Christmas Dinner Backup: Only 4 Ingredients – A Fail-Safe Dish for the Holidays

When it comes to Christmas dinner, sometimes even the most seasoned cooks can run into last-minute hiccups. Whether it’s an unexpectedly busy day, a forgotten side dish, or a recipe that didn’t quite turn out as planned, having a fail-safe dish in your arsenal is a lifesaver. Enter the “Christmas Dinner Backup”—a simple, 4-ingredient recipe that’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to impress your guests.

This dish is perfect for adding a cozy, festive touch to your table without the stress of complicated steps or obscure ingredients. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

You only need four simple ingredients:

Frozen or fresh vegetables – Choose a mix of your favorites; a medley of carrots, peas, and green beans works beautifully.
Creamy cheese sauce – This can be store-bought or homemade if you prefer a richer taste.
Cooked protein – Ham, turkey, or chicken works well. Leftovers from earlier in the week are perfect.
Breadcrumbs – For a crunchy, golden topping that makes this dish festive and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish. This ensures the dish doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.