Before we talk meat, a quick pause.

The holidays are about people. Family, friends, chosen family, neighbors who wander over when the smoker's running. And if there's one thing this community understands, it's that cooking meat is how a lot of us say "I care."

Dead Meat Society exists because of that instinct. Feeding people well. Taking your time. Showing love the only way pistmasters really know how. So as the year winds down, consider this a genuine thank you for showing up, firing pits, sharing cooks, and keeping the spirit alive all year long.

That said... let's talk about Christmas dinner.


Why Christmas Belongs on the Grill

If you’re cooking for Christmas this year, there’s no rule saying it has to happen indoors.

Beef roasts, hams, lamb, ribs, and even seafood all thrive in cold-weather smoke. Low-and-slow cooks love cool air, and you don’t have to fight for oven space while juggling sides.

According to seasonal cooking trends, more people are choosing beef, pork, and alternative proteins for Christmas dinner than ever before. Translation: nobody’s mad if the turkey sits this one out.

Holiday Recipes That Actually Belong on the Pit

Barbecue Bible’s seasonal grilling lineup makes one thing clear. Cold weather isn’t a reason to stop. It’s a reason to cook bigger.

If you’re looking to break tradition in the best way possible, these cold-weather grill-friendly recipes prove Christmas and live fire are a natural match:

Smoked Camembert with Chili Jam and Pecans: A warm, smoky cheese board upgrade that sets the tone early.

Festive Crown Rack of Ribs: This is your Christmas centerpiece. It looks dramatic, eats like a celebration, and doesn’t require explaining how to carve a turkey to six different relatives.

Smoked Mushroom Bread Pudding: It works as a side, a vegetarian option, or the dish everyone unexpectedly asks for seconds of.

Smoked Crème Brûlée: Because if you’re hosting Christmas and the smoker’s already hot, dessert should get the same respect as the meat.

These are meals built for gathering. The kind of food that earns a long rest and a sharp knife. If you’re already planning Christmas dinner, here’s the nudge: let the grill or smoker be the centerpiece, not the backup plan.