35 Christmas Side Dish Recipe Ideas Perfect for the Whole Season

Having 35 Christmas side dish ideas on hand makes the whole season feel a lot easier to navigate. With simple picks ahead, you can handle busy dinners or relaxed gatherings without scrambling. Here’s a collection that keeps things steady and low-pressure. You’ll find plenty that works for all kinds of plans.

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it. — Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower head cut in half, garnished with chopped parsley, on a white plate. — Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Center your holiday table with this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower, a dish that’s both elegant and hearty. Its golden, crispy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it pairs beautifully with festive mains. Guests always remark on its presentation, making it perfect for vegetarians or anyone who loves a show-stopping side.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Savory French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs. — Savory French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Take a classic soup and reimagine it into this Savory French Onion Casserole, a new holiday favorite. Loaded with caramelized onions and melted cheese, it creates the sort of comfort guests crave during winter dinners. It’s rich yet easy to make ahead, making it a seasonal staple everyone will want on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

A plate with tomatoes, basil and bread on it. — Festive Caprese Candy Cane. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combine fresh flavors and festive presentation with this Festive Caprese Candy Cane. The vibrant red and white design adds holiday flair to any table while offering a light, refreshing bite. It’s perfect for balancing richer dishes and is always a wonderfully enjoyable conversation starter at holiday parties.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Savory Cornbread Stuffing

A metal spatula lifts a serving of baked stuffing topped with chopped parsley from a white casserole dish. — Savory Cornbread Stuffing. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Make your stuffing stand out with this Savory Cornbread Stuffing, a flavorful and hearty addition to Christmas meals. Its crumbly texture and seasonally spiced flavors pair perfectly with roast turkey or ham. Guests love its homemade charm, making it a must-have side that feels both nostalgic and special.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork. — Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Comfort food and elegance combine in these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, the ultimate side for holiday dinners. Each creamy, cheesy layer makes them impossible to resist, with guests eagerly grabbing seconds. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd and makes every plate feel indulgent and festive during the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Fresh Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate. — Fresh Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Brighten your table with this Fresh Beet Salad, a colorful and refreshing option that stands out among classic sides. With its bold red hues, it feels perfectly seasonal while offering a lighter taste. Guests appreciate its balance of earthy and tangy flavors; ideal for rounding out heartier holiday dishes!
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Soft Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior. — Soft Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm up your holiday spread with these Soft Dinner Rolls, a timeless side that’s perfect with gravy, butter, or anything in between. Their pillowy texture keeps everyone reaching for more, and they’re easy to make in batches for family dinners or larger gatherings. Few things are as gratifying as fresh, homemade rolls!
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Close-up of several stuffing balls containing herbs and dried cranberries, garnished with fresh parsley. — Crispy Stuffing Balls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Add a creative twist to your holiday lineup with these Crispy Stuffing Balls, perfectly crisp on the outside and packed with flavor inside. They’re easy to serve at parties, making them ideal finger food for guests. This fun take on classic stuffing always surprises and delights, ensuring it’s a seasonal favorite year after year.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

A plate of roasted cauliflower steaks garnished with chopped pistachios, pomegranate seeds, and fresh parsley. — Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Impress everyone at the table with these Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks, a hearty yet plant-based choice. Their rich flavors and crispy edges make them a standout side or main for vegetarians. The simple prep ensures holiday meals stay stress-free, while guests love the sophisticated presentation of this dish.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Sourdough Stuffing

A close-up of a serving of bread stuffing with chopped herbs, lifted from a baking dish. — Sourdough Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bring out bold flavors with this Sourdough Stuffing, a deliciously cozy addition to your holiday spread. The tangy bread base gives it a unique twist that pairs beautifully with turkey or ham. It’s perfect for serving when you want to enhance a classic side without putting in extra effort. Everyone will ask for the recipe!
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

Colorful Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. — Colorful Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Brighten up your table with this Colorful Antipasto Salad, a visually stunning dish packed with bold flavors. It’s perfect for balancing rich holiday mains, offering plenty of texture and freshness in every bite. Guests love the vibrant mix of ingredients, making it a standout side everyone looks forward to digging into!
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A plate of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with pine nuts on parchment paper. — Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Make everyone a Brussels sprouts fan with these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze, a perfect mixture of sweet and savory. The golden crust and tangy glaze bring a festive twist to this classic veggie side. Ideal for both casual dinners and fancier feasts, they’re guaranteed to spark raves from guests.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

A plate of golden-brown gnocchi garnished with rosemary, served with a black fork. — Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm up the holidays with this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi, a flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes. It’s soft, golden, and delicious, pairing perfectly with creamy sauces or roasted veggies. Guests are always impressed by this unique side dish, which feels like a treat but is easy to make ahead for festive dinners.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible. — Hearty Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Transform simple ingredients into holiday magic with this Hearty Cabbage Casserole, an unexpectedly flavorful and satisfying side. Layered with rich textures, it’s perfect for complementing roasted meats or serving alone as a vegetarian standout. Guests won’t believe how comforting and delicious cabbage can truly be!
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Tender Sautéed Kale

A white bowl filled with sautéed kale and sliced garlic, with a fork lifting a portion from the bowl. — Tender Sautéed Kale. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Lighten things up on your table with Tender Sautéed Kale, an easy and quick side filled with vibrant greens. Cooked just right, it retains all its freshness while blending beautifully with richer dishes. Perfect for health-conscious holiday meals, this dish always adds a splash of color and taste to plates.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

A close-up of a slice of potato casserole with layers of potatoes, ham, and creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley on a plate. — Scalloped Potatoes and Ham. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Make Christmas dinner a hit with this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe, combining creamy layers with rich-tasting ham in every bite. This hearty dish works beautifully as a main or side, gratifying hungry guests every time. Perfect for prepping ahead, it’s an easy go-to option that adds warmth and richness to holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves. — Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring festive flavors to a lighter dish with this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. The burst of cranberries against the tender chicken turns this salad into something truly special. Everyone appreciates its refreshing mix amid heavier sides, making it ideal for potlucks, lunches, or holiday spreads when variety is key!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Close-up of a dish featuring glazed carrots garnished with chopped herbs, served in a white bowl. — Easy Honey Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Add a touch of sweetness to your holiday table with these Easy Honey Glazed Carrots, a side everyone loves. Their golden glaze makes them shine, while the soft texture creates a comforting bite guests can’t resist. Perfect for pairing with any main dish, they’re proof that simple sides can still feel celebratory.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme. — Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Save time without sacrificing flavor with these Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables, a vibrant and nourishing side. The caramelized edges of the veggies add richness, while the seasonal colors give them holiday charm. Easy and crowd-pleasing, this recipe is perfect for busy holiday dinners that still feel special.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Rich Creamed Spinach

A bowl of creamy spinach topped with grated cheese, being stirred with a spoon. — Rich Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add elegance to your table with this Rich Creamed Spinach, a decadent side dish that balances creamy textures with robust flavors. Perfect alongside roasts or grilled mains, it feels comforting and indulgent yet refined. Guests enjoy its warmth and richness, making it a staple that complements nearly every holiday menu beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Buttermilk Biscuits

Three golden-brown biscuits are stacked, with the top one missing a bite. A small sprig of greenery with red berries is visible in the corner. — Buttermilk Biscuits. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Warm and flaky, these Buttermilk Biscuits are holiday classics that pair beautifully with any dinner table spread. Whether served with gravy, butter, or jam, they’re a crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for make-ahead meal prep and add a homemade charm to your holiday feasts, making Christmas meals feel a little extra special!
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Mushroom Gravy

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with mushroom and onion gravy, garnished with rosemary. — Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Level up every dish with this Mushroom Gravy, a rich-in-taste addition that completes the holiday table. Rich, velvety, and packed with earthy flavors, it pairs perfectly with roasted meats or mashed potatoes. Guests always notice its depth and love how it brings everything together seamlessly. You’ll want to make extra, it’s that good!
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Christmas Salad

A close-up of a salad with chopped romaine lettuce, diced white cheese, pecans, and pomegranate seeds on a blue plate. — Christmas Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Add festive flair to your menus with this Christmas Salad, a colorful mix that feels perfectly seasonal. With vibrant greens, pops of red, and satisfying textures, it balances heavier dishes effortlessly. It’s ideal for ensuring variety on your plates without compromising the festive spirit. Healthy and beautiful, it’s Christmas made fresh!
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A close-up of a spoonful of chicken stuffing, showcasing croutons, shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and sprinkled herbs. — Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combine holiday classics into one comforting dish with this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Perfect for a busy season, it brings flavors everyone loves into an easy, prepped-ahead meal. The creamy layers and hearty stuffing make it a standout crowd-pleaser that feels like love served on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Crunchy Celery Salad

A bowl filled with chopped celery, red onion, apples, almonds, and fresh herbs. — Crunchy Celery Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For something light but refreshing, serve this Crunchy Celery Salad, offering texture and fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with rich holiday mains. It’s simple to prepare but always feels special, giving guests a welcome change between heartier dishes. Perfect for complementing roasts or adding variety to your spread!
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Tender Roasted Broccoli

A bowl of roasted broccoli topped with grated cheese and seasoning. — Tender Roasted Broccoli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bring simplicity and brightness to your table with this Tender Roasted Broccoli, a versatile side that’s perfect for the season. Roasted to perfection, its golden edges and fresh flavor pair beautifully with almost any main. Guests love the balance it adds to holiday meals, making it a go-to recipe that never disappoints!
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Rich Turkey Gravy

Close-up of a bowl filled with creamy turkey gravy soup, featuring small bubbles and herbs on the surface. The bowl has a reddish-brown rim. — Rich Turkey Gravy. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No holiday meal is complete without this Rich Turkey Gravy, a smooth and savory staple that ties everything together. Perfect over turkey, potatoes, or stuffing, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite part of the dinner. Guests always appreciate its velvety texture; just make sure to make plenty, everyone will want seconds!
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

A close-up of two baked savory stuffing balls with visible chunks of onion, celery, herbs, and bread on a golden tray. — Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized brilliance comes to your table with these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls, a simple yet festive twist on stuffing. Packed with holiday flavors, they’re perfect for parties or smaller occasions. Guests enjoy every flavorful bite, and they add a fun yet elegant touch to your seasonal menu.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Soft Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray. — Soft Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add a little extra flavor to dinner with these Soft Garlic Knots, seasoned perfectly for holiday gatherings. Guests love their fluffy texture and light garlic aroma, which pairs beautifully with pasta, casseroles, or just about anything. Easy to prepare and always a hit, these rolls are a must-have addition to your festive feast!
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

A bowl of risotto topped with roasted pumpkin pieces, grated cheese, and fresh parsley, with a checkered napkin and herbs nearby. — Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm up chilly evenings with this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto, a rich and comforting side with seasonal flair. The tender rice and sweet squash create the perfect balance, while their vivid color adds charm to your table. Perfect for pairing with roasts or enjoying on its own, it feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Savory Bread Stuffing

A close-up of a casserole dish filled with stuffing made of bread cubes, cranberries, chopped herbs, and celery. — Savory Bread Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Keep things classic with this Savory Bread Stuffing, the perfect side for turkey or ham. With every bite, it delivers the comforting flavors you expect from a holiday favorite. Guests always appreciate its hearty, homemade feel, making it a dish that belongs at your table year after year. It’s timeless and just plain delicious!
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad. — Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Light, crunchy, and full of freshness, this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing balances holiday feasts perfectly. The crisp veggies and tangy dressing offer a refreshing change to heavier side dishes. Guests love the contrast it adds to their plates, making it both memorable and delicious for festive dinners.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Festive Christmas Casserole

A close-up of a spoon scooping a portion of creamy baked casserole topped with herbs, with a dish of the casserole and a spoon in the background. — Festive Christmas Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring joy to your table with this Festive Christmas Casserole, packed with seasonal flavors that feel cozy and celebratory. Easy to make ahead, it’s perfect for busy chefs during the holidays. Guests always comment on its warmth and richness, making it a star side dish for any Christmas dinner.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole

Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese. — Crisp Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Brighten your table with this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad, a refreshing blend of sweetness and crunch. With slices of the season’s best apples, it’s a lighter option that still feels festive. Guests love its fresh flavors amid richer dishes, making it an easy way to add variety and color to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Upgrade your holiday sides with these Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes, a decadent dish sure to impress. Elegant and indulgent, their layered texture and rich flavor make them perfect for special occasions. Guests love their luxurious mouthfeel, making this recipe an unforgettable addition to seasonal feasts.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes