A complete and comforting holiday meal comes together with the help of these 49 Christmas side recipe ideas, perfect for both big parties and smaller gatherings. Plenty of folks like to keep things traditional when planning their sides, and skipping the fuss helps everyone relax. Familiar choices leave more time for enjoying the day and less for worrying over tricky techniques.
Fresh Beet Salad
Bright colors jump out with this Fresh Beet Salad served at any holiday meal. Crunchy beets and crisp greens give every bite a refreshing feel that wakes up the palate. I always prep this salad in advance for big gatherings because it holds up so well. Eye-catching salads keep things lively before the main course arrives.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad
Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Roasting takes center stage when you bring out this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower as a centerpiece. Tender florets slice easily and soak up rich flavor without much fuss. I make it for holiday spreads that need something hearty but simple. Whole roasted veggies provide bold character in winter dishes.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Layers of warmth come together in this Hearty Cabbage Casserole at any Christmas table. Savory cabbage and creamy sauce turn an everyday vegetable into something memorable. I prep this casserole ahead since it reheats perfectly and feeds a crowd. Comfort food like this brings people together in colder months.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Plates pile high with spoonfuls of this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes for classic comfort. Smooth texture and rich taste pair up with every roast and main dish. I whip them up early for easy serving when the crowd rolls in. Mashed potatoes are always in demand as soon as the holidays start.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Savory French Onion Casserole
Deep flavor builds inside every pan of this Savory French Onion Casserole waiting by the oven. Caramelized onions and warm sauce create a side no one leaves untouched. I love that this casserole works well as a make-ahead for busy families. French onion dishes bring a sense of luxury to festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole
Festive Caprese Candy Cane
Red and white stripes turn heads when this Festive Caprese Candy Cane lands on the holiday spread. Juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese follow a playful holiday theme that feels new yet familiar. I assemble this as a fun starter that sparks conversation at Christmas parties. Decorative salads help set a cheerful tone for the evening.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Forks dig into layers of creamy comfort with this Twice Baked Potato Casserole set alongside wintry mains. Each bite comes packed with cheese and fluffy potato goodness. I favor this for potlucks since it’s easy to portion and reheats beautifully. Potato casseroles keep company around the table longer.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes
Fast prep and bright flavor make this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes a go-to for busy holiday hosts. Red tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil send signals of freshness through every bite. I serve Caprese as a break from the heavier winter sides. Simple salads guarantee smiles while balancing richer classics.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes
Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Cookouts and cozy nights both get better with the arrival of this Tender Cauliflower Steaks. Sliced thick, cauliflower becomes hearty enough for center stage without needing complicated steps. I lean on this recipe for gatherings where some guests prefer lighter fare. Cauliflower makes every table feel modern and inclusive during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Hands reach for seconds from this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole as the snow falls outside. Juicy chicken and savory stuffing combine for an easy meal that brings comfort. I keep casserole recipes ready for meal planning since they can be made in advance. One-dish wonders make group dinners fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Rich Creamed Spinach
Vibrant green color pops from each helping of this Rich Creamed Spinach next to main courses. Silky texture and deep flavor help round out heavy holiday plates. I prepare creamed spinach the night before so serving is quick and simple. Classic sides like spinach provide the balance every Christmas table needs.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach
Colorful 7 Layer Salad
Layer upon layer brings a burst of excitement with this Colorful 7 Layer Salad stacked in clear bowls. Fresh veggies and creamy dressing make every scoop hearty enough to stand alone. I build salads ahead to keep things easy as guests arrive. Layered salads add visual appeal to classic winter spreads.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad
Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
Sweet apples and cinnamon fill the kitchen with comforting aromas from this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce. Applesauce works perfectly alongside rich meats or baked treats. I prep it early so it can chill before the meal starts. Simple sides like applesauce invite nostalgia for holiday meals gone by.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
Perfect Baked Potato
Steaming hot potatoes always bring happiness when you serve this Perfect Baked Potato with all the fixings. Crisp skins and fluffy interiors set the stage for endless toppings. I bake a dozen at once for hungry crowds seeking simple sides. Baked potatoes pair well with roasts, stews, or casseroles at Christmas dinner.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato
Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Nostalgia finds its way to the table with this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Crunchy apples, celery, and sweet grapes mingle to bring back favorite holiday memories. I put Waldorf salad on the menu as a light counterpoint to heavier dishes. Reminiscent sides make celebrations feel warmer and more personal.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Colorful trays glow with this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables after a spin in the oven. Tender carrots, potatoes, and parsnips signal comfort without extra fuss. I choose sheet pan recipes for their quick clean-up and big flavors. Roasted veggies add earthy charm to wintry plates.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Hearty servings of this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves keep guests coming back for more. Cheese and broccoli combine for a reliable favorite that fits any celebration. I make casseroles in advance so holiday prep doesn’t feel like a chore. Broccoli gets special attention when wrapped in creamy goodness.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Crunchy Celery Salad
Pops of freshness show up in this
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Orange color and gentle sweetness fill dishes with this Mashed Sweet Potatoes for Christmas feasts. Silky texture makes sweet potatoes a stand-out alongside spicy or salty mains. I prepare mash ahead to save time and keep things stress-free. Sweet potato side dishes always find loyal fans at holiday events.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Sourdough Stuffing
Slices of hearty bread star in this Sourdough Stuffing that finishes off any festive platter. Rich, chewy cubes soak up fragrant herbs, enhancing every forkful. I build stuffing a day in advance so flavors meld perfectly. Old-fashioned sides help everyone settle in quickly when the holiday rush is on.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing
Colorful Antipasto Salad
Cheese, veggies, and tender meats blend together in this Colorful Antipasto Salad perfect for serving in winter. Bold flavors play well with rich roasts and creamy sides. I assemble antipasto trays early so stress stays low during meal time. Vibrant salads keep things lively at crowded tables.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad
Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Mounds of goodness spill out from this Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes set neatly beside the holiday ham. Potato boats house creamy filling and crispy tops for instant comfort. I prep the whole batch ahead so nothing slows down when dinnertime arrives. Twice baking is worth it for the smiles that follow.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Every forkful brings crunch and sweet notes from this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad layered with apples and greens. Winter fruit helps brighten up the table among all the casseroles. I toss salads at the last minute for maximum freshness. Crisp salads are a happy break from the heavier recipe favorites.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Tender Sautéed Kale
Greens turn tender and flavorful with every helping of this Tender Sautéed Kale served warm. Simple cooking brings out the best in this nutritious side at holiday meals. I sauté greens just before guests sit down to preserve texture. Kale side dishes add an easy hint of health to wintry menus.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale
Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Taters get upgraded with this Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes baked to perfect crunch. Slices spread out for a dramatic look that everyone wants to sneak a photo of. I make Hasselback potatoes for parties when presentation matters. Potato sides pile up compliments as soon as they hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Crispy Stuffing Balls
Savory stuffing forms a playful bite with this Crispy Stuffing Balls lined up for holiday appetizers. Crunch outside and flavorful centers make these perfect for dipping and sharing. I bake stuffing balls hours in advance for easier party flow. Novelty sides help guests break the ice before mains appear.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls
Rich Turkey Gravy
Warm, velvety sauce poured over any main dish starts with this Rich Turkey Gravy. Smooth gravy blends right in with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roast turkey plates. I simmer gravy early and keep it hot for quick serving. Good sauce rounds out every part of Christmas dinner without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Guests pile plates high with helpings from this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole bubbling away in the oven. Potatoes and cheese offer stick-to-your-ribs comfort in each forkful. I keep hashbrown casserole as a staple for easy prep and reheating. Cheesy sides always end up as fan favorites.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Mushroom Gravy
Holiday tables benefit from ladles of this
Soft Garlic Knots
Baskets overflow as plates fill up with this Soft Garlic Knots twisted for easy sharing. Pillowy dough and gentle garlic flavor please guests of all ages. I bake knots in big batches for parties since leftovers are rare. Breads baked with garlic always go fast in cold weather.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots
Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Forks reach for extra servings of this Buttery Mashed Potatoes on a cold December night. Creamy texture and rich flavor anchor any festive spread with familiar taste. I prepare mash well ahead to simplify last-minute meal rush. Potatoes make every holiday event just a little smoother.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Savory Bread Stuffing
Festive plates get this
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Brussels sprouts find new popularity with this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze at the Christmas table. Sweet glaze and crispy edges give veggies headline status. I caramelize sprouts for group dinners so each bite comes out right. Balancing sweet and savory makes side vegetables shine.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Crusty Focaccia Bread
Crackling golden crust crowns each slice of this Crusty Focaccia Bread laid out for snacking or mopping up gravy. Pillowy dough and olive oil round out the Italian classic at holiday meals. I bake focaccia for big parties, knowing it manages both appetizers and sides. Homemade bread brings a special feel to chilly gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Holiday plates fill up with creamy layers from this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham set to bake until bubbly. Savory ham and soft potatoes make each forkful a treat on cold nights. I prep the dish early for oven-ready comfort. Casseroles like this stay in rotation throughout the season.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Green veggies become irresistible baked inside this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole for Christmas dinner. Gooey cheese and roasted sprouts blend to surprise even picky eaters. I favor casseroles on busy nights for quick clean-up and happy faces. Cheesy sides bring a playful touch to annual traditions.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Tender Roasted Broccoli
Bright broccoli florets land on the table with this Tender Roasted Broccoli in the Christmas spread. Roasting turns each piece smoky and flavorful without much effort. I roast florets quickly just before serving to keep them perfect. Broccoli brings color and crunch to the plate with ease.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Buttermilk Biscuits
Warm, fluffy layers build excitement when trays of this Buttermilk Biscuits arrive at brunch or dinner. Gentle tang and soft crumb turn ordinary bread into something comforting. I keep biscuits coming for seconds since they pair with everything. Biscuits make every side plate feel complete at holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits
Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Wedges glow orange and crisp as you pass around this Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges for Christmas snacking. Sweet potatoes bring cheer and crunchy bites to any festive table. I bake wedges ahead for quick reheating among the rush. Sweet sides help balance out all the savory main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Festive Christmas Casserole
Red and green ingredients pop throughout this Festive Christmas Casserole bringing holiday spirit right to the plate. Creamy layers and colorful veggies get folks talking as soon as they arrive. I layer casseroles early for easy oven time right before serving. Bright sides make the season extra inviting.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Glazed veggies shimmer with this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots served hot at gatherings. Sweet honey gives carrots gentle shine and flavor that stands out between heavy dishes. I steam and glaze carrots hours before to keep kitchen chaos under control. Simple vegetable sides help lighten up the festive menu.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Forks reach into bowls of this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad for a fruity break between bites of comfort food. Creamy chicken and crunchy pecans blend brightly with tart cranberries. I prep salads ahead for buffet-style self-serve meals. Chicken salad picks up compliments from guests seeking fresher tastes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Pillowy dumplings bring a soft finish to main dishes with this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Bright orange gnocchi gives easy comfort and color to wintry plates. I keep gnocchi on standby for those craving lighter bites. Sweet potato sides stretch the holiday table beyond the usual lineup.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Christmas Salad
Festive leafy greens and ruby fruits bring sparkle with this Christmas Salad among heavier recipes. Crunch and freshness cross over from savory to sweet with each serving. I toss salads ahead so prep is hassle-free and serving is smooth. Colorful cold dishes complete the side spread for any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
Marshmallow clouds brown up prettily atop this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows from the oven. Sweet potatoes and syrupy topping bring comfort dessert flavors to the table. I make it in advance because it reheats well for second helpings. Sweet and sticky sides find fans every Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Each spoonful of this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing packs fresh green crunch with cool, creamy finish. Apples, nuts, and broccoli mix to perk things up at any meal. I chill this salad after tossing so it’s ready right when people gather. Broccoli salads offer easy relief from heavier recipes.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Risotto glows golden in bowls of this
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Even skeptical veggie eaters dig in once you serve this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole at a Christmas dinner. Soft florets baked with creamy cheese create a dish worth repeating. I choose cauliflower casserole for easy oven-to-table action. Cheesy sides steal the show from the main attraction.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Layered Seven Layer Salad
Tables light up with layers of color from this Layered Seven Layer Salad bundled into glass bowls. Crisp lettuce and fresh veggies hide creamy dressing ready for digging in. I build these salads overnight for perfect texture at mealtime. Layered options keep plates exciting from start to finish.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad
