The centerpiece of any Christmas dinner is often the sides. From classic casseroles to vibrant vegetable dishes, these 30 recipes offer something for every table, ensuring a delicious and memorable holiday meal. Whether you prefer creamy potatoes, bright salads, or comforting bread, these sides will complement any main course and delight your guests.
Potato Perfection
Potatoes are a Christmas staple, and these recipes elevate them beyond the ordinary.
- Scalloped Potatoes: A rich, cheesy indulgence baked in a creamy sauce – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Best Mashed Potatoes: Ultra-creamy, ultra-rich, and perfect for making ahead. They reheat beautifully, saving you time on the big day.
- Hasselback Potatoes: Restaurant-quality potatoes fanned out and crisped to perfection, with aromatic herbs tucked between the slices.
- Oven Roasted Potatoes: A simple yet flavorful option with a lemon-rosemary dressing that adds a bright, zesty touch.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A sweet and savory mash that brings a comforting warmth to the holiday spread.
Vibrant Vegetable Sides
Beyond potatoes, these vegetable dishes add color, flavor, and freshness to your Christmas table.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Forget bland Brussels sprouts; these are seasoned with lemon, Parmesan, and thyme for a vibrant, addictive side.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: A celebration of winter produce, proving that even humble roots can shine with the right seasoning.
- Sautéed Broccolini: Festive in color and bright in flavor, this side delivers a refreshing pop with lemon, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Roasted Fennel: An underrated vegetable that transforms into a savory, tender delight when deeply caramelized.
- Creamed Spinach: A classic side made with fresh spinach for vibrant color and silky texture.
- Roasted Delicata Squash: Tangy apple cider vinegar brightens up this cozy combination of squash, apples, and sage.
- Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, sweet, and tangy Brussels sprouts elevated with balsamic vinegar, toasted pecans, and pomegranate seeds.
- Roasted Carrots: Honey-roasted to caramelized perfection in just 15 minutes.
Fresh and Flavorful Salads
These salads offer a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes.
- Caesar Salad: A classic for a reason, with a 5-minute homemade dressing that delivers tangy umami flavor.
- Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Balsamic: A vibrant and popular holiday side, praised by readers for its outstanding flavor.
- Shaved Fennel Salad: Crisp, bright, and perfect for winter, often tossed with apples or oranges for extra depth.
- Spinach Salad: A reliable crowd-pleaser filled with lush spinach, sweet apples, and tangy goat cheese.
- Arugula Salad: A quick and elegant addition to any holiday table.
- Broccoli Salad: The flavors actually improve as it sits in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead option.
Comforting Casseroles and Stuffing
No Christmas feast is complete without a comforting casserole or a flavorful stuffing.
- Green Bean Casserole: A from-scratch version of the classic, made with fresh green beans and a creamy homemade mushroom sauce.
- Homemade Mac and Cheese: Insanely creamy and cheesy, a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
- Best Stuffing: Crisp on top, moist in the middle, and packed with savory flavor.
- Cornbread Stuffing: A comforting stuffing with simple ingredients like onions, garlic, celery, and herbs.
Freshly Baked Bread
- Homemade Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy, and flavorful rolls that freeze well for make-ahead convenience.
- Popovers: Crispy, golden, and airy – a delightful holiday side that wows with its dramatic “pop” in the oven.
- Focaccia Bread: Even beginners can pull off this light and airy focaccia.
Finishing Touches
- Mushroom Gravy: A savory, velvety gravy that doesn’t require any meat to deliver a rich flavor.
- Cranberry Sauce: Skip the canned version – this homemade recipe is easy to make with fresh cranberries and orange zest.
These 30 Christmas side dishes provide a range of options to suit any taste and ensure a festive, delicious holiday meal. From simple vegetable sides to elaborate casseroles, there’s something here to elevate your Christmas feast. The right side dishes can turn a good meal into an unforgettable experience.
