31 Christmas Side Ideas For Adding a Little Warmth to Winter Dinners

Side dishes can really round out a holiday meal, and having a mix of choices makes planning a lot easier. With 31 ideas in this list, you’ll see options that work for different types of Christmas dinners. Hosting or contributing to the menu both feel simpler with a few dependable picks. Choose whatever suits your plans.

Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

A touch of freshness can go a long way, and this Easy Caprese Salad proves just that. Combining bright, vibrant ingredients, it brings balance to rich, hearty winter meals. Whether served at a fancy dinner or a casual gathering, it adds a light, refreshing touch. It’s quick to prepare and sure to become an unexpected favorite during the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Few dishes feel as homey and fulfilling as this Hearty Cabbage Casserole on a chilly night. Offering a warm and comforting bite, it’s a great choice alongside roasted meats or baked dishes. It’s surprising how this humble recipe steals the spotlight with such cozy flavors. Perfect for festive meals, it’s a side you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Few things are as universally loved as crispy potato sides, and this Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes recipe delivers. The delicate crunch paired with a soft, fluffy interior makes these irresistibly tempting. They’re bite-sized, fun to eat, and ideal for pairing with any holiday main. Add a little crunch to your dinner table with this crowd-favorite option.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Creamy and comforting, this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese is like a warm hug during the holidays. It combines richness and indulgence, making it the perfect addition to a festive spread. Whether served with a roast or as a stand-alone side, it’s sure to have everyone coming back for seconds. There’s no wrong time to serve this ultimate comfort dish, especially in winter.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Bringing festive flair to the table is simple with this Festive Caprese Candy Cane side dish. Its clever holiday-inspired presentation makes it both fun to make and eye-catching on a winter spread. The fresh, bright flavors cut through heavier recipes, balancing out any meal. It’s equal parts decorative centerpiece and delicious side, perfect for the season.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Transform a simple vegetable into a showstopper with this Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe. The smoky bacon pairs beautifully with the slightly caramelized sprouts, making it a favorite for even picky eaters. It’s a versatile side that feels indulgent yet approachable. Bring this to your next gathering and watch it quickly become a new holiday tradition.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Luxurious layers of thinly sliced potatoes make this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes a standout side for winter meals. The velvety texture and rich flavors take comfort food to the next level. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated to prepare. Serve it alongside roasted meats, and it might just steal the spotlight this holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A little sweetness makes this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze shine on any holiday table. The light tang of balsamic glaze contrasts beautifully with the roasted flavor of the sprouts. It’s a simple dish with bold flavors that make it feel special for the season. Serve it for a side that’s as elegant as it is crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Savory French Onion Casserole

Take everything you love about French onion soup and turn it into this Savory French Onion Casserole for a comforting winter side. Rich and full of flavor, it’s perfect for pairing with meaty main courses. This dish has an upscale feel but remains simple enough for any home cook to prepare. A cozy and filling option for festive dinners, it’s bound to be a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

With its festive blend of flavors, this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a refreshing change from heavier sides. The mix of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans adds just the right amount of balance to your winter spread. It’s a versatile dish that works for elegant dinners or casual lunches. Light and satisfying, it’s perfect for bringing variety to the season.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Perfect for sharing, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole delivers all the flavors of a classic baked potato but in a rich, creamy form. It pairs beautifully with savory winter entrees, filling out the holiday table with ease. The comforting texture and flavor make it a crowd pleaser for all ages. This hearty side might just be the ultimate go-to for festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Layered Seven Layer Salad

When your meal needs a pop of color, turn to this Layered Seven Layer Salad for a fresh, festive touch. The combination of crisp textures and vibrant ingredients makes it stand out on any winter table. It’s a bit lighter than traditional casseroles and provides a nice contrast to richer dishes. Everyone will enjoy how this simple recipe still feels special enough for the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

A creamy, comforting classic, this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is perfect for cozy holiday gatherings. Its rich layers are sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether served alongside a roast or on its own, it feels like a hug on a plate. People will surely come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Festive Christmas Casserole

Warm up your celebration with this Festive Christmas Casserole, which brings hearty flavors and a cheerful centerpiece to your holiday spread. It’s versatile enough to pair with almost anything on your table. This is the kind of dish that makes the holidays feel extra special. You’ll want to remember this for next year.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole

Fresh Beet Salad

Add a splash of vibrant color to your holiday table with this Fresh Beet Salad. The earthy sweetness of beets shines through and adds a refreshing balance to heavier holiday dishes. It’s light yet flavorful, making it a must for winter dinners. This one brings a pop of brightness to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tender, this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots recipe feels like it was made to charm holiday guests. Its simple preparation contrasts beautifully with its polished, flavorful result. Sometimes, it’s the simplest sides that impress people the most. Bring the warmth of homemade goodness to your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Crusty Focaccia Bread

Treat your dinner table to a bakery feel with this Crusty Focaccia Bread. Its golden crust and soft center are perfect for soaking up sauces or pairing with hearty mains. It’s the kind of bread that feels completely irresistible once served. A warm slice can upgrade any holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Packed with hearty flavors, this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole transforms a beloved classic into something even more irresistible. The addition of smoky bacon makes it hard to resist and perfect for special occasions. It’s a dish that sparks conversation and second helpings. Expect this to become a new holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Reinvent your stuffing with this Crispy Stuffing Balls recipe that delivers bite-sized goodness. These are crispy on the outside and bursting with seasoning inside. They’re easy to grab and perfect for sharing during festive dinners. No one will miss the traditional version once these are served.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Christmas Salad

Keep things fresh with this Christmas Salad, a lighter dish perfect for balancing indulgent holiday meals. It offers just the right mix of textures and flavors for a colorful addition to your spread. This is ideal for those looking to brighten up their plates. It’s a refreshing change everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

A crowd-pleaser that makes hosting easier, this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese practically cooks itself. Its creamy, cheesy goodness feels like a warm treat in the middle of a chilly winter evening. People of all ages love it, and it’s perfect for those busy holiday days. A dish you can’t go wrong with.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

For a lighter, plant-based option, this Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks recipe stands out on any holiday table. The roasted edges bring a satisfying depth of flavor without feeling heavy. It’s an elegant yet simple way to add variety to your festive spread. Even devoted carnivores will appreciate the delicious twist.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Rich Creamed Spinach

Indulge in a side dish that’s both rich and comforting with this Rich Creamed Spinach. It’s a classic choice that pairs beautifully with roast turkey, ham, or even prime rib. Creamy and full of flavor, it’s an easy way to upgrade your holiday table. You might even find yourself making it year-round.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Bring a warm, nostalgic touch to the table with this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce. Its blend of sweetness and spice offers a comforting side that works for all ages. Whether served with ham or turkey, it adds a cozy note of holiday charm. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm memory.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Treat your table to this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables recipe that combines cozy flavors and beautiful colors. Perfectly roasted veggies can bring warmth to any festive dinner. The slight caramelization adds depth without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the vegetables. This dish is a simple yet stunning way to upgrade your Christmas spread.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

A holiday classic like this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows always brings smiles around the table. The comforting sweetness feels like a warm hug on a chilly winter night. Balancing rich flavors with soft textures, it’s a side people often go back for seconds. Whether it’s a family dinner or a big celebration, this dish belongs in the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Tender Sautéed Kale

With its vibrant green hue, this Tender Sautéed Kale brings a fresh and wholesome touch to the holiday spread. Lightly cooked to preserve its natural texture, it pairs beautifully with richer festive dishes. It’s a simple side that adds balance to heavier mains without feeling out of place. Even those who think they don’t love greens might be pleasantly surprised.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Warm and naturally creamy, this Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe adds a cozy touch to your holiday feast. The vibrant orange hue lights up the plate and blends beautifully with other Christmas favorites. Perfect as a gentle contrast to savory mains, it’s a side that feels both festive and comforting. Serve it once, and you may find it becomes a tradition in your home.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Add a touch of luxurious comfort with this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto on your holiday menu. With its rich texture, it’s the perfect side to round out a winter feast. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs effortlessly with the dish’s smoothness, creating an irresistible combination. It’s one of those recipes that makes any dinner feel extra special.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Crunchy Celery Salad

Bring a fresh twist to your holiday table with this Crunchy Celery Salad that delivers crisp, refreshing bites. It provides a light and zippy contrast to heavier sides and mains. Combining texture and brightness, it’s a salad that stands out without being overpowering. Even during a meal filled with rich dishes, this one feels fresh and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Vegetarian Gravy

No holiday table feels complete without this Vegetarian Gravy as a rich, savory addition. Its velvety texture and bold flavor make it a hit for everyone, not just vegetarians. Perfectly draped over mashed potatoes or dressing up roasted vegetables, it’s a crowd-pleasing choice. Adding this gravy to your Christmas dinner creates a warm, welcoming experience for all your guests.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy