We went searching for the best meal ideas to inspire family togetherness and reflection during the season of Advent.

Learn about your faith while you feast! Each recipe includes a relevant saint quote and a symbolic connection to the Advent themes of hope, preparation, and the anticipation of Christ’s birth.

From hearty chilis and stews to festive desserts, these meals provide a unique way to celebrate the spiritual significance of Advent.

1. Advent Chili Night

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Celebrate Advent with a hearty chili that symbolizes the warmth of waiting for Christ. This one-pot wonder is easy to make, customizable for picky eaters, and perfect for family sharing after lighting the Advent wreath. Add cornbread for a complete meal.

Saint quote: “Let us wait in joyful hope for the coming of our Savior.” – St. Augustine 

2. Shepherd’s Pie of Peace

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Shepherd’s Pie reminds us of the shepherds who first heard the Good News. Layer mashed potatoes, ground beef, and vegetables for a cozy meal that draws the family closer to Advent reflections.

Saint quote: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” – St. John the Baptist

3. Purple Sweet Potato Soup

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This vibrant soup highlights Advent’s purple theme, symbolizing penance and preparation. Add ginger for warmth and pair with crusty bread for a festive dinner.

Saint quote: “Advent increases our hope, a hope which does not disappoint. The Lord never lets us down.” – St. John Paul II

4. Starry Night Christmas Lasagna

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Prepare a creamy lasagna and cut cheese stars for the top, echoing the Star of Bethlehem. As the meal bakes, reflect on Mary’s journey and the bright star guiding the Magi.

Saint quote: “Mary is the star that guides us to Christ.” – St. Bernard of Clairvaux

5. O Antiphon Stew

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Celebrate the final days of Advent with a slow-cooked stew that includes root vegetables and hearty meat, honoring the “O Antiphons.” Each vegetable can represent a different title of Christ.

Saint quote: “O Wisdom, O Holy Word of God, come to us!” – Liturgy of the Hours

6. Angel Wing Cookies & Cocoa

View Cookie Recipe HERE | View Cocoa Recipe HERE

End a day of Advent reflections with angel-shaped cookies paired with hot cocoa. It’s a fun dessert that reminds the family of the angels proclaiming Christ’s birth.

Saint quote: “The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.’” – Luke 1:30

7. Rose Sunday Chicken and Veggies

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For Gaudete Sunday, make a joyful meal with a roast chicken and pink cranberry glaze. Add roasted vegetables for a colorful, festive plate.

Saint quote: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” – St. Paul

8. Stable-Style Beef Stroganoff

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This creamy comfort meal echoes the humility of Christ’s birthplace. The hearty noodles and tender beef make it a hit for family Advent dinners.

Saint quote: “Christ was born in a stable; He comes to us in humility.” – St. Francis of Assisi

9. Nativity Spaghetti Bake

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Layer pasta, sauce, and cheese in a nativity-themed dish. Top with a “hay-like” parmesan garnish to recall the manger. It’s easy and meaningful!

Saint quote: “The manger is the throne of the King of the universe.” – St. Bonaventure

10. Advent Calendar Breakfast Casserole

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Create a delicious casserole with ingredients for each week of Advent. Incorporate eggs, sausage, and vegetables to reflect the liturgical colors. Tomatoes and ham for “Rose Sunday”? Yes, please!

Saint quote: “To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. In you I trust.” – Psalm 25:1

Do you have your own traditional Advent recipes? Please share them in the comments below!