35 Christmas Side Inspirations Perfect for Low-Stress Entertaining

Entertaining during the holidays gets a lot easier when the food isn’t complicated. The 35 Christmas side inspirations here offer simple additions that don’t need much planning. Whether the gathering is small or large, these ideas fit easily beside whatever you’re serving. This collection keeps the celebration warm, relaxed, and easy to manage.

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

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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

Few sides feel as comforting and deeply fulfilling as these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. With layers of creamy goodness and golden, bubbly cheese, they’re always a crowd favorite. Perfect for pairing with roasted meats or holiday classics, this dish constantly earns compliments. Serve warm, and watch the smiles appear!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped 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.

Bring rich, bold flavors to the table with this Savory French Onion Casserole. Its deep caramelized onions and crumbly topping pair incredibly well with main dishes, offering balance and texture. Guests love the way it melts into holiday spreads; don’t be surprised when it’s requested year after year.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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

Add a hint of sweetness to your holiday meal with this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce. Its warm spice and velvety texture feel like a soothing hug, perfect alongside rich-tasting dishes. Whether served by the spoonful or used as a topping, it brings a festive and light twist to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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.

It wouldn’t feel like a holiday feast without these Soft Dinner Rolls ready to be pulled apart. Fluffy, warm, and perfect for sopping up gravy, their simple goodness complements any dish you serve. Make extra, the buttery aroma alone has people reaching for seconds before they’ve tasted them!
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Tender Roasted Broccoli

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

Bright and flavorful, this Tender Roasted Broccoli adds freshness and color to your holiday table. With just a hint of crispy edges, it pairs beautifully with heavier sides while keeping the menu balanced. Guests always appreciate this lighter option among the heartier classics.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Vegetarian Gravy

A ceramic jug filled with creamy mushroom gravy, sprinkled with herbs, sits on a wooden board next to a small bowl of mixed dried herbs. — Vegetarian Gravy. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Don’t let dietary needs complicate your holiday meal; this Vegetarian Gravy ensures everyone can join in the feast. Smooth and rich-tasting, it pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables. Even meat lovers flock to its surprising depth and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

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.

Add a pop of color with this Fresh Beet Salad, a side that’s equal parts vibrant and refreshing. Its earthy sweetness balances wonderfully with crisp greens or tangy dressings. Perfect for cutting through richer holiday flavors, it’s always an unexpected but welcome star on the table.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

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 holiday cheer straight to your plate with this Festive Christmas Casserole. Loaded with seasonal ingredients and baked until bubbling perfection, it’s a meal-worthy side that nearly steals the spotlight. Serve this dish at any gathering, and watch how quickly it becomes tradition.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas 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.

For a show-stopping centerpiece that’s simple yet impressive, this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower delivers. Golden, tender, and packed with flavor, it’s ideal for vegetarians or anyone looking to try something unique. Guests will love slicing into it, it’s both delicious and a conversation starter!
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

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.

Nothing says homestyle comfort like these Buttermilk Biscuits, warm and ready for spreading with butter or honey. Fluffy and perfectly golden, they’re an essential on any holiday table. Easy to pair with rich-tasting dishes or enjoy alone, they’ll have everyone feeling nostalgic with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Breaded and fried patties garnished with chopped parsley are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of creamy dipping sauce with herbs. — Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s a side that adds crunch and creativity to your spread: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes. Lightly crispy on the outside with pillowy softness inside, they’re a wonderful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Serve them warm; guests can never resist their bite-sized charm!
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

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.

For comforting depth of flavor, this Hearty Cabbage Casserole makes an excellent addition to your festive spread. Packed with rich ingredients, it’s a great option for serving to larger crowds while keeping things simple. Its rich-tasting satisfaction pairs beautifully with any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

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.

Looking for a side packed with variety? This Layered Seven Layer Salad is playful and beautiful with a combination of fresh, crunchy elements. Perfect for brightening up a carb-heavy meal, it’s as flavorful as it is visually stunning. You’ll love how fast this salad disappears from the dish!
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

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.

Add some indulgence to your potato game with these Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Full of creamy goodness and topped with flavorful extras, they’re a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Perfect for pairing with festive mains, their hearty richness makes them hard to resist on chilly holiday nights.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

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.

If cheese is your holiday love language, this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese is here to impress. Creamy and gooey with just the right balance of flavors, it’s a dish everyone flocks to. Versatile enough for adults and kids alike, this side is as comforting as it gets for celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

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.

Looking for a playful twist on tradition? These Crispy Stuffing Balls turn classic stuffing into bite-sized perfection. With crunchy edges and rich-tasting goodness inside, they’re ideal for casual entertaining or snacking before the meal. Make extra; they tend to disappear before the main course arrives!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

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.

Love twice baked potatoes? This Twice Baked Potato Casserole takes everything great about them and transforms it into an easy, shareable dish. Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely loaded with flavor, it’s a holiday favorite that pairs well with just about any main course.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato 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.

For a Southern twist on a holiday classic, this Savory Cornbread Stuffing is packed with bold, comforting flavor. Moist and peppered with seasonal herbs, it’s the perfect complement to roasted mains. Serve this hearty dish proudly at gatherings; it always earns rave reviews.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

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.

Perfectly fluffy and packed with garlicky goodness, these Soft Garlic Knots are irresistible at any holiday table. Whether paired with soups, salads, or heavier dishes, they’re easy to grab and enjoy. Warm and fresh from the oven, they’re guaranteed to disappear faster than the rest of your spread!
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

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.

A holiday table isn’t complete without this Savory Bread Stuffing. Packed with herbs, seasonings, and tender bread, it’s the ideal pairing for roasted turkey and sides. Comforting and nostalgic, it has guests eagerly helping themselves; don’t be surprised if you need a second dish!
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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

For a lighter side that still feels hearty, these Tender Cauliflower Steaks are sure to please. Roasted to perfection with just the right hint of seasoning, they pair wonderfully with festive spreads. Whether serving veggie fans or meat lovers, this dish is always a welcome surprise.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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.

Bright, bold, and full of delicious elements, this Colorful Antipasto Salad brings a fresh twist to the holiday plate. Stacked with meats, vegetables, and cheeses, it’s both a feast for the eyes and the palate. Serve it for variety; it complements just about everything on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

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.

Take Brussels sprouts to a whole new level with this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Baked golden and bubbling, it’s rich and indulgent while keeping things seasonal. This dish is perfect for serving as a festive side; guests always rave about its creamy, cheesy texture.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

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.

Combine savory ham with creamy potato layers in this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham dish, perfect for feeding a gathering. It’s comforting, hearty, and packed with rich flavors everyone loves. Whether served at a holiday feast or as a cozy family meal, it always feels special.
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.

Balance the richness of holiday spreads with this Christmas Salad, a colorful mix of greens, vegetables, and seasonal flavors. Lighter yet full of festive flair, it’s a great way to refresh the palette between heavier dishes. Guests will appreciate its fresh, bright punch on the side.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad

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.

Seasonal produce truly shines in this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables dish. With caramelized edges and warming flavors, it pairs effortlessly with any main course. Perfect for low-stress entertaining, this side always looks elegant while keeping preparation simple.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

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.

Creamy, comforting, and just a little elegant, this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto makes every holiday gathering feel special. With its rich texture and hint of sweetness, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats and vegetables. Spoon it onto plates, and watch guests relish every bite.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Mushroom Gravy

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

Need a rich-tasting finishing touch? This Mushroom Gravy brings incredible depth and flavor to mashed potatoes, stuffing, and other holiday staples. Perfect for vegetarians and meat lovers alike, it’s a versatile side that adds richness to every plate. You’ll want to make extra—it always goes fast!
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

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.

For classic holiday comfort with a twist, this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole is an absolute must. Crispy bacon adds a burst of flavor to tender green beans, all in a creamy baked dish. From casual parties to formal dinners, this side feels right at home and always pleases.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

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.

Bring a refreshing crunch to your festive spread with this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Its crisp texture and balanced creaminess complement heavier dishes perfectly. Packed with a variety of flavors, it’s sure to be a favorite side among guests of all ages!
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

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.

Sweet and rich-tasting come together beautifully in these Easy Honey Glazed Carrots. Roasted to tender perfection with just the right touch of honey, they’re bright and flavorful while keeping prep stress-free. Add this dish to your table for a pop of color and seasonal warmth.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

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.

Indulgent and velvety, this Rich Creamed Spinach is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for holiday meals. Perfect as a side to roasted meats or savory casseroles, it adds a hint of decadence to every plate. Watching guests spoon it onto their plates is proof of its universal appeal.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

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.

For a side dish that’s both simple yet sophisticated, these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze hit the mark. Sweet yet rich-tasting, every bite feels indulgent without being heavy. Guests will love how their roasted tenderness complements everything else on your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

Finger-friendly and easy to enjoy, Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls simplify traditional holiday flavors into bite-sized treats. Loaded with festive ingredients, they’re perfect for casual entertaining or adding variety to your meal. These little bites are always a hit at gatherings!
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Looking for elegance that’s easy to pull off? These Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes serve as both a visual masterpiece and a delectable side full of crispy edges and tender insides. Perfect for sitting alongside roasts or veggies, they never fail to impress guests at the table.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes