Festive Christmas Dinner Menu Options That Put the "Happy" in Happy Holidays

Nothing gets a holiday dinner started like hors d'oeuvres and festive cocktails. Tempt guests with cheesy bites, like candied bacon baked brie, and crunchy snacks to munch on while they mingle, like herbed gruyère cheese straws.

Because even the fanciest of roasts would be nothing without sides, here are several comforting dishes — from the decadent, like scalloped potatoes, to the virtuous, like brussels sprouts, kale, and kumquat salad.

Whether your crowd likes red meat or white meat, modest or opulent, simple or super flavorful, here are 10 entrée options that will have the whole table chirping with merriment.

End your meal on a high note with sweets that capture the spirit of the season. The following will satisfy any craving, from that of intense chocolate to one of Winter fruits.