Tieghan's Cozy Christmas Celebrations and Cooking Inspiration

If I had to pick just one food blog for life, it would definitely be Half Baked Harvest. I often find myself inspired by the delicious recipes and stunning photography that Tieghan Gerard shares from her barn in Colorado. Connecting with her over the launch of her cookbook was surreal, and after just a few emails, she generously invited our team to visit her holiday festivities! While that trip is still in the works, I’m thrilled to share her cozy Christmas dinner and her thoughts on crafting her first cookbook, along with a must-try Sunday Meatball recipe for your weekend.

photos by Tieghan Gerard

What motivated your stunning new cookbook?

The book draws inspiration from my family’s favorite recipes, seasonal ingredients, and my readers. They were my biggest motivation! I aimed to create a cookbook that would be frequently used, with pages stained by pasta sauce and chocolate, opening to well-loved recipes from constant use.

Which three recipes do you cherish most in the book?

I adore Nonnie’s Dutch Baby, 5-Ingredient Honey Butter Beer Bread, and One-Pan Friday Night Pasta. The beer bread seems to be a favorite among readers!

Your essential entertaining tool?

Can I mention three? A quality cheese board, a delightful cocktail, and a calm, relaxed mindset. With these essentials, your gathering is bound to be a hit.

Your go-to dish for gatherings?

It varies with the season, but a cheese board, beer bread, and a hearty salad loaded with seasonal produce are staples at my gatherings.

Where did your cooking skills come from?

I learned from Rachel Ray, Ina Garten, and of course, the internet!

One rule of entertaining you always follow?

Never let the food run out—leftovers are a bonus! Keep it simple for the best experience.

Your favorite recipe sources?

My family! My brothers explore the globe and often share photos or recipes for me to recreate. I also love crafting dishes inspired by seasonal finds at farmers' markets or grocery stores.

Check out Tieghan’s Creamy Polenta with Kale & Mushrooms recipe here!

Do you incorporate family traditions into your entertaining?

Not so much a tradition but a tip from my Nonnie—I always set the table and prep the night before a gathering. It helps me stay organized and saves time on the day of the event.

Your favorite tabletop item?

It’s tough to choose, but I cherish my vintage French cheese boards and my pottery from Australia.

Your secret for a successful dinner party?

A menu that can be prepared in advance to minimize stress, along with a nice bottle of wine or tequila (if it’s a family gathering).

What does your ideal dinner party playlist include?

This time of year, I’m all about classic Christmas tunes! I can’t resist holiday music.

Get the recipe for Tieghan’s Sunday Meatballs here!

Your signature cocktail?

I love a Bourbon Smash with seasonal fruit, or a Ginger Pomegranate Paloma. Deciding is always a challenge for me!

Taste you crave the most?

Sweet and spicy or salty and savory—I can never seem to choose!

Best centerpiece idea?

Fresh flowers alongside seasonal produce and herbs make a lovely display.

Current favorite color scheme for gatherings?

I’m loving winter whites and natural hues with vibrant pops of color to keep it lively.

What’s always stocked in your fridge?

Veggies galore! Plus cheese, avocados, quinoa, eggs, and goat milk.

Favorite post-dinner activity?

Gathering around the fire to chat. At some point, someone usually pulls out their phone for a fun game.

What restaurant meal is unforgettable for you?