33 Christmas Side Recipe Ideas That Bring Balance to Big Holiday Meals

Every big holiday menu needs dependable, crowd-pleasing sides. These 33 Christmas recipes can help you round out your table with simple, practical ideas. Holiday plans shift from quiet evenings to full-house gatherings, and it’s nice to have choices that fit both. Pick what suits the moment so your table feels balanced and the day stays stress-free.

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.

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Silky and indulgent, this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes dish adds elegance to your holiday spread. The creamy texture complements hearty mains beautifully. Whether serving a crowd or just a small gathering, it’s always a hit. Perfect for balancing the richness of traditional Christmas entrees.
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.

Brighten up your holiday table with this Fresh Beet Salad that’s full of vibrant color and natural sweetness. It’s a refreshing contrast to heavier sides. Even those hesitant about beets might be charmed by its light and earthy flavor. A simple dish that feels special for the season.
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.

Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, this Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes recipe is a crowd-pleaser every time. They make the perfect holiday companion to roasted meats and gravy. Both kids and adults love the satisfying crunch. An easy choice for adding texture to your feast.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

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.

Few sides bring the same warmth as this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese dish during Christmas meals. Its creamy, cheesy flavor makes it a must-have for comforting those cold nights. Everyone at the table finds themselves going back for more. A holiday classic that’s both indulgent and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Mac n Cheese

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.

When holiday meals feel heavy, this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes is a refreshing way to switch things up. Fresh, simple ingredients create a bright dish that balances the richness on your plate. It’s a choice that works for both casual gatherings and fancier celebrations. A dash of brightness for your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

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.

Comforting and filling, this Hearty Cabbage Casserole is ideal for keeping holiday guests warm and happy. The tender cabbage pairs wonderfully with rich flavors on your table. It’s easy to serve, and leftovers are just as enjoyable. A reminder that humble ingredients can shine during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

A plate with tomatoes, basil and bread on it. — Festive Caprese Candy Cane. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bring some holiday cheer with this Festive Caprese Candy Cane that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat. Its playful presentation feels right at home during Christmas. The light flavors are a welcome counterpart to richer dishes. With just a few ingredients, this side adds a touch of whimsy to your table.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

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.

Rich and full of flavor, this Savory French Onion Casserole is a cozy addition to your Christmas feast. Its comforting layers make it a side that guests always ask about. Perfect alongside roasted meats or other family favorites. Ideal for those who love bold yet familiar flavors.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves. — Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add a festive flair to your holiday table with this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad that combines sweet and savory in every bite. With its hearty yet refreshing feel, it’s an unexpected holiday side that stands out. The vibrant flavors offer balance next to heavier mains. A dish that’s both light and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

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.

Packed with creamy and comforting flavors, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole steals the show at any holiday gathering. It’s like the best parts of a baked potato, made even better. With its fluffy texture and rich flavor, nobody can resist. One dish that keeps tables warm and bellies full.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato 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.

For a crisp side that stands up to big holiday flavors, this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a fantastic choice. Each bite delivers refreshing crunch paired with a creamy finish. It’s great for breaking up rich entrees and gravies. Simple yet fulfilling, it adds balance to your table effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

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.

Adding warmth to your table, this Crusty Focaccia Bread is the side everyone reaches for first. Its golden crust and soft center make it perfect for pairing with any holiday dish. Whether dipped in gravy or served on its own, it’s always a crowd-favorite. The kind of bread that feels extra special during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

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.

A beautiful addition to any Christmas spread, this Layered Seven Layer Salad is all about the eye-catching layers and fresh textures. It’s light yet filling, making it the perfect contrast to heavier dishes. Guests will appreciate the mix of crunch and creaminess. This is a guaranteed conversation starter at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer 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.

If you’re looking for peak comfort food, this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the answer. The perfect blend of hearty and cozy, it keeps everyone feeling warm and happy. It’s ideal for filling up a crowd while still leaving room for dessert. Bring it out, and watch it disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

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.

Turn a simple vegetable into the star of your holiday spread with this Rich Creamed Spinach. It’s indulgently creamy and works wonderfully alongside hearty Christmas mains. Guests will appreciate how it balances all the festive flavors. Even spinach skeptics might find themselves asking for a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

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.

For a fun twist on a classic, these Crispy Stuffing Balls add crunch to everyone’s holiday plate. Bite-sized yet packed with flavor, they’re a perfect companion to turkey or ham. The toasty outside combined with the soft, flavorful inside is hard to resist. They’re also great for snagging seconds without feeling too full.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

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 just a little indulgent, this Cheesy Funeral Potatoes recipe belongs on every Christmas table. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with roasts and other holiday staples. Whether your guests grab a small scoop or go back for more, it’s a guaranteed highlight. Perfect for comforting bites with every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral 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.

Add a touch of elegance to your sides with these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. The lightly sweet and tangy glaze balances the rich holiday mains beautifully. These sprouts bring texture and flavor in each bite, winning over even skeptics. They’ll turn a simple vegetable into something truly special.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

A holiday gathering isn’t complete without this Festive Christmas Casserole. It strikes the perfect balance of cozy, colorful, and delicious, great for a centerpiece-worthy side dish. This casserole is hearty but not too heavy, letting other dishes shine alongside it. When served, it ties the whole meal together effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas 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.

Creamy, cheesy, and layered with tender slices, this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe embodies classic comfort. It’s hearty enough to double as a main or side dish, making it ultra-versatile for any celebration. The slight saltiness of the ham pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes. Everyone will want to grab just one more slice.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

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.

Looking for a refreshing break from heavier holiday dishes? This Crisp Honeycrisp Salad brings sweetness and crunch that lightens the entire meal. The combination of crisp apples and vibrant flavors makes it a standout on the table. It’s the perfect addition to create variety and balance during your Christmas feast.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp 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.

Comfort food gets a festive upgrade with these Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Crispy edges meet a creamy, flavor-packed filling that everyone will want to scoop up. Balanced and fulfilling, they’re great beside turkey, ham, or roasts. This side dish has a way of dazzling both potato lovers and holiday dinner skeptics alike.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

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.

A lighter side dish like this Tender Sautéed Kale brings balance to all those rich and creamy holiday plates. It’s simple but flavorful, letting fresh greens shine with minimal fuss. Guests will be glad for the refreshing addition to such a hearty meal. A little healthy variety goes a long way during festive feasts.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

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.

Looking to complement your holiday feast with something hearty? This Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes dish offers a deeply satisfying experience, bringing layers of cozy goodness to your table. It’s a comforting addition that guests will keep reaching for. Perfect for those chilly evenings with loved ones gathered around.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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.

When the air turns crisp, there’s nothing like this Savory Cornbread Stuffing to make your holiday table complete. Its robust flavors provide the perfect balance to richer main courses. Each bite warms you from the inside out. It’s the kind of dish that leaves everyone at the table asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

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.

Upgrade your side dish game with a touch of sweetness through these Easy Honey Glazed Carrots. The glaze brings out the natural warmth in the carrots, creating a beautiful harmony. Simple yet sophisticated, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. This dish just might become a new holiday tradition.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Mushroom Gravy

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

Are you in need of a versatile topping that enhances every bite? This Mushroom Gravy easily enriches any side or main dish on your table. Its comforting, earthy tones offer a soothing depth of flavor. Without overshadowing other dishes, it silently brings everything together.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Experience a fresh twist with these Mashed Sweet Potatoes on your holiday spread. They bring a natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts savory dishes. Silky and smooth, they melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of side that keeps the holiday spirit alive and well.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

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.

Refresh your palate between hearty bites with this Christmas Salad. Crisp greens and a medley of seasonal ingredients offer a light contrast amidst richer dishes. Its fresh flavors add a touch of brightness that’s especially welcome. Perfect for adding some balance to your holiday meals.
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.

Embrace a classic with a twist through this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole. The savory crunch of bacon enhances the familiar comfort of green beans. Together, they create a dish that’s loved by young and old alike. It always has a way of disappearing fast from the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

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.

Want to bring a burst of color and warm flavors to your feast? These Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables shine brightly with every bite. Their caramelized edges and tender centers offer pure satisfaction. A vibrant way to round out any holiday menu.
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.

Seeking a dish that bridges tradition and innovation? This Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto delights with its velvety texture and rich taste. It’s an elegant addition that speaks for itself. Ideal for those moments when you want something both familiar and fresh on the table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Bring a touch of nostalgia to your festivities with this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Its refreshing crunch and hint of sweetness create the perfect light side option. Keeping the spirit of the holidays warm and inviting, this salad’s charm goes beyond taste alone.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make