31 Christmas Side Inspirations With Gentle Holiday Indulgence

ByMandy

Holiday meals just seem better when you’ve got any of these 31 Christmas side ideas ready to go. Each one adds a little comfort and makes the table feel a bit more festive. Mixing easy classics with new choices means there’s always something for everyone. Even a normal dinner can turn into a nice holiday moment.

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.

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.

Warm layers of slow-cooked onions and golden cheese come together in this Savory French Onion Casserole. It brings the perfect comfort to your holiday table. The rich aroma fills the room while its creamy texture satisfies every guest. This is a dish people look forward to year after year.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

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.

Bite-sized and bursting with flavor, these Crispy Stuffing Balls are an instant favorite. The crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the rich, savory center. They’re easy to share and even easier to love at festive gatherings. You’ll want to make extra, as they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

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.

This Hearty Cabbage Casserole gives a warm nod to simple comfort food. Its rich layers of tender cabbage create a cozy side that belongs on every holiday table. It pairs effortlessly with traditional mains, bringing a wholesome balance to the feast. Guests always notice its satisfying goodness.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

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.

Lightly textured yet packed with bold flavor, this Savory Cornbread Stuffing makes a great addition to any holiday plate. It blends hearty comfort with a touch of sweetness, making it stand apart from other sides. The aroma alone gets people talking. It’s a side dish that feels like home during Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

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.

Bursting with vibrant color, this Fresh Beet Salad offers a refreshing break from heavier holiday sides. The earthy sweetness of beets coupled with a light crunch keeps your guests intrigued. It adds a pop of brightness to the table without overwhelming. Even skeptics find themselves reaching for a serving.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

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.

This Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is the ultimate combination of creamy indulgence and savory satisfaction. Layers of tenderness and richness bring a celebration-like feel to any plate. Its comforting flavor appeals to everyone at the table. Holiday guests often ask for seconds when this arrives.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

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.

Guests of all ages enjoy this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese for its undeniable creamy, cheesy goodness. Its bubbling top invites eager servings, while every bite feels like a celebration of simple, joyful indulgence. It’s a holiday favorite that never lingers long on the table.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

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.

Roasted to perfection, these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze steal the spotlight with just the right hint of sweetness and tang. Crispy edges keep everyone coming back for more. Even skeptical guests are drawn in by their irresistible aroma. They balance indulgence with a touch of elegance.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

There’s something irresistible about the creamy layers of this Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Each bite feels indulgent, with flavors that upgrade any holiday meal. The rich, fluffy texture pairs beautifully with holiday roasts and vegetables. It’s the kind of side people remember long after the gathering.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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

This Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce brings nostalgic warmth to holiday tables. Its comforting aroma of cinnamon fills the air, making it hard to resist. Light and wholesome, it balances out heavier dishes while filling both kids and adults alike. Serving this always feels like the holidays have officially begun.
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.

Few sides draw attention like this Crusty Focaccia Bread, with its golden top and delicate sprinkle of herbs. Perfect for dipping or enjoying alongside hearty holiday dishes, it adds simple elegance to the table. The pillowy texture surprises guests every time. A breadbasket is never complete without it.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Tender Roasted Broccoli

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

This Tender Roasted Broccoli brings light freshness to holiday spreads without taking the spotlight. Its crisp-tender texture and earthy flavor make it a crowd pleaser. It pairs beautifully with richer dishes, offering balance to every plate. Even picky eaters often reach for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

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.

Creamy, cheesy, and topped with irresistible crispy edges, these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are always a crowd favorite. Their comforting richness fits perfectly with holiday roasts and salads. Guests often comment on how this dish feels like an essential part of any celebration. Expect this side to be gone quickly!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral 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.

Moist and loaded with herby flavors, this Savory Bread Stuffing is the backbone of every holiday table. It complements any main course beautifully while adding a classic touch. Guests often call it the ultimate holiday comfort food. Rich with tradition, it’s hard not to serve this favorite.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

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.

Vibrant layers combine to create this Layered Seven Layer Salad, a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. The crunch and variety in each scoop offer plenty to enjoy without feeling overwhelming. Its bright presentation draws plenty of compliments. Guests love to share in the joy of this colorful bowl.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

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.

Silky and full of flavor, this Rich Turkey Gravy ties every plate together effortlessly. Its texture adds extra depth to roasted meats and creamy holiday sides. A generous drizzle transforms simple dishes into something remarkable. No festive meal seems complete without it.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

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 subtle tang in this Sourdough Stuffing quietly transforms the Christmas table. The combination of flavors complements every main dish without competing. Its texture sparks gentle conversation as plates fill up. People often ask if there will be enough for seconds since it disappears fast.
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.

Every serving of Colorful Antipasto Salad brings holiday charm with its mix of crisp textures and bold flavors. Sitting alongside roasted vegetables or hearty casseroles, it effortlessly complements the meal. Its bright ingredients promise a refreshing change that guests enjoy. This salad quickly catches attention at any spread.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto 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.

The pop of tart cranberry paired with savory turkey in these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls creates excitement on the plate. They’re easy to grab and impossible to resist at parties. The unique spin on classic flavors earns praise from every guest. They certainly won’t last long at the table.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

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.

Deeply creamy and comforting, this Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes dish adds pure indulgence to any holiday meal. The luscious layers create a satisfying feast for potato lovers. It’s a side that feels as special as the season itself. Expect guests to enjoy every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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.

This Festive Christmas Casserole combines colors and flavors that shine on holiday tables. Its hearty nature feels like a warm hug during the season’s celebrations. Guests will love its comforting depth and holiday charm. Plated alongside roasts or salads, this casserole completes the holiday meal beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks with pomegranate and pistachios on a plate.
Tender Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thick slices of Tender Cauliflower Steaks add a fresh twist to the holiday table. Their golden edges and savory appeal make them stand out as a lighter side option. Guests are always intrigued by this hearty yet veggie-forward dish. It’s a conversation starter and a crowd pleaser all in one.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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.

Light and refreshing, this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad offers the perfect pause between richer holiday dishes. The crunch and sweetness of honeycrisp apples brighten every plate. It’s a cheerful and simple addition to the spread that guests appreciate. This salad is proof that Christmas sides can feel fresh and festive.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp 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.

These Easy Honey Glazed Carrots bring a mild sweetness to holiday plates that everyone loves. Their glossy appearance looks stunning alongside festive meals. The gentle snap in every bite keeps them unique and enjoyable. Guests often comment on how they complete the spread beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

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

Layers of thinly sliced golden potatoes make this Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes undeniably elegant. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, delivering both texture and flavor. The presentation always earns a wow from guests. These potatoes bring flair and comfort to holiday spreads.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bubbling and golden, this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole turns humble veggies into holiday perfection. Creamy and rich with a subtle crunch, it fits right in with festive favorites. Even those hesitant to try cauliflower often find themselves scooping up seconds. It’s a comforting addition that feels fresh yet hearty.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

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.

Nostalgia fills every bite of this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy nuts combine perfectly for a holiday classic. Its bright flavor and familiar charm remind guests of simpler times. It’s a crowd pleaser that complements heavier festive dishes well.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and garnished with fresh thyme and cracked black pepper.
Buttery Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few holiday sides tempt the crowd like Buttery Mashed Potatoes. Rich and pillowy, they’re a comforting addition to any Christmas plate. The silky texture pairs effortlessly with gravy and roasted main courses. Guests often scoop up extra because they’re just that good.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Casserole dish with Brussels sprouts, crispy onions, cheese, and herbs, mixed with a spoon.
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole transforms a humble veggie into a holiday standout. Its bubbling cheese and tender sprouts make it a beloved addition to the table. Guests love the unique combination of indulgence and freshness. It’s sure to win over everyone at the meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

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.

Golden and fluffy, these Soft Garlic Knots break apart to reveal pillowy perfection inside. Their irresistible garlic aroma fills the room, making them vanish fast at any gathering. Served alongside the main meal or as pre-dinner nibbles, they’re always a hit. No breadbasket feels complete without them.
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.

Cozy and rich, this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto adds elegance to your holiday meal. Its smooth texture and delicate sweetness impress guests with every forkful. It pairs wonderfully with roasted dishes or even as a standalone side. This comforting dish feels perfect for the festive season.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

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