Top 5 Christmas Day Meal Guide for Black Families

Christmas Day is a time for family, joy and sharing rich, flavorful dishes that have been passed down through generations. 

For many Black families, the holiday meal is an important part of the celebration, combining love, culture and tradition in every bite. The spread often features a comforting mix of dishes that have stood the test of time. 

Among the favorites are mac and cheese, candied yams, collard greens and black-eyed peas—each with its own unique recipe and a taste that embodies the spirit of community. 

Dive into how these dishes make Christmas Day a deliciously memorable occasion for Black families.

1. Macaroni and Cheese

(Courtesy/ Coop Can Cook coopcancook.com)

Macaroni and cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that can make or break the holiday meal. The layers of melted cheese and the comforting pasta base are a hit.

“Mac and cheese is always my favorite! Being the young cook in the house, I am always in charge of layering the cheese which is my favorite part.” – Gabrielle Studevan, Howard University student

Recipe for Macaroni and Cheese: https://coopcancook.com/baked-mac-and-cheese/

2. Stuffing (Dressing)

(Courtesy/ Coop Can Cook coopcancook.com)

Southern dressing is a must-have side dish for any holiday table. Rich in flavor and hearty in texture, this dish combines cornbread with onions, celery, and a savory broth that holds together the warmth of the season.

“Cornbread dressing is my go-to dish every Christmas! Being from Texas, we call it dressing down South, though some may say stuffing. My family’s recipe has been passed down for generations, and it always brings me back home.” – Alana Latin., Howard University student

Recipe for Southern Dressing: https://coopcancook.com/southern-cornbread-dressing/  

3. Candied Yams

(Courtesy/ Coop Can Cook coopcancook.com)

Sweet yams are a holiday favorite, dressed in a caramelized glaze that adds richness. 

“Candied yams are hands down the best part, but you have to mix it with your mac and cheese! I usually like my yams with marshmallows or some pecans and it adds just the right sweet and salty.” – Taylor Campbell., Howard University student

Recipe for Candied Yams: https://coopcancook.com/candied-yams/ 

4. Collard Greens

(Courtesy/ Coop Can Cook coopcancook.com)

Collard greens, slow-cooked to perfection, are a staple on many holiday tables. 

Recipe for Collard Greens: https://coopcancook.com/southern-collard-greens/ 

5. Black Eyed Peas

(Courtesy/ Coop Can Cook coopcancook.com)

No Southern feast is complete without cornbread. Whether it’s a savory addition to the dressing or enjoyed on its own, cornbread adds a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

“My Grandmother always told me eating black-eyed peas on Christmas day brings good luck. Ever since she told me that I have never looked back. Every Christmas my family will all eat at least a spoonful of black-eyed peas. ” – Jallon Sanders., Howard University student

Recipe for Black Eyed Peas: https://coopcancook.com/creamy-black-eyed-peas-recipe/ 

These dishes, filled with tradition and love, are what make Christmas Day meals unforgettable for Black families. From the comforting richness of macaroni and cheese to the sweetness of candied yams, each dish adds its own layer to the holiday feast, creating a dining experience that’s both nostalgic and heartwarming.