49 Christmas Side Ideas That Help Take the Pressure Off December Cooking

Hosting or helping out gets easier when you’ve got a few solid sides to rely on. This list includes 49 Christmas side dish recipes made for flexibility. Whether you’re contributing to a gathering or managing dinner at home, there’s something here that fits. It’s all about cutting stress, not adding to it.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Whether it’s for a family gathering or a festive dinner, this Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe adds warmth to your plate. The creamy texture makes it a comforting addition to any meal. It’s a dish that guests often reach for first. Bringing a balance of sweet and savory, it pairs beautifully with everything.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

The moment this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese hits the table, it grabs everyone’s attention. Rich, creamy, and packed with layers of cheesy goodness, it’s pure indulgence. Perfect for holiday dinners, this dish feels both nostalgic and special. People often ask for the recipe, or just another scoop.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Few sides look as impressive as this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes on the holiday table. Thinly layered and baked in a creamy sauce, it’s a recipe that’s both simple and elegant. The texture is smooth and comforting, making it the perfect balance to rich main dishes. Guests will be coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Fresh Beet Salad

Bringing bright and fresh flavors, this Fresh Beet Salad is a refreshing change from heavier sides. Its beautiful color makes it a standout on any dinner table. This dish gives a lighter option that pairs perfectly with rich holiday meals. Easy to prepare, it makes healthy eating look festive and inviting.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

There’s something special about this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto that makes it feel like the heart of a holiday table. The velvety texture and golden color add warmth to any meal. It’s a side dish with an indulgent flavor, without feeling overly complicated. Ideal for impressing without hours of cooking.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

A touch of sweetness makes this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots a standout during holiday meals. Tender and glossy, they’re elegant without being fussy. This side dish is quick to prepare but still feels special enough for any festive menu. Pair them with your favorite mains for a perfectly balanced plate.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

When comfort is what’s needed, this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes dish never disappoints. Its smooth, rich texture and simple flavors make it a classic choice for any feast. It’s easy to see why it’s a staple on so many holiday tables. One bite of this, and you know it’s the definition of heartwarming.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Christmas Salad

Adding a festive touch, this Christmas Salad feels like a celebration of fresh ingredients. The mix of textures and colorful accents makes it a perfect addition to any holiday meal. It’s light enough to balance richer dishes, but still full of flavor. This simple side is as fulfilling as it is vibrant.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

Soft Garlic Knots

Everyone loves when this Soft Garlic Knots recipe makes its way to the table. Baked to golden perfection, they’re pillowy on the inside with a hint of garlic and butter. They are a great option to serve with any roasted or baked main course. These rolls might just disappear before dinner is over.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Perfect for when you need something dependable, this Hearty Cabbage Casserole delivers big on flavor and comfort. Its rustic charm fits beautifully at any holiday gathering. The combination of rich textures and simple ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser. Add it to the table, and everyone will want to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Transform your side dish game with this Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges recipe that’s as fun to eat as it is to serve. The golden, crunchy edges add an irresistible contrast to softer dishes. It’s a side that provides just enough sweetness to complement any holiday menu. Guests will love how fulfilling and simple it is.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Bringing all the best parts of potatoes together, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole is pure comfort food. Its creamy, cheesy layers are always a hit at holiday parties. This dish offers a perfect combination of indulgent flavors and ease. Expect it to be one of the first sides to disappear at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

No one will guess how simple this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham dish really is. It’s creamy, comforting, and sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. This makes a hearty addition to any holiday table, bringing warmth to the season. Perfect for using up some pantry staples in an impressive way.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

There’s something so comforting about this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce during the colder months. Its gentle warmth and silky texture make every spoonful fulfilling. Perfect as a side or even a light dessert option, it offers versatility no matter the occasion. People will keep coming back for just one more serving.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Nothing transforms Brussels sprouts quite like bacon, and this Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe proves it. The balance of tender sprouts and crispy bites of bacon will have guests reaching for seconds. Even skeptics will reconsider their stance on these tiny cabbages. It’s both classic and unexpected on the table.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

If you want a side dish that feels a little fancy, this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze is a great choice. The combination of tender caramelized sprouts and a touch of sweetness is an irresistible pairing. It’s a surprising crowd-pleaser even for those who don’t usually love Brussels sprouts. This dish stands out in the best way.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Holiday meals call for something indulgent, and this Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes absolutely delivers. It’s warm, cheesy, and brings that deeply fulfilling comfort we all crave this time of year. The second it’s served, you’ll notice how quickly plates start to fill up. This is one of those dishes everyone talks about long after the meal.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Savory French Onion Casserole

Layers of comfort are baked into this Savory French Onion Casserole. It’s like all the rich goodness of French onion soup wrapped in a crowd-pleasing side. This dish works well with just about any entrée, upgrading the entire meal. Guests will marvel at how something so simple can taste this big.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Serving stuffing in portions is made simple with Crispy Stuffing Balls. They’re individually packed with all the big flavors of stuffing, but so much easier to grab and enjoy. Their crunchy exterior keeps things interesting for your guests. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish, these fit the bill perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Crunchy Celery Salad

Adding a lighter dish to the table doesn’t have to be boring, which is why this Crunchy Celery Salad is perfect. The crisp texture and fresh flavors offer a great contrast to the richer holiday sides. It’s a refreshing surprise that adds balance to any meal. Guests won’t stop mentioning how unique and tasty it is.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Buttermilk Biscuits

Few things say comfort like warm, fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits. Whether you serve them with a pat of butter or alongside your favorite dishes, they’re bound to disappear quickly. Their golden crust pairs perfectly with just about any holiday meal. It’s those little touches that make December meals feel extra special.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Ham Salad

Whether it’s for sandwiches or crackers, this Ham Salad can handle it all. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a great way to use up leftovers while keeping things festive. This is a recipe that’s simple but feels thoughtful and fulfilling on crowded tables. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead when holiday schedules get busy.
Get the Recipe: Ham Salad

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Skip the ordinary this year with Green Bean and Bacon Casserole. It’s a hearty twist on a classic dish that’s sure to grab attention on any table. The smoky bits of bacon balance the crisp freshness of green beans perfectly. Guests will love how this simple side delivers big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

What makes these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes shine is their crunchy exterior and fluffy inside. They’re a fun and upgraded way to use up mashed potatoes while adding something unique to the table. These little bites are sure to be a favorite among kids and adults alike. Prepare extra, because they’ll go fast.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Crusty Focaccia Bread

Warm and freshly baked, this Crusty Focaccia Bread is hard to resist. Whether served with olive oil or alongside your favorite holiday dishes, it’s as versatile as it is delicious. The perfectly crisp edges and soft interior make it a standout addition to your meal. It’s the kind of homemade touch everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Creamy and cheesy dishes always bring comfort, and this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole is no exception. Its rich texture and golden topping make it irresistible. While it pairs beautifully with holiday mains, it also has a way of stealing the show. Even non-Brussels fans will love this dish.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Tender Sautéed Kale

Simple, wholesome options like this Tender Sautéed Kale belong on every holiday menu. Light and full of flavor, it’s the perfect counterbalance to heavier sides. Its vibrant green color adds an elegant touch to the table, too. You’ll be glad to have something fresh and quick to offer guests.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Cheesy Potato Casserole

There’s something magical about creamy potatoes smothered in cheese, and this Cheesy Potato Casserole hits all the right notes. It’s comforting, rich, and feeds a crowd with ease. Perfect alongside ham or turkey, it’s a classic that guarantees clean plates. Everyone will ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Classic holiday flavors truly shine in this Savory Cornbread Stuffing. The cornbread brings just the right hint of sweetness while staying wonderfully moist. It’s the ideal partner for all your holiday staples, from gravies to roasted meats. This side dish feels like a warm hug on the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Fresh, crisp, and coated with a dreamy dressing, this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a refreshing addition to the table. It’s a nice change of pace from heavier casseroles and dips. The balance of textures and flavors makes every bite fulfilling. Count on it being a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

When the holidays get hectic, this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole feels like a life-saver. Layers of hearty flavors and comforting goodness make it perfect for any December gathering. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, it’s an easy win. Everyone will be asking for seconds before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Colorful Antipasto Salad

Brighten up your holiday spread with this Colorful Antipasto Salad full of bold flavors and vibrant ingredients. It’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to look at, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. This versatile dish works just as well as a starter or a side. You’ll love how effortless it is to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Soft Dinner Rolls

There’s a special kind of joy in passing around warm, homemade bread like these Soft Dinner Rolls during Christmas dinner. Fluffy and golden, they pair flawlessly with every dish on the table. Whether slathered with butter or dipped in gravy, they’re always a hit. Don’t be surprised when they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Sweet and savory perfection comes together in this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad, making it a fantastic holiday side. It’s light, flavorful, and feels just festive enough for December gatherings. Whether served as part of the main meal or as a quick bite, it never fails to impress. Guests will love it.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Crowd-pleasing and undeniably comforting, this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole belongs on every holiday menu. The rich, creamy layers are hard to resist, making it the perfect pairing for roasted meats. This dish also doubles as a brunch favorite, ensuring its versatility on busy days. You’ll definitely want leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Mushroom Gravy

Nothing completes a plate of Christmas classics like this Mushroom Gravy. It’s rich, smooth, and full of earthy goodness that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or stuffing. Just a drizzle takes ordinary dishes to the next level. Make extra, because everyone will want to drown their plate in this delicious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Festive Christmas Casserole

The warm, hearty flavors of this Festive Christmas Casserole feel like a celebration on their own. Designed to feed a crowd, it’s both indulgent and incredibly fulfilling. Whether served as a side or the star of the meal, this dish ties everything together. It’s the kind of recipe traditions are made of.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole

Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Easy, cheesy, and wonderfully creamy, this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese makes holiday cooking less stressful. It frees up your oven while keeping everyone happy with its rich, comforting flavors. Perfect for a buffet-style dinner, it stays warm and ready as guests fill their plates. It’s a holiday staple for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Layered Seven Layer Salad

There’s something so striking about this Layered Seven Layer Salad when it’s placed on the table. The colorful layers make it as fun to serve as it is to eat. It’s a great way to add variety while keeping things light and refreshing. Guests often can’t stop themselves from coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

No holiday spread feels complete without this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows. It combines warmth and sweetness in a way that feels like a big, comforting hug. People love digging into its creamy layers, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect complement to rich holiday mains.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasted veggies take on a whole new life in this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables dish. The warmth and natural sweetness of every bite make it a perfect pairing for hearty holiday mains. It has a way of balancing out the richness of the season’s heavier dishes. You’ll want to make extras, it’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Rich Creamed Spinach

Bringing this Rich Creamed Spinach to the table creates an instant sense of indulgence. Its velvety texture and full flavor win over even those hesitant about cooked greens. Every bite feels like a soothing addition to any holiday meal. It’s a simple dish that delivers so much comfort and crowd appeal.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Comfort and flavor come together beautifully in this Broccoli Casserole. It’s cheesy, hearty, and satisfying with every bite, earning compliments from big gatherings. This dish feels like a guaranteed win for both picky eaters and vegetable lovers. It fits right into any spread without stealing too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Few things say festive like this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi, which feels both special and comforting. The soft, pillowy texture makes it hard to stop at just one serving. It’s a refreshing choice when you want a side that stands out without being too fussy. You’ll love how it upgrades your holiday meal experience.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

The fresh crunch of this Waldorf Salad is always a welcome contrast on a holiday table. Its mix of crisp apples, nuts, and other ingredients gives it such a classic charm. It works beautifully with heavy or rich entrees to lighten things up. If you’re after a nostalgic yet fresh addition, this is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Light, refreshing, and festive, this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad is ideal for balancing rich holiday dishes. The sweet crunch of the apples paired with bright greens creates irresistible flavor. It’s an easy addition that feels thoughtful and elegant. Guests often appreciate its fresh touch in the middle of heavier meals.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Beautifully layered and golden brown, this Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes recipe is always a conversation starter. It’s the kind of dish that looks restaurant-worthy while being easy to share. The perfect texture and appearance make it a hit during celebrations. It’s just as delicious as it is visually striking.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Crusty Homemade French Bread

Fresh from the oven, this Crusty Homemade French Bread brings warmth and comfort to any December gathering. Its chewy center and golden crust make it irresistible for bread lovers. Paired with butter or served alongside hearty dishes, it easily becomes the meal’s backbone. Guests often keep reaching for just one more slice.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Homemade French Bread

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

A holiday table feels complete with this Tender Cauliflower Steaks recipe, which transforms humble vegetables into something extraordinary. The slightly smoky, hearty flavor pairs well with both light salads and richer sides. It’s a creative way to shine a light on veggies without making them feel like an afterthought.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks