31 Christmas Side Recipe Ideas For Rounding Out the Table Without Overdoing It

ByMandy

Some holiday tables remind me how useful these 31 Christmas side options can be when you need dishes that don’t steal the spotlight. I like it when these plates settle in quietly around the main food. A gentle mix can make the whole spread feel easier to manage. The ideas here follow that style and keep everything simple.

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Colorful Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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

There’s something irresistible about this Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes dish. It’s rich, creamy, and coats every single bite with comfort. I’ve found it disappears quickly at dinner gatherings. This warm side is perfect to accompany your holiday ham or any festive centerpiece.
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.

The flavorful depth of this Savory French Onion Casserole quickly makes it a crowd favorite. It’s loaded with hearty, rich undertones that feel just right during the colder months. Guests often compliment its deeply fulfilling depth. You’ll want to snag a second helping before it’s all gone.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion 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.

Few things feel more comforting than biting into Soft Dinner Rolls fresh from the oven. Serve these pillowy beauties alongside your spread, and watch them vanish fast. Their perfect fluffiness pairs effortlessly with everything from butter to gravy. They bring a touch of homemade love to the table.
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.

Lightly browned edges and tenderness make this Tender Roasted Broccoli a holiday winner. Roasting brings out its naturally sweet flavors while feeling fresh and light. I love that it balances richer dishes perfectly without overpowering. It’s a reliable go-to for welcoming every guest.
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.

Whether you’re vegetarian or not, this Vegetarian Gravy has an undeniable richness that complements any side. Its smooth texture ties the whole meal together beautifully. Perfect to drizzle over mashed potatoes or stuffing, it’s a must-have addition to the holiday spread.
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.

This Fresh Beet Salad is vibrant, refreshing, and colorful enough to brighten any holiday table. The earthy flavors pair beautifully with festive dishes, adding variety to every plate. It’s a lighter option that always garners compliments. I love its simple elegance for celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

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.

Serving this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower feels like offering a centerpiece that’s both wholesome and delicious. The caramelized edges reveal a rich flavor while holding a stunning visual appeal. It brings balance to richer recipes but stands out on its own as a showstopper.
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.

Flaking apart into soft, buttery layers, this Buttermilk Biscuits add a rustic, comforting touch to the spread. They’re perfect for guests who want something warm to top with gravy or jam. These golden biscuits come out timelessly delicious, and no holiday table feels truly complete without them.
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.

When you serve these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes, expect guests to grab seconds and thirds. These bite-sized wonders are crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, making them pure comfort in every bite. Whether for kids or adults, they’re sure to be remembered long after the meal ends.
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 those who love warm, filling sides, this Hearty Cabbage Casserole delivers every time. Its rich texture and comforting flavors feel perfect for chilly holidays. The dish complements ham, roast, or turkey beautifully. Guests always appreciate how gratifying yet wholesome it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

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.

With all the creamy, cheesy goodness tucked inside, this Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes recipe is destined to please. These classic favorites create smiles across the table. Their rich flavors make them a holiday favorite that people often ask for again. They’re just so easy to love.
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.

Comfort reaches new levels with this Four Cheese Mac n Cheese masterpiece. Its gooey layers of cheese make every forkful unforgettable. Families agree that it’s a timeless holiday addition, perfect for serving alongside roasts and casseroles. You’ll likely make this a yearly tradition.
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.

Taking stuffing to new heights, this Crispy Stuffing Balls recipe combines golden crunch with familiar holiday flavors. They’re bite-sized perfection that offers a unique take on tradition. Guests often reach for these as shareable treats, making them ideal for passing around the table.
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.

Combining holiday indulgence with a comforting twist, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole never fails to wow. Its creamy, hearty texture pairs beautifully with roasted meats and holiday spreads. People always ask how to make it, and I can’t blame them; it’s absolutely a standout side dish.
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.

This Savory Cornbread Stuffing feels like the ultimate merger between Southern charm and seasonal goodness. It’s boldly flavorful and crumbly, pairing beautifully with turkey and cranberry sauce. It often brings guests back for seconds, and I never make it without planning for leftovers.
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.

Light, fluffy, and bursting with garlicky goodness, these Soft Garlic Knots deliver all the holiday vibes. They might be simple to serve, but they add big flavor to the table alongside richer dishes. People love reaching for them, whether as appetizers or part of the main feast.
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.

There’s a beautiful simplicity to this Savory Bread Stuffing, yet it packs all the flavors you crave during celebrations. It soaks up gravy like a dream while bringing comforting textures to every bite. No holiday feels quite complete without this classic recipe anchoring the meal.
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.

Offering both style and substance, these Tender Cauliflower Steaks make a thoughtful addition to the menu. Their hearty flavor contrasts perfectly with richer holiday sides. Guests often point out how versatile and gratifying they are. Plus, they always fit seamlessly into festive spreads.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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.

Roasted sprouts meet decadent cheese in this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole, resulting in a perfect side dish. Grabbing a scoop of this feels like cozying up on a winter day. Even picky eaters end up loving every bite, proving it’s as universal as it gets for holiday tables.
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.

Warm up the room with this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe that feels straight-up comforting. Its creamy layers and flavorful ham make everyone’s plate just a little brighter. It’s ideal for pairing alongside festive vegetables or roasts and always brings smiles to the dinner table.
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.

Adding color and crunch to holiday meals, this Christmas Salad feels like a celebration all its own. It’s fresh and full of vibrant ingredients, balancing out the heavier festive flavors. Guests love how it ties everything together. Set the bowl out, and you’ll see it disappear in no time.
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.

For those seeking a wholesome touch, this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables never disappoints. Their caramelized edges and earthy flavors mix perfectly with almost any main dish. Guests frequently thank me for including something lighter, yet still festive, to balance the traditional table spread.
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.

This Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto checks all the boxes for warmth, seasonal perfection, and rich flavor. Its creamy textures feel luxurious yet comforting and pair effortlessly with holiday proteins. I love how it takes things to the next level while still fitting right into classic celebrations.
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.

This Mushroom Gravy is a great way to complement every festive dish on the table. Its flavorful, rich notes work beautifully over sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even veggies. Whether you’re a gravy fan or not, people often ask for the recipe after the holidays; I don’t blame them!
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.

Salty bacon meets flavorful crunch in this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole, making it a standout holiday favorite. Its warmth and flavor deliver comfort without overwhelming the platter. Guests love how easy it is to pair with nearly anything on the table, making seconds almost certain.
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.

Family gatherings always come alive with this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing on the table. Its bright textures balance out the holiday heaviness, offering something refreshing that everyone can enjoy. Even those who aren’t fans of broccoli often come back for this unique pairing.
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 flavorful collide in this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots recipe that brings warmth to every plate. The subtle glaze creates a balance that complements heavy holiday dishes. Perfect for both adults and kids alike, these carrots are often one of the first items finished at my table.
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.

Indulge in this Rich Creamed Spinach that blends festive richness with earthy greens. It’s warm, comforting, and always draws attention as a favorite side dish. Guests love how seamlessly it pairs with roasts and heavier sides. I always make extra to ensure there’s enough to satisfy everyone.
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.

These Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze are an effortless way to stir up smiles during holiday dinners. That sweet, tangy finish makes each bite memorable without overwhelming the table. It’s an easy choice for families looking for a vegetable dish that feels just a little fancy.
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.

These Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls somehow make stuffing even more festive. Packed with bold flavors in a compact bite-sized twist, they’re always the first to vanish. People love grabbing them as part of the meal or even intended leftovers. You can’t go wrong serving these on holidays.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

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, inviting, and loaded with flavor, this Colorful Antipasto Salad pops on any holiday table. It’s a lighter addition that still holds its own among heavier dishes. Served cold, it gives guests a refreshing alternative that pairs well with classic mains. Perfectly shareable and memorable!
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

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