45 Christmas Side Dishes I Keep Bookmarked Every Year

Holiday dinners have their traditions, but the real chaos begins when everyone’s chasing the same serving bowl. Those 45 Christmas side dishes make it easier to keep the peace, at least until someone finishes the last spoonful. From family favorites to those “who-made-this?” surprises, they’re the kind of dishes that turn leftovers into bragging rights.

French Onion Casserole

People stop talking when they catch that smell coming from the oven. French Onion Casserole brings creamy layers and melted cheese to the dinner table, making it easy to scoop up seconds. The onions offer a hint of sweetness that blends right in with every bite. Even leftovers seem richer after a day in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Caprese Candy Cane

Holiday meals get more fun when shapes and colors pop on the table. Caprese Candy Cane festively arranges each slice, drawing out smiles from the whole family. It’s a fresh mix that balances heavier sides nicely. Everyone asks how it’s made before even trying a bite. This one gets snapped up quickly at potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Candy Cane

Beet Salad

Bright salads with bold color help meals feel more lively. Beet Salad gives a fresh start before main dishes, working well with creamy or crunchy sides. The earthiness pairs well with sweet accents. Guests often talk about the color as much as the taste. It’s an easy favorite among those who want something lighter.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Dinners feel complete with a tray of cooked veggies. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables mix up textures and natural sweetness, offering a sturdy option for big gatherings. The variety keeps each forkful different. Kids find their favorites fast. There’s rarely any left at the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Cabbage Casserole

Even simple vegetables can become something memorable for holidays. Cabbage Casserole blends soft layers and gentle flavor that stands out next to rich mains. Each serving brings a new appreciation for cabbage. Family members come back for seconds after trying it once. It usually finds its way onto regular menus too.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Crisp salads feel special when balanced with gentle creaminess. Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing offers crunch and smoothness, giving kids and adults something to talk about at dinner. It works as a starter or a side for heavier dishes. You can bet someone will ask for the recipe. There’s no fuss, just bowl after bowl emptied.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy, layered spuds are always a hit for group dinners. Scalloped Potatoes serve up tender bites stacked with hints of cheese, making plates look full and inviting. The golden crust catches everyone’s eye. Each forkful is a mix of softness and rich taste. Guests ask for this even outside of special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Centerpiece veggies catch attention when placed at the heart of the table. Roasted Whole Cauliflower looks impressive yet breaks apart easily for sharing. Kids smile trying something new, and adults comment on the texture. This recipe puts a fresh spin on classic sides. Eating together gets a bit more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Dauphinoise Potatoes

Cheesy layers can transform a basic potato into something memorable. Dauphinoise Potatoes give meals a creamy lift, pairing perfectly with turkey or beef. The thin slices melt together, creating a smooth bite from top to bottom. Guests often reach for seconds, scraping the pan clean. This is a side that gets repeat requests.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Dinner Rolls

Warm, soft bread brings everyone together as meals begin. Dinner Rolls appear on many tables since they are easy to share and quick to grab. Butter or spreads go on top, making each bite better. People tend to take more than one before their plate fills with other sides. Every serving basket empties in no time.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Southern Mash

Classic mash with a gentle twist fits right into special meals. Southern Mash stands out with its creamy texture and hints of flavor beyond basic potatoes. It goes well with both gravy or alone. The bowl never stays full for long. Friends and family talk about how smooth each spoonful is.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

One pan takes care of two holiday classics all at once. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole pulls together tender bites with a soft, flavorful base. Serving is simple, and the meal feels complete with little effort. Most people mention how comforting it is. Leftovers become quick lunches.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Easy Caprese Salad

Simple salads become dinner staples when bursts of fresh flavor come through. Easy Caprese Salad keeps things light, mixing bright greens and gentle cheese. Each serving brings a crisp note to heavier plates. Kids usually go back for seconds. It disappears quickly during group meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Bread Stuffing

No big holiday meal is complete without some kind of stuffing. Bread Stuffing soaks up gravy while staying gentle in texture, making it a staple year after year. The mix works well with everything on the plate. People pile it high next to their favorite sides. Seconds are always expected.
Get the Recipe: Bread Stuffing

Twice Baked Potatoes

Everyone gets their own serving with this hearty potato side. Twice Baked Potatoes offer smooth centers with crispy edges, giving each bite some contrast. These can be dressed up or kept simple, working for kids and grown-ups alike. Plates look more interesting with these on them. They reheat well for easy leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Cinnamon Applesauce

Bring some sweetness to the mix with a classic comfort side. Cinnamon Applesauce has a gentle spice that pairs with both turkey or ham, giving plates a soft accent. It also works as a snack between meals. People of all ages take a scoop. It feels right at both lunch and dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Applesauce

Focaccia Bread

Rich, airy bread sets off festive feasts in style. Focaccia Bread makes a perfect canvas for dipping or spreading, so everyone gets creative. The chewy texture and flavor mix go well with all sides. It fills the table quickly. Slices always disappear faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Roasted Broccoli

Even picky eaters enjoy veggies when roasted just right. Roasted Broccoli brings out a gentle crunch and rich color that stays appealing next to heavy meats. Each serving hints at earthiness with a crisp finish. Kids and adults ask for more, even on busy dinner nights. It’s a top choice for pairing with creamy mains.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Broccoli

Sweet Potato Wedges

Wedges offer a fun shape for dipping and grabbing on busy nights. Sweet Potato Wedges bake up with a soft inside and crisp edges, making them good for all ages. People like mixing different sauces on each bite. This side works well with a variety of mains. You see them go quickly at family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Stuffing Balls

Small, snack-sized bites turn stuffing into finger food. Stuffing Balls are easy to pass around, giving everyone a choice for their plate. They have a soft center and crisp coating, making each bite a new experience. Kids especially enjoy popping them between other sides. Many parties keep a tray handy throughout the meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffing Balls

Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Veggies take on a new life with creamy bakes, especially at big celebrations. Brussels Sprouts Casserole is often met with smiles even from those who usually skip sprouts. Each scoop brings out a comforting texture and mild taste. It tends to be a favorite at grown-up tables. Many mention how good the leftovers are.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Bright colors on the table make meals feel complete. Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe brings gentle sweetness and a bit of crunch, working for both kids and adults. Each forkful adds a fresh moment to the meal. Families often request this side for special gatherings. The bowl empties fast during dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

7 Layer Salad

Layers of color always get people talking at the table. 7 Layer Salad mixes crunchy, creamy, and cool textures for a group-friendly bowl. Each scoop pulls in a little bit of everything. People enjoy serving themselves from the middle. It works well for buffet-style meals.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Funeral Potatoes

Comfort food gets a big boost from creamy potatoes baked with crunch. Funeral Potatoes lead guests to take extra helpings, especially next to big festive meats. The mix stands out for holidays thanks to a golden topping. Everyone looks for this dish on reunion menus. Leftovers taste just as good.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Broccoli Casserole

Broccoli gets a boost with cheese and creamy layers in this recipe. Broccoli Casserole fits nicely into any holiday spread, helping kids want their greens. Each serving is soft with a touch of crunch. Families mention how well it pairs with heavier mains. It’s always a safe bet for pleasing a big crowd.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Hasselback Potatoes

Sliced spuds deliver a crisp top and tender interior every time. Hasselback Potatoes catch eyes with their neat rows and golden color, serving up style with substance. They work well with many mains and sides. This one usually gets requested by longtime fans. A few extras on the tray are never wasted.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Cauliflower Steaks

A new twist on holiday veggies draws people in at first glance. Cauliflower Steaks cut thick for grilling or roasting, holding shape and flavor every time. Family members often comment on the taste and texture. The side works with rich or light mains. Even leftovers keep their appeal.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Potato sides bring layers of flavor to Christmas gatherings. Mississippi Mud Potatoes stack creamy and cheesy bites into a pan people scoop out quickly. Whether served at large or small meals, this side gets plenty of praise. Slices keep their texture after reheating. Most people go back for more.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Creamed Spinach

Softer greens bring balance to plates filled with heavier items. Creamed Spinach offers mild flavors in a smooth base, working well beside turkey or beef. It’s often a favorite for older guests. Each serving brings a gentle touch to the meal. Families find ways to use leftovers for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Bringing together dessert-like sides and classic favorites creates a crowd-pleaser. Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows is topped with gooey sweetness, making people reach for more. It can serve as a dish or even a simple dessert. Kids really like it as part of their meal. It never lasts long once served.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Antipasto Salad

Colorful bowls loaded with variety often go first during big meals. Antipasto Salad brings together a mix of crunch and freshness, making bites interesting every time. Each scoop offers a sample of lots of different flavors. People enjoy building their plates with extra options. It’s an easy way to get more vegetables in the mix.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Hashbrown Casserole

Breakfast favorites become great sides for more than just morning. Hashbrown Casserole layers soft potato under a golden top, giving a warm base to heavier mains. Each serving is easy to cut and share. Kids always want extra at the table. It gets requested for repeat dinners throughout the year.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Waldorf Salad

Fruit adds a pop to the table when mixed with crunchy, creamy pieces. Waldorf Salad stands out in any spread thanks to its mix of flavors and crisp texture. Guests like picking out their favorite bite in every forkful. This side gets lots of attention during dinner. Leftovers keep their appeal for next-day snacks.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Soft bites with gentle flavor give a unique choice to regular holiday sides. Sweet Potato Gnocchi often becomes a favorite for people looking for something different. It pairs well with rich sauces or on its own. Spoons get scraped clean every time. Quick leftovers work for lunches too.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Garlic Knots

Pull-apart bread is always a hit with hungry guests. Garlic Knots deliver soft layers packed with flavor in every twist. They work well with almost any main dish, making them great for sharing at the table. Kids enjoy grabbing extra knots while waiting for dinner. There’s usually a call for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Seven Layer Salad

Bowls full of color and layers always get passed around fast. Seven Layer Salad offers creamy, crisp bites in a simple, scoopable format. The combo mixes well with every main on the table. Kids love picking from each layer. Serving is quick and easy.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Baked Potato

Classic sides stay popular thanks to their simple versatility. Baked Potato works with nearly any dinner, with each person adding a personal touch. Steaming centers and crisp skins make each bite enjoyable. It’s easy to prepare for big groups. Extras reheat well for the next meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Honeycrisp Salad

Fresh fruits mixed into simple salads are always a welcome break. Honeycrisp Salad gives a crisp sweetness that pairs well with heavier mains. Each forkful feels refreshing and light. It stands out for guests looking for cleaner bites. Quick to assemble, it ends up gone fast.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Sautéed Kale

Greens get more attention when cooked until tender but not limp. Sautéed Kale makes a sturdy, healthy choice for big tables, pairing with rich sides easily. Every serving stays bright and keeps some crunch. Many mention how good it feels to have fresh greens along with classic holiday mains.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Kale

Celery Salad

Crunchy sides bring texture to the table without being heavy. Celery Salad adds a cool, crisp break in the middle of a big meal, perfect beside warm casseroles. The green color brightens up plates full of richer dishes. Kids often find it fun to pick at between bites. It’s quick to prepare and always refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Celery Salad

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Even cauliflower fans say this is a top choice for big gatherings. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole blends a creamy base with a soft bake that keeps everyone’s interest. Each forkful is packed with gentle comfort. Leftovers keep their appeal for lunch. The dish stands out among other veggie sides.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Turkey Gravy

Classic gravy ties every side together at a holiday meal. Turkey Gravy pours smoothly, giving extra moisture and flavor to all mains. Every drop gets used up before the meal is finished. It’s a must for potatoes and stuffing. Most people keep some extra just for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Gravy

Potato Casserole

Creamy layers and mild flavors keep everyone comfortable during group meals. Potato Casserole fits in with nearly any main dish, making it easy to serve guests of all ages. The golden top adds appeal to the dinner spread. Leftovers reheat quickly in the microwave. People usually ask for extra helpings.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Butternut Squash Risotto

Elegant sides add something new to routine holiday dinners. Butternut Squash Risotto has a soft, creamy texture and gentle sweetness, pairing with meats or other veggies. Forks scrape bowls clean every time. Family members mention the rich taste. It finds a spot in many annual menus.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

Mashed Potatoes

Smooth mash is always expected at festive holiday meals. Mashed Potatoes blend well with gravy, meat, and other sides, making everyone happy. Each serving brings warmth to the plate. People of all ages scoop up extra. Leftovers keep things easy the next day.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes