49 Christmas Side Dishes Everyone Looks Forward To

Holiday meals feel complete when everyone’s favorite sides make an appearance. These 49 Christmas dishes bring that cheerful mix of comfort, tradition, and a bit of friendly competition for space on the table. They’re the kind of sides people secretly look forward to more than the main course.

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and rich with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, this dish is a crowd favorite at every holiday gathering. Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes provide an essential comfort food that pairs effortlessly with roasted meats and vegetables. Whether served in large bowls or plated individually, they’re truly hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Savory Bread Stuffing

A holiday feast wouldn’t feel complete without Savory Bread Stuffing, bringing warm, hearty flavors to the table. Perfectly baked to achieve a soft-yet-crisp texture, it’s a dish everyone reaches for seconds of. Its versatility makes it ideal to complement any main dish, from turkey to ham. Bring this classic side and watch it disappear before the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

For those who prefer plant-based options at Christmas dinners, Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks are an ideal choice. These steaks are roasted to perfection, ensuring a lovely balance of texture and flavor. A celebration of simplicity, this dish can easily stand alongside meat-based recipes on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Sweet, glossy, and with just the right amount of tenderness, Easy Honey Glazed Carrots bring a touch of elegance to any Christmas spread. These carrots brighten up the table, enhancing the overall meal experience. Their natural flavor and inviting appearance make them perfect for the holiday season and beyond.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Add some crunch to your holiday dinners with Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes, a side dish that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. These bite-sized treats are popular for their vibrant texture and hearty appeal. Whether you serve them as a starter or alongside the main entree, they’re bound to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Tender Roasted Broccoli

Perfectly caramelized and packed with bold flavor, Tender Roasted Broccoli comfortably earns its spot among Christmas favorites. Its vibrant texture and well-rounded taste make it an excellent pairing with nearly any main dish. Quick to prepare yet elegant enough for holiday gatherings, this dish effortlessly impresses.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower is a true showstopper for your table, blending visual appeal with a lovely taste. This centerpiece-worthy side brings a dramatic flair without overshadowing the flavors of other dishes. Its presentation adds a level of sophistication and attention to detail that your guests will remember long after the meal ends.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Decadent and savory, Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food for a holiday meal. Their bold flavor and inviting aroma make them one of the standout sides among traditional dishes. This recipe is perfect for sitting alongside roasted meats or turkey, completing the warm and cozy Christmas atmosphere. Dip into nostalgia with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Soft Dinner Rolls

Airy and perfectly baked, Soft Dinner Rolls bring something essential to every festive table. Whether they’re used to mop up rich gravy or enjoyed on their own, they have a way of tying the meal together. A classic recipe with a timeless appeal, these rolls make every holiday gathering feel complete. Guests always reach for these soft beauties without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Versatile and hearty, Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves lives up to its name by fulfilling guests of all ages. It adds a veggie-forward touch without losing any of the holiday magic. Carefully balanced in texture and flavor, this side combines comfort and tradition at every bite. A dish you can count on for widespread holiday happiness.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Richly layered and oven-baked to perfection, Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes are the epitome of refined holiday side dishes. They make an amazing addition to Christmas dinners, winning over guests with their comforting texture. Their elegant presentation transforms the dining experience, yet the preparation is simple.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Offering a refreshing, light change from heavier sides, Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce sneaks its way onto holiday menus year after year. It’s a festive addition with just the right hint of spice to complement traditional Christmas dishes. This recipe goes beyond simple applesauce, making a flavorful impact on the feast.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Providing a light and colorful contrast, Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes earns its spot at holiday spreads. It’s a fresh mix that perfectly balances heavier comfort foods on the table. This quick and simple salad also appeals to health-conscious guests without compromising on taste. A welcome change for those steaming plates filled with roasted sides.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Creamy and rich with lovely depth, Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is nothing short of crowd-pleasing at Christmas dinners. It’s loved for its hearty texture and cheesy appeal, stealing the spotlight alongside traditional roasted dishes. A perfect addition for families who cherish comfort food during the festive season.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Colorful 7 Layer Salad

A visual masterpiece, Colorful 7 Layer Salad is as lovely as it is unique among festive dishes. Its vibrant layers showcase an artistic blend of textures and balances beautifully with heavier mains. The presentation alone grabs attention, making it one of the more talked-about items of the evening.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Perfect Baked Potato

Classic yet flexible, Perfect Baked Potato fits seamlessly into any holiday spread. Its comforting appeal lies in its simplicity, allowing guests to personalize it to their liking with toppings. Served alongside various meats and veggies, it rounds out the menu with a homely touch. This timeless favorite holds a regular spot on any well-balanced festive table.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Transform plant-based options for your Christmas dinner by serving Tender Cauliflower Steaks, a dish loved for its balance of texture. This recipe ensures a warm and satisfying addition to your holiday lineup. Whether guests are vegetarian or simply exploring new flavors, they’ll appreciate its bold simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Bold and flavorful, Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole is the kind of dish that wins over even the most skeptical diners. Its creamy appeal and comforting texture turn sprouts into one of the highlights of the feast. From its lovely aroma to the first bite, it’s everything you’d want in a cheesy side dish.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Soft Garlic Knots

A favorite among bread lovers, Soft Garlic Knots pair perfectly with every dish on your holiday table. These fluffy bites of goodness combine just the right texture and flavor for an instantly loved dish. Especially great for soaking up sauces or enjoying between courses, they’re guaranteed to be gone before other dishes are.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Enjoy the convenience and appeal of Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges at your next Christmas gathering. With their lightly crisp texture and subtle sweetness, they add a well-loved twist to traditional potato sides. They complement practically any dish on your menu while featuring themselves as a healthy option.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Crunchy Celery Salad

Add freshness to festive feasts with Crunchy Celery Salad, a lighthearted alternative to heavier sides. Its crisp texture and clean flavors brighten up even the busiest of holiday menus. This is just the right touch to help balance out more indulgent comfort dishes, making sure your guests leave with variety in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Warm and elegant, Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto is a standout side that earns its spot at any Christmas dinner. Its luxurious texture and comforting flavors make it a favorite alongside meat and veggie dishes. Perfect for occasions where you want something distinctly seasonal yet extraordinary, this dish delivers.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

A holiday classic that never disappoints, Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows has been cherished through generations. Its entire essence screams festive indulgence, right down to the charming golden topping. This dish finds a way to blend dessert-like sweetness into a robust side, winning over almost every guest at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

With its iconic name and cherished taste, Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make evokes memories of holidays gone by. Renowned for its light and refreshing balance, this salad contrasts traditional hearty sides beautifully. Perfect for a mid-meal refresher, its vibrant flavors are both nostalgic and crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Tender Sautéed Kale

Add some green goodness to your holiday spread with Tender Sautéed Kale, a side dish that prioritizes flavor and health. Its vibrant color and lovely texture give guests a break from rich comfort foods. Easy to incorporate into your festive lineup, it complements nearly every main dish without losing flavor. Perfect for rounding out an indulgent menu with balance.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Mushroom Gravy

Perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, Mushroom Gravy takes Christmas dinners to the next level. Its richness and hearty flavor transform even the simplest side into something memorable. A must-have addition to any festive feast, this gravy quickly becomes the centerpiece of multiple dishes.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Bring a healthier, fresh option to your holiday lineup with Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing, a dish guests appreciate between rich entrees. This salad combines an enjoyable texture with balanced flavors that won’t overwhelm. It provides a welcome contrast to heavier dishes, maintaining variety at every meal.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Transform any Brussels sprout skeptic into a fan with Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. The glaze adds an irresistible layer of flavor that enhances its caramelized texture. This dish is a favorite at gatherings, offering a balance of festive elegance and bold taste. Make this tasty side, and watch it disappear again and again.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Add a touch of Christmas magic to your menu with Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Its combination of textures and distinctively festive flavors makes it a unique option for holiday spreads. Perfect for guests who want something light but special, it stands out even among traditional recipes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Perfect for creating a festive centerpiece for your Christmas table, Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. The sliced texture ensures each piece is golden and crisp, capturing everyone’s attention. This dish is both visually appealing and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Layered Seven Layer Salad

A vibrant addition to your holiday spread, Layered Seven Layer Salad combines flair with practicality. The structured layout beautifully showcases its layers, creating a dish that doubles as décor and a side. It’s an ideal option for those who appreciate balance between color and texture.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Savory French Onion Casserole

A warming casserole that promises to become a Christmas favorite, Savory French Onion Casserole brings hearty comfort to every bite. The rich flavors resonate with the cozy spirit of the season. It’s the kind of dish people will ask for seconds of, thanks to its ability to pair seamlessly with other holiday sides.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking to enhance your holiday table, Cheesy Funeral Potatoes is the perfect option. Bubbling with boldness, this dish combines family-friendly appeal and irresistible charm. Whether paired with classic turkey or ham, it’s guaranteed to be one of the most requested sides. Everyone will love its comforting texture and timeless allure.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Fresh Beet Salad

Add a touch of brightness to your Christmas spread with Fresh Beet Salad. The refreshing and earthy flavors create a beautiful contrast to traditional heavier dishes. Its vibrant colors add variety to your table while its modern flair balances the festive lineup of rich items. This is a light and flavorful option your guests will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Looking for comfort food with a slight twist? Mashed Sweet Potatoes are an ideal Christmas side dish that feels as homey as any classic. Smooth and full of rich texture, the dish brings warmth to your plate. Many guests will appreciate this subtle departure from traditional mashed potatoes. Pair it with your holiday roast for an unforgettable meal.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Add freshness alongside heavier dishes with Crisp Honeycrisp Salad. A wonderful choice for those who love balance, it ensures variety on your holiday table. Its crisp nature makes it fun during rich, indulgent feasts, keeping the meal feeling light. Perfect for complementing other items or eating on its own!
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Bringing rustic charm to your Christmas meals, Hearty Cabbage Casserole is an ideal side for any festive gathering. Its comforting flavors make it perfect alongside roasted meats, adding depth to your lineup. This simple dish offers satisfaction for guests of all ages. Share this as a dependable crowd-favorite during your celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A visually stunning addition, Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables are the perfect seasonal choice to liven up Christmas dinner. Their caramelized texture pairs beautifully with roasts, while their presentation adds warmth to any table setting. This dish celebrates simplicity while standing out as a holiday show-stopper.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Rich Turkey Gravy

Rich Turkey Gravy brings flavor to the main course and enhances every bite of your favorite side dishes. Perfectly smooth and full-bodied, it’s the finishing touch for mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more. Its dependable spot on the table makes it indispensable during holiday feasts. Create moments of holiday magic with this iconic gravy.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

Colorful Antipasto Salad

Add variety and vibrancy to your spread with Colorful Antipasto Salad. This dish ensures rich contrasts to traditional holiday flavors, keeping things light yet flavorful. Its bright presentation catches the eye, making it great for balancing heavier holiday classics. This salad is perfect for catering to guests who love refreshing innovations during festive meals.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Perfect as a creative addition to your lineup, Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi combines warmth and texture for a standout holiday side. It’s a comforting dish with a smooth appeal that pairs well with festive roasts or gravies. Serve this to give guests a truly memorable, seasonal experience. It’s an excellent way to bring charm to your Christmas meal.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Rich Creamed Spinach

A versatile option for pairing with nearly any holiday entrée, Rich Creamed Spinach guarantees warmth at the table. Smooth and highly enjoyable, this side dish exemplifies what holiday comfort foods are all about. Guests love its hearty texture and rich flavor profile nestled among festive meals. It’s sure to fulfill crowds in every celebration.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Perfect for a more intimate Christmas setting, Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole serves as a warming, hearty option to bring comfort to your festivities. It easily pairs with other holiday classics, offering a well-rounded addition to every spread. The dish’s textures and flavors capture the spirit of the season beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Impress your holiday guests with Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes as a standout crowd-pleaser. Filled with flavor, they’re easy to carve into and enjoy. A dish that’s as indulgent as it is appealing, thanks to its layered presentation. It’s always a hit when paired with meats, casseroles, or other traditional sides.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Add a fun twist to tradition with Crispy Stuffing Balls as part of your Christmas table spread. These bite-sized treasures deliver the beloved holiday stuffing flavor with a crispy bonus. They’re perfect for sharing and make for a unique appetizer or a side dish. This creative take on stuffing will be an instant hit with guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Crusty Focaccia Bread

Once you serve Crusty Focaccia Bread, your guests will have a perfect handheld pairing with everything on the plate. Its texture and warmth contribute significantly to the holiday meal setup. Complementing both main courses and side dishes, it upgrades any festive feast. Prepare to share something truly versatile and satisfying this holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Cheesy Potato Casserole

A quintessential Christmas side dish, Cheesy Potato Casserole combines heartiness with appeal, effortlessly catching attention at the table. Its creamy and textured layers pair well with other dishes, ensuring it’s always a welcome addition. Guests will appreciate its indulgent nature during holiday feasts. This is a guaranteed favorite for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

Savory Cornbread Stuffing

For the perfect complement to roasted dishes, Savory Cornbread Stuffing adds richness to every Christmas gathering. Its texture and flavor are ideal for creating balance during festive meals. This dish is a must-have for classic stuffing lovers with a twist. Share it alongside your main courses for memorable holiday moments.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

For a classic side dish to complement festive roasts, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes fits perfectly into your lineup. The layered presentation makes it visually inviting on the table. Every bite offers comfort, warmth, and appeal. Serve this as a dependable, crowd-friendly option during the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes