25+ Delicious Holiday Paleo Affordable Recipes That Won’t Break the Bank

The holiday season is a time for celebration, sharing, and creating lasting memories with loved ones.

But with so many holiday meals, treats, and gatherings, it’s easy to find yourself overwhelmed—not just with the festivities, but with the cost of ingredients and meals.

If you’re following a paleo lifestyle, finding budget-friendly recipes that are both nutritious and delicious can be a challenge.

That’s why we’ve curated a list of 25+ holiday paleo recipes that are affordable, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.

From hearty mains and delicious sides to light breakfasts and indulgent desserts, these recipes will keep your holiday table abundant without stretching your budget.

Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or just looking for some healthy and tasty treats to enjoy throughout the season, these recipes are sure to please both paleo enthusiasts and those simply looking for a wholesome twist on classic holiday fare.

Get ready to elevate your holiday celebrations with dishes that are as kind to your wallet as they are to your taste buds.

25+ Delicious Holiday Paleo Affordable Recipes That Won’t Break the Bank

Celebrating the holidays should be a joyous time filled with good food, laughter, and the company of friends and family.

With these 25+ holiday paleo recipes, you can keep your celebrations both affordable and delicious.

Whether you’re serving up a show-stopping main course, a vibrant side dish, or a decadent dessert, these recipes are sure to impress without breaking the bank.

By choosing nutrient-dense ingredients and incorporating simple cooking techniques, you can enjoy flavorful dishes that align with your dietary goals while embracing the holiday spirit.

Let these recipes inspire your holiday menu and make this season one to remember, with food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

Holiday Roasted Garlic Herb Turkey Breast

This roasted turkey breast recipe is perfect for a holiday meal that feels special without breaking the bank. Seasoned with a blend of garlic, rosemary, thyme, and a touch of lemon, this dish is a flavorful, juicy centerpiece that will please any crowd. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s an ideal way to enjoy the holiday spirit.

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 3-4 lbs)
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 lemon, halved
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in the middle of the oven.
2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil evenly over the skin.
3. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s well-coated.
5. Squeeze the lemon halves over the turkey and place them on the roasting pan alongside it.
6. Roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the breast.
7. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Roasting a turkey breast with herbs and garlic creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your home with holiday cheer. This simple dish is satisfying and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it an ideal option for an affordable, stress-free holiday meal.

Paleo Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham

This paleo-friendly ham recipe features a tangy-sweet cranberry orange glaze that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s a cost-effective dish that feels elegant and festive while staying in line with paleo principles.

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 3-4 lbs)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 orange, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Place the ham in the prepared dish. Score the surface with a sharp knife in a diamond pattern for better glaze coverage.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice and zest, honey, coconut aminos, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Spoon the cranberry orange glaze over the ham, ensuring it covers all exposed areas.
5. Bake for 1.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until the ham is heated through and caramelized.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

This cranberry orange glazed ham is a show-stopping dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to your holiday table. The combination of tangy cranberries and sweet honey brings out the best in the ham, making it a crowd-pleaser for any holiday gathering.

Paleo Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

This sweet potato casserole is a holiday staple that’s paleo-friendly and budget-conscious. With creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan and coconut mixture, this dish provides a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. It’s an ideal side dish that can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Topping:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
2. Boil sweet potato cubes in a pot of salted water for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
3. Add coconut milk, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and combined. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
4. For the topping, mix the pecans, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, and honey in a bowl until well coated. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

This paleo sweet potato casserole is an affordable yet impressive side dish that adds a touch of sweetness and warmth to your holiday meal. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and the crunchy pecan topping provides layers of flavor and texture that everyone will enjoy.

Paleo Herb and Citrus Stuffed Chicken

This herb and citrus stuffed chicken recipe is a simple, elegant option for your holiday table. Juicy, tender chicken infused with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs makes this dish flavorful and festive, perfect for a holiday gathering without a hefty price tag.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
• 2 lemons, quartered
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a roasting pan with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the entire surface with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters, onion, garlic, and a mix of thyme, rosemary, and parsley.
4. Place the chicken in the roasting pan and tuck the wing tips under the body to prevent burning.
5. Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken.
6. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional lemon wedges and garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

The combination of citrus and fresh herbs elevates this chicken recipe, creating a bright, aromatic dish that pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a special holiday meal that feels indulgent without the fuss.

Paleo Pumpkin Pie Bites

These paleo pumpkin pie bites are a delightful treat to satisfy your holiday sweet cravings without compromising your dietary preferences. With a rich pumpkin filling and a coconut flour crust, they’re perfect for serving as a light dessert or afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 cup coconut flour
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1-2 tbsp water (as needed)

For the filling:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and salt. Add water one tablespoon at a time until the dough holds together but isn’t too sticky.
3. Press the dough evenly into the mini muffin tin to form crusts. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and egg until smooth.
5. Pour the pumpkin filling into each crust, filling to about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops start to look slightly puffed.
7. Let cool before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of coconut cream, if desired.

These pumpkin pie bites are a festive treat that’s both sweet and satisfying. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family at holiday gatherings or as a simple yet elegant after-dinner dessert. The use of coconut flour and real pumpkin ensures they remain paleo-friendly and full of flavor.

Paleo Spiced Carrots with Maple Glaze

This side dish of spiced carrots with a maple glaze is a holiday favorite that brings a sweet and savory element to your meal. The natural sweetness of carrots pairs beautifully with warm cinnamon, a hint of nutmeg, and a maple glaze that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
• 2 tbsp coconut oil or ghee, melted
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrot sticks with melted coconut oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme for a touch of color and flavor.

These spiced carrots with maple glaze offer a simple, flavorful side dish that brings seasonal warmth and sweetness to your holiday table. Easy to make and full of flavor, they pair perfectly with the more substantial main dishes and add a festive touch without stretching your budget.

Paleo Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

This garlic butter shrimp scampi is a holiday-worthy dish that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Made with a zesty lemon and herb blend, it’s perfect as an elegant main course or a side dish that will impress your guests without requiring expensive ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp grass-fed butter or ghee
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: lemon wedges and extra parsley

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
4. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, lemon juice, and zest. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

This garlic butter shrimp scampi is a luxurious dish that elevates any holiday meal without being overly complicated. The lemon and herbs bring freshness that perfectly balances the rich, buttery flavor of the shrimp. Serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad for a well-rounded paleo holiday meal.

Paleo Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Walnuts

This dish of Brussels sprouts with cranberries and walnuts is a colorful, nutrient-rich side that brings a mix of savory, sweet, and crunchy flavors. The addition of cranberries provides a festive touch, while the walnuts add texture and healthy fats.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries (sugar-free if possible)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• Optional: drizzle of honey for extra sweetness

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender.
4. Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Stir in cranberries and toasted walnuts.
5. If desired, drizzle a small amount of honey over the top for a hint of extra sweetness.

This dish is a perfect blend of seasonal flavors that add a touch of holiday cheer to your table. The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts is balanced with the sweet and tangy cranberries and the rich crunch of walnuts. It’s simple to make and pairs well with main courses like roasted turkey or glazed ham.

Paleo Maple Glazed Salmon with Dill

This maple glazed salmon recipe is an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for holiday celebrations. The combination of sweet maple syrup and fresh dill creates a flavorful glaze that enhances the natural richness of the salmon.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (skin on)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the maple glaze generously over each salmon fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon slices and an extra sprinkle of fresh dill if desired.

This maple glazed salmon is a standout dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors, combined with the fragrant dill, makes it an excellent choice for a holiday main course that won’t break the bank. It pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or a simple cauliflower mash.

Paleo Sweet Potato and Sausage Stuffing

This sweet potato and sausage stuffing is a hearty, paleo-friendly side dish that’s perfect for holiday meals. With a blend of savory sausage, sweet potatoes, and aromatic herbs, this stuffing will be a crowd-pleaser and a great addition to your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 lb ground turkey sausage (or pork sausage)
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil, celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the sweet potato cubes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
5. Stir in the cooked sausage, sage, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fully tender and the top is lightly golden.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This sweet potato and sausage stuffing is a comforting, nutrient-rich dish that captures the flavors of the season. It’s a perfect side for Thanksgiving or any holiday feast and can also stand on its own as a light main course.

Paleo Cranberry Walnut Salad

A refreshing and tangy salad is a must-have for the holiday season, and this paleo cranberry walnut salad fits the bill perfectly. It’s filled with crisp greens, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all topped with a simple, homemade vinaigrette.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and kale)
• 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries (sugar-free if possible)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1 apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cranberries, walnuts, red onion, and apple slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Serve immediately as a side dish or light appetizer.

This salad adds a refreshing, vibrant contrast to rich holiday mains and brings a mix of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors that enhance any festive spread. The combination of cranberries and walnuts adds a delightful holiday touch that’s sure to please your guests.

Paleo Roasted Herb Pork Tenderloin

This roasted herb pork tenderloin is an impressive yet easy-to-make main dish for holiday dinners. With a blend of rosemary, thyme, and garlic, the pork becomes tender and aromatic, making it the centerpiece of any holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it is well coated.
4. Place the pork tenderloin on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into medallions.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

This roasted herb pork tenderloin offers a flavorful, aromatic main dish that’s easy to prepare and makes for an elegant holiday centerpiece. Serve it with a side of mashed sweet potatoes or a warm green vegetable for a balanced, paleo-friendly holiday meal.

Paleo Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs

These balsamic glazed chicken thighs are rich in flavor and perfect for a cozy holiday dinner. The tangy-sweet balsamic reduction with a hint of honey enhances the juicy, tender chicken, making it a simple yet elegant main course.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and rosemary. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has reduced by half and thickened slightly. Set aside.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 3-4 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy.
5. Flip the chicken thighs and brush generously with the balsamic glaze.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve warm.

This balsamic glazed chicken thighs recipe brings a sophisticated touch to your holiday meal with minimal effort. The rich, slightly tangy glaze pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple side of cauliflower rice.

Paleo Lemon Herb Roasted Vegetables

These lemon herb roasted vegetables are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with any main course. The lemon zest and fresh herbs bring brightness, while the roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup sweet potato cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, baby carrots, and sweet potato cubes. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
3. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper to the vegetables. Mix well to distribute the herbs and seasoning evenly.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown.
5. Serve warm as a side dish, garnished with a few extra sprigs of thyme or rosemary if desired.

This lemon herb roasted vegetable dish is versatile and perfect for adding color and nutrition to any holiday spread. The bright flavors make it a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes and provide a wholesome complement to roasted meats and poultry.

Paleo Coconut Flour Pancakes with Berry Compote

Start your holiday breakfast with these light and fluffy coconut flour pancakes topped with a vibrant berry compote. They’re perfect for a holiday brunch and provide a satisfying treat that aligns with paleo eating.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (or almond milk)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Berry Compote:

• 1 cup mixed fresh or frozen berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the coconut milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms. Let the batter sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease with coconut oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. To make the berry compote, combine the berries, honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the compote thickens.
6. Serve the pancakes topped with the warm berry compote and a drizzle of extra honey or maple syrup if desired.

These paleo coconut flour pancakes with berry compote are a delightful holiday breakfast option that’s both comforting and nourishing. The berry compote adds a fresh and slightly tart flavor that complements the rich, fluffy pancakes perfectly. Enjoy these pancakes with a cup of warm herbal tea or a fresh juice to start your day off right.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!