35 Christmas Side Ideas That Keep The Menu Grounded

From trusted classics to new favorites, these 35 Christmas side ideas anchor any holiday meal in flavor and warmth. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a full house, sides like these help balance the menu. I find that sharing good food adds extra cheer to the season. Discover dishes that keep your spread both rooted and special.

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top. — Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

A close-up of a cheesy, baked casserole topped with bacon and chopped green onions, with a serving being lifted out, showing melted cheese stretching. — Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Scooping into this Twice Baked Potato Casserole feels like finding comfort in every bite. Guests settle in with a serving and keep coming back for more. I make extra to keep everyone’s plates full on Christmas. Potato casseroles truly anchor any holiday meal with warmth and steady flavor all evening.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Caprese salad in a serving bowl, with tomatoes, oil and balsamic glaze nearby. — Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Plates get a fresh lift with this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes swirling bright colors. Slices of crisp veggies offer a welcome change amidst heavier winter dishes. I put this salad out early so people get a lively start. Caprese brings a hint of summer to December’s busy menu.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

A close-up of a serving of baked macaroni and cheese being lifted from a casserole dish, topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs. — Four Cheese Mac n Cheese. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Holiday spreads pick up extra excitement once this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese lands on the table. Its creamy texture and bold taste keep people smiling long after the first serving. I have never seen leftovers when this dish makes an appearance. Cheesy pasta delivers pure comfort to every plate.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes on a white plate. — Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Southern classics like this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes round out any Christmas feast. Smooth and rich, every scoop seems to disappear faster than expected. I whip up a big batch knowing it always pairs well with every main. Mashed potatoes bring cozy feelings during cold December nights.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

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.

The instant aroma of this Savory French Onion Casserole lets guests know something special is on the menu. Bubbly, golden edges tempt even the pickiest eaters. I share this for a touch of elegance without the effort. French onion casseroles add depth to the lineup of familiar holiday sides.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

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.

Cauliflower gets a whole new look with this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower. Browned and tender, it stands out among classic sides and catches everyone’s attention. I offer generous slices so each person gets a taste. Roasting makes winter veggies shine on a crowded plate.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

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.

Bringing this Fresh Beet Salad to Christmas dinner is my trick for getting everyone to eat more veggies. The sweet, earthy crunch fits perfectly next to all the comfort foods. I love how beet salad adds bright color to the spread. Plates look cheerful with beets on the side.
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, pillowy servings of this Soft Dinner Rolls are the first to go at any holiday table. Guests reach for these without hesitation, folding them into everything else they eat. I bake double just in case. Dinner rolls keep the menu grounded, offering comfort people expect from Christmas meals.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

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.

Deep winter flavor shows up with this Hearty Cabbage Casserole in the mix. Crunchy layers paired with robust taste make cabbage a true holiday favorite. I notice folks get curious and take extra bites as the night goes on. Cabbage offers a grounding balance to richer sides and mains.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet. — Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Baked potato fans get excited over this Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes served piping hot. Fluffy insides and crispy outsides create the perfect holiday side experience. I make sure there’s plenty so no one feels left out. Loaded potatoes give guests something reliable and fun to pile on their plate.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

A jar labeled — Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Applesauce reaches new heights with this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce adding sweet warmth to the spread. Kids and adults both scoop up generous portions next to heavier dishes. I serve this chilled or warm, depending on the mood. Cinnamon brings December magic to a classic side, making it feel extra special.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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.

I love bringing this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham because it delivers big comfort with little drama. Creamy, savory layers fit right in with Christmas feasts, filling everyone up for hours. Plates always empty faster than I expect whenever this is served. Potato casserole gives mains a run for their money.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

A person scooping a sweet potato casserole out of a baking dish. — Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright orange and pillowy layers catch the eye in this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows. People line up for a scoop of sweetness beside their savory favorites. I count this casserole as one dish that always feels right for Christmas dinner. Sweet potatoes add cheer and energy to every holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

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.

Stuffing meets playful shapes with this Crispy Stuffing Balls stacked high on the sideboard. Crunchy outsides and tender insides encourage people to sample something new. I send guests home with extras after every meal. Rounds of stuffing turn familiar holiday flavors into fun, festive bites.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

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.

Dinners take a colorful turn as this Christmas Salad lands at the center of the table. Crisp greens, nuts, and fruit invite everyone to refresh their plates. I toss extra for larger parties, knowing salads are eaten down to the last leaf. Out of all the sides, this one always brightens up the whole meal.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

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.

Every helping of this Savory Cornbread Stuffing brings a grounding, old-fashioned comfort to dinner. Soft cornbread and subtle spice round out the heaviness of meats and gravies. I always notice folks loading up their plates with second helpings. Cornbread brings a homey touch to Christmas sides.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Someone serving broccoli casserole. — Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Kids and adults alike cozy up to this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. Rich flavor and gentle texture make broccoli easy to appreciate at the holiday table. I make extra for those who crave vegetables in the midst of other savory choices. Casserole dishes always win smiles from a hungry crowd.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top. — Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Potatoes shine with big southern style in this Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Creamy and hearty, each serving fills bellies and feeds the holiday spirit. I serve this up for winter gatherings where comfort matters. Mud potatoes anchor the plate, balancing out the party’s wildest flavors.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Layered Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise. — Layered Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Guests discover hidden colors and crunch with every scoop of this Layered Seven Layer Salad. Bright vegetables and savory bits turn basic sides into something fun. I put out extra spoons so people can reach every layer. Seven layer salad provides freshness without repetition, making the whole table pop.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

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.

Catching folks’ eyes with festive rounds, this Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls brings a bite-sized twist to classic flavors. Each ball packs a hint of sweetness and a hearty texture. I always prepare extra so there’s enough for sharing. This side turns ordinary stuffing into a story-worthy snack.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

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.

Carrot sides glisten with holiday charm thanks to this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots. Sweet and tender, these draw guests over for second spoons. I prefer this dish for its simplicity and seasonal shine. Carrots balance out heavier mains, offering bright color and flavor to break up all the richness.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

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.

Grab-and-go scoops of this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad spark interest at casual Christmas parties. The mix of crunchy and creamy gives everyone a reason to linger near the snack table. I scoop big portions for brunches and relaxed dinners. Chicken salad blends lightness with winter’s festive cheer.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped bacon, crispy onions, and melted cheese, featuring visible green peppers and a creamy sauce. — Green Bean and Bacon Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crisp veggies meet smoky goodness in this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole every Christmas. The rich, savory taste blends perfectly with holiday meats and breads. I bring this along for those who want a little crunch with their comfort. Green beans add balance and energy to a side-heavy menu.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon 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.

Apples never taste better than in this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad shown off at December lunches. Crunch and sweetness refresh the table between heavier dishes. I toss this salad at brunch as a light starter. The vibrant fruit gives everyone permission to go back for more.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp 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.

Plates warm up instantly with this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole filling the air with a comforting aroma. Savory bites bring people together for before-dinner snacks, too. I prepare big casserole pans for parties with lots of holiday guests. Chicken and stuffing manage to keep spirits bright and full.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan. — Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing gets more awed reaction than this Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes stacked on the serving platter. Impressive slices show off crispy edges while remaining soft inside. I love bringing these for their unique presentation and crowd appeal. Hasselback potatoes lend a festive touch to every spread.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

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.

Salads get fun and interesting with this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing beside casseroles. People choose this when they want something refreshing during big meals. I layer up extra bowls for holiday lunches and office parties. Broccoli salad lets veggies hold their own among all the carbs.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

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.

Pasta lovers can’t wait to try this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi at winter holiday dinners. Soft bites pair up well with roasts and sauces on every plate. I make plenty knowing it will run out fast. Gnocchi brings real warmth to the holiday salad spread, making each forkful worth enjoying.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Roasted sweet potato wedges sprinkled with herbs on parchment paper. — Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet potato wedges, especially this Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges, promise crunchy fun with casual flair. The bright orange bites look festive next to roasted meats and creamy dips. I love serving these as a lighter side, where guests pick at them throughout the meal. Crispy wedges bring a playful boost to Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce. — Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Comfort comes in every spoonful of this Cheesy Funeral Potatoes during holiday feasts. Gooey filling and golden crust are impossible to resist. I make a double batch for events where the side dishes are the main event. Funeral potatoes always score top marks for steady, unbeatable flavor on Christmas menus.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Crunchy Celery Salad

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

Celery finally gets a starring role in this Crunchy Celery Salad bursting with freshness. The clean crunch makes a great contrast against heartier sides on the table. I toss up extra for friends who want veggies without extra fuss. Celery salad brings a needed bite to balance heavy holiday flavors.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

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.

Start every meal right with this Buttermilk Biscuits stacked tall and warm. Flaky and tender, these biscuits pair nicely with everything else, from gravy to jams. I bake large trays so nobody misses out on bread. Buttermilk biscuits ground each menu in familiar, comforting goodness.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

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.

Antipasto brings variety with this Colorful Antipasto Salad served for quick snacking and light lunches. Sharp flavors and bright veggies refresh palates in between big holiday servings. I plate up generous amounts for crowd gatherings. Antipasto salad packs both color and flavor into every bite.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

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.

Spinach gets decadent dressed as this Rich Creamed Spinach for Christmas meals. Silky texture and full flavor make this side a must-have in winter. I prepare extra for dinners where green vegetables get overlooked. Creamed spinach helps keep menus grounded and guests feeling pampered.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Older traditions get a nod with this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Crisp apples, nuts, and creamy dressing stir up holiday memories and new conversation alike. I find Waldorf salads bring a gentle sweetness that breaks up savory overload. Classic salads help every gathering stay rooted in comfort.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make