Keto Christmas Feast: Bourbon-Glazed Ham and Low-Carb Sides to Wow Your Holiday Table

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the excitement (and let’s be honest, the chaos) of planning a festive Christmas meal that everyone will love. Now, if you’re following a keto lifestyle or just aiming to keep those carbs in check while indulging in holiday favorites, the usual Christmas spread can feel like it’s full of no-go dishes. But not this year!

Imagine this: a Christmas feast that’s delicious, satisfying, and still low in carbs. Yes, it’s totally possible, and you don’t need to settle for salads and bacon. This year’s centerpiece is a juicy, Bourbon-Glazed Ham, rich in flavor with a sticky, sweet glaze made keto-friendly with a brown sugar substitute and bourbon for that warm, holiday twist. Surround it with side dishes that are every bit as tempting, from hearty sausage stuffing and garlic butter mushrooms to roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans and balsamic. Every dish in this spread is crafted to capture the magic of the season while keeping the carbs to a minimum.

The best part? These recipes are perfect for sharing with everyone, whether they’re keto or not – no one will feel like they’re missing a thing. Plus, there are treats to satisfy that holiday sweet tooth! We’re talking rich keto fudge and buttery thumbprint cookies, so you can wrap up the meal with just the right amount of indulgence.

Each dish is designed with a simple prep that keeps your stress low, flavor high, and time in the kitchen minimal – because let’s face it, you’ve got gifts to wrap, relatives to catch up with, and a holiday movie or two waiting on the couch. Ready to create a Christmas dinner that’ll have people raving all season? Grab your apron, and let’s dig into the recipes that’ll make this holiday unforgettable!

Why Go Keto for Christmas?

Sticking to keto over the holidays can seem challenging with all the rich, traditional recipes around. But with a little planning, you can create a satisfying meal that’s lower in carbs and still packed with flavor. Think of it this way: by making a few ingredient swaps, you’ll keep that holiday feast feeling indulgent without the carb overload, so you can enjoy the holiday treats guilt-free!

The Star of the Show: Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Ham

Every holiday feast needs a centerpiece that turns heads and fills the room with mouthwatering aromas. This Brown Sugar Bourbon-Glazed Ham does exactly that! We’ve kept it keto-friendly by swapping traditional brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener, keeping that sweet, sticky glaze with all the flavor you crave.

Sides That Steal the Show

What’s a Christmas meal without incredible side dishes? These keto-friendly sides are so good that even the non-keto folks will be loading up their plates. Each dish here is a mix of classic flavors and holiday twists, from earthy garlic butter mushrooms to a nutty Brussels sprouts combo. And don’t worry – there’s a cozy, savory sausage stuffing in the mix, too!

Festive Salads to Freshen Up the Plate

Need a pop of color and freshness on the table? A Christmas-inspired Caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds just the right amount of lightness to the meal. The red and green colors bring a seasonal touch, and it’s a nice way to balance the richer dishes.

Sweet Keto Desserts to End on a High Note

It wouldn’t be Christmas without dessert! We’ve included two delightful keto treats to end your meal on a high note: Keto Fudge that’s rich and chocolatey, plus buttery Thumbprint Cookies filled with sugar-free jam. These are perfect for satisfying holiday cravings without the sugar spike.

Your Keto Christmas Menu, Perfected

Ready to create a holiday meal that’s cozy, festive, and keto-friendly? Let’s dive into each recipe, so you can start planning your Christmas feast and enjoy every moment with friends, family, and delicious food!

Appetizer: Shrimp Cocktail with Sugar-Free Cocktail Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt for boiling
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Sugar-Free Cocktail Sauce

• 1/2 cup sugar-free ketchup
• 1 tbsp prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• Dash of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Boil the Shrimp: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding in lemon slices. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Quickly transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to cool and prevent overcooking.
• Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together sugar-free ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
• Serve: Arrange shrimp on a plate, garnish with parsley, and serve with the sugar-free cocktail sauce. It’s a refreshing, no-carb appetizer that’s perfect for setting the stage for the feast ahead!

Main Course: Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Ham

Ingredients

For the ham:

• 1 bone-in, pre-cooked ham (8-10 lbs)
• Whole cloves (optional, for extra holiday aroma and flavor)

For the keto bourbon glaze:

• 1/4 cup bourbon (adds a deep, warm flavor without being overpowering)
• 1/2 cup keto brown sugar substitute (like Swerve Brown or Lakanto Golden, for that caramelized sweetness)
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (for a slight tang and depth)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (helps balance the sweetness)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (adds richness and a glossy finish to the glaze)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for warmth and holiday flair)
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves (optional, to bring out traditional holiday notes)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ham

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
• Score the Ham: Place the ham on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a crisscross or diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze seep into the ham and creates a gorgeous presentation.
• (Optional) Add Cloves: If you’d like an extra holiday aroma, you can press whole cloves into some of the crisscross points. This step is optional but adds a classic Christmas scent to the ham.

2. Make the Keto Bourbon Glaze

• Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the bourbon, keto brown sugar substitute, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, butter, cinnamon, and ground cloves.
• Simmer and Thicken: Stir the mixture continuously as it heats. Let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. The glaze should be syrupy but still pourable. Taste it and adjust seasoning if desired (you can add a little extra brown sugar substitute for sweetness or a splash more bourbon if you want a stronger flavor).

3. Glaze and Bake the Ham

• First Glaze: Place the scored ham on a rack in a roasting pan. Using a basting brush, generously brush about half of the glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into the crevices. Cover loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out.
• Bake the Ham: Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or roughly 15 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes. Use a spoon or basting brush to reapply the glaze as it cooks. The repeated glazing ensures the ham absorbs the full flavor.
• Final Glaze and Caramelize: For the last 30 minutes, remove the foil and brush on any remaining glaze. This will allow the glaze to caramelize and develop a glossy, golden-brown crust on the ham.

4. Rest and Serve

• Remove from Oven: Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) (use a meat thermometer to check), take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to settle and keeps the ham moist.
• Carve and Garnish: Transfer the ham to a serving platter. For a festive touch, garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) and maybe a few fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds around the platter.

Side Dishes to Elevate Your Holiday Table

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

These garlic butter mushrooms are the perfect earthy, savory side to complement the rich flavors of the ham.

Ingredients

• 1 lb baby bella mushrooms, cleaned and halved
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

• Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in the mushrooms, cooking for 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and browned.
• Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. These mushrooms bring a deep, umami flavor to the plate.

Keto Sausage & Herb Stuffing

A classic stuffing with a keto twist! Packed with flavorful sausage and fresh herbs, it’s hearty and comforting without the carbs.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground sausage (sugar-free)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt butter, add onion and celery, and sauté until soft.
• Combine: Return sausage to the skillet, adding almond flour, sage, and parsley. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper. This stuffing has all the flavor of traditional stuffing, with none of the carbs.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Balsamic

Nothing says holiday like crispy Brussels sprouts! Roasted until golden, these sprouts are tossed with pecans and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a nutty, slightly sweet finish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss and Roast: Place Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until crispy and browned.
• Add Pecans and Balsamic: Toss the roasted sprouts with pecans and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The result is a festive, crunchy, and slightly sweet side that adds color to the table.

Salad: Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella

This Caprese salad is light, fresh, and festive with red and green from the tomatoes and basil – the perfect palate cleanser.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves.
• Dress and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. This simple, beautiful salad balances the richness of the ham and stuffing.

Dessert: Keto Fudge and Keto Thumbprint Cookies

Keto Fudge

Rich, creamy, and full of chocolate flavor, this keto fudge is perfect for indulging without the sugar crash.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup keto sweetener (like Swerve or Monk Fruit)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, melt coconut oil. Add cocoa powder, keto sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt, stirring until smooth.
2. Chill and Set: Pour the mixture into a lined baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Cut into squares for a decadent treat that melts in your mouth.

Keto Thumbprint Cookies

These buttery thumbprint cookies with a sugar-free jam filling are the perfect festive treat to round off the meal.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 1 tbsp keto sweetener
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Sugar-free jam (strawberry or raspberry)

Instructions

• Prepare Dough: In a bowl, mix almond flour, butter, keto sweetener, and vanilla extract until a dough forms.
• Shape and Fill: Roll dough into small balls, place on a baking sheet, and press a thumbprint into each. Fill the indent with a small amount of sugar-free jam.
• Bake: Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. These cookies are perfectly festive, with a pop of fruity flavor in each bite.

Tips for a Seamless Keto Christmas Feast

• Plan Ahead: Prepare sauces, dressings, and even desserts a day in advance. This helps streamline the cooking on the big day!
• Balance Flavors: This spread has a balance of sweet, savory, and acidic notes to keep every bite interesting – don’t be afraid to add a little extra seasoning to taste.
• Serve in Style: Garnish with fresh herbs, extra holiday decor, and maybe even a few twinkling lights nearby to keep the mood festive.

This Keto Christmas Full Course is designed to bring everyone together, celebrating flavor without the carbs. So grab your apron, turn up the Christmas music, and enjoy a holiday feast that’s not only keto-friendly but also full of love, warmth, and joy.

Bringing It All Together: How to Serve Your Keto Bourbon-Glazed Ham Feast

When it’s time to serve your keto Christmas spread, a little bit of thought can make all the difference in presentation, flow, and flavor combinations. Here’s how to put it all together in a way that’s beautiful, functional, and festive!

1. Start with the Shrimp Cocktail

The Shrimp Cocktail with Sugar-Free Cocktail Sauce is the perfect opener – light, refreshing, and sophisticated. Serve it on a platter with a bowl of cocktail sauce in the center, surrounded by lemon wedges and garnished with fresh parsley. This appetizer can be set up on a coffee or side table to give guests something to nibble on as they arrive, easing them into the holiday spirit without filling them up before the main course.

2. Present the Brown Sugar Bourbon-Glazed Ham as the Centerpiece

The ham is the star of the show, so give it pride of place on the table! Use a large cutting board or serving platter, garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and maybe a few whole cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color. Once you bring it to the table, carve a few slices for the guests to start, and let them help themselves from there. The smell alone will get everyone eager for the main course!

3. Arrange the Sides Family-Style

With the ham front and center, place the side dishes around it to create a cozy, communal vibe where everyone can help themselves. Here’s a guide to arranging and pairing the flavors:

• Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Serve these in a shallow dish with a spoon for scooping, close to the ham so guests can easily add a few to their plates. The mushrooms’ savory flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet, smoky ham glaze.
• Keto Sausage & Herb Stuffing: Place the stuffing in a small casserole dish, topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color. This hearty, flavorful side will satisfy anyone looking for that traditional holiday comfort food, and its warm flavors match well with the ham and mushrooms.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Balsamic: Brussels sprouts are colorful and festive, so set them in a large bowl or plate where guests can see their crispy edges and caramelized pecans. The touch of balsamic and crunch from the pecans adds a slightly sweet element that complements the ham’s glaze and contrasts nicely with the stuffing’s savoriness.

4. Add a Pop of Freshness with the Caprese Salad

The Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella adds a fresh, light option that balances out the richness of the other dishes. Place it on a decorative platter near the roasted Brussels sprouts for a pop of color on the table. With the basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella in festive red and green, it almost doubles as decor! Encourage guests to add a spoonful of salad to their plates to cleanse the palate between bites of richer dishes.

5. Finish with a Dessert Platter

Bring out the Keto Fudge and Thumbprint Cookies after the main meal so everyone has time to relax and digest before indulging in sweets. Create a dessert tray with small bites of fudge and cookies, maybe adding a few holiday decorations like sprigs of evergreen, a small bowl of nuts, or even a few sugar-free candies.

Serve dessert alongside coffee or a keto-friendly eggnog if you’d like to add a little holiday flair! The fudge is rich, so a small piece goes a long way, while the thumbprint cookies provide that classic holiday feel, especially with the festive jam centers.

Tips for a Seamless Serving Experience

• Warm the Plates: Warming plates before serving the main course keeps the food warm longer, especially helpful with dishes like ham and stuffing.
• Encourage Guests to Serve Themselves: Placing everything family-style lets guests choose what they like and go back for seconds without the formality of plating every dish.
• Don’t Forget Garnishes: Fresh herbs, a few cranberries, or even rosemary sprigs add a pop of color and make each dish feel more festive and special.

By arranging everything with an eye for presentation and keeping the vibe relaxed and inviting, you’ll create a beautiful, functional table that invites everyone to relax and enjoy. It’s all about making this holiday meal memorable, festive, and truly satisfying for everyone, whether they’re following keto or just along for the feast. Enjoy!

Conclusion

And there you have it – a keto Christmas meal that’s anything but ordinary! From the show-stopping Brown Sugar Bourbon-Glazed Ham to rich side dishes, a fresh, festive salad, and indulgent desserts, this spread will make sure everyone feels like they’ve had a true holiday feast. Each recipe is crafted with low-carb ingredients but is packed with all the flavor, warmth, and nostalgia you expect from a Christmas dinner.

So, sit back and enjoy the holiday magic around your table. With a spread like this, you won’t even miss the carbs! Plus, you’ll start the New Year feeling great, not sluggish – all while sharing a memorable meal with the ones you love. Here’s to a merry, healthy, and delicious Christmas! 🎄

Happy Holidays and Bon Appétit!

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