31 Christmas Side Inspirations That Carry The Holiday Mood

ByMandy

A full holiday spread becomes easier to manage once you bring any of these 31 Christmas sides that work for different tastes. These options help fill the table without adding complicated steps. With everything in one place, choosing what fits your day feels far more manageable. You’ll see how small decisions can make the meal feel complete.

Potato Casserole being served.
Cheesy Potato Casserole. 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.

Creaminess and a hint of crunch come together beautifully in this Twice Baked Potato Casserole. When a holiday table needs a dependable crowd-pleaser, this never lets anyone down. Guests often sneak extra scoops before the main dish even gets served. Serving it warm makes people talk about this side all season.
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.

Fresh basil and juicy tomatoes offer a pop of color for any holiday spread with this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes. Whenever the meal leans heavy, a crisp side can brighten things up. This one disappears fast, with guests looking for seconds. Bright simplicity keeps spirits lifted during a busy celebration.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

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.

Something comforting fills the air when this Savory French Onion Casserole comes out of the oven, full of tender onions and a golden top. Inviting aromas turn any gathering festive right away. Guests are known to linger at the buffet for another scoop. Holiday dinners feel special when this classic is on the table.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

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

Smooth, rich, and oh-so-fluffy, these Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes taste like pure comfort at Christmas. Every spoonful brings a velvety welcome beside all the festive dishes. Curiosity always arises about how it turns out so perfectly each time. The bowl tends to empty quickly as laughter fills the room.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

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.

Searching for a side that adds depth to a Christmas feast? Hearty Cabbage Casserole brings robust flavor without being too heavy for a crowded plate. It pairs well with just about any main, making the holiday spread feel a little more complete. Each bite brings a pleasant contrast in texture.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Layers of sliced potatoes bake to golden perfection in this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes recipe. That mesmerizing aroma announces that something memorable is joining dinner. Extra servings are a smart idea, since the silky texture and crisp edges often steal the spotlight. Sharing this warm treat brings everyone closer together.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise 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.

Bright magenta and subtle earthiness make this Fresh Beet Salad stand out among holiday sides. Every forkful refreshes the palate, adding a lively accent to rich festive meals. Chilling it first creates a nice contrast and helps plates clear quickly. A hint of tang rounds out a classic Christmas menu.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet 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.

Big, familiar flavors blend together in this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, setting a welcoming tone for holiday gatherings. Guests seem especially relaxed after digging into its savory goodness. This one gets requested year after year for wintry dinners. The warmth lingers long after mealtime is over.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

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.

Golden carrots shine on the table in this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots recipe, sweet without overwhelming other dishes. The contrast between tender and crisp draws people of all ages. Holiday sides often disappear quickly, but these are always among the first to go. Tidbits of sweetness keep celebrations bright.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

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.

Holiday tables always buzz a little more when these Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes make an appearance. Surprising fillings inside create plenty of excitement without stealing attention from the main dish. The aroma can turn heads as soon as the platter hits the table. Familiar comfort shines with a special twist.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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

A bowl of Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce offers light sweetness and an inviting aroma that complements the entire meal. People often scoop extra for a refreshing pause between the richer foods. Chilled applesauce keeps the flavors lively and uplifting. The holidays seem cozier when this crowd-pleaser is passed around.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Crusty Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Crusty Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nothing boosts a buffet quite like the warmth and aroma of this Crusty Focaccia Bread. Both dense and airy at once, it’s perfect for scooping up gravy or spreading with toppings. Baskets emptied out quickly show just how much it’s appreciated. A rustic classic, it fits right in with holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

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.

This Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes recipe packs heartiness into every bite, a perfect staple when winter nights turn chilly. Even those who claim to be picky end up reaching for more. Guests are often surprised by how well it fits into a classic Christmas meal. With flavors this deep, the spirit of the season comes through.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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.

A few things bring excitement to a side spread like these Crispy Stuffing Balls, easy to snag for a bite or a dip. Stacking a platter high guarantees eager hands all around. The crunch draws in both kids and adults, raising expectations for every side to follow. Holiday eating gets a fun upgrade with this side.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Tender Roasted Broccoli

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

For those seeking balance among rich favorites, Tender Roasted Broccoli is quick to bring fresh, green flavor to the table. Charred bits add a gentle smoky note that never overwhelms. Guests often ask about the secret to the seasoning. Holiday feasts feel a bit brighter thanks to this simple addition.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

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.

Moist crumbs and delicate herbs shine in this Savory Cornbread Stuffing, always welcomed on a Christmas table. Lighter than some versions, it’s easy to enjoy as part of any feast. The aroma announces good things before even taking a bite. Seconds are expected when this dish is in attendance.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

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.

Golden crusts and flaky insides tempt everyone to reach for an extra Buttermilk Biscuit. Whether spread with butter or enjoyed solo, these biscuits fit smoothly into festive spreads. Batches have a way of vanishing right before your eyes. Edging out other breads for holiday favorites is no challenge here.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

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.

Brussels sprouts take on new energy in this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze recipe. Sweet meets tang in a way that brightens winter vegetables and sparks conversation. Even skeptics become fans once they try these little gems. The side dish lineup becomes more colorful and appealing in no time.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

Nothing captures the spirit of a classic Christmas lineup better than this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows. The perfect touch of sweetness supports, not overshadows, the main course. Toasty marshmallows are often the topic at the table, a favorite for children and adults alike. The dish draws everyone back for more.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

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.

A marriage of creamy sauce and smoky ham makes this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham a holiday hit year after year. Nostalgia rises with every serving, as familiar aromas fill the kitchen. Latecomers always hope some will be left for them. When winter nights call for something extra, this side steps in.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

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.

Flashes of color and crunch bring extra joy with this Christmas Salad, fitting snugly between heavier dishes. Lively flavors help guests transition between courses without missing a beat. It’s often set out early to spark cheer as the feast begins. Adding it to the menu signals a festive tradition in the making.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

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

Striking presentation is a guarantee with this Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes dish, where golden slices fan out invitingly. Compliments on both looks and taste are sure to follow. Placing this near the center of the holiday spread gives guests something fun to talk about. Each layered bite feels just right for a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

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.

Nothing says “holiday comfort” quite like the herbal aroma rising off this Savory Bread Stuffing. Soft, flavorful cubes complete the dinner plate in a time-honored way. It’s no surprise to see empty casserole dishes soon after serving. Traditions feel richer with this side at the table.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

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.

Crisp apples and juicy grapes give this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make both nostalgia and crunch. Its signature mix offers a break from heavier recipes and sparks fond memories for many. Familiar flavors find new fans every season. Plates empty quickly as guests go back for another cool bite.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

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.

A touch of tang makes this Sourdough Stuffing an unforgettable part of Christmas dinner. Each forkful brings a satisfying blend of softness and bold bread flavor. The side dish often finds itself requested again for leftovers. Holiday meals get a flavor boost with a unique bread choice.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

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.

Big, bold flavors find a home in this Festive Christmas Casserole, as layers offer a surprise with every slice. Energetic conversations follow each hearty scoop from the serving dish. The casserole becomes centerpiece-worthy with its vibrant look. Holiday spirits lift when this side rounds out the menu.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas 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.

Deep green leaves bring earthiness to the table with this Tender Sautéed Kale. Even hearty meals feel more wholesome and colorful with a serving alongside the main course. Subtle texture keeps plates interesting during festive spreads. Each scoop catches the light, inviting another helping.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

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.

This Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing introduces a tangy zip and lots of texture, balancing heavier favorites. Guests can’t help but linger over the colorful bowl, diving in for seconds. The pop of color fits right into winter celebrations. Classic, easy flavors offer something memorable for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Mushroom Gravy

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

Pouring this Mushroom Gravy over potatoes or stuffing brings deep, savory flavor to every forkful. Silky and rich, it provides extra warmth throughout the meal. Keeping extra nearby comes in handy, since people love to drizzle it on everything. Passing the sauce becomes a tradition that amplifies joy.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

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.

Bright apples and a medley of fresh ingredients make this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad a colorful addition to the Christmas lineup. Each crunch delivers freshness, cutting through all the wintertime comfort foods. Simple flavors work wonders to lighten the mood. The whole table feels a little brighter after trying this refreshing dish.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Cheesy Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole being served.
Cheesy Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A golden, bubbling Cheesy Potato Casserole always draws eager forks at holiday gatherings. Creamy texture and comforting flavor ensure it disappears long before dessert. Leftovers rarely last, and it’s a top request for Christmas meals. Each bite brings warmth and cheer to the festivities.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

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