Our readers have surprised and delighted us once again with their submissions to the Home for the Holidays Recipe Contest. Some fantastic culinary skills are right here in our backyard.

The contest, now in its 31st year, is a nod to the 1995 film “Home for the Holidays,” whose release was promoted by The Call.

This year, we received an abundance of entries with familiar favorites and imaginative creations, each wowing us. Our judges had a difficult time selecting the winners out of the impressive lineup of recipes. As always, we’re so grateful to everyone who took the time to enter. Everything looked delicious.

Our winning holiday recipes come from chefs in St. Louis and Wright City, Missouri, as well as across the river in Waterloo and Belleville, Illinois. 

We invite you to get your apron on and test out these dishes. Whether you’re looking for something to make for family, bring to a holiday potluck or enjoy at home, these recipes are sure to bring new favorites to your platter and a smile to your face. Happy holidays!

Hors d’oeuvres: Jalapeno Popper Crescent Rolls

Holiday Beverages: Banana Cow

Holiday Hams: Aunt Janet’s Iowa Ham

Tender Turkey: Roasted Turkey with Apple & Herbs

Deserving Dressing: Ollie’s Dressing

Super Soups: Bacon Potato Soup

Special Salads: Fruit Mallow Salad

Positive Roll Models: Pumpkin Honey Yeast Dinner Rolls

Scintillating Side Dishes: Roasted Honey Brussels Sprouts and Loaded Mash Potato Casserole

Just Desserts: Cinnamon Apple Butter Gooey Butter Cake

Lovable Leftovers: Turkey and Gravy Biscuit Skillet