45 Christmas Side Recipe Ideas That Fit Right Into Any December Gathering

Bringing people together in December feels extra special, and any of these 45 Christmas sides help make that happen. These recipes work whether you’re planning a feast or just sharing something simple with friends. There’s a reason everyone lingers near the side dishes. Sharing good food really is part of the holiday spirit.

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Bringing this Hearty Cabbage Casserole to a December gathering shows you know how to make sides that actually fill people up. Its homey flavor often gets people reminiscing about holiday meals of years past. You’ll notice plenty of compliments from those who like comfort food. Warm casseroles like this never go unnoticed.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

A platter of this Festive Caprese Candy Cane instantly draws oohs from the holiday crowd. Its playful design is both eye-catching and appetizing, inviting everyone to try a bite. People tend to ask how you made it look so fun. It always helps set the mood for Christmas cheer.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Cheerful chatter always fills the room when this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese lands on the buffet. Velvety cheese and soft noodles make it impossible for anyone to eat just one scoop. I love sharing this with a crowd because it invites everyone back for more. Comfort and tradition come together here.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Vegetarian Gravy

Whether you’re serving vegetarians or just want an extra sauce, this Vegetarian Gravy goes with nearly everything. Pouring it over potatoes instantly brings comfort to the plate. Guests comment on how they didn’t miss the traditional version at all. Having a good gravy on standby can be a game changer.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Warm, creamy, and ultra-comforting, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole always draws a crowd. People love scooping up generous helpings, then going back for more. I keep this recipe handy for big gatherings where you want a hit without much fuss. Classic casseroles always fit right in during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Fast to make and appealing even to picky eaters, this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes never gets left behind. The dish offers a simple break from the usual rich sides. People appreciate a fresh bite during longer holiday meals. It’s my go-to for balancing all the December comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Savory French Onion Casserole

Anyone looking for warmth will reach for this Savory French Onion Casserole before trying anything else. The aroma alone draws a crowd, while each bite leaves guests wanting more. I serve it to bring restaurant-level comfort to a cozy night in. The bubbling top is hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Fresh Beet Salad

Colorful salads like this Fresh Beet Salad brighten up any December spread by offering a pop of natural color. The earthy flavor surprises people who may not be beet fans at first. I’ve had guests come back for seconds, proving how well it works for a winter table. Salads like these feel fresh without stealing the show.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Setting out Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes adds an elegant touch to your holiday table without making things complicated. The rich, layered texture has guests talking about the side more than the main course. This recipe works perfectly for both fancy celebrations and relaxed dinners. People appreciate a dish that feels a bit special.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Soft Dinner Rolls

Passing a basket of these Soft Dinner Rolls creates an instant feeling of abundance. Each roll vanishes so quickly, you’ll often wish you had baked more. There’s nothing like the simple pleasure of warm, homemade bread at a Christmas table. Classic sides always make guests feel welcome.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Sweet and savory come together in these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Guests often express surprise at how much they enjoy them, even if sprouts aren’t usually their favorite. I notice the platter empties faster than expected. The mix of flavors works perfectly for December gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Holiday spreads feel extra special with Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes as a side. Their crunchy exterior hides a fluffy center, making each bite a little gift on your plate. Partygoers love the change from standard potato dishes. Lines form early for these fun, shareable bites.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Crusty Focaccia Bread

Adding this Crusty Focaccia Bread to your December dinner brings a rustic touch that everyone enjoys. People tear off pieces to sample with soups, dips, or just on its own. I find it helps set a relaxed mood at big gatherings. Bread this good rarely lasts until leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Placing out this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower offers a showstopper that’s as tasty as it is dramatic. Everyone wants to see how it’s carved table-side. The golden crust excites both kids and grown-ups alike. You’ll love how the presentation sparks new conversations.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Comfort food lovers go straight for this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole at any December feast. It blends hearty flavors that make a meal instantly feel generous and festive. I’ve found it’s one of those sides that helps bring people together. Platters of comfort always seem to run out first.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet and smooth, these Mashed Sweet Potatoes bring color and nostalgia to the winter meal. Guests often add seconds simply because they can’t resist the light, mellow flavor. I love how they sit perfectly between savory meats and other comfort sides. This dish always adds a pop of cheer to the buffet.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Savory Bread Stuffing

Tradition finds its way to your gathering with Savory Bread Stuffing. It’s the kind of side people hope to see on the table every holiday season. I notice guests feel at home when they know classic favorites are on hand. Nothing says Christmas like stuffing done right.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Tender Roasted Broccoli

Set out a bowl of Tender Roasted Broccoli and watch it disappear as folks help themselves without a nudge. Its deep, roasted flavor makes even picky eaters try a helping or two. I lean on this side when the table is full of rich foods. Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Cheesy dishes like this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese are a quiet hit with kids and grown-ups alike. The warmth from the slow cooker makes any gathering feel cozy and unrushed. I see happy faces every time it’s scooped up onto plates. Simple sides can mean the world at big family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Sourdough Stuffing

The tangy aroma of Sourdough Stuffing brings its own character to a December potluck. You’ll often see second servings being scooped up before the first round of dishes is done. I make this for folks who love a sharper, brighter twist on tradition. Sides like these become legends for future holidays.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

Crunchy Celery Salad

Christmas buffets get an extra fresh note with Crunchy Celery Salad on the table. The snap and bright flavor refresh the palate between heartier sides, helping balance out the meal. Guests thank you for the little surprise of crunch. Salads like this bring a bit of pep to the winter spread.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Buttermilk Biscuits

Stack these Buttermilk Biscuits high at a holiday feast and watch a line form near the bread basket. They’re best served warm, as people can’t help but grab more than one. I make them whenever I want guests to feel an extra sense of comfort. Fluffy biscuits are always in season.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Layered Seven Layer Salad

Colorful and crisp, this Layered Seven Layer Salad is built for gatherings where looks matter just as much as flavor. People linger nearby, admiring the presentation before digging in. I find it sparks conversation and always gets finished. Bring this when you want a side with a dramatic entrance.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Cheesy and full of comfort, these Scalloped Potatoes and Ham will warm guests from the inside out. It’s a special occasion side that easily steals the show. I often spot people quietly making room for seconds. This classic just belongs at a Christmas dinner.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Christmas Salad

Bringing out this Christmas Salad brightens the whole spread and gives everyone a break from the richer fare. A good mix of greens and fresh toppings keeps things lively. I see people appreciate seeing salad when there’s a sea of sides. Freshness always has a place in December.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Every holiday buffet looks more inviting with Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole bubbling away. It’s rich, creamy, and memorable enough to get recipe requests from curious guests. I put this one forward for eaters who want something special yet familiar. Cauliflower never felt so festive.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Bringing a chilled Crisp Honeycrisp Salad balances out the warmth of the rest of the meal. Juicy apples, crunchy greens, and sweet notes keep people coming back for seconds. This side has a habit of refreshing the whole table. Even dessert lovers appreciate a spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Passing around Green Bean and Bacon Casserole always leads to smiles, especially from those craving something smoky and hearty. It’s a refrigerator staple as leftovers, if there are any to save. Classic green bean sides make the holiday meal feel complete. This casserole proves bacon belongs at the table.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Potlucks seem empty without Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, one of the most popular sides each December. Each bite feels comforting and rich while still being easy to pass around. I often notice people nudging the pan closer. Sometimes, you just need a dish that everyone wants extra of.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

A big spoonful of Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto brings warmth and comfort to a December dinner. Its silky texture stands out among other sides, while the color brightens up any plate. Guests appreciate the winter flavors mixed in. It pairs well with both simple and extravagant main courses.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Rich Turkey Gravy

Good sides get even better poured under this Rich Turkey Gravy. Everyone pauses in line at the buffet for an extra spoonful on their potatoes and stuffing. Full flavor makes it unforgettable. I keep some in a warm pitcher all meal long.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Tray after tray of these Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables tells your guests you value flavor and color alike. The roasted edges please every crowd, especially those looking for something lighter. I find people return for one more try at picking out their favorite root. Roasted veggies make the party happier.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Even a picky crowd finds something to love in this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. Served hot and full of comfort, it makes everyone feel like they’re home for the holidays. I always watch for empty baking dishes by the end of dinner. Cheesy casseroles never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Nostalgia fills the air with this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Crisp apples and creamy dressing draw out stories from guests old and young. I find people love sharing the history of this dish during holiday dinners. It makes tradition part of the meal in a sweet way.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Serving these Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes adds a sense of celebration to your table. Their showy shape gets lots of attention, while the crispy edges keep forks busy. You’ll often receive questions about how you pulled off the look. These potatoes really make sides the star.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Festive Christmas Casserole

If you want your holiday side to stand out, this Festive Christmas Casserole does the job. Every spoonful is layered with flavors that draw out the spirit of the season. People tend to ask for a copy of the recipe after finishing their plates. This dish shines at both casual and formal dinners.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Calling all veggie lovers, these Tender Cauliflower Steaks offer a main-worthy side that doesn’t disappoint. Their robust flavor fills plates without overpowering the main course. I bring this dish to gatherings that celebrate all kinds of diets. A well-made vegetable can truly be the center of attention.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Including Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad turns holiday sides into something guests scoop up without waiting for a sandwich. The sweet crunch makes it memorable and festive. I enjoy offering a scoop as a lighter accompaniment to heavier entrees. It’s the kind of side that keeps people talking till dessert.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Layers of flavor fill every bite of this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Even those skeptical about sprouts revisit the pan for seconds or thirds. It’s a dish I love making because it surprises and pleases all kinds of guests. Cheese and veggies never felt so festive together.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Tender Sautéed Kale

Crisp yet tender, this Tender Sautéed Kale offers a nutritious balance next to winning comfort foods. Some guests are surprised by how much they enjoy this simply seasoned green. I serve this for friends who want something wholesome but still fits with holiday favorites. Sometimes, light sides leave the best impression.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Soft Garlic Knots

Unwrapping these warm Soft Garlic Knots brings a bakery touch to any December buffet. The rich aroma drifts through the room and makes everyone ready for another helping. I bake extra for those who want more for dipping. Soft, golden knots signal pure comfort at the winter table.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Golden edges and a soft center make these Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges an easy win at holiday gatherings. They disappear so quickly, there’s barely time to refill the tray. These wedges give familiar flavors a new twist. I reach for them as a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Serving these Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks gives everyone a robust, plant-based option that truly stands out. The roasted edges and hearty texture draw new fans, even from those who usually skip vegan food. This dish rounds out any Christmas table. No one misses the meat with these on offer.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Mushroom Gravy

Pouring this hot Mushroom Gravy over everything turns ordinary sides into winter dinner favorites. The savory aroma gets everyone reaching for an extra spoonful. I keep this close whenever mashed potatoes need an upgrade. A good gravy always brings together the whole meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Parties light up when these Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes show up – they’re hearty, rich, and absolutely scoop-worthy. No one hesitates to grab one, and you’ll see why after the first bite. I make them for gatherings where only the best comfort food will do. These potatoes always run out fast.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes