This year’s Home for the Holidays Recipe Contest has once again highlighted the culinary skills of our readers. With an abundance of entries showcasing delicious creativity, the 2023 contest was a testament to our community’s love for cooking. We’re immensely grateful to everyone who shared their holiday favorites with us.

Our judges faced a challenging yet rewarding task in selecting the winners from the vast array of delicious recipes.

The contest, now in its 29th year, is a nod to the 1995 film “Home for the Holidays,”  whose release was promoted by The Call.

This year’s collection of winning recipes, hailing from Oakville, Concord and Wright City, and extending across state lines to East Carondelet and Waterloo in Illinois, represent the diversity of our readership

We invite our readers to explore and recreate these dishes in their own kitchens. Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or simply wish to experience the taste of community spirit, these dishes are sure to inspire and create lasting memories in your home.

Hors d’oeuvres: Cranberry Brie Pinwheels

Tender Turkey: Tender Turkey in a Reynolds Kitchen Oven Bag

Scintillating Side Dishes: Green Beans and Mom’s Carrot Souffle

Just Desserts: Yum Yum Cake

Lovable Leftovers: Turkey Stuffing Balls 

Super Soups: Debbie’s Taco Soup

Deserving Dressings: Wild Rice and Bacon Dressing

Special Salads: Fresh Fruit Salad with Zesty Honey Lime Dressing

Holiday Hams: Easy Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple

Holiday Beverages: Ursula’s Ultimate Egg Nog

Positive Roll Models: Christmas Cranberry Bread