25+ Easy Holiday Dutch Oven Recipes to Warm Your Festive Table

The holiday season is a time for gathering, celebrating, and sharing meals that warm both the heart and soul.

The Dutch oven, with its versatility and ability to create perfectly tender and flavorful dishes, is a true kitchen hero during these festive times.

Whether you’re crafting hearty mains, indulgent desserts, or crowd-pleasing sides, a Dutch oven can help you deliver showstopping results with ease.

From savory roasts to spiced bread puddings, this curated collection of 25+ holiday Dutch oven recipes ensures that you’ll have the perfect dish for every moment of the season.

Let’s dive into these festive recipes that will make your holiday cooking joyful and stress-free.

25+ Easy Holiday Dutch Oven Recipes to Warm Your Festive Table

As the aroma of slow-cooked roasts, baked goods, and simmering sauces fills your home, the spirit of the holidays comes alive.

With these 25+ holiday Dutch oven recipes, you can create meals that not only satisfy the palate but also bring people together.

The Dutch oven’s ability to handle a variety of cooking techniques makes it an indispensable tool for your festive kitchen.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes are designed to inspire and delight.

Embrace the warmth and magic of the season by letting your Dutch oven take center stage in your holiday cooking adventures.

Festive Cranberry Orange Dutch Oven Bread

This Festive Cranberry Orange Bread combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright zest of orange, creating a vibrant, fruity loaf. Perfect for a holiday brunch or as a gift, this bread is as beautiful as it is delicious. The Dutch oven ensures a crusty exterior while maintaining a soft, moist crumb inside.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1 ¼ cups warm water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and yeast. Add cranberries and orange zest, mixing until evenly distributed.
2. Pour in warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 12–18 hours at room temperature.
3. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven with the lid in the oven for 30 minutes to preheat.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a ball. Let it rest for 20 minutes while the Dutch oven heats.
5. Carefully place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

This Festive Cranberry Orange Dutch Oven Bread is a stunning addition to your holiday table. The interplay of sweet and tart flavors with its rustic look makes it a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with honey butter or cream cheese for an extra touch of decadence.

Holiday Spiced Dutch Oven Pot Roast

Nothing says comfort food like a Holiday Spiced Dutch Oven Pot Roast. This savory dish, infused with cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of red wine, fills your home with holiday cheer as it simmers. Perfect for family gatherings, it’s a centerpiece that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying to eat.

Ingredients:

• 3–4 lb (1.5–2 kg) beef chuck roast
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Season the roast with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the Dutch oven. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in beef broth, red wine, cinnamon, and cloves. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
4. Return the roast to the pot and add thyme sprigs. Bring to a simmer, then cover and transfer to a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven.
5. Cook for 3–4 hours, turning the roast halfway through, until it is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.

The Holiday Spiced Dutch Oven Pot Roast is a show-stopping dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your holiday meals. The aromatic spices elevate this classic comfort food into something truly special, perfect for a festive feast.

Dutch Oven Holiday Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread

Indulge your sweet tooth with this Holiday Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread. Soft, gooey, and dripping with a sugary glaze, this bread is a fun, shareable treat for breakfast or dessert. Made in a Dutch oven, it bakes evenly, ensuring a golden crust and fluffy interior.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups bread flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for dipping)

Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Gradually add warm milk and melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
2. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Divide dough into small balls, dip each ball in melted butter, and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
3. Arrange coated balls in a greased Dutch oven. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and puffed.
5. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze. Drizzle over warm bread before serving.

This Dutch Oven Holiday Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is a delightful way to end a meal or start a holiday morning. Its sweet, spiced flavors and soft texture are irresistible. Perfect for sharing, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Dutch Oven Herb-Stuffed Whole Chicken

A perfectly roasted Dutch Oven Herb-Stuffed Whole Chicken is a showstopper at any holiday dinner. Infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus, this chicken is juicy, tender, and loaded with flavor. The Dutch oven ensures even cooking and locks in moisture, making every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, halved
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 sprigs rosemary
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 2 sprigs sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper inside and out.
2. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and sage.
3. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chicken on all sides until golden, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken and add onion, carrots, and celery to the Dutch oven. Place the chicken on top of the vegetables.
5. Cover and roast in the oven for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables and pan juices.

The Dutch Oven Herb-Stuffed Whole Chicken is a centerpiece worthy of your holiday table. Its savory, herbaceous flavors and tender texture will leave your guests raving long after the meal is over.

Dutch Oven Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes

Elevate your holiday side dish game with Dutch Oven Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes. This dish combines tender sweet potatoes, rich maple syrup, and crunchy pecans for a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Easy to prepare and stunning to present, it’s a must-have for holiday feasts.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add sweet potato slices, arranging them in an overlapping pattern. Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
3. Drizzle with maple syrup and cover. Bake for 45 minutes, basting occasionally with the juices.
4. Remove the lid, sprinkle with pecans, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the pecans are toasted and the sweet potatoes are caramelized.
5. Serve warm, garnished with extra pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

The Dutch Oven Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes bring a comforting sweetness to your holiday meal. Their rich flavors and beautiful presentation make them a standout side dish everyone will love.

Dutch Oven Holiday Mulled Wine

Warm up your gatherings with Dutch Oven Holiday Mulled Wine. This aromatic drink combines red wine, spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetness for a cozy, festive beverage. Perfect for holiday parties or a quiet night by the fire, it’s a tradition you’ll want to keep.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise pods
• ¼ cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup brandy (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a Dutch oven over medium-low heat.
2. Heat gently until steaming, but do not let the wine boil. Simmer for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
4. Remove from heat and strain if desired. Serve warm in mugs or heatproof glasses, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.

The Dutch Oven Holiday Mulled Wine is a festive way to toast the season. Its fragrant spices and comforting warmth make it an instant holiday favorite, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Dutch Oven Rosemary and Garlic Dinner Rolls

These Dutch Oven Rosemary and Garlic Dinner Rolls are the ultimate accompaniment to your holiday spread. Fluffy and aromatic, these rolls combine the earthy flavor of rosemary with the savory notes of garlic, making them perfect for soaking up sauces and gravies or enjoying on their own.

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups bread flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary (plus more for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Stir in warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball.
4. Grease a Dutch oven and arrange the dough balls inside, leaving space for them to rise. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic and rosemary.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.

These Dutch Oven Rosemary and Garlic Dinner Rolls are an elegant addition to any holiday table. Their golden crust and fragrant interior will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Dutch Oven Holiday Beef Stew with Red Wine

A hearty Holiday Beef Stew with Red Wine is the ultimate winter warmer. Packed with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this stew is made even better with the deep, bold notes of red wine. Cooked in a Dutch oven, it’s a comforting dish perfect for festive evenings.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and brown the beef on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the Dutch oven, sautéing until softened. Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any browned bits.
3. Return the beef to the pot and add broth, carrots, potatoes, mushrooms, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cover and transfer to a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven. Cook for 2 ½ to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
5. Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving.

This Dutch Oven Holiday Beef Stew with Red Wine is a rich, soul-warming dish that encapsulates the coziness of the holiday season. Pair it with crusty bread for a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Dutch Oven Holiday Apple Cinnamon Cobbler

End your holiday meal on a sweet note with this Dutch Oven Holiday Apple Cinnamon Cobbler. Packed with spiced apples and topped with a golden, buttery crust, this dessert is a nostalgic treat that fills your home with the irresistible scent of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples, peeled and sliced
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for topping)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
• ½ cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Transfer to a greased Dutch oven.
2. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk to form a soft dough.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the dough over the apples. Sprinkle with a tablespoon of sugar for a crisp topping.
4. Cover and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
5. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

The Dutch Oven Holiday Apple Cinnamon Cobbler is a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Its warm, spiced flavors and tender apples make it the perfect ending to a festive meal.

Dutch Oven Cranberry Glazed Ham

A Dutch Oven Cranberry Glazed Ham is a holiday classic with a tangy-sweet twist. This recipe combines juicy ham with a luscious cranberry glaze that adds a burst of seasonal flavor. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is as stunning as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6–8 lbs)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• ½ cup orange juice
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham in a large Dutch oven.
2. In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, mustard, and ground cloves. Heat over medium heat until smooth and bubbly.
3. Brush half the glaze over the ham, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover with the Dutch oven lid.
4. Bake for 2–2 ½ hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
5. Remove the lid during the last 20 minutes for a caramelized finish. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

The Dutch Oven Cranberry Glazed Ham is a showstopping centerpiece that brings festive flair to your holiday table. The juicy ham and tangy glaze are a crowd-pleasing combination that will have your guests asking for seconds.

Dutch Oven Holiday Vegetable Pot Pie

This Dutch Oven Holiday Vegetable Pot Pie is a cozy, vegetarian-friendly dish that’s perfect for the season. Packed with roasted vegetables in a creamy herb sauce and topped with a flaky, golden crust, it’s a hearty main course or side dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup peas
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
2. Stir in potatoes, carrots, peas, and green beans. Cook for 5 minutes. Add broth, cream, and thyme, and simmer for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
3. Roll out the puff pastry and place it over the Dutch oven. Trim any excess and seal the edges. Brush with beaten egg.
4. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

The Dutch Oven Holiday Vegetable Pot Pie is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy holiday dinners. Its creamy filling and flaky crust make it a satisfying addition to your festive menu.

Dutch Oven Gingerbread Cake

Indulge your sweet tooth with a Dutch Oven Gingerbread Cake, a dessert that captures the essence of the holidays. Spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, this moist cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 cup molasses
• 1 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the Dutch oven and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and molasses. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with hot water.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.

The Dutch Oven Gingerbread Cake is a warm, spiced dessert that brings a taste of holiday nostalgia to the table. Its tender crumb and festive flavors make it the perfect ending to your holiday feast.

Dutch Oven Holiday Herb-Stuffed Turkey Breast

For a smaller holiday gathering, this Dutch Oven Holiday Herb-Stuffed Turkey Breast is a perfect alternative to a full-sized bird. Juicy, tender, and filled with a fragrant herb stuffing, it’s an elegant dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 large turkey breast, butterflied (about 3–4 lbs)
• 2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt butter in a skillet and sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add breadcrumbs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
2. Spread the stuffing over the butterflied turkey breast. Roll it up tightly and secure with kitchen twine.
3. Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and sear the turkey roll on all sides until golden brown. Pour in chicken broth.
4. Cover and bake for 1 ½ hours, basting occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

The Dutch Oven Holiday Herb-Stuffed Turkey Breast is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s ideal for intimate gatherings. Its tender meat and aromatic stuffing will impress your guests and make your holiday meal unforgettable.

Dutch Oven Mulled Wine Pot Roast

This Dutch Oven Mulled Wine Pot Roast is a fusion of two holiday favorites: a classic pot roast and the warming spices of mulled wine. With tender beef, rich flavors, and a fragrant sauce, this dish is a true celebration of the season.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs (1.4 kg) beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 2 star anise
• 3 large carrots, cut into chunks
• 2 parsnips, cut into chunks
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the beef with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze with red wine, scraping up browned bits.
3. Add beef broth, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
4. Cover and bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours, adding carrots and parsnips for the last hour of cooking.
5. Remove spices before serving.

The Dutch Oven Mulled Wine Pot Roast is a bold, flavorful dish that captures the cozy essence of the holidays. The tender beef and spiced wine sauce create a meal your guests will savor.

Dutch Oven Spiced Pear and Walnut Bread Pudding

End your holiday meal with this Dutch Oven Spiced Pear and Walnut Bread Pudding. Soft cubes of bread are baked with sweet pears, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices in a creamy custard, making this dessert a comforting and indulgent holiday treat.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups day-old bread cubes
• 3 ripe pears, peeled and diced
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter for greasing

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the Dutch oven with butter.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, pears, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Transfer to the Dutch oven.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing gently to ensure even absorption.
4. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top.
5. Serve warm with whipped cream or caramel sauce.

The Dutch Oven Spiced Pear and Walnut Bread Pudding is the ultimate holiday dessert, combining nostalgic flavors with a luxurious texture. It’s sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!