press the herb mixture onto the lamb to create a crust.
- Place the lamb on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice into individual chops.
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is tender and flavorful, with a crispy and aromatic crust. This dish is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it a memorable main course that’s sure to impress at any New Year’s table.
Maple-Glazed Roast Pork Loin
Maple-Glazed Roast Pork Loin is a cozy and flavorful dish perfect for New Year’s. The maple glaze, combined with Dijon mustard and fresh herbs, adds a sweet and savory touch that caramelizes beautifully on the pork. The result is a juicy, flavorful roast that’s easy to prepare and ideal for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-pound) pork loin roast
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to make the glaze.
- Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and brush half of the glaze over the pork.
- Roast in the oven for about 1 hour, brushing with the remaining glaze halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Maple-Glazed Roast Pork Loin is succulent and full of flavor, with a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes. The maple glaze creates a beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and moist. This dish is sure to be a hit for any New Year’s celebration.
Orange and Ginger Glazed Duck
Orange and Ginger Glazed Duck is a beautifully fragrant and flavorful dish that brings a touch of the exotic to your New Year’s menu. The combination of orange and ginger creates a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy glaze that complements the rich flavor of duck. This recipe is perfect for adding a sophisticated and unique flair to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 2 whole duck breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Fresh orange slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Score the skin of each duck breast in a crisscross pattern, then season with salt and pepper.
- Place the duck breasts skin-side down in a cold skillet. Cook over medium heat until the skin is crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
- Flip the duck breasts and sear the other side for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to the oven and roast for 6–8 minutes, until medium-rare.
- In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and orange zest. Simmer until the glaze is slightly thickened.
- Remove the duck from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and drizzle with the orange ginger glaze. Garnish with orange slices.
Orange and Ginger Glazed Duck offers a vibrant and refreshing flavor, with crispy skin and a juicy interior. The glaze adds a sweet and tangy note that perfectly complements the richness of the duck, making it a stunning and flavorful addition to your New Year’s feast.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!