Full Course Keto Christmas Dinner Feast Featuring Wagyu Ribeye

Ah, Christmas dinner—there’s just something magical about gathering with loved ones around a table of delicious food, sparkling decorations, and maybe even a few too many “cheers!” But if you’re sticking to a keto lifestyle, finding a holiday menu that doesn’t derail your low-carb goals can feel like a challenge. This Festive Surf & Turf Feast is your answer to enjoying every bite without a carb overload. We’re talking rich, marbled Wagyu ribeye, bright and fresh lemon-butter salmon, indulgent sides, and a few keto twists on holiday classics that’ll make everyone at the table swoon.

This feast brings out the best flavors of land and sea, adding that “wow” factor without the blood-sugar spike. Imagine kicking things off with a decadent crab dip, moving on to buttery Wagyu steak and baked salmon, and then rounding out the plate with sides like cauliflower au gratin and bacon-wrapped green beans. And we can’t forget dessert! A silky, low-carb chocolate mousse awaits you at the finish line, all topped with whipped cream and berries for that holiday sparkle.

Ready to make Christmas keto? Let’s get into the details so you can enjoy a festive meal that feels like an indulgence but stays true to your low-carb lifestyle.

Why Choose Surf & Turf for Christmas?

For a holiday meal, surf and turf really has it all. Combining the richness of a great steak with the delicate flavors of seafood brings something special to the table. Surf and turf is also a feast for the eyes—a beautiful pairing that looks (and tastes) like luxury. And with keto-friendly recipes, you get the flavor and the experience of indulgence without the carb guilt.

The Perfect Keto Christmas Meal: Keeping Flavor, Ditching the Carbs

One of the best parts of this keto feast is that it stays true to everything we love about holiday food. By focusing on high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and flavorful veggies, you’re filling up on what matters most. Plus, keto-friendly recipes mean you’ll feel satisfied and energized, not weighed down by carbs.

Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store for this festive spread:

  • Appetizer: A creamy crab dip that’ll get everyone at the table asking for more.
  • Main Course: Wagyu ribeye and baked lemon-butter salmon, the dynamic duo of surf and turf.
  • Side Dishes: Decadent cauliflower au gratin and crispy bacon-wrapped green beans.
  • Salad: A fresh cherry tomato Caprese that’s light and festive.
  • Dessert: A keto chocolate mousse to keep things sweet without sugar.

Make It Luxurious with Wagyu: Why It’s the Star

When it comes to steak, Wagyu is king. Its tender, buttery texture and rich marbling make it an indulgent choice that doesn’t need much to shine. Pan-searing Wagyu locks in its natural flavors and creates a beautiful crust on the outside while staying melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside. Paired with lemon-butter salmon, it’s a match that feels both extravagant and balanced.

Chef’s Tip: Wagyu is best cooked rare to medium-rare. This cut is incredibly tender and full of flavor, so avoid overcooking it to keep that buttery texture intact.

How to Time Your Feast Just Right

A multi-course feast is fun to serve, but it can feel intimidating when you’re in the kitchen juggling timing for each dish. Here’s a quick guide to help keep things running smoothly:

  • Prepare the Dessert First – Since the mousse needs time to chill, it’s a great first task.
  • Prep the Appetizer and Sides – Get your crab dip, cauliflower, and green beans ready next. They can bake or be assembled while you work on the main dishes.
  • Cook the Surf & Turf – Sear the steak and bake the salmon last to ensure they’re served hot and fresh.

Let’s Get Cooking: The Full Keto Christmas Surf & Turf Feast

Now that you’re prepped and ready, let’s dive into the recipes that’ll bring this keto Christmas meal to life.

Appetizer: Creamy Keto Crab Dip

The perfect way to kick off the meal, this crab dip is creamy, savory, and just a bit indulgent—everything a holiday appetizer should be. Plus, it’s super easy to make, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Plus, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that works well with keto crackers or veggie sticks.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup lump crab meat (drain any liquid)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.
  • Gently fold in the crab meat, green onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Spread the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown.
  • Garnish with parsley and serve with keto-friendly crackers or sliced veggies like cucumber and bell peppers.

The rich creaminess of this crab dip sets the stage for a meal that’s all about indulgence without compromise.

Main Course: Pan-Seared Wagyu Ribeye Steak and Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

Now, here’s the star of the table – a luxurious combo of pan-seared Wagyu ribeye and baked salmon. This “surf and turf” pairing is perfect for a Christmas feast because you get the buttery, rich flavor of Wagyu alongside the light, refreshing taste of lemon-butter salmon. Each bite feels like an experience!

Pan-Seared Wagyu Ribeye Steak

Wagyu is a true treat, and when it’s seared to perfection, it’s a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Here’s how to get it just right.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Wagyu ribeye steaks, about 1 inch thick
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 clove garlic, smashed
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs

Instructions:

  • Remove the steaks from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to let them come to room temperature.
  • Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper.
  • Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
  • Add the butter to the skillet, then place the steaks in the pan, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. (Cook a little longer if you prefer medium or well-done.)
  • Add the garlic and rosemary to the pan in the last minute or two of cooking, spooning the melted butter over the steaks.
  • Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Chef’s Tip: The key to a perfect Wagyu steak is not overcooking it. Since it’s so marbled, it only needs a quick sear to retain its juicy, tender texture.

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

This baked salmon is the perfect match for the richness of Wagyu. It’s light, zesty, and keeps your meal balanced.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, skin side down, and season with salt and pepper.
  • In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  • Pour the lemon-butter mixture over the salmon fillets.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  • Garnish with dill and lemon slices before serving.

Fun Fact: This lemon-butter sauce also works great on roasted veggies, so if you have extra, don’t toss it! Use it to flavor up the rest of the meal.

Side Dishes

These sides are where we bring in that cozy, comforting feel that every holiday feast deserves. Both the cauliflower au gratin and bacon-wrapped green beans bring flavor and texture that pair well with the surf and turf.

Cauliflower Au Gratin

Cauliflower is a keto go-to, and when it’s baked in a creamy cheese sauce, it tastes just as comforting as traditional potatoes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  • In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the cauliflower for about 5 minutes until just tender, then drain.
  • Arrange the cauliflower in a baking dish.
  • Pour the heavy cream over the cauliflower and sprinkle with Gruyère and Parmesan.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley.

Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans

These green beans are crisp, smoky, and wrapped in bacon—what’s not to love? They add a nice crunchy element to the meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb green beans, trimmed
  • 8-10 strips of bacon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  2. Toss the green beans with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Take a small handful of green beans and wrap a slice of bacon around them, securing with a toothpick if needed.
  4. Place the bacon-wrapped bundles on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the bacon is crispy.

Chef’s Trick: For a little extra flair, brush the bacon with a touch of sugar-free maple syrup before baking. This will give the bacon a slight caramelization that’s irresistible.

Salad: Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad

A fresh salad balances the richness of your main dishes, and the cherry tomato Caprese is as simple as it gets. It’s fresh, festive, and low-carb!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, or use a keto-friendly alternative)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  • Arrange the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a serving platter.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.

This salad adds a bright and colorful touch to the table, and it’s just the right light note before dessert.

Dessert: Keto Chocolate Mousse with Whipped Cream and Berries

Let’s end the meal on a sweet, satisfying note without kicking you out of ketosis. This chocolate mousse is rich, silky, and topped with fresh berries and whipped cream for a festive look.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream and berries, for topping

Instructions:

  • Heat ½ cup of the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just about to simmer, then remove from heat.
  • Add the chocolate chips and vanilla to the warm cream, letting it sit for 2 minutes before stirring until smooth.
  • In a mixing bowl, whip the remaining cream until stiff peaks form.
  • Gently fold the chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined.
  • Divide the mousse into serving glasses and chill for at least 1 hour.
  • Top with whipped cream and a handful of fresh berries.

Pro Tip: Make this mousse the day before if you’re short on time. It actually tastes even better after chilling overnight, making it ideal for entertaining.

Game Plan: Serving the Festive Surf & Turf Feast

 

Serving a multi-course, surf-and-turf feast is all about timing and presentation. You want each dish to come out warm, fresh, and ready to wow! Here’s a foolproof game plan for getting every element on the table without a hitch.

1. Start with Dessert

  • Make the Mousse Early: The Keto Chocolate Mousse needs time to chill in the fridge, so whip it up first thing in the morning or even the night before. This way, it’ll be perfectly set and ready to top with whipped cream and berries just before serving.
  • Serve Chilled: Since the mousse is served cold, it’s one less thing to worry about last-minute!

2. Prep the Appetizer and Side Dishes

  • Assemble the Crab Dip: Put together the crab dip in your baking dish, but don’t bake it just yet. Cover and set it aside; you’ll bake it right before guests arrive so it’s warm and bubbly.
  • Pre-Bake the Cauliflower: Prep the cauliflower au gratin up to the baking stage, then set it aside. Pop it into the oven with the crab dip so it’s hot and ready by the time you’re serving the main course.
  • Wrap the Green Beans: Assemble the bacon-wrapped green beans and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them closer to serving time.

Pro Tip: If you have two ovens, use one for the appetizers and sides, and save the other for the main course. If not, no worries—simply plan for a bit of rotation to make sure each dish gets time in the heat.

3. Prepare the Main Course: Steak & Salmon

  • Season and Let Rest: About 30 minutes before cooking, take the Wagyu ribeye out of the fridge to come to room temperature. Season it generously with salt and pepper, and let it sit. This step helps the steak cook more evenly.
  • Prep the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet, ready to go with lemon butter poured over. This way, they’re prepped and only need to bake when the time is right.

4. Serving Schedule: Timing Is Everything!

Here’s a rough guide to nail the timing for each dish so that everything is served fresh and hot:

  • 30 Minutes Before Guests Arrive:
    • Bake the Crab Dip: Pop the crab dip into the oven about 20-25 minutes before guests arrive. This way, it’s piping hot and ready to enjoy right as they settle in.
  • When Guests Arrive:
    • Set Out the Appetizer: Serve the warm crab dip with keto crackers or veggie sticks so guests have something to snack on as they mingle.
  • 15 Minutes Before the Main Course:
    • Bake the Cauliflower & Green Beans: Place both dishes in the oven. They’ll be ready in about 20 minutes, which gives you just enough time to cook the main course.
  • 10 Minutes Before the Main Course:
    • Sear the Wagyu: Heat your cast-iron skillet, add butter, and sear the Wagyu ribeyes for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Let them rest for 5 minutes once they’re done.
    • Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon in the oven next to the cauliflower and green beans. The salmon should cook for about 12-15 minutes, making it ready to serve just as the steak rests.
  • Serving the Main Course:
    • Slice & Plate the Steak: After resting, slice the Wagyu into thick strips and plate with the salmon, cauliflower au gratin, and bacon-wrapped green beans. Arrange each plate so the “surf” and “turf” sit side-by-side for a beautiful presentation.
    • Add the Caprese Salad: Assemble the cherry tomato Caprese salad at the last minute so it’s fresh and chilled, adding a light balance to the rich main course. Serve this in individual small bowls or on a shared platter.

5. Finishing Touch with Dessert

  • Top & Serve the Mousse: When everyone’s wrapping up their main course, retrieve the chocolate mousse from the fridge. Top each serving with whipped cream and a sprinkle of berries for a festive finish. Serve in small dessert glasses or ramekins for a refined touch.

Presentation Tips for a Wow-Worthy Table

  • Use Decorative Platters: Serve each dish on holiday platters or large serving boards to give your meal that festive touch.
  • Garnish Thoughtfully: Fresh rosemary sprigs or parsley add a beautiful holiday look and work as edible garnishes for the Wagyu and cauliflower.
  • Keep Colors in Mind: Red and green from the Caprese salad and bacon-wrapped green beans will look vibrant next to the golden cauliflower and salmon.
  • Stagger the Courses: Allow a little breathing room between courses so guests can truly savor each dish without feeling rushed.

With this timing plan, you’ll have every element of this Surf & Turf Feast coming out fresh and hot, just in time to make your holiday table sparkle! Enjoy the compliments because they’ll be plenty. 🎄

 Your Keto Christmas Surf & Turf Feast

With this Festive Surf & Turf Feast, you’ve crafted a Christmas dinner that’s equal parts luxurious and keto-friendly. By balancing the richness of Wagyu ribeye with the fresh flavors of lemon-butter salmon, indulgent sides like cauliflower au gratin, and the sweet touch of keto chocolate mousse, you’re treating everyone to a meal that’s truly special without any carb regrets.

This meal isn’t just about what’s on the plate, though—it’s about bringing together loved ones over great food that everyone can enjoy, keto or not. From the warm, creamy crab dip that kicks off the evening to the last spoonful of chocolate mousse, each dish is meant to make your holiday gathering feel magical.

So gather around the table, raise a glass, and enjoy a Christmas meal that’s full of cheer, deliciousness, and all the keto-friendly goodness you could wish for. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and absolutely delicious holiday! 🎄

Print

Full Course Keto Christmas Dinner Wagyu Ribeye Recipe

Celebrate Christmas with a keto-friendly surf and turf feast that includes pan-seared Wagyu ribeye and lemon-butter salmon, creamy crab dip, cauliflower au gratin, bacon-wrapped green beans, and keto chocolate mousse for dessert. This low-carb, flavorful spread is perfect for a festive gathering without breaking your keto diet.

 

  • Author: Jane Summerfield
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Full Course, Dinner
  • Method: Baked, Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: American, Keto, Low-Carb

Ingredients

Scale

Appetizer: Creamy Keto Crab Dip

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup lump crab meat, drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Main Course: Surf & Turf

  • Pan-Seared Wagyu Ribeye
    • 2 Wagyu ribeye steaks (1 inch thick)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 2 tbsp butter
    • 1 clove garlic, smashed
    • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter
    • 2 salmon fillets
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 2 tbsp butter, melted
    • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
    • 1 tsp fresh dill (optional)
    • Lemon slices, for garnish

Side Dishes

  • Cauliflower Au Gratin
    • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese
    • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • Fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans
    • 1 lb green beans, trimmed
    • 810 strips bacon
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 clove garlic, minced

Salad: Cherry Tomato Caprese

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

Dessert: Keto Chocolate Mousse

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream and berries, for topping

Instructions

Appetizer: Creamy Keto Crab Dip

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Mix cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, crab meat, green onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread in a baking dish, bake for 20 minutes or until bubbling and golden.
  4. Garnish with parsley; serve with keto crackers or veggie sticks.

Main Course: Surf & Turf

  1. Pan-Seared Wagyu Ribeye
    • Season steaks with salt and pepper; let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
    • Heat cast-iron skillet, add butter, and sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side.
    • Add garlic and rosemary, spoon butter over steaks. Rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter
    • Preheat oven to 375°F.
    • Place salmon on baking sheet, season with salt and pepper.
    • Drizzle lemon-butter mixture, bake for 12-15 minutes. Garnish with lemon slices.

Side Dishes

  1. Cauliflower Au Gratin
    • Boil cauliflower for 5 minutes; drain. Arrange in baking dish with heavy cream and cheeses.
    • Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.
  2. Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans
    • Wrap small bundles of green beans with bacon, secure with a toothpick.
    • Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until bacon is crispy.

Salad: Cherry Tomato Caprese

  1. Arrange cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on platter.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Dessert: Keto Chocolate Mousse

  1. Warm ½ cup heavy cream, melt chocolate chips and vanilla.
  2. Whip remaining cream to stiff peaks. Fold in chocolate.
  3. Chill for 1 hour; top with whipped cream and berries.

Notes

  • Prepare the mousse ahead of time for easy serving.
  • Bake crab dip just before serving so it’s warm for guests.
  • Cooking Wagyu rare to medium-rare is ideal for the best texture.
  • For a touch of sweetness, brush green beans with sugar-free maple syrup before baking.

Please note: The recipe or ingredients shown in the video might vary slightly from what’s listed here. Use the video as an illustration, but for the best results, you might want to stick to the recipe provided in this article.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 full meal
  • Calories: 950 Sugar: 2g Sodium: 980mg Fat: 78g Saturated Fat: 32g Unsaturated Fat: 34g Trans Fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 10g Fiber: 3g Protein: 48g Cholesterol: 215mg

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!