All the best gatherings feel extra special when every side on the table gets a moment to shine. Included in this lineup are 51 Christmas side recipe ideas for every type of holiday feast. Big family get-togethers, quiet seasonal dinners, and festive potlucks all get a little easier with plenty of sides to choose from. Whether trying something new or sticking to tradition, there’s a dish for each holiday mood.
Savory French Onion Casserole
Warm and cozy scents fill the kitchen when this Savory French Onion Casserole comes out of the oven. The recipe pairs perfectly with everything from ham to roast beef. It always draws a crowd at the table, surprising people with how homey and flavorful it feels. A golden top and rich aroma make this casserole unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole
Vegetarian Gravy
Anyone looking for a hearty topping will be thrilled with this Vegetarian Gravy. It has the comfort and warmth you want on a holiday plate, without any meat required. Guests who try it often spoon extra onto their mashed potatoes, savoring every last drop. Gluten-free eaters and vegetarians are equally delighted by its richness.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy
Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Bursting with comforting flavors, this Hearty Cabbage Casserole is always a winter favorite. Even picky eaters pause to ask what makes it so good. With classic ingredients and a stick-to-your-ribs finish, it stands tall next to roasted meats or turkey. Cold evenings never seem as chilly with a helping of this casserole on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes
Bringing a pop of color to your table, this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes is fresh and cheerful. Its bright flavors and bold layers catch the eye long before the first bite. People appreciate the contrast alongside heavy holiday dishes. You’ll be surprised how often this salad steals the show during the Christmas feast.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Nothing says comfort like this Twice Baked Potato Casserole brimming with creamy richness. Its fluffy texture has everyone coming back for seconds, especially during a big celebration. The crisp brown top just begs for a serving spoon. No one leaves the table without trying a generous scoop.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Even those who never considered cauliflower a holiday vegetable may rethink things after tasting this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower. The golden edges lend a festive look to your spread. Each slice is hearty and fills plates with delicious earthy notes. It’s a surefire conversation starter and crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Fresh Beet Salad
A plate of this Fresh Beet Salad brings a touch of brightness and crunch to your meal. Its jewel-toned colors are stunning enough for a festive snapshot. Crisp and earthy flavors help balance out rich meats and casseroles. Guests often ask for the recipe, wanting to recreate that burst of freshness at home.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad
Soft Dinner Rolls
Few things draw people to the table faster than the aroma of these Soft Dinner Rolls. Served warm, they’re the kind of side that disappears before you have a chance to blink. Kids and adults alike can’t resist slathering on butter. They’re perfect for mopping up every last drop of gravy or sauce.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls
Four Cheese Mac n Cheese
An over-the-top holiday calls for a side like this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese. The oozy, decadent bites bring out smiles all around the table. Everyone loves getting an extra scoop, especially when the cheese bubbles at the edges. Moments like these turn a simple dish into a lasting Christmas memory.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese
Festive Caprese Candy Cane
Guests are always surprised by the playful presentation of this Festive Caprese Candy Cane. Alternating layers of cheese and tomatoes form a holiday-themed design that doubles as a centerpiece. It adds style and fun, making the spread feel extra special. Kids love reaching for these colorful bites, and so do adults.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane
Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
The moment you scoop into this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes recipe, creamy comfort settles in. Silky smooth and rich, each forkful feels like a warm blanket on a chilly night. Everyone asks for seconds, especially when paired with gravy. These mashed potatoes bring pure holiday happiness to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
The aroma drifting from this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole wraps around the table, feeling like a warm holiday hug. All the best parts of Christmas dinner combine in each bite. People find themselves drawn back for just one more helping. It turns any meal into a family-style celebration.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Lively color and gentle sweetness make this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots recipe a holiday favorite. Every bite feels light and cheerful alongside classic mains. Even those who skip veggies usually sneak a few forkfuls. Such a bright dish easily becomes a staple during December gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
Guests always pause and smile when spotting this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows on the buffet. Toasted marshmallows create a golden layer that’s irresistibly soft underneath. Classic Christmas flavors fill each bite. It’s a tradition that brings back childhood memories with each scoop.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
One of the freshest options on the menu, the Crisp Honeycrisp Salad balances heavy entrees with ease. Thin apple slices and crunchy greens make for a bright addition to winter meals. People are always delighted by the burst of sweetness and snap from each bite. It adds a modern touch to traditional Christmas spreads.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Tender Sautéed Kale
Packed with flavor, this Tender Sautéed Kale fits right in with big celebratory feasts. Its deep, savory notes offer a welcome break from creamy casseroles and rich meats. Each forkful feels like a fresh start. Guests who never loved kale find new appreciation for it during holiday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale
Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
No one can resist the inviting layers found in these Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Plenty of melty goodness and crispy edges make them perfect for special occasions. They look almost too good to eat, but never last long on the buffet. Friends rave about them and always want the recipe afterward.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Savory Bread Stuffing
Holiday tables shine a little brighter with this Savory Bread Stuffing on display. Herby scents drift through the room as it bakes, drawing people in for a closer look. Each serving brings classic homey flavors everyone craves at Christmastime. Spoons scrape the dish clean by the end of dinner.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
The cheerful colors in these Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables make winter meals look inviting. Each piece roasts to bring out its earthy sweetness and crispy texture. Family and friends always comment on the bold flavors and beautiful presentation. It’s a real celebration of the season’s best produce.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Comfort meets fun in the creamy layers of this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole. Kids and grown-ups love how it fits with any main course. It’s the kind of holiday staple you’ll find people taking seconds (and maybe thirds) of. Even picky eaters are won over by its irresistible inside.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Crusty Focaccia Bread
Lighting up the table with rustic charm, this Crusty Focaccia Bread brings everyone together. Its chewy crumb and crispy top have guests tearing off bite after bite. Holiday spreads feel extra festive when served with simple, flavorful bread. You might catch people reaching for another piece, even after the meal is over.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread
Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
Spread a little sweetness on Christmas dinner with this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce. The warm scent of cinnamon brings childhood holidays right to the table. It works beautifully alongside roasted meats or served as a simple treat. Many find themselves taking an extra spoonful over dessert, too.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Classic comfort shines through in every scoop of these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Baking them fills the house with a golden aroma that rivals the main course. The tender, creamy interior always has folks coming back for more. They’re a must-try at any holiday buffet.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Soft Garlic Knots
Fluffy and full of flavor, these Soft Garlic Knots vanish as fast as you set them out. The gentle garlic scent makes mouths water before the meal is even served. People love to dunk them in gravy or scoop up last bits of sauce. They’re a hit among both adults and kids at every holiday get-together.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots
Crispy Stuffing Balls
Changing up the classic stuffing, these Crispy Stuffing Balls bring fun to the Christmas buffet. The crunchy sides and tender centers make them a true crowd-pleaser. People find themselves snacking on them before the meal even begins. That first bite always gets everyone talking.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls
Tender Roasted Broccoli
A plate of this Tender Roasted Broccoli brings a bit of green brightness to all the rich holiday dishes. Its slight char and deep flavor draw plenty of attention from hungry guests. Whether served up fancy or simple, it’s always polished off by the end of dinner. Even broccoli skeptics change their minds at least once.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Festive Christmas Casserole
Dressed up with bright colors and bold flavors, this Festive Christmas Casserole grabs attention on any holiday table. It’s the kind of dish people ask about before the plates are even filled. Each bite feels special, and the leftovers disappear fast. You’ll see smiles all around when this casserole makes an appearance.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Just one forkful of this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing brightens up holiday spreads. The bite from crisp veggies gives everyone a nice break from softer sides. Drizzled with a smooth dressing, it feels like a little treat on the plate. Fresh, cool, and creamy, it always gets lots of compliments.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Comforting layers in this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe make it hard to stop at one helping. Baked until bubbly and golden, it has classic flavors everyone expects at Christmas. Each serving feels hearty and warm during the holiday rush. Leftovers, if there are any, taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Buttermilk Biscuits
There’s something special about serving up a batch of Buttermilk Biscuits with Christmas dinner. Soft inside with a delicate crumb, they pair well with nearly every holiday dish. Folks reach for one as soon as the basket hits the table. No feast feels complete without a few of these fluffy favorites.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits
Rich Turkey Gravy
Ladling this Rich Turkey Gravy over mashed potatoes or turkey is a Christmas ritual for many. The aroma signals the holidays have truly arrived. Even those who usually skip gravy find themselves reaching for the pitcher. Every spoonful brings old-fashioned comfort to the entire spread.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy
Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Slicing into these Tender Cauliflower Steaks reveals a hearty option for anyone wanting something different. Their unique style catches the eye at the holiday buffet. Each bite packs savory warmth, making it a welcome addition to Christmas meals. Even meat lovers go back for a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted until crispy, this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze recipe wins over doubters year after year. The glaze adds depth that perfectly complements traditional holiday flavors. Every piece features a satisfying combo of sweetness and crunch. People marvel at how quickly they’re gone from the serving platter.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Bringing comfort in every bite, this Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes side is a game changer for holiday spreads. Creamy, cozy, and hearty, the dish is always a highlight on the table. It’s hard to resist sneaking another spoonful, even when you’re full. People always request the recipe after trying it for the first time.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Colorful Antipasto Salad
For something light and festive, this Colorful Antipasto Salad fills the table with bold flavor and fun variety. Layers of crisp veggies, tangy bites, and vibrant colors offer a break from traditional sides. People often pile it high on their plates to balance out heavier fare. Every holiday party needs a salad like this.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad
Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Golden on the outside and soft within, these Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges are a holiday favorite with all ages. Simple and fun to eat, they disappear quickly at family gatherings. The natural sweetness pairs well with savory entrees. Served fresh and hot, they deliver the perfect balance of crunch and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese
There’s something magical about lifting the lid on a steamy Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese. Gooey layers and a warm aroma fill the room, making everyone hungry as it’s served up. It takes the edge off busy holiday prep and keeps things easy. Even picky kids come back for seconds with smiles on their faces.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese
Layered Seven Layer Salad
As soon as the serving spoon digs in, this Layered Seven Layer Salad reveals its pretty stripes. With each layer bringing a different crunch or pop of flavor, it stands out surrounded by heavier dishes. Guests love uncovering all the surprises in every serving. It’s a lively addition to any Christmas gathering.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad
Cheesy Potato Casserole
Cozy gatherings call for this Cheesy Potato Casserole, where each forkful is creamy and rich. It stands out even among classic holiday favorites. People stack their plates high, knowing there might not be any left for seconds. Friends and relatives often ask what secret makes it so good.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole
Savory Cornbread Stuffing
Bringing a unique twist to the table, this Savory Cornbread Stuffing never fails to get people talking. Moist, flavorful, and gently crisped, it pairs perfectly with turkey or ham. Those who try it soon claim it beats regular stuffing every time. Its toasty top and comforting interior win rave reviews every season.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
A bowl of these Mashed Sweet Potatoes adds color and festive cheer to any plate. The smooth, velvety texture contrasts nicely with heartier sides. Even those who usually pass on sweet potatoes are tempted to try a bite. It brings a sweet finish to a holiday meal everyone looks forward to enjoying.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Sourdough Stuffing
Rustic, toasty edges and a tangy aroma make this Sourdough Stuffing stand out from crowd. Every piece is a cozy bite of holiday tradition with a little twist. The flavor works beautifully alongside classic meats and vegetables. Guests often ask if there’s enough for seconds before dinner has even ended.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing
Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Kids and adults cheer when this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves appears on the buffet. It blends familiar green crunch with a creamy center for a dish everyone can share. Great for fussy eaters or veggie fans alike, it often disappears before everything else. Christmas dinner just wouldn’t be the same without it.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Mushroom Gravy
For earthy, rich flavor, this Mushroom Gravy stands tall among sauce options on Christmas day. Pouring it over potatoes, stuffing, or vegetables brings extra depth to every bite. Even meat-lovers appreciate this vegetarian-friendly twist. A single ladleful can transform simple sides into something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy
Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, smooth, and full of warmth, these Buttery Mashed Potatoes hit every note you want during the holidays. They’re the first side to vanish from the bowl. Gentle and familiar, the flavor comforts young and old alike. The dinner table feels a little more welcoming with a mountain of mashed potatoes front and center.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Crunchy Celery Salad
Refreshing and light, this Crunchy Celery Salad is just the thing after a heavy main course. Each forkful offers a burst of crispness that keeps meals feeling fresh. Subtle flavors bring a quiet break from all the richness. Guests love seeing a green salad on the festive table and usually go back for more.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad
Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Every plate feels special with a scoop of this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Pillowy bites pair well with bold holiday meats and gravy. Guests often ask for just one more spoonful. It’s an unexpected surprise among traditional Christmas sides that leaves everyone curious for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Turning Brussels sprouts into a crowd-pleaser is easy with this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. A creamy, bubbly finish makes it hard to resist. Kids find themselves scooping extra, even if they rarely eat greens. The cheesy layer helps everyone enjoy a veggie that sometimes gets overlooked.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Setting this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto on the table brings warmth and elegance to Christmas dinner. Its silky texture and hint of sweetness feel special enough for a holiday occasion. Each bite complements everything from roast chicken to turkey. Smiles and compliments always follow when this risotto is served.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Nostalgia comes alive with every bite of this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Crunchy apples, sweet fruit, and a creamy coating win fans of all ages. People feel happy seeing an old favorite at a modern holiday meal. It bridges generations while adding a classic touch to the Christmas spread.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
A fancy name delivers pure comfort with this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes side dish. Each layer melts together for a truly memorable bite. The golden, bubbling crust makes it breathtaking when set on the table. It’s a Christmas potato dish guests go home raving about, every single year.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
