33 Christmas Side Recipes You’ll Wish Came With Leftovers

Holiday tables have a way of stealing the spotlight, especially when any of these 33 side dishes could easily pass for the main event. Each one has that magic mix of comfort and celebration that makes guests linger for seconds. It’s the kind of spread that makes everyone secretly hope for leftovers that never actually happen.

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.

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 comfort comes through with deep, rich flavor that feels like home. Savory French Onion Casserole fills the air with an inviting aroma that make any meal memorable. Soft texture blends with a touch of richness in every bite, leaving everyone secretly hoping for leftovers. It’s a side that turns an ordinary dinner into something special.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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

Light sweetness pairs well with anything on the table. Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce adds gentle comfort without overwhelming other dishes. Its silky texture brings calm to heavier meals. A spoonful feels simple yet perfectly balanced.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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.

Family favorites often come from dishes that warm the soul. Hearty Cabbage Casserole stands out with its tender layers and bold, filling taste. Texture remains soft while the flavor stays rich and balanced. It’s an easy choice when comfort is what you’re craving.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

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.

Bright color and clean flavor add freshness to any spread. Fresh Beet Salad brings natural earthiness with a pleasant crunch that livens up the plate. The contrast of textures keeps it interesting. It’s a refreshing way to balance heavier courses.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

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.

Home cooks often look forward to making this timeless classic. Savory Bread Stuffing has a rich, soft body that soaks in flavor beautifully. Texture stays moist but never heavy. It ties every part of the meal together in one comforting scoop.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

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.

Side dishes don’t have to be complicated to shine. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze hit the right balance between crisp edges and a smooth finish. Sweet and earthy notes come through naturally. Even those who skip vegetables go back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

Comfort food finds its home in this creamy, hearty favorite. Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes layer warmth and texture in every scoop. Smooth, rich bites feel filling without being too heavy. It’s a reliable dish that always earns praise, and usually has everyone wishing there were leftovers to sneak later.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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.

Fun-sized sides make eating more enjoyable. Crispy Stuffing Balls bring golden crunch on the outside with a soft, flavorful center. Their small shape makes them easy to grab at gatherings. They vanish from the plate faster than you’d expect.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Tender Roasted Broccoli

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

Simplicity can taste incredible when cooked with care. Tender Roasted Broccoli keeps its crisp edges while turning soft at the core. Flavor stays mild and slightly nutty. It fits right in beside almost any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

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.

Familiar recipes often bring the most comfort. Savory Cornbread Stuffing has a soft texture that holds moisture beautifully without losing shape. Flavor blends warmth and balance in every forkful. It’s the kind of side that feels like tradition.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

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.

Bite-sized comfort meets a golden crunch in this crowd-pleaser. Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes feature a crisp coating with a smooth, soft center. That contrast keeps them irresistible. They pair well with nearly anything served alongside them.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

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.

Family-style dishes bring warmth and togetherness to the table. Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole combines hearty layers with balanced flavor that fills you up without feeling too rich. Every forkful feels comforting. It’s a go-to meal for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing 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.

Simple ingredients come together for something indulgent. Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes deliver creamy filling with a crisp shell that keeps its form beautifully. Each layer offers contrast and flavor. It’s an easy side that always gets attention.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

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.

Balanced dishes can feel both light and filling. Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad mixes smooth creaminess with a satisfying crunch. The sweet and nutty elements complement one another well. It’s perfect for lunch or as a refreshing side.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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

Few dishes comfort quite like this one. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes bake into creamy layers that stay soft and rich even after cooling. Texture stays smooth from top to bottom. It’s a classic side that pleases every crowd.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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.

Meals become livelier when bright, fresh options are included. Colorful Antipasto Salad brings a variety of textures that balance crunch and tenderness. Layers of flavor make each bite interesting. It’s a cheerful addition to any table.
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.

Familiar favorites often steal the spotlight. Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges bring natural sweetness and light crunch that feel both comforting and balanced. The golden edges contrast perfectly with their soft centers. They’re a hit at casual dinners and celebrations alike.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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.

Presentation makes this dish a centerpiece on its own. Layered Seven Layer Salad offers color, crunch, and creaminess in one bowl. Different textures blend perfectly with each spoonful. It’s as fun to serve as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

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.

Comfort meets elegance in this smooth, rich dish. Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto provides a balanced texture that stays light but filling. The mellow flavor fits well with almost any main. It’s an easy favorite for both family and guests.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

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.

Homemade comfort takes form in soft, pillowy bites. Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi carries a subtle sweetness and satisfying chew. The texture stands out next to rich sauces or hearty sides. It’s a gentle dish with timeless appeal.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Crunchy Celery Salad

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

Crisp bites bring freshness to heavier meals. Crunchy Celery Salad offers a simple mix of texture and lightness that resets the palate. Each mouthful feels cool and clean. It’s an understated dish that complements everything around it.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

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.

Greens done right can transform an entire meal. Tender Sautéed Kale brings a mild flavor and soft texture that feels balanced and light. It blends smoothly with other sides without overpowering them. Simplicity makes it worth keeping on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

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.

Hearty comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. Cheesy Funeral Potatoes bake up creamy inside with a golden, crisp topping. The mix of textures keeps it interesting from start to finish. Everyone reaches for seconds without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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

Simple vegetables can turn into the star of the meal. Tender Cauliflower Steaks roast to perfection with soft centers and crisp edges. The mild flavor makes them easy to pair with bold or subtle dishes. It’s a modern take on comfort.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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.

Classics like this one never go out of style. Rich Creamed Spinach delivers a smooth, velvety texture that coats the palate with warmth. Steam rises slowly as it’s served, hinting at comfort before the first bite. Flavor stays gentle yet comforting. It’s a dependable favorite that fits any spread.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Perfect Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley. — Perfect Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple sides sometimes steal the most attention. Perfect Baked Potato stays fluffy inside with a golden skin that cracks just right. Warm aroma drifts through the kitchen, hinting that comfort’s on the way. The plain base allows endless pairing options. It’s an easy staple that always pleases.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato

Mushroom Gravy

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

A good sauce brings harmony to an entire plate. Mushroom Gravy adds depth and smooth consistency that complements meats and sides alike. Flavor feels rich but not overwhelming. It completes any meal effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

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.

Vegetables get an upgrade with this rich, balanced dish. Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole mixes tender bites with creamy, melted layers that blend beautifully. Crisp edges add the perfect contrast. It’s comfort served in a simple way.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts 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.

Fresh sides help round out any menu. Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing combines crisp texture with a cool, smooth base that feels refreshing. The balance makes it easy to enjoy next to heavier dishes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Cheesy Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole being served. — Cheesy Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm layers of comfort define this classic side. Cheesy Potato Casserole delivers creamy richness beneath a crisp, golden surface. It fills the table with that comforting smell that makes everyone grab a bigger spoon. Each scoop feels hearty and balanced. It’s the kind of dish everyone looks forward to.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

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 flavorful pour can make a meal feel complete. Rich Turkey Gravy offers smooth texture and deep flavor that tie everything together. It fills the kitchen with that unmistakable holiday aroma everyone waits for. The thickness stays just right for pouring. It’s simple yet essential to every spread.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

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.

Presentation alone makes this dish stand out. Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower keeps a soft, tender inside beneath a slightly crisp surface. Mild flavor lets it complement any main dish easily. It’s wholesome, elegant, and always impressive.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Soft Dinner Rolls

Freshly baked bread can change the mood of any meal. Soft Dinner Rolls stay light and fluffy while holding their shape perfectly. The mild flavor makes them easy to pair with any dish, yet they somehow manage to steal the show every time. Guests never stop reaching for another one, secretly hoping for leftovers that never seem to exist.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls