Holiday hosting gets easier when you have 47 Christmas side ideas ready to go. Adding sides to your spread gives guests extra options and keeps the meal interesting. New dishes often spark fun conversations around the table at winter dinners. Sharing festive sides is a practical way to bring more joy to family and friends.
Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Delicious flavors get a cozy upgrade with this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto. Sitting down to a bowl feels like wrapping up in a soft blanket on a cold winter night. Each tender bite delivers a comforting richness that keeps people coming back for another spoonful. The warmth and subtle sweetness are just what your holiday table needs.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Ham Salad
Few quick dishes can surprise a crowd quite like this Ham Salad. A scoop on a cracker brings back memories of classic celebrations. Guests always bring a smile when they try it since the flavors are familiar yet somehow refreshing for a festive spread. You’ll notice the bowl empties faster than you expect.
Get the Recipe: Ham Salad
Festive Caprese Candy Cane
With its playful look, this Festive Caprese Candy Cane always sparks excitement as soon as it lands on the table. Bright colors line up in a pattern that’s cheerful and inviting. I like seeing everyone’s reaction—it never fails to bring out a few “wows.” The tangy freshness behind each bite keeps spirits high throughout the meal.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane
Layered Seven Layer Salad
Layers of crisp veggies under a creamy topping make this Layered Seven Layer Salad both crunchy and hearty. Memories of potlucks come rushing back with this classic stacked beauty. There’s something about slicing through the layers and finding new flavors with every forkful. The rainbow of ingredients instantly brightens up any winter feast.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad
Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Velvet-smooth and comforting, these Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes brings warmth straight from the kitchen. Nothing feels more like home during the holidays than a generous scoop of this side nestled next to roast turkey. Each mouthful brings a richness that makes you pause and go in for just one more bite. Fluffy and full of goodness, it’s a surefire favorite.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
On a wintry evening, this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole shines as the ultimate comfort dish. Generous, hearty layers make you want to dig right in and stay awhile. I can never resist going back for a second helping because it just feels right for the season. Every forkful tastes like a classic holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Soft Garlic Knots
Friends and family light up at the aroma of these Soft Garlic Knots drifting from the oven. The first, warm pull-apart bite is nothing short of magical when shared around a big table. Baked to golden perfection, this bread has a fluffy inside and a gentle garlic touch to keep things lively. Passing the basket never seems to happen just once.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots
Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Comfort finds its place at the holiday feast with this Hearty Cabbage Casserole. Each fork-tender layer is big on homestyle flavor and brings a rustic charm perfect for sweater weather. A dish like this proves how even the simplest sides can surprise everyone gathered together. Earthy and satisfying, it’s a tradition in the making.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Velvety smooth and naturally sweet, these Mashed Sweet Potatoes bring a gentle pop of color to the winter table. People always ask what makes it so good, though it’s the creamy texture that truly wins them over. I keep this side in my regular winter rotation since it pairs well with nearly everything. Its cheerful hue instantly brightens the plates around it.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A plate of these Brussels Sprouts with Bacon never gets left behind during the holiday meal. Crispy edges add just the right crunch while smoky hints make every bite better than the last. Even those on the fence about brussels sprouts find themselves taking seconds. The whole pan somehow disappears before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
For a reliable crowd-pleaser, this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves always lives up to its name. Its creamy goodness and gentle crunch win over even picky eaters. There’s a reason this dish disappears so quickly at every celebration. Comforting yet lively, it’s just the thing to round out your seasonal spread.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Buttery Mashed Potatoes
With these Buttery Mashed Potatoes in the lineup, even the simplest meal feels like a special occasion. Silky-smooth scoops invite everyone at the table to dig in, no matter how old they are. I usually make extra since folks always sneak second (and third) helpings. Holiday gatherings just wouldn’t feel the same without it.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Soft Dinner Rolls
The scent of fresh-baked Soft Dinner Rolls coming out of the kitchen makes spirits soar. Pulling one apart releases a puff of steam that’s instantly comforting. People quickly reach for these at festive dinners since nothing beats a warm, pillowy bite. Slathering on a touch of butter is all it takes to keep these disappearing fast.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
A newcomer to the holiday table, this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is proving its place as an instant classic. Each spoonful brings out creamy richness with a savory, golden top. The combination makes you take notice, especially when everyone keeps asking for the recipe. Even those who hesitate on veggies change their minds with this one.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Big flavor meets rich texture in this Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes dish that holds up to any festive roast. Holiday tables come to life when this comforting classic is in the spotlight. I’ve noticed how guests return for extra servings after that first taste. Layers of flavor help this side stand out from the usual choices.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Colorful 7 Layer Salad
Holiday spreads have never looked brighter thanks to this Colorful 7 Layer Salad. A medley of textures sits beneath a smooth, creamy blanket on top. With every scoop, a mix of fresh crunch and rich flavor comes together in such a cheerful way. People especially enjoy the burst of color on cold winter days.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad
Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Breaking into this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower guarantees plenty of wide-eyed stares. Beautifully caramelized and golden, it turns an ordinary vegetable into a centerpiece. There’s something undeniably special about slicing into the tender head and sharing the first bite. The aroma alone draws a crowd as soon as it comes out of the oven.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Holiday meals become even more memorable with this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole around. Each bite brings together crispy edges and deep savory flavors. The creamy layers offer a comfort you can’t get enough of, which I’ve seen firsthand as pans are scraped clean. Even those who shy away from Brussels sprouts keep coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Green Bean and Bacon Casserole
At every winter get-together, this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole deserves its spot on the table. Crisp beans mingle with smoky notes, creating a familiar and heartwarming side. Family and guests cheer when it appears alongside main dishes, since the flavors match the season so well. Its bold taste makes it impossible to overlook.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole
Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese
Creamy comfort comes easy thanks to this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese that keeps everyone at the table happy. A pot of this cheesy favorite creates anticipation as the aroma fills the room. I appreciate having a side that frees up oven space, especially for big gatherings. The blend of soft pasta and melty cheese is simply irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese
Cheesy Potato Casserole
The holidays always feel complete when this Cheesy Potato Casserole appears at the feast. Glossy on top and bursting with smooth, hearty bites, it’s a wintertime classic. There’s no need for fancy ingredients, its cozy appeal does all the talking. Friends and family request it often once they’ve tried it.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole
Tender Roasted Broccoli
A tray of Tender Roasted Broccoli fresh out of the oven instantly draws people in. Crisped florets carry a little char, which adds a nutty twist hard to resist. I find that even picky eaters sneak extra helpings of this dish. Its simple preparation belies just how special it becomes on holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Holiday celebrations simply aren’t the same without these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes in the mix. Creamy, golden, and bubbling with flavor, every bite feels like pure comfort on a plate. People often find themselves scooping up more than they planned. This side proves just how much joy a single dish can bring.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Bringing a bowl of this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make brings smiles and a bit of nostalgia. Fresh, juicy crunches mix with creamy dressing for a texture that’s truly rewarding. I’m always surprised by how many folks rediscover old favorites like this during the holidays. It bridges the gap between tradition and present-day celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
With a gentle sweetness and fragrant aroma, this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce becomes a standout side for any wintry feast. It pairs beautifully with main dishes while offering a soft, comforting flavor in every spoonful. Families often pass the bowl twice before it’s empty. Adding fresh apples brings a bonus cheer to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Slicing into a serving of Tender Cauliflower Steaks is a treat for those seeking a lighter, flavorful side dish. A golden crust hints at the delicious center waiting underneath. Few can resist grabbing a wedge once it’s laid out among the classic favorites. Signaling a fresh take, this option turns heads every time.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Crispy Stuffing Balls
As soon as the first plate of Crispy Stuffing Balls is set down, anticipation builds quickly. Bite-sized and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for sharing around a holiday table. I love bringing extras because everyone grabs more than one without thinking. The golden exterior hides a deliciously soft center, making each one a small surprise.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls
Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Small pillows of this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi deliver surprising richness with every bite. Each morsel is soft, comforting, and fits right in beside the season’s savory mains. Friends are often curious about this unique side and usually ask what makes it so special. One taste is all it takes for people to come back for another spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Buttermilk Biscuits
Warm, fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits always draw cheerful responses when they appear at a winter feast. Their soft texture practically begs to be split and buttered on the spot. I often notice people saving one or two just for soaking up gravy. Whether piled high or served solo, they steal the show with their pillowy charm.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits
Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Bursting with color and crunch, this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad brings a welcome lift to any holiday gathering. Tangy bites share the spotlight with just the right sweetness, making it unforgettable among more traditional sides. Guests regularly ask what’s in it because the flavors are surprisingly bold. It works as both a side and a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Savory French Onion Casserole
Rich and comforting, this Savory French Onion Casserole gets people talking before it even leaves the oven. Layers of soft onions and golden top create an aroma impossible to forget. I often catch guests sneaking small helpings before dinner starts. The warmth of this dish truly fits chilly winter celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Each bite of this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing packs a punch of texture and flavor. Sweet, tangy, and crisp, it balances heavier main dishes effortlessly. People are pleasantly surprised by how much they enjoy it, even those who say they usually avoid broccoli. Serving it cold gives your spread an extra pop of freshness.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Savory Bread Stuffing
Holiday dinners would feel incomplete without a pan of this Savory Bread Stuffing to go with them. Herby, moist, and golden, it adds timeless comfort to the lineup. This dish consistently brings people back for second plates. With each bite, you can sense holiday traditions coming through.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
In need of a bright and cheery side? These Easy Honey Glazed Carrots deliver bursts of sweetness with every bite. Their glossy finish sparks curiosity and lights up the table’s color palette. Locals often request the recipe after the very first try because the flavors are so simple yet memorable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
For a new twist, these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls combine festive flavors in a fun bite-sized surprise. A pop of tartness balances the richness and fits right in with the season’s fare. I find these disappear quickly from the platter as soon as people find out what’s inside. Even stuffing skeptics often becomes instant fans.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Crisp on the outside and beautifully soft inside, Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes win instant praise. Each ball offers a pleasing crunch followed by a creamy middle. Quick to prepare, they bring a playful spirit to the holiday table. I bring a second batch just in case—the first never lasts.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Rich Creamed Spinach
Heaping spoonfuls of this Rich Creamed Spinach never go untouched at any winter celebration. Velvety and packed with flavor, it brings a classic comfort that warms up any plate. The green color breaks up heavier dishes and adds just enough variety. It’s easy to see why this side is a staple among so many.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Any holiday feast gets a pop of flavor with these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Deeply roasted with a gentle glaze, every bite has a hint of tang and just the right crispness. Even those who claim not to like sprouts change their minds in an instant. A generous portion guarantees an empty platter.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
With an array of vivid hues showing off the season’s best, these Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables are hard to miss on any table. The gentle caramelization teases out subtle natural sweetness with every bite. Guests love the mixture of flavors and colors because it lifts the mood alongside classic main courses. Winter never looked brighter than with a tray of these shared around.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Sourdough Stuffing
A hearty, home-baked aroma signals that this Sourdough Stuffing is about to make your meal extra special. Each bite offers a satisfying tang and pillowy middle that’s hard to forget. Friends often ask for tips on making stuffing taste this great. Its comfort and texture work perfectly next to turkey and gravy.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing
Four Cheese Mac n Cheese
Layers of gooey richness make this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese anything but ordinary. Slowly baked to perfection, it’s equal parts melty and golden. I find this dish always leads to lively debates over which cheese shines brightest. Each creamy forkful feels like a mini celebration.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese
Christmas Salad
Holiday feasts feel brighter with this Christmas Salad in the lineup. A light mix of greens, fruit, and subtle crunches bring balance to heavier dishes. Guests seem to linger near the bowl just to grab an extra serving. Sometimes, all it takes is a single, cheerful dish to lift everyone’s mood.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad
Crunchy Celery Salad
Even the most traditional table gets a refreshing boost from this Crunchy Celery Salad. Those bright, clean flavors act as the perfect reset between rich bites. I always watch this bowl get lighter as the meal goes on. Light, crisp, and easy to love, it surprises everyone with just how much flavor it packs.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad
Rich Turkey Gravy
No winter side lineup could be complete without this Rich Turkey Gravy to tie things together. Silky texture pours beautifully, so every scoop of potatoes or stuffing soaks up more flavor. I’ve noticed how people smile wider as they ladle extra on their plates. One batch is never quite enough for holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Bubbles of cheese and golden crust set these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes apart from ordinary sides. Each creamy layer melts into the next, delivering a comfort you won’t soon forget. When it’s served hot, guests practically race to be first in line. The stretch of cheese seals the deal every time.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Savory Cornbread Stuffing
Southern holiday spreads come alive with a pan of this Savory Cornbread Stuffing. Crumbly, moist, and gently herbed, it has a flavor that feels just right for winter. Most people go back for seconds because the cornbread base is so unique. I make a little extra just to ensure there’s enough for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing
Fresh Beet Salad
The jewel-like color of this Fresh Beet Salad makes it a striking centerpiece for any feast. Each forkful is both earthy and sweet, for a balance that stands out among heartier sides. Guests are often surprised by how refreshing it tastes among so many winter classics. Bringing this to the table guarantees a few recipe requests.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad
