51 Christmas Side Ideas That Bring Cheer Without Stealing the Spotlight

When holiday plans start filling up, it helps to have 51 Christmas sides you can pull from, depending on the kind of gathering you’re walking into. Some moments call for something warm and homey, others for something a little brighter or easier to share. I like having a list this big because it keeps things flexible without making the day feel rushed.

Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

There’s something so effortlessly festive about a dish like this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes. It’s fresh, balanced, and adds just the right pop of color to your Christmas spread without trying to steal the show. The simplicity of this salad paired with its bright presentation gives everyone a lighter, refreshing option to enjoy in between heartier bites.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Savory Bread Stuffing

A holiday table just doesn’t feel complete without a stuffing like this Savory Bread Stuffing. It’s warm, comforting, and carries all the flavors that make home and the holidays feel so special. This one won’t overpower the star of your meal but still manages to hold its own, a side that always has everyone going back for “just one more spoonful.”
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side that feels a little indulgent but still elegant, this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes is exactly it. There’s something about the smooth, layered texture that instantly turns a basic potato dish into a holiday-worthy masterpiece. Whether it’s served with roast or something lighter, this side transforms the entire meal with ease.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Christmas Salad

A side like this Christmas Salad does wonders for balancing all the rich, heavier dishes that always fill our holiday plates. It’s bright, colorful, and offers that crisp, refreshing moment you sometimes don’t realize you needed until you have it. Plus, it’s a versatile choice that works for just about anyone at the table, no matter their dietary preferences.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Here’s the thing, when you serve a plate of these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes, don’t expect them to last long. Crispy, creamy, and downright irresistible, they make an impression every time. Perfect for bringing a little variety to your Christmas menu, these are the bites that have people saying, “What are these, and how do I get more?”
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Tender Roasted Broccoli

With all the indulgence on a holiday table, something like Tender Roasted Broccoli really brings everything together. It’s got this simple elegance that adds a touch of freshness without being boring. Whether it’s paired with buttery mashed potatoes or the main dish, it complements everything beautifully and rounds out the meal with ease.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

If you’re looking for something that feels both festive and unexpected, this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower is a showstopper. It’s got this presence that makes it stand out while still being approachable, creating an option that works for anyone, from plant-based eaters to curious food lovers. Bonus: it’s as delicious as it is stunning.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Sometimes it’s the simple, nostalgic sides that really bring those feelings of warmth and joy to a holiday meal, and this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce does exactly that. It’s cozy, sweet, and a perfect pairing for everything on the Christmas table. Whether you’re plating up ham, turkey, or even vegetarian options, this is a side everyone can agree on.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Vegetarian Gravy

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-made this Vegetarian Gravy. This one is rich, savory, and so full of flavor that even die-hard traditionalists won’t miss the meat. Whether you’re serving it over potatoes or using it as a finishing touch on stuffing, this gravy is the glue that ties your meal together beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

Buttermilk Biscuits

Nothing says classic holiday comfort like a batch of warm, flaky Buttermilk Biscuits. These are the kind of sides that get everyone leaning in for seconds before the meal’s even begun. Soft and buttery, they’re perfect for sopping up gravy or pairing with that creamy casserole on your plate, a holiday table staple for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Soft Dinner Rolls

There’s something about seeing a basket of these Soft Dinner Rolls on a holiday table that just makes everything feel right. Warm, fluffy, and perfect for pairing with every dish, these rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether they’re enjoyed with a dab of butter or as the foundation for a plate-cleaning second round, they always hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

There’s no denying the indulgent appeal of these Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Creamy, comforting, and completely irresistible, they bring just the right over-the-top flair to the Christmas meal. These are the kind of potatoes that have guests sneaking an extra scoop even when they swear they’re full.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Few dishes say “holiday comfort” quite like Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. The creamy, cheesy goodness is downright impossible to resist, and it’s one of those sides that’ll make your plate feel like a cozy treat. Perfect alongside a roast or ham, this dish guarantees smiles all around the table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

For a Christmas classic with a savory twist, this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole is the way to go. It’s hearty enough to feel special and always gets attention for its crowd-pleasing, smoky flavor. Whether you’re hosting a big crew or just want something extra enjoyable on your menu, this casserole fits perfectly into the holiday lineup.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

If you’re looking for a creative Christmas appetizer or side, this Festive Caprese Candy Cane really steals the show with its presentation. The playful design won’t just look good on the table; it’s a bright burst of flavor that feels light and fresh enough to complement all the heavier favorites. Perfect for impressing guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Fresh Beet Salad

A side like Fresh Beet Salad brings gorgeous color and a refreshing bite to your holiday spread. It’s perfect for sneaking in a veggie option that feels light and fresh while still making an elegant appearance. Ideal for balancing out your plate, this salad quietly steals the show without taking over.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Classic comfort food’s finest moment comes in the form of these Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes. Creamy, rich, and oh-so-warming, this side fits right in with any holiday plate, and it’s one of those things everyone expects at Christmas. No bells and whistles needed; sometimes the simplest dishes are the ones you remember most.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A dish like Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole might just be your ultimate Christmas comfort food. It’s warm, satisfying, and checks all the boxes when it comes to delivering flavor and nostalgia. Perfect for serving to family or enjoying as part of an intimate holiday meal, it’s the kind of crowd-pleaser that always feels just right on the table.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Rich, decadent, and packed with familiar flavors, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole is like happiness in casserole form. Whether you’re scooping up seconds at the table or saving some leftovers to enjoy later, this dish delivers everything you love about baked potatoes but with a holiday-worthy twist.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Crusty Focaccia Bread

This Crusty Focaccia Bread brings versatility and texture to your holiday spread. It’s the perfect bread for dipping, pairing with gravy, or simply enjoying on its own. With its rustic look and enjoyable bite, it’s always a hit and adds a little something extra to the festive table.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Why stick with plain when you can go all out with this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese? Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely finger-licking good, this side feels like the ultimate indulgence at Christmas dinner. If there’s one dish that’s guaranteed to win over everyone at the table, it’s this one; expect empty pans and happy faces all around.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Transform your stuffing game with Savory Cornbread Stuffing. It’s hearty, filling, and loaded with all the comforting flavors you crave during the holidays. Whether it’s joining turkey, ham, or anything in between, this stuffing knows exactly how to hold its own without taking over.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Who doesn’t love a little nostalgia on a holiday table? This Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make brings back all the old-school charm while offering a light, refreshing option amidst richer sides. Crisp and colorful, it’s one of those dishes that everyone recognizes and loves as a true classic.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

If presentation is as important as flavor for your holiday table, these Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes deliver on both fronts. With their golden edges and tender insides, they’re just as beautiful as they are delicious. A side like this adds that extra little “wow” factor to keep your Christmas dinner feeling festive.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Few sides can compete with the sheer flavor of these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. They’ve got just the right balance of sweetness and savory depth to complement every holiday dish and easily win over even the biggest skeptics. Trust me, these sprouts will have plenty of fans by the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

A true holiday favorite, this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham brings hearty comfort to the table. The creamy potatoes paired with savory bits of ham make this dish feel like a Christmas hug on a plate. It’s a great choice when you want something warm, filling, and undeniably fulfilling that pairs beautifully with just about anything else on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

This Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole proves that cauliflower isn’t just for the veggie lovers at the table. Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible, it’s a side that sneaks its way into everyone’s heart, even those who claim they’re not big fans of vegetables. Serve this, and watch it quickly become a new holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

A holiday classic that needs no introduction, this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows is sure to hit all the nostalgic notes at the dinner table. It’s sweet, a little indulgent, and packs the kind of cozy goodness you expect during Christmas. For many, it’s simply not a proper Christmas dinner without this dish stationed front and center.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Brighten up your holiday meal with this Colorful 7 Layer Salad. This layered beauty is not only visually stunning but also packs a refreshing touch you didn’t realize you needed until it’s on your plate. It’s one of those sides that brings excitement to the table and leaves everyone talking about how fresh and fun it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Whether you’re catering to plant-based eaters or just looking for something a little unexpected, these Tender Cauliflower Steaks are a standout option. Hearty, satisfying, and perfectly cooked, they hold their own without overpowering the rest of your holiday feast. It’s proof that vegetables can be as impressive as any main course.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Comfort food doesn’t get much cozier than this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and always a crowd favorite on any holiday table. This dish is perfect for families, gatherings, or just spoiling yourself with the ultimate indulgent side. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy long after Christmas is over.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Soft Garlic Knots

A side that feels like a little gift for your guests, this Soft Garlic Knots bring a warm, buttery charm to the table. Whether you’re using them to wipe up gravy or enjoy on their own, these soft, pillowy rolls with a hint of garlic are a simple yet unforgettable addition to any holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Perfect Baked Potato

There’s something timeless about these Perfect Baked Potatoes at a Christmas dinner. Crisp on the outside with a fluffy center, this side fits in with everything, from meats to veggie dishes. It’s a side that doesn’t need any fancy extras; just its perfectly cooked simplicity makes it a favorite for every kind of holiday plate.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato

Crunchy Celery Salad

Light, crisp, and surprisingly refreshing, this Crunchy Celery Salad offers a unique way to balance out the richness of a Christmas feast. It’s not your average holiday salad, but it’s one that stands out for its texture and the pleasant little surprise it adds to each bite. Perfect for when you want something fresh on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

These Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges are proof that even the simplest sides can make a huge impact. Perfectly crunchy and a little sweet, they’re great for breaking up all the richness on the table and delivering something downright enjoyable. Bonus: they look just as festive as any of the other dishes on your holiday menu!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough, this Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a comforting addition to any holiday meal. They’ve got that holiday magic that makes them feel nostalgic, but their simplicity allows them to complement just about anything else on the plate. This is one dish no one will be skipping over.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

A side like this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto doesn’t just taste like the holidays; it feels like them, too. Rich and velvety, it’s got just the right amount of sweetness to pair with savory classics like roast turkey or ham. One bite, and it’s impossible not to fall in love with this festive, comforting dish.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Why settle for basic when this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese takes the classic comfort dish to a holiday-worthy level? Creamy, cheesy, and made with a texture that feels like pure love, your guests will appreciate every bite, and so will you, when the slow cooker does most of the work for you!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

For a side that’s stunning and enjoyable, this Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks are where it’s at. Golden, crisp edges with a tender inside make this side feel substantial enough to be a main course for plant-based eaters, but approachable enough for everyone else at the table to dig in with enthusiasm.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Mushroom Gravy

Perfectly rich and savory, this Mushroom Gravy ties together everything on your holiday plate with ease. Pour it over roasted veggies, potatoes, or anything else that needs a little extra flavor, and you’ll understand why this is a must-serve for plant-based and meat-lovers alike. It’s fulfilling enough to transform any dish it touches.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Vibrant, warm, and full of earthy flavors, these Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables bring a rustic charm to your holiday table. They’re simple enough to complement your mains while offering a beautiful mix of textures and colors that feel just right for the season. This is one of those sides that gets everyone grabbing a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Layered Seven Layer Salad

Nothing beats the visual appeal of this Layered Seven Layer Salad; it’s like a little masterpiece on your holiday table. Each layer brings its own fresh, crisp element to the mix, making every scoop a flavorful experience. It’s light, colorful, and just the kind of side that gives your plate a refreshing, festive balance.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Decadent, cheesy, and undeniably comforting, this Cheesy Funeral Potatoes belong on every Christmas menu. They’re the kind of side dish that feels like a little bit of indulgence baked into every bite. Whether you’re serving ham, turkey, or something else entirely, these potatoes pair perfectly and disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Add a fresh, crisp touch to your holiday spread with this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad. It’s light, vibrant, and brings just the right hint of sweetness to balance all those rich Christmas dishes. This side feels refreshing while still offering a festive touch that guests will notice and love, especially with its pop of beautiful seasonal color.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Is it even Christmas dinner without a big bowl of these Buttery Mashed Potatoes? Creamy, smooth, and irresistible, this classic side is the foundation for everything from gravy to casseroles. Its incredible simplicity is what makes it so perfect, and let’s be honest, there’s a reason this dish is always a crowd favorite for the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Colorful Antipasto Salad

This Colorful Antipasto Salad brings bold flavors and plenty of variety to your Christmas table. It’s the kind of salad that feels hearty and exciting but still manages to be a refreshing break from the heavier dishes. With its bright presentation, you’ll find everyone adding a scoop to their plate for a little variety in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

For something a bit unexpected, this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a unique side dish that feels both comforting and festive. It has that homemade touch that makes it special enough for a holiday meal but familiar enough that everyone will happily dig in. Perfect alongside roast turkey, ham, or even on its own as a centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Rich Creamed Spinach

This Rich Creamed Spinach is one of those sides that adds a touch of indulgence to your Christmas plate. It’s velvety smooth and pairs beautifully with just about any main dish. This is the kind of side that feels like a little luxury; it’s warm, comforting, and something you’ll enjoy with every single bite.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Bite-sized but fully loaded, these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun and festive twist on the classic stuffing. They’re perfect for adding variety to your holiday table while still packing in all the comforting flavors you love. These are always a hit for anyone who wants the same stuffing flavor in a smaller, handheld form.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cheesy Potato Casserole

Decadent and undeniably lovely, this Cheesy Potato Casserole is Christmas comfort food at its best. The creamy, cheesy texture makes it a side that’ll disappear quickly, no matter how many other dishes are on the table. From first bite to final serving, it’s one of those dishes you can’t help but go back to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

Tender Sautéed Kale

A side like this Tender Sautéed Kale adds a wholesome balance to your Christmas spread. It’s simple yet flavorful, offering a fresh green option that pairs well with all of your holiday favorites. Perfect for bringing a little brightness and color to the table, and it’s always appreciated by veggie lovers and skeptics alike.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale