10 Dishes to Make for a Texas-Themed Christmas Dinner

If you're looking to add some bold flavors and Southern hospitality to your holiday feast, a Texas-themed Christmas dinner is the perfect choice.

Known for its hearty, flavorful dishes with a blend of Tex-Mex, BBQ, and Southern influences, Texas cuisine offers a festive and unforgettable spread for any holiday gathering.

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From slow-cooked meats to sweet desserts, these 10 dishes will bring the spirit of the Lone Star State to your Christmas table.

1. Texas-Style Smoked Brisket

No Texas-themed Christmas dinner would be complete without a mouthwatering smoked brisket. This slow-cooked, tender cut of beef is seasoned with a simple but flavorful dry rub, including salt, pepper, and garlic, and then smoked for hours until it’s juicy and flavorful. The key is low and slow cooking, which results in a perfect smoky bark and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Serve it with your favorite BBQ sauce or alongside some tangy pickles for a true Texas feast.

2. Tex-Mex Enchiladas

For a festive Tex-Mex twist, consider adding a dish of cheesy, saucy enchiladas to your holiday spread. Made with corn tortillas, flavorful fillings like shredded chicken, beef, or cheese, and smothered in a rich red or green enchilada sauce, these baked rolls of goodness are a crowd favorite. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and a sprinkle of cilantro to give it a Christmas touch with some extra flavor.

3. Pecan-Crusted Chicken

Pecans are a Texas staple, and they add a wonderful crunch and flavor to a variety of dishes. Pecan-crusted chicken is a delicious and festive way to showcase this Southern favorite. Dip chicken breasts in a mixture of crushed pecans and breadcrumbs, then bake or fry until golden and crispy. Serve with a drizzle of honey or a spicy mustard sauce for a dish that’s both savory and sweet.

4. Texas-Style Green Bean Casserole

A Texas twist on a holiday classic, this green bean casserole is made with fresh green beans, sautéed onions, and a rich, creamy sauce with a kick of heat from jalapeños. Top with crispy fried onions for added crunch and texture. This dish is a great side that adds both flavor and color to your table, with just the right amount of spice.

5. Cheese and Jalapeño Stuffed Cornbread

Cornbread is a beloved Southern side dish, and in Texas, it’s often spiced up with cheese and jalapeños. This moist, cheesy cornbread has a bit of heat and pairs perfectly with your smoked brisket or Tex-Mex enchiladas. It’s a simple yet flavorful side that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at your holiday gathering.

6. Texas-Style Chili

No Texas-themed dinner would be complete without a bowl of chili. Texas chili is famous for being meat-centric (no beans here!) and full of robust flavors. The dish typically includes chunks of beef, a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika, and sometimes a little heat from jalapeños. Let it simmer to develop all those delicious flavors, and serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, and cornbread on the side for the ultimate comfort food.

7. BBQ Ribs

Ribs are a Texas BBQ classic, and they’re perfect for any festive occasion. For your Christmas dinner, you can slow-cook or smoke baby back ribs until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. Coat them in a tangy BBQ sauce or rub them with a dry spice blend for an extra burst of flavor. The smoky aroma and rich taste of BBQ ribs are sure to make your holiday meal memorable.

8. Texas Hashbrown Casserole

A cheesy, creamy hashbrown casserole is the perfect side dish for any holiday meal, and this Texas version takes it up a notch. Made with hashbrowns, creamy soup, sour cream, cheese, and a touch of onion, this casserole is rich and indulgent. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with smoked meats and BBQ, and it adds a comforting touch to your holiday spread.

9. Fried Okra

A true Southern favorite, fried okra is crispy, crunchy, and utterly irresistible. Sliced okra is battered and fried until golden brown, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish for your Texas-themed Christmas dinner. Serve with a side of ranch or spicy dipping sauce to give this dish an extra layer of flavor.

10. Texas Pecan Pie

Finish off your Texas-themed Christmas dinner with a slice of classic Texas pecan pie. Made with a gooey, rich filling of brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and toasted pecans, this pie is sweet, nutty, and absolutely decadent. It’s a holiday favorite that’s perfect for any Christmas celebration. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.

A Texas-themed Christmas dinner brings together bold, hearty flavors that are sure to delight your family and friends. From smoked brisket and BBQ ribs to cheesy cornbread and pecan pie, these 10 dishes showcase the best of Texas cuisine, perfect for a festive and unforgettable holiday meal. Whether you’re gathering around the table with loved ones or hosting a holiday feast, these dishes will bring the flavors of the Lone Star State straight to your Christmas celebration. Y’all are in for a treat.