30 Boxing Day Recipes for the Ultimate Holiday Feast
Boxing Day is the perfect excuse to keep the holiday celebrations going, and if you're like me, it’s all about the food. After the Christmas feast, there’s still room for more deliciousness—whether you're entertaining a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home.
That's why I’ve put together this list of "30 Boxing Day Recipes for the Ultimate Holiday Feast: Delicious Ideas for Every Table." These recipes are a mix of hearty meals, comforting sides, and sweet treats that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive in and make this Boxing Day just as special as Christmas itself!
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1. Leftover Turkey Soup
After the big holiday feast, there’s always plenty of turkey left over. This hearty turkey soup is the perfect way to use up leftovers and make something that feels fresh and comforting.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until tender.
- Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the turkey, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread.
2. Boxing Day Turkey Sandwiches
There's no better way to enjoy leftover turkey than in a tasty sandwich. These Boxing Day Turkey Sandwiches are easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread
- 2 cups leftover turkey
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon cranberry sauce
- Lettuce and tomato slices
Instructions:
- Toast the bread lightly.
- Mix the mayonnaise and cranberry sauce.
- Layer the turkey, sauce mixture, lettuce, and tomato on the bread.
- Top with another slice of bread and serve.
3. Roast Beef Hash
If you’ve got leftover roast beef, turn it into a savory hash that everyone will love. This dish is quick to make and perfect for a hearty Boxing Day breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked roast beef, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the potatoes until golden brown.
- Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the chopped roast beef and cook for 5 minutes.
- Make two wells in the hash and crack an egg into each. Cook until the eggs are done to your liking.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
4. Christmas Pudding with Brandy Butter
Christmas pudding is a festive classic, and it’s a great treat for Boxing Day. Serve it with a dollop of brandy butter for the ultimate holiday indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 1 Christmas pudding
- ½ cup brandy
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Steam or microwave the Christmas pudding according to package instructions.
- To make the brandy butter, mix the butter, powdered sugar, and brandy in a bowl until smooth.
- Serve the warm pudding with a spoonful of brandy butter on top.
5. Boxing Day Brunch Casserole
This casserole is a great way to use up leftover ham, turkey, or vegetables from your Christmas meal. It’s the perfect dish for a relaxed Boxing Day brunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked ham or turkey, diced
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup cooked potatoes, diced
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Whisk together the eggs, milk, and mustard.
- In a greased casserole dish, layer the ham or turkey, potatoes, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the top and bake for 30 minutes, or until set.
- Serve warm with fresh fruit.
6. Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm up with a glass of spiced mulled wine. It’s the perfect drink to keep you cozy on Boxing Day, and it’s easy to prepare with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle red wine
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 shot brandy (optional)
Instructions:
- In a pot, combine the wine, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and honey.
- Heat over low heat until warm, but not boiling.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Pour into glasses and add a shot of brandy if desired. Serve warm.
7. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Glaze
These Brussels sprouts are a great way to serve up a vegetable side dish that even the kids will love. The bacon and maple glaze take them to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon and set aside. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet and cook until tender.
- Drizzle the maple syrup over the sprouts and toss to coat.
- Stir in the bacon, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
8. Stuffed Mushrooms
These stuffed mushrooms are the perfect appetizer for your Boxing Day celebration. They’re packed with flavor and can be made ahead of time for easy entertaining.
Ingredients:
- 12 large mushrooms, stems removed
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Mix the cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the cream cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
9. Boxing Day Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette
A light and refreshing salad is just what you need to balance out all the heavier holiday dishes. This Boxing Day Salad with cranberry vinaigrette is a beautiful addition to your table.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the cranberries, honey, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Toss the mixed greens with the cranberry vinaigrette.
- Serve immediately with a sprinkle of feta cheese or nuts if desired.
10. Boxing Day Roast Potatoes
These crispy roast potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any Boxing Day meal. They’re golden, crunchy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside.
Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Parboil the potatoes in salted water for 10 minutes, then drain.
- Toss the potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
- Serve hot.
11. Boxing Day Beef Wellington Bites
These mini beef Wellingtons are an elegant way to elevate your Boxing Day spread. They’re bite-sized but packed with flavor, making them perfect for appetizers or a special treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef tenderloin, cut into small cubes
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 ounces mushroom duxelles (finely chopped mushrooms, onions, and herbs)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sear the beef cubes in a hot skillet until browned on all sides. Let them cool slightly.
- Brush the beef with Dijon mustard.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into small squares. Place a spoonful of mushroom duxelles and a piece of beef in the center.
- Fold the pastry over the beef and seal. Brush with beaten egg.
- Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm.
12. Boxing Day Pasta Salad
This cold pasta salad is a great make-ahead dish that can be enjoyed with your Boxing Day meal. It’s refreshing, full of flavor, and perfect for using up leftover vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and olives.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
13. Boxing Day Quiche
A classic quiche makes for a great brunch or lunch option on Boxing Day. Packed with eggs, cheese, and whatever leftovers you have on hand, it’s a versatile dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 1 cup cooked bacon or ham, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the pie crust with cheese and bacon (or ham).
- Pour the egg mixture over the top and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving.
14. Boxing Day Sticky Toffee Pudding
This warm, comforting sticky toffee pudding is a great way to end your Boxing Day meal. Rich, sweet, and served with a decadent toffee sauce, it’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup toffee sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish.
- Pour the boiling water over the chopped dates and stir in the baking soda. Let it cool.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar. Add the eggs and mix well.
- Stir in the flour and baking powder, followed by the date mixture.
- Pour into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until set.
- In a small pot, heat the heavy cream and toffee sauce until warm.
- Serve the pudding warm with the toffee sauce drizzled over the top.
15. Spicy Cranberry Sauce
This zesty cranberry sauce adds a tangy kick to your Boxing Day meal. It’s perfect for pairing with turkey or ham, and the hint of spice gives it a unique twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup orange juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon stick, and ginger.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the red pepper flakes and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
16. Boxing Day Sweet Potato Mash
This sweet potato mash is a comforting side dish that’s both savory and sweet. It pairs perfectly with turkey or roast beef, making it a must-have on your Boxing Day table.
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- ¼ cup butter
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with the butter, milk, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Serve warm with your Boxing Day feast.
17. Boxing Day Sausage Rolls
These savory sausage rolls are a hit at any holiday gathering. They’re crispy, flaky, and filled with delicious sausage filling, perfect for snacking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sausage meat
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into long rectangles.
- Place sausage meat down the center of each rectangle.
- Roll the pastry around the sausage and seal the edges.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Slice into individual rolls and serve.
18. Boxing Day Veggie Frittata
This veggie frittata is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and eggs. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a post-holiday breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cooked vegetables (spinach, peppers, onions)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Whisk the eggs in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked vegetables and cheese to the eggs, and mix well.
- Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
- Serve warm.
19. Boxing Day Glazed Ham
A glazed ham is a classic centerpiece for any holiday meal, and Boxing Day is no exception. The sweet and savory glaze adds a delicious layer of flavor, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in ham (about 6-8 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan.
- In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens.
- Brush the glaze over the ham, then cover it loosely with foil.
- Roast the ham for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes, until the ham is heated through and caramelized on top.
- Let it rest before slicing and serving.
20. Boxing Day Yorkshire Puddings
No Boxing Day spread is complete without some Yorkshire puddings! These light, fluffy bites are perfect for soaking up gravy or served with your favorite meats.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and place a muffin tin or Yorkshire pudding tray in the oven to heat up.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Once the tin is hot, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil into each muffin cup.
- Pour the batter evenly into the hot tin, filling each cup about halfway.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Serve immediately while still hot and crispy.
21. Boxing Day Stuffing Balls
If you love stuffing but want something a little more fun to serve, these stuffing balls are a perfect solution. Easy to make and perfect for grabbing as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups dried bread cubes
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons sage
- 2 teaspoons thyme
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking sheet.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onions until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed onions, chicken broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the eggs and mix well to combine.
- Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
22. Boxing Day Lamb Chops
For a more elegant option, these juicy lamb chops are a great choice for Boxing Day. Seasoned with garlic and rosemary, they’re perfect for a holiday feast.
Ingredients:
- 8 lamb chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the lamb chops with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Grill or sear the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Let the lamb chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
23. Boxing Day Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a classic side dish, but the addition of bacon takes it to the next level. This savory side will be a hit at your Boxing Day feast.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and scatter the chopped bacon over the top.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through.
- Serve warm as a delicious and savory side dish.
24. Boxing Day Cranberry Brie Bites
These cranberry brie bites are the perfect combination of creamy cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce wrapped in a crispy phyllo shell. They make for a great appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 package phyllo dough
- 8 ounces brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a mini muffin tin.
- Layer a sheet of phyllo dough in each muffin cup, brushing with a little butter or oil between each layer.
- Place a cube of brie cheese in the center of each phyllo cup.
- Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Brush the edges with beaten egg and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.
25. Boxing Day Gravy
A rich and flavorful gravy is the perfect complement to your Boxing Day meal. This recipe is simple yet packed with depth and pairs beautifully with roast meats.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef or turkey stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the stock, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with your holiday feast.
26. Boxing Day Mashed Cauliflower
For a low-carb option, mashed cauliflower is a great alternative to mashed potatoes. Creamy, buttery, and flavorful, it’s a great side dish for Boxing Day.
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer the cauliflower to a food processor or mash by hand.
- Add the butter and heavy cream and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
27. Boxing Day Honey-Glazed Carrots
Sweet and savory honey-glazed carrots are a simple yet delicious side dish. They pair well with turkey, ham, or roast beef, making them a great choice for your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Steam or boil the carrots until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and honey over medium heat.
- Add the cooked carrots and toss to coat with the glaze.
- Season with salt and pepper and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the glaze thickens.
- Serve warm.
28. Boxing Day Potato Dauphinoise
This decadent potato dish is rich, creamy, and perfectly baked to golden perfection. It’s the ideal side for any holiday feast, offering a luxurious addition to your Boxing Day spread.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a saucepan, heat the cream, milk, and garlic over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Layer the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper.
- Pour the cream mixture over the potatoes and top with Gruyère cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
29. Boxing Day Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet potato casserole is a holiday favorite, with a sweet and savory topping of marshmallows and pecans. It's the perfect side dish to complement your Boxing Day feast.
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash.
- Stir in the brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
- Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes to a greased casserole dish.
- Top with marshmallows and chopped pecans.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the marshmallows are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve warm as a sweet and comforting side dish.
30. Boxing Day Trifle
For a sweet end to your Boxing Day feast, this classic English trifle combines layers of sponge cake, custard, whipped cream, and fruit. It's a showstopper dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sponge cake, cut into cubes
- 1 cup raspberry jam
- 2 cups custard (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- 2 tablespoons sherry or fruit juice (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large glass trifle dish, layer the sponge cake cubes at the bottom.
- Drizzle the jam over the cake and, if using, sprinkle the sherry or fruit juice on top.
- Pour the custard over the cake, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with whipped cream, then scatter the mixed berries on top for a colorful finish.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious and festive dessert.
Conclusion
These 30 Boxing Day recipes will add flair to your holiday meal, providing something for everyone—from savory sides to sweet desserts. Whether you're hosting a big family gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these dishes are sure to create lasting memories and satisfy every taste. Enjoy the ultimate Boxing Day feast!