33 Christmas Side Recipe Ideas That Drift Between Casual And Special

Here are 33 Christmas side recipe ideas that make planning feel more organized when December gets busy. You’ll have an easier time deciding what fits your table without overthinking it. Options like these shift easily between casual and more planned meals. You’ll appreciate how each one takes a bit of stress out of your holiday routine.

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.

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 moment you set this Savory French Onion Casserole on the table, you’ll see eyes light up. Everyone is drawn in by the mesmerizing scent. Warm and packed with flavor, it bridges the gap between laidback evenings and special holiday gatherings. People always ask for seconds before they’ve even finished the first portion.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

A plate of roasted cauliflower steaks garnished with chopped pistachios, pomegranate seeds, and fresh parsley. — Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Breaking tradition with these Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks feels surprisingly exciting. The crispy edges paired with that tender bite evoke comfort but never feel ordinary. Guests who usually ignore vegetables end up reaching for more. This dish wins over both plant-based eaters and everyone else.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

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.

As the oven timer dings, the aroma from this Hearty Cabbage Casserole promises a dish packed with real heartiness. This one fits right in when the table is filled with festive favorites. There’s a rustic charm that lingers around the room. Even those doubtful about cabbage end up converted.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage 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.

Crowd-pleasers aren’t always complicated, and this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower proves it. The presentation alone gets a wow every time. Underneath that golden surface is a simple, comforting flavor that feels just right for festive meals. Friends often ask for the “secret”—it’s just a beautiful classic.
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.

Dishes like this Fresh Beet Salad bring so much life to the holiday spread. Since it’s both vibrant and refreshing, a little energy returns to the room after heavy entrees. There’s a quiet elegance here that never tries too hard. Leftovers are often the first thing packed up for tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

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.

When a tray of Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes is served, hands reach out before introductions even end. The crunchy outside hides a pillowy center everyone talks about. These always disappear fast at more relaxed or fancier gatherings. Watch them vanish and expect plenty of recipe requests.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

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.

Easy to scoop and warm from the oven, this Twice-Baked Potato Casserole never sits untouched for long. Calling everyone around the table brings guaranteed smiles from all ages. That familiar, cozy flavor shines whether the crowd feels casual or special. Extra servings are always appreciated since this goes quickly.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

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.

No Christmas meal feels complete without a batch of Soft Dinner Rolls gracing the breadbasket. Freshly baked buns fill the house with an inviting aroma. There’s something magical about tearing into one while it’s still warm. Every hand reaches back for just one more roll each time.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

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.

Setting out a platter of Crispy Stuffing Balls instantly adds fun to Christmas dinner. Irresistibly golden and bite-sized, they’re perfect for guests who like to sample a bit of everything. Laughter often follows as guests count how many have disappeared already. These little spheres draw everyone toward the table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy 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.

Lifting the lid on Easy Honey Glazed Carrots reveals a shimmering, joyful color. A simple boost of sweetness turns this side into a standout at the holiday feast. Kids and adults alike scrape their plates clean. It’s often the humblest sides that linger in your memory long after dessert.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

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.

Few dishes capture nostalgic holiday feelings quite like this Savory Cornbread Stuffing. As soon as its aroma fills the kitchen, Christmas suddenly feels official. The dish often draws taste-testers before dinner even begins. The last crumb is usually gone before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

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.

A bubbling pan of Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes instantly adds warmth to the room. People return for more even when their plates are already full. Its hearty character fits both special meals and laidback evenings. The appeal of the first bite explains the constant buzz around this dish.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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.

The transformation in Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze surprises nearly everyone at the table. A sweet, tangy edge brings out new fans each year. Holiday feasts often need something fresh and green, and this is the answer. Even usual skeptics end up reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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

Cozy and comforting, this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce brings soft, sweet warmth to every holiday plate. Its gentle spice often reminds everyone of cherished winter traditions. Children and adults compete for the last spoonful here. Store-bought versions never compare after you taste the homemade kind.
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.

Festive tables always welcome a warm Scalloped Potatoes and Ham casserole. Creamy layers and savory bites signal that winter celebrations have truly begun. Hearty flavors suit every occasion, from formal dinners to casual evenings. Leftovers are a surefire treat for the next day.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Tender Roasted Broccoli

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

There’s a surprise in how quickly this Tender Roasted Broccoli gets snatched off the holiday table. What starts as a simple side quickly becomes a favorite, even among those who claim to dislike greens. Toasty flavor and balanced seasoning help every floret shine. Even the pickiest eaters come back for another piece.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

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.

An old-world twist sets Sourdough Stuffing apart during holiday gatherings. The tangy notes blend seamlessly with other Christmas favorites. Guests often ask what makes it stand out as they refill their plates. It’s a rustic touch that still feels fresh and new.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough 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.

Serving up a tray of Buttermilk Biscuits while they’re puffed and soft is always a highlight. Everyone loves opening them up to reveal those flaky layers inside. The simple tradition of spreading butter becomes extra special around the table. Each bite brings a sense of holiday comfort.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

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.

Bringing a pop of color and crunch, Christmas Salad stands out among winter sides. With plates full of heavier classics, guests reach for something lighter and brighter. Friends and family always wonder about the festive mix that makes this so appealing. Leftover salad is a rare sight at the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Christmas 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.

There’s something so inviting about serving a bubbling Green Bean and Bacon Casserole at the holiday table. Familiar and special at the same time, bites of savory flavor add excitement to every forkful. Aromas fill the house with warm anticipation. This side fits right in, whether casual or elegant.
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.

Slices of Crisp Honeycrisp Salad offer a burst of freshness that brightens every plate. After so many rich dishes, guests crave something lighter and crisp. The seasonal flair of this salad sparks conversation at Christmas meals. Repeat servings are common, with some hoping no one notices their third helping.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp 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.

Rustic feasts shine when joined by a tray of Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Roasted to bring out both sweetness and that perfect hint of char, these veggies find a place on every plate. Simple preparation pairs exceptionally well with traditional mains. A holiday table feels cozier with these in the mix.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

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.

Unwrapping the lid from a Festive Christmas Casserole stirs anticipation across the room. Its hearty character and unique flavors celebrate winter in every bite. This dish transforms ordinary gatherings into something a little more special. Sides like these tend to become the meal’s main memory.
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.

Besides classic roasts, Tender Sautéed Kale provides a welcome greener note to the spread. The appealing texture tends to surprise those hesitant to try a leafy side. Guests often reach for more once they’ve tasted it. Balanced and bright, this dish makes greens a highlight of the evening.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

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.

A generous drizzle of Rich Turkey Gravy across turkey and potatoes brings the meal together in classic holiday style. There’s a deep, savory comfort in a proper homemade gravy. Plates are rarely left with any gravy behind. Pouring a little extra is always encouraged at festive tables.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

Mushroom Gravy

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

Every plate gains warmth and rich flavor with a ladle of Mushroom Gravy. Whether poured on veggies, potatoes, or bread, the deep earthiness wins fans from every preference at the table. Rolls dipped in this gravy rarely last long. Both plant-based and traditional eaters look forward to this special touch.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Crunchy Celery Salad

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

Playing up crunchy texture and fresh flavor, Crunchy Celery Salad delivers balance to any holiday gathering. It’s the side guests’ turn to for a palate cleanser between richer staples. Bright color and crispness stand out on crowded plates. The bowl often empties while the heavier sides remain untouched.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

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.

Comfort and creaminess peak with a bowl of Buttery Mashed Potatoes at Christmas. Heaping spoons disappear quickly as everyone reaches for a taste of this classic favorite. Smooth, rich, and simple, these spuds create the perfect canvas for gravy. No holiday table feels the same without them.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

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.

Scooping into Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto brings genuine comfort to cold holiday evenings. Silky texture and mellow sweetness spark conversations about what makes winter so special. Even cautious eaters take a second helping. A cozy dish like this fits seamlessly on a festive menu.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

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.

Nothing livens up a holiday spread like a bowl of Colorful Antipasto Salad. Salty, crisp, and vibrant, it grabs attention even among classic comfort foods. Every bite introduces a new flavor or texture. Ingredient requests start before dinner finishes, thanks to such a memorable mix.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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

Shaped for sharing, Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges bring an irresistible crunch to the Christmas table. Their golden finish and tender centers make them popular with kids and adults. Playful but comforting, they’re a perfect contrast to classic sides. Guests always reach for another wedge before the main course ends.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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.

When holiday dinners call for something unexpected, Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi answers in style. Each forkful is pillowy and gently sweet, bringing a touch of novelty to winter meals. Often, new favorites are discovered around the table with this dish. It blends tradition and adventure every Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Layered Seven Layer Salad

Guests are always impressed by the first look at a Layered Seven Layer Salad. Bright, crisp layers create both a beautiful centerpiece and a refreshing taste on every forkful. This salad turns into a conversation starter before the main course even arrives. Memorable and colorful, it doubles as both décor and dish.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad