43 Christmas Sides Ideas That Bring the Cheer Before Dessert Even Starts

As the holiday rush picks up, having 43 Christmas sides ideas available gives you flexibility for different types of meals. Many of these dishes work for casual dinners, while others hold up well for hosting. None require guessing about complicated steps or special techniques. The list keeps everything simple so you can focus on the moments around the table.

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons. — Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes on a white plate. — Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Holiday meals feel incomplete without a side of creamy, rich potatoes. This Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes recipe brings smooth, velvety goodness to every festive table. It pairs beautifully with almost anything and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Watch it become the star side of your Christmas dinner.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed 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.

Bright and earthy, this Fresh Beet Salad brings color and flavor to your holiday table. It’s a wonderful balance of fresh ingredients that feel light but still festive. The flavors are simple yet filling, making it a great complement to heavier dishes. A healthy option that everyone will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Someone serving broccoli casserole. — Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A dish like this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves has something for everyone. Creamy, hearty, and comforting, it’s a great addition to any Christmas dinner. Its crowd-pleasing appeal makes it disappear fast. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, this one is sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

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.

Smooth and filling, this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto is a must-have on cooler holiday nights. The richness pairs beautifully with roasted meats or other hearty sides. It’s the kind of dish that feels special but is so easy to make. Guests will talk about this one long after the plates are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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

Few dishes feel as warm and comforting as a plate of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes during the holidays. With layers of tender potatoes and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s pure comfort on a plate. This dish works beautifully alongside ham, turkey, or roast beef. Bring this to any gathering, and hearts will be won.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

A plate of five sticky buns topped with caramelized nuts and sauce, resting on a red cloth. — Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet and slightly sticky, this Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls recipe blends holiday charm and buttery goodness. Each bite brings a comforting mix of caramelized apple sweetness. These rolls are perfect as a side or a mid-meal treat. Set this on the table, and it’ll feel like Christmas magic in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Colorful 7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas. — Colorful 7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of fresh vegetables and creamy dressing make this Colorful 7 Layer Salad a showstopper on any Christmas table. Its vibrant colors catch everyone’s attention before they even dig in. Crisp textures and bold flavors make it an unforgettable side. A great option for anyone looking for something festive and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad

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.

Fluffy, golden, and irresistibly tender, Buttermilk Biscuits are a perfect side to any holiday feast. These flaky layers are just right for pairing with butter, jam, or even savory gravy. They’re so versatile, you might find yourself making a double batch. No holiday table feels complete without these little gems.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

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.

Combine comfort and a touch of indulgence with this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. It’s so creamy and flavorful, even picky eaters will be asking for more. The hearty texture cozies up perfectly next to any main course. This is a great way to turn Brussels sprouts into everyone’s new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts 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.

Refreshing, crunchy, and packed with seasonal flavors, this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad feels like a winter wonder. It balances those heavy holiday dishes perfectly with its sweet and tangy ingredients. Everyone will appreciate the burst of freshness on their plates. It’s a beautiful way to showcase the flavors of the season.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

A slice of cheesy eggplant lasagna with tomato sauce is being lifted from a pan, showing stretchy melted cheese. A bowl is blurred in the background. — Cheesy Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm, savory, and utterly delicious, this Cheesy Eggplant Casserole is a creative way to surprise your Christmas guests. It’s a bit unexpected but so full of flavor that it won’t stay a secret for long. Even the pickiest eaters might reach for seconds. Add this to your holiday spread for a truly memorable touch.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

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 rich sweetness of this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze recipe upgrades your holiday sides game. Perfectly charred and bursting with flavor, these sprouts are an elegant addition to your table. They deliver just the right balance of crunch and caramelized goodness. A great option to impress your crowd.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

The Best Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed. — The Best Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet, savory, and comforting, this The Best Corn Casserole is everything you need for your Christmas table. It’s that dish everyone keeps going back for. Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist this creamy delight. Once served, it’ll quickly become a favorite holiday tradition for years to come.
Get the Recipe: The Best Corn Casserole

Tender Roasted Broccoli

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

Christmas dinner isn’t complete without a green, and this Tender Roasted Broccoli is a standout choice. Perfectly cooked with just enough crispness, it’s a refreshing contrast to richer sides. This dish adds a balanced touch of elegance to your holiday table. Even the broccoli skeptics might ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

A side like Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes makes a rich and indulgent addition to your Christmas feast. The melt-in-your-mouth texture creates a layer of comfort that’s hard to beat. It pairs beautifully with just about any roast or main dish. Get ready for compliments to roll in once everyone digs in.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

A close-up of a baked pastry ring dusted with powdered sugar, featuring multiple layers of golden-brown, flaky dough and hints of cinnamon apple strudel slices peeking through. — Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bring some sweet warmth to the table with this Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices. Though typically a dessert, these make for the perfect treat to balance out savory sides. The golden, crispy layers and tender apple filling make them uniquely cozy. Plus, they’ll spark holiday smiles before dessert even begins.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

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.

Holidays call for comfort food, and this Cheesy Funeral Potatoes dish delivers with every creamy, cheesy bite. It’s one of those sides you can’t help but scoop onto your plate more than once. Perfect alongside hearty roasts or turkey, it’s always a hit. Warning: don’t count on leftovers!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Crunchy Celery Salad

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

For a fresh yet festive bite, try this Crunchy Celery Salad. The crispness brings a refreshing contrast to heavier sides and mains. It’s proof that even the simplest ingredients can feel special during the holidays. This salad is perfect for adding a little crunch to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

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

Warm, hearty, and irresistibly cheesy, this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a crowd-pleaser for any holiday meal. You might find yourself making a second batch once guests grab seconds and thirds. It’s a savory dish that’s perfect alongside festive roasts or hams. One bite, and the holiday magic begins.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

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.

Need a side that’s quick yet feels special? This Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes is a festive option that checks all the boxes. The vibrant colors practically scream Christmas cheer, making it almost too pretty to eat. A simple but flavorful addition, this salad balances your rich main dishes perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

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.

A gravy can make or break a holiday meal, and this Vegetarian Gravy is an absolute triumph. It’s rich, hearty, and completely meat-free, making it perfect for everyone at the table. Pour it over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or just about anything else. Guests will never guess it’s vegetarian.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

Cheesy Potato Casserole

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

Few things feel as indulgent as this Cheesy Potato Casserole. It’s creamy, gooey, and packed with holiday comfort in every bite. Even if the main dish is the star, this side will absolutely steal the spotlight. You’ll want to serve this one again before the New Year rolls around.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

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

With its festive presentation, this Festive Caprese Candy Cane is a showstopper on any holiday table. Alternating layers of mozzarella and tomatoes create a cheerful centerpiece almost too gorgeous to eat. But don’t let its beauty fool you, it’s as delicious as it looks. Perfect for when you want a lighter touch of holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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

For a fresh spin on classic sweet potatoes, serve these Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges. The lightly crisp exterior pairs beautifully with their soft, warm centers for a side that feels fulfilling but not overly rich. They bring a subtle festive flavor to your plate without requiring extra effort. Perfect for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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 as comforting as warm, Soft Dinner Rolls fresh out of the oven. They’re ideal for soaking up gravy or spreading with a pat of butter. Everyone at the table will appreciate their pillowy texture. These rolls bring a touch of warmth and nostalgia to any holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Fresh Greek Salad

A bowl of Greek salad with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, green bell peppers, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. — Fresh Greek Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A platter of Fresh Greek Salad brings a crisp, refreshing element to your Christmas spread. The mix of flavors is a satisfying contrast to richer sides. It’s light, bright, and a great way to balance your plate. This is one dish that’s sure to be a favorite for those craving freshness.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek 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 the craving for something hot and crunchy strikes, these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes deliver on every level. They’re golden bites of pure delight with a soft, creamy interior. Try serving them to guests and see how quickly they disappear. It’s the perfect side for a festive feast.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Mushroom Gravy

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

No holiday table is complete without rich, delicious Mushroom Gravy to pour over everything. This velvety sauce pairs beautifully with everything from potatoes to stuffing. It ties all the flavors on your plate together. You’ll wonder how you ever did Christmas dinner without it.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Mashed Potato Casserole

A baked casserole topped with crispy fried onions and sliced green onions, served in a white oval dish on a tiled surface with a beige cloth nearby. — Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The cozy richness of this Mashed Potato Casserole makes it a must-have for any holiday spread. Creamy and smooth, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. It pairs wonderfully with hearty mains and gravies. This side dish brings warmth and comfort to every table.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato 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.

For a plant-based centerpiece, these Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks truly stand out. With a caramelized exterior, they add a touch of elegance to the meal. Even meat-lovers might find it hard to pass these up. Serve them and watch everyone’s reaction to their fulfilling flavor.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Perfect Baked Potato

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

When it comes to simplicity done right, the Perfect Baked Potato never lets anyone down. It’s like a blank slate for your favorite toppings, from sour cream to melted butter. Ideal for rounding out any holiday meal, it’s both versatile and filling. Everyone loves a potato that feels just right every time.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato

Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

A bowl of risotto with mushrooms and parmesan cheese. — Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The creamy, indulgent texture of Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant for special occasions. Preparing risotto is always worth the effort for how much people enjoy it. This one will definitely impress your dinner guests.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

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.

Bringing a down-home twist to traditional stuffing, Savory Cornbread Stuffing never disappoints. The flavors blend beautifully and make your holiday table feel extra cozy. Pass this around and watch it disappear almost instantly. It’s the kind of recipe that makes the season taste just right.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, Mashed Sweet Potatoes deliver comfort in every bite. Their creamy texture and natural sweetness balance out hearty holiday dishes. It’s a versatile side that’s a must-have for December dinners. Everyone will appreciate this classic addition to their plate.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

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.

With its luscious texture, Rich Creamed Spinach feels like pure indulgence on your holiday table. This silky side complements everything from roasts to potatoes. It’s an easy way to add greens that still feel festive. This timeless classic is as comforting as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

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 a Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower gives your table an impressive, festive centerpiece. The golden edges add a touch of color and flavor that’s impossible to resist. Whether it’s your main or a side, this dish makes a beautiful statement. Even better, it complements just about everything else you serve.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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

A warm bowl of Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce is like holiday magic you can taste. It’s just the right amount of sweet to go with your savory sides or pork dishes. This homemade classic brings a cozy feeling to every bite. It’s simple to prepare but has a way of making the meal extra special.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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.

These buttery, Soft Garlic Knots are perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce or gravy. They have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that guests always love. Bring these warm, fluffy knots to the table, and they’ll disappear in minutes. It’s hard to imagine any holiday feast without them.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

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.

A plate of Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi offers a festive twist on a classic comfort food. Light and fluffy, each bite will leave you craving more. It’s a surprising addition that feels sophisticated but still cozy. Perfect for pairing with rich sauces or enjoying on its own as a holiday highlight.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

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.

For a side that’s full of flavor and texture, Sourdough Stuffing lives up to the hype. The tangy bread adds a unique depth that’s hard to beat. It’s hearty enough to hold its own but pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy. This stuffing is what holiday memories are made of.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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

Elegant yet simple, these Tender Cauliflower Steaks bring something special to the table. The hearty slices are versatile enough to satisfy any guest. Perfectly roasted, they’re proof that vegetables can take center stage at Christmas. If you’re looking for a standout plant-based dish, this is the one to try.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

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.

Bring back a classic with a bowl of Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Crisp apples, crunchy bites, and a creamy dressing make it an old-school favorite. It’s a nostalgic touch for your Christmas meal. Serve this, and someone will undoubtedly smile and say it brings back all kinds of good memories.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cozy and delicious, Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that fits right into any holiday menu. The creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a rich and filling side. Whether you’re hosting or bringing it to a gathering, you can count on this one being a hit. It’s the kind of dish everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole