17 Festive Potato Sides Everyone Serves in December
December meals tend to call for familiar comfort, which is why I pulled together 17 potato sides that feel right for the season without being tied to one occasion. These are the kinds of dishes that slide easily into different plans, from casual get-togethers to more dressed-up tables. I like having choices like this on hand so meals feel special without extra pressure.
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
There’s something magical about potatoes that are crispy on the outside and tender in the middle, and December seems like the perfect time to enjoy them. Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes feel festive enough to impress but comforting enough for everyone to love. These potatoes get attention quickly, and they always disappear just as fast.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Nothing says “simple but irresistible” quite like these Crispy Smashed Potatoes, especially during the holiday season. With a bite that’s golden and crunchy, they manage to feel both rustic and refined at the same time. Whether you’re serving them as a starter or alongside a roast, they find their place with ease.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes
These Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes don’t just taste incredible; they bring a festive vibe to your table with their unique look. The layers fan out beautifully, adding texture and wow-factor to any holiday meal spread. Crispy edges make them even more irresistible, creating that perfect “just one more” moment with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes
Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
There’s something about potatoes that is both visually stunning and endlessly satisfying; these Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes fit that description perfectly. Every thin slice crisps up in the oven, creating a golden masterpiece that steals the spotlight. While they look fancy enough for any December dinner, they’re equally welcome during laid-back gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Perfect Baked Potato
The name says it all, this Perfect Baked Potato really is perfect, and it’s a dish you can count on year after year. Whether you’re keeping it simple or pairing it with rich toppings, it somehow fits into every December feast. People love this classic because of its simplicity and how customizable it can be.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato
Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
These Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes are an absolute classic that never goes out of style; they’re as rich and comforting as it gets. There’s a softness and creaminess here that feels downright indulgent at any holiday dinner. Most people find themselves going back for seconds (or thirds), and they’re ideal alongside roasted meats or savory casseroles.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
December is the season for comforting sides, and these Mashed Sweet Potatoes bring a warm, slightly sweet touch to the table. These potatoes feel like a hug on a cold day without being overwhelming. Whether paired with a savory main course or served on their own, they make every bite memorable. It’s no wonder they’re loved during festive gatherings year after year.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Mashed Potato Casserole
Think of this Mashed Potato Casserole as the comforting, upgraded version of the mashed potatoes everyone already loves. This dish is one of those rare crowd-pleasers that feels both hearty and fancy enough for holiday meals. It’s a step up while still delivering the same creamy texture that makes mashed potatoes so beloved.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
What’s more decadent than these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes? Layers of creamy potato goodness make this dish the highlight of any holiday spread. It’s hearty, rich, and feels like a small celebration in every bite. Put this on your table in December, and people will definitely come back for more without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is one of those dishes everyone instantly recognizes and never skips. Its cozy, nostalgic vibe makes it especially perfect for chilly December nights spent with family. Smothered in indulgence but straightforward in its charm, this casserole fits right in with holiday gatherings. Just be ready, because this classic rarely leaves leftovers!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Cheesy Potato Casserole
Steal the show at holiday dinners with this Cheesy Potato Casserole. It’s creamy, filling, and suited for any occasion in December, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. There’s always something about potato casseroles that feels comforting yet transformed. Expect this dish to hold its own next to other stars at the table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole
Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
These Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes take classic baked potatoes to a whole new level, delivering extra richness and flavor in every bite. The toppings make them feel unapologetically indulgent, perfect for December when you want something extra. These are the kind of side dish that gets excitement from everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Balance a perfect crunch with warm, sweet undertones with these Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges. They bring drama to the plate in the best way, especially when you’re looking for sides that stand out. Whether you serve them for casual nights or festive dinners, they feel just right for cold December meals.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
Elegant yet approachable, these Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes are the ideal side for festive gatherings. The richness of this dish makes it feel special without being overwhelming, perfect for December’s holiday vibes. It manages to pair with everything, from roasted meats to fresh vegetables, making it endlessly versatile.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes
Spicy Sweet Potato Tacos
Looking for something outside the box this holiday season? These Spicy Sweet Potato Tacos offer a fun, modern twist that’ll add excitement to your December meals. With their bold flavors and festive energy, they bring variety to your table. These tacos are perfect for shaking up the usual holiday lineup and keeping things fresh.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Sweet Potato Tacos
Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
These Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi feel like pure holiday comfort. Warm, soft, and slightly indulgent, it’s the kind of dish that works beautifully for everything from intimate December dinners to larger festive spreads. There’s a homemade charm that makes it special for colder months. This gnocchi delivers richness without ever feeling heavy; perfect for the season.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Bite-sized but big on flavor, these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes make any festive occasion feel more fun. Their crisp exterior and delicate texture make them a guest favorite at holiday parties or casual family gatherings. You’ll find people reaching for them first, no matter how beautifully dressed your table is.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
