47 Christmas Side Ideas That Make Holiday Week Feel More Enjoyable

Holiday weeks seem smoother when 47 Christmas side ideas are ready to fill out every meal. There’s always room for a unique side that brings something fresh to the spread. Mixing up your go-to recipes makes hosting less stressful and more fun along the way. A little variety on the table can turn dinner into a holiday event.

Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Red and green colors from this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes bring instant holiday cheer to the table. Guests often hover nearby, eager to try the fresh layers and bold flavors next to richer winter fare. I like to whip up extra for those who want something light during the meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Cozy aromas fill the air from this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce, turning simple apples into a classic winter treat. Friends spoon up warm servings, especially when the weather gets chilly. I set some aside to pair with both sweet and savory dishes at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mounds from this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes recipe have become a must for big celebrations. People return for seconds since the flavor goes perfectly with any roasted meat. I always make extra because empty bowls nearly happen every time.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Sourdough Stuffing

Crunch and tang combine in this Sourdough Stuffing to keep guests talking about the meal long after it’s finished. Every helping has a unique bite thanks to its hearty bread base. I bring this recipe for its comfort and versatility at any holiday party.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Golden edges offer just the right crunch in this Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges dish, making every bite memorable. People often choose it for a fun alternative to classic sides. I make double batches since these disappear so quickly.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Velvet sauce and rich flavor let this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese stand out among December favorites. Guests battle for seconds as soon as the dish lands on the buffet. I prep a little extra, expecting requests to pour in fast.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

The gentle sweetness from this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto encourages people to take their time with each spoonful. Warm colors and creamy texture make it perfect for chilly evenings. I enjoy offering this risotto as a change of pace among heavier sides.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Pillowy bites from this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi recipe draw plenty of curious guests at holiday gatherings. Each serving brings out soft flavors perfect for a cold night. I watch people reach for seconds thanks to how surprising and fun gnocchi can be.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Arrangements with bold stripes take center stage with this Festive Caprese Candy Cane salad at the dinner table. Friends always stop for photos before digging in. I like sharing this dish for its creative twist on a classic.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Bubbly tops and hearty fillings help this Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes recipe win over crowds during the holidays. Plates pile high before the main event even starts. I always plan for leftovers, knowing people can’t resist an extra scoop.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Warm bowls from this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese fill the kitchen with creamy aroma throughout the day. Party guests gather for servings once the lid comes off. I count on simple recipes like this when time is tight but comfort is key.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Savory Bread Stuffing

Crisp edges and moist centers make this Savory Bread Stuffing a seasonal highlight. Plates clear quickly as friends return for second helpings. I recommend baking an extra pan to keep up with demand during family events.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Thick slices from this Tender Cauliflower Steaks dish get extra attention among guests looking for a lighter choice. The veggie’s texture surprises people after that first bite. I serve these when I need a colorful, satisfying side.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Christmas Salad

Greens, fruit, and crunchy toppings lift this Christmas Salad above regular dinner fare. Compliments often come before anyone knows what’s inside. I keep this in my lineup because fresh salads bring balance during rich holiday meals. The mix of colors fits seamlessly into the festive mood.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

Mushroom Gravy

The earthy flavor from this Mushroom Gravy offers a savory finish for mashed potatoes and more. Friends ask for extra ladles to try on several dishes. I whip up a big batch whenever I serve a variety of sides. This has a way of making everything taste more comforting.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Thin, crisp slices turn this Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes into a show-stopping side for Christmas feasts. People pause for a closer look and quickly move in for a scoop. I serve these when I want the table to feel extra festive.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Tender Roasted Broccoli

Roasting turns this Tender Roasted Broccoli into a favorite for both kids and adults at cold-weather parties. The crisp edges and mellow center draw plenty of compliments. I rely on this dish to add green and a lighter touch among heavy classics.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Baked with a bubbly topping, this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole gets a warm welcome at winter dinners. Guests notice how creamy flavors make sprouts hard to pass up, even for picky eaters. I always put extra on the table for late-night snacks.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Shiny, sweet bites come together in this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots recipe, lighting up the buffet with color. People often help themselves to more, finding the balance perfect with heartier dishes. I whip up a tray when the meal calls for cheerful veggies. Carrots lend brightness to every holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Fresh Beet Salad

Simple ingredients let this Fresh Beet Salad stand out as a healthy option on Christmas week tables. Bright colors attract guests away from heavier fare. I can tell everyone appreciates a refreshing crunch after multiple comfort foods.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Salty, smoky notes mix in this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole, making guests eager to grab a helping before dinner starts. Layers build up bold flavor while keeping things festive. I serve this casserole for its crowd-pleasing reputation. Bacon gives beans a reason to join the party.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Festive fruits and crunch meet in this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad, bringing the holiday spirit to lunch. Friends grab extra scoops to pair with soft rolls or crackers. I include this salad when I want lighter options that still feel special.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Layer after layer in this Colorful 7 Layer Salad draws people’s eyes and makes everyone excited to sample what’s next. Crisp toppings and creamy layers keep guests guessing. I assemble this for potlucks since it travels and serves so easily. Salad gets dressed up for a holiday crowd.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Golden bubbles top this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole as friends line up for rich servings beside ham or turkey. Every spoonful offers both comfort and flavor. I bake an extra dish to prevent shortages at busy events. Cauliflower takes center stage for creamy casseroles in December.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Ham Salad

Soft and savory bites from this Ham Salad add variety to heavy wintry servings. People fill their plates, happy to find something lighter among classics. I make sandwiches with leftovers for late-night nibbles. This reminds everyone of simple comfort in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Ham Salad

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Delicate layers make these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes a clear stand-out for Christmas week family meals. Creamy sauce and tender texture bring guests back for another scoop. I pair these with roast meats to complete the feast.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Warm, homey flavors from this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole fill people up during cold December evenings. Each forkful mixes comfort with pleasing crunch. I save a spot for this casserole at every festive dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Rich Creamed Spinach

Velvety greens set off this Rich Creamed Spinach side as plates get filled at big celebrations. Friends comment how creamy spinach pairs so well with hearty mains. I serve cream-based sides for extra comfort when the table gets crowded. Spinach gains a rich spotlight during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Crunchy Celery Salad

Crisp bites offer contrast in this Crunchy Celery Salad, giving a welcome break at festive meals. People tend to ask for the recipe after their second helping. I prepare extra for lighter lunches after big gatherings. This brings crunch to loaded Christmas menus.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Vegetarian Gravy

Savory goodness finds easy fans from this Vegetarian Gravy no matter the crowd. The flavor sets off potatoes and veggies for those wanting a meatless meal. I keep some nearby for guests with different tastes. Gravy fills any plate with ease and warmth.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Smoky bacon paired with crisp veggies makes these Brussels Sprouts with Bacon impossible to ignore. Crowds return for more, even if they didn’t expect to love sprouts. I bake extra so there’s plenty for reheating the next day. Bacon and sprouts team up for a holiday classic.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Soft potatoes and cheesy sauce ensure this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is never left untouched during winter meals. Guests scoop generous helpings to pair with ham or roast beef. I freeze leftovers for busy nights ahead. Hashbrowns serve comfort by the plateful at Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Whipped smooth and served warm, this Buttery Mashed Potatoes recipe fills the air with cozy aromas as hungry guests arrive. People rave about the fluffy texture and always request extra gravy. I stash leftovers for late-night snacks after the party winds down.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Buttermilk Biscuits

Flaky layers in this Buttermilk Biscuits recipe make every basket the first to disappear at winter brunches. People love the warm, pillowy inside with just a little spread. I bake extra for next-day breakfasts. This add southern charm to any seasonal feast.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Soft Dinner Rolls

Pillowy rolls from this Soft Dinner Rolls recipe serve as the foundation for sandwiches or just for soaking up gravy. Platters draw hands from every direction as soon as they appear. I let the aroma fill the room, signaling dinner is ready. Rolls remain a comforting classic in cold December.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Melty tops and soft insides define this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows, much to the delight of guests both young and old. Plates come back scraped clean each time. I put this on the menu for its nostalgic, festive feel. Marshmallow and sweet potato mix pure holiday joy.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Golden, crunchy bites in this Crispy Stuffing Balls recipe get people smiling along the appetizer buffet. Plates pile up before any main course appears. I prepare plenty to keep the crowd satisfied. It put a fun spin on Christmas traditions.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Sweet and crunchy bites from this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad add a spark to the holiday table. Guests comment on the bright taste even as they reach for seconds. I favor salads like this because they balance richer cooking with freshness.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Outside crunch and tender centers make these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes an attention-grabber at every winter celebration. People love dipping and sharing these as part of the feast. I serve these as a fun change from regular mashed potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Seasonal colors shine in this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables, tempting those looking for something wholesome. Plates fill quickly before the roast even leaves the oven. I save leftovers for creative lunches through the week.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Cheesy Potato Casserole

Creamy layers and bubbly cheese make this Cheesy Potato Casserole hard to stop thinking about after one taste. Guests often fight for the corner pieces with all the extra cheese. I keep this in rotation for its comfort and holiday appeal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Festive flavors in these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls make it perfect for mingling and sharing. Plates stay full while guests snack before the big meal. I pair these bites with dips for added fun. Cranberry and turkey bring classic holiday spirit to finger foods.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Creamy fillings inside crisp shells make this Twice Baked Potato Casserole a holiday favorite. Friends count on its hearty texture to fill up before dessert arrives. I plan for leftovers so the next day feels just as festive.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Colorful Antipasto Salad

Bold colors and varied flavors set this Colorful Antipasto Salad apart from other sides on the holiday table. Guests often pick at the bowl long after main courses finish. I love bringing this dish whenever I need something that travels well.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Robust and warming, this Hearty Cabbage Casserole gets the room talking with each rich bite. Folks fill their plates looking for something a little different. I whip up an extra batch for surprise guests. Cabbage proves it’s more than just an everyday veggie at Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Rich Turkey Gravy

Smooth, savory spoonfuls from this Rich Turkey Gravy make potatoes and stuffing shine on every plate. No one stops after just one pour. I let the gravy warm slowly so the flavor deepens and draws in compliments. It’s the quiet hero of the holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Creamy layers and rich goodness make these Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes an instant crowd-pleaser on cold December nights. People enjoy every forkful and always search for seconds. I save a little extra for next-day leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes