The Best Outdoor Grilling Recipes for Christmas Dinner

Christmas is the perfect time to bring everyone together, and what better way to do it than with a festive outdoor feast? Imagine the aroma of slow-smoked meats and savory sides wafting through the crisp holiday air while you sip on a warm drink by the grill.  

This year, let’s take your Christmas dinner to the next level with these show-stopping recipes! Whether you’re hosting family, friends, or your neighborhood potluck, these dishes are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. 

Here’s a taste of what’s on the menu—and trust us, you’re going to want to save room for seconds! 

 

Smoked Mac and Cheese 

If you want a creamy, smoky, cheesy dish that everyone will rave about, this Smoked Mac and Cheese is a must-try. It’s loaded with sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère, with a crispy breadcrumb topping that adds the perfect crunch. Smoked low and slow on the grill, it’s a warm, comforting dish that pairs well with just about everything. 

Ingredients 

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or shells), cooked 

• ½ stick butter 

• 3 cups whole milk 

• 2 cups heavy cream 

• 1 cup Colby cheese, shredded 

• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 

• 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded 

• 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese 

• Heath Riles BBQ Rub or your choice of all-purpose BBQ seasoning 

• Heath Riles BBQ Garlic Butter Rub or your favorite garlic butter seasoning 

Instructions 

1. Preheat the grill: Heat your smoker to 275°F. 
2. Mix the ingredients: Combine all ingredients (except some of the shredded cheese) in a large baking dish. Stir thoroughly to blend everything. Reserve a bit of grated cheese for topping. 
3. Add the cheese topping: Spread the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the mac and cheese mixture before placing it on the grill. 
4. Smoke: Place the dish on your smoker and let it cook for about 2 hours. Stir every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution. 
5. Final cheese layer: About 15-20 minutes before it’s done, sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top for a melty finish. 
6. Serve: Once creamy and perfectly smoky, scoop and serve while hot. 

 

Full Recipe from Heath Riles BBQ Here: Smoked Mac and Cheese 

 

Texas-Style Smoked Beef Brisket 

Want to be the grill master of your Christmas dinner? This Texas-Style Smoked Beef Brisket is a surefire way to impress. Seasoned with a bold, peppery rub and smoked until tender, it’s the centerpiece your holiday table deserves. Slice it thin and serve with your favorite barbecue sauce, or let it shine on its own. 

Ingredients 

• 1 12-14 pound whole packer brisket 

• 2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt 

• 2 tablespoons coarse ground black pepper 

• 2 tablespoons garlic powder (optional) 

Instructions 

1. Trim the brisket: Keep it cold for easier trimming. Remove excess fat and silver skin, ensuring smooth transitions between sections. Trim the fat cap to ¼-inch thickness. 
2. Season: Mix salt, pepper, and garlic (if using). Coat the brisket evenly on all sides. 
3. Smoke: Preheat smoker to 225°F with indirect heat. Place brisket with the point facing the heat source. Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 8 hours). 
4. Wrap and continue smoking: Wrap brisket in butcher paper or foil, return to the smoker, and cook until it reaches 202°F in the thickest part (5-8 more hours). 
5. Rest: Let the brisket rest for 1 hour before slicing against the grain. 

 

Full Recipe from Hey, Grill, Hey Here: Texas-Style Smoked Beef Brisket 

 

Smoked Ham with Maple Bourbon Glaze 

What’s Christmas dinner without ham? This Smoked Ham is glazed to perfection, combining smoky, savory, and sweet flavors in every bite. The caramelized crust gives it that classic holiday flair, while the tender meat inside keeps everyone reaching for more. Serve it as your main dish or alongside other grilled favorites.  

Ingredients 

Ham 

• 3-5 pound ham

Dry Rub 

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika 

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder 

• ½ teaspoon mustard powder 

• ½ teaspoon salt 

• ½ teaspoon pepper 

Glaze 

• ⅓ cup bourbon 

• 3 tablespoons maple syrup 

• 2 tablespoons butter 

Instructions 

1. Prepare the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. 
2. Score the Ham: Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern about ½ inch deep across the entire surface of the ham. 
3. Apply the Dry Rub: Rub the spice mixture all over the ham, making sure to work it into the cuts. This step can be done up to two days in advance to enhance the flavor. 
4. Smoke the Ham: Set up your grill for indirect heat and preheat it to around 350°F. Place the ham on the grill and cook for 2 to 2½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. 
5. Prepare the Glaze: While the ham is cooking, combine the bourbon, maple syrup, and butter in a small saucepan over high heat. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-high and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until it starts to thicken. 
6. Glaze the Ham: Using a brush, apply the glaze generously over the ham, turning it to coat all sides. Allow the glaze to set for 10 to 15 minutes between applications. Aim to glaze the ham at least three times, letting it cook a few minutes after the final coat to set the glaze. 
7. Rest Before Serving: Remove the ham from the grill and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to retain its juices. 
8. Slice and Serve: Carve the ham, ensuring each slice includes some of the flavorful glazed exterior. Serve warm and enjoy the blend of smoky and sweet flavors. 

 

Full Recipe from Umami Here: Maple Bourbon Glazed Grilled Ham 

 

Grilled Sweet Potato Casserole w/ Bacon & Pecans 

This savory and sweet casserole is a delightful addition to any holiday feast. Sweet potatoes are grilled to perfection, mashed with butter and brown sugar, and topped with crispy bacon and crunchy pecans for an irresistible side dish. 

Ingredients: 

• 4 medium sweet potatoes 

• 3 tablespoons salted butter 

• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar 

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt 

• 3 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled 

• ⅓ cup pecans, chopped 

 

Instructions: 

1. Prep the sweet potatoes: Clean the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Use a fork to poke a few holes in each. 
2. Grill the sweet potatoes: Place the potatoes on your grill over indirect heat at about 350°F. Cook for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until they’re soft and give when gently squeezed. 
3. Prepare the potatoes: Take the sweet potatoes off the grill, peel them, and cut into chunks. Transfer them to an oven-safe dish or a cast iron skillet. 
4. Mash the sweet potatoes: Add the butter, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt to the dish. Mash the potatoes until smooth. For a fluffier texture, use a hand mixer to whip them. 
5. Add the toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped pecans evenly over the top. 
6. Heat through: Return the dish to the grill or oven and cook for another 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot throughout. 
7. Serve: Keep warm until ready to serve, and enjoy this smoky, sweet holiday favorite. 

 

Full Recipe from Out Grilling Here: Smoked Sweet Potato Casserole 

 

Make Your Outdoor Christmas Dinner Unforgettable 

The joy of Christmas is in the shared moments—laughing, eating, and enjoying good company. These recipes bring that holiday magic straight to your grill, turning your outdoor kitchen into the ultimate gathering spot. Whether it’s the smoky aroma or the incredible flavors, your guests won’t stop talking about this dinner. 

The food is only one part- what about the ambiance? Whether you’re a grilling guru or a weekend warrior, an amazing outdoor kitchen will take your cooking & entertaining experience to the next level. 

Ready to see a custom outdoor kitchen in your space? Reach out to Synergy Outdoor Living or visit a local showroom today to see what’s possible for your design!