45 Christmas Sides Ideas That Keep the Table From Looking Too Serious

Christmas meals don’t have to feel stuffy or formal. With 45 Christmas sides in this lineup, there’s plenty here to keep everyone smiling around the table. These ideas suit any gathering, from lively celebrations to small, relaxed meals. I think a little joy on the sides always brightens up the day.

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.

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.

Holiday tables get a little brighter with this Fresh Beet Salad in the mix. The bold colors draw people in right away, while the flavor brings smiles all around. Folks always comment on how it makes the spread look more cheerful. I bring this out whenever I want to add a fun twist to a classic dinner.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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

Serving this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce feels like a cozy tradition that never gets old. The sweet aroma drifts through the room and creates instant comfort. I notice everyone, from kids to adults, sneaking an extra spoonful. Simple and not too heavy, it fits perfectly with bigger holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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.

Crunch and sweetness come together in this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. The crispy edges surprise even people who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts. Comments keep rolling in about how it’s now a must for every holiday get-together. I like adding it for balance on the table.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

Flaky layers and a hint of spice make these Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices hard to resist at any meal. The way the pastry cracks always gets everyone excited to grab a piece. Guests usually ask for seconds before the strudel even cools. I save this for moments when dessert should feel extra special.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

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.

All the colors in this Fresh Greek Salad help break up the heavier plates at Christmas dinner. Each bite brings a sharp, clean crunch that wakes up your appetite. People often remark about how light it feels compared to traditional sides. This is a dish I return to for fresh energy during big meals.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek Salad

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.

Creamy comfort wins everyone over with this Mashed Potato Casserole. Golden topping makes each bite feel like something special without any fuss. Folks usually reach for it before anything else on the table. I serve this for any holiday dinner that needs a little extra warmth and homey charm.
Get the Recipe: Mashed 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.

Hearty and golden, this Savory Cornbread Stuffing never blends into the background. A hint of sweetness gets people saying it’s different from other stuffings out there. The aroma lingers long after everyone sits down. Whenever I serve this, the dish is scraped clean by the end of the evening.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

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.

Special meals feel even more inviting thanks to this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. The pillowy texture gets anyone at the table reaching for seconds. Light yet filling, it stands out among rich sides without feeling out of place. You’ll hear people mention it long after the plates are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

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.

Bites of this Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls bring unexpected joy to the dinner table. The combination of sweet and soft turns into a conversation starter. I watch as hands sneak back for another roll, even among those trying to pace themselves. It’s the perfect little surprise for a special occasion spread.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Cheesy Potato Casserole

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

Potlucks and holidays both light up with the arrival of this Cheesy Potato Casserole. Gooey, warm, and full of comfort, it invites everyone to relax and linger. Folks always sneak over for an extra scoop, laughing about how they suddenly have room for more. This one is a year-round favorite in my home.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole

Tender Roasted Broccoli

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

Crisp edges give this Tender Roasted Broccoli a fresh twist that surprises even serious veggie skeptics. Each bite delivers just enough crunch to keep things interesting. Green color brightens up the Christmas spread and balances heartier dishes. I notice empty platters every time this recipe is served.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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

Golden, crisp wedges make these Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges a real crowd-pleaser. Sweet and salty flavors keep everyone curious enough for seconds. Plates clear quickly as people sneak just one more. I find these even better when dipped in sauce or paired with savory dips from the table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Close-up of a stack of gooey caramel-filled Biscoff Brownies, sprinkled with flaky sea salt, on parchment paper. — Decadent Biscoff Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone’s eyes widen when I serve these Decadent Biscoff Brownies at holiday gatherings. The rich texture gets people chatting about dessert before dinner is even finished. There’s always a gentle competition for the last piece. No matter how many I bake, these brownies never last longer than a few hours.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

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.

Each spoonful of this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto feels like a warm hug in winter. The cool season calls for sides that are both rich and soothing, and this dish does just that. Bowls often go back for a refill without a word. I pull it out for Christmas because it feels extra comforting.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

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.

Softness and fluffiness are the stars of these Buttermilk Biscuits. The simple texture makes them a hit with just about everyone at the table. People are always excited to split them open and add a little extra butter. For me, it doesn’t feel like a real holiday meal without these biscuits.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Smooth and rich, this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes dish always earns plenty of “oohs” and “aahs.” Each bite feels a little more special, perfect for a holiday table. You’ll find plates cleaned off quickly, no matter how much you make. This is my secret weapon for cozy, memorable dinners.
Get the Recipe: Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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.

Slices of this Sourdough Stuffing put a new spin on an old favorite. The tangy notes stand out and bring a fun contrast to classic Christmas plates. Everyone seems to want just a little more once it’s on their fork. I always save some for leftovers, since it only gets better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

Colorful 7 Layer Salad

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

Christmas never feels dull with this Colorful 7 Layer Salad at the table. Its rainbow layers catch the eye and bring a playful feelings right when the table needs it. People love picking out their favorite parts. This salad earns top spot whenever I want to pep up a winter meal.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer 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.

Centerpieces don’t always have to be meat thanks to this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower. The golden outside always draws a little “wow” when it comes out. Guests gather around to take photos before digging in. For holiday spreads that need a star, nothing beats this cauliflower.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

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.

Bites of this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad lighten up any heavy spread during the holidays. Sweet crunch pairs nicely with savory mains, creating a welcome break at the table. I notice it’s almost always gone by the end of the night. If your meal needs a breath of fresh air, this salad delivers.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

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.

Warm, soft twists make these Soft Garlic Knots an instant favorite at gatherings. Folks always tear off just one more piece before heading back for seconds. The gentle garlic flavor never fades into the background. No holiday meal at my house feels complete without these knots somewhere on the table.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Crunchy Celery Salad

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

Freshness has a way of waking up the crowd with this Crunchy Celery Salad. Each bite acts like a palate cleanser, especially between richer plates. People find themselves surprised at how much they enjoy it. I add this salad anytime I sense the meal needs something crisp and light.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

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

Each spoonful of this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole feels like classic comfort food, perfect for keeping spirits high on Christmas. Melty and hearty, it always sets off friendly debates about who gets the last bit. Everyone finds themselves reaching for more. I have to make an extra pan most years just in case.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

The soft texture of these Mashed Sweet Potatoes makes every plate softer and brighter at Christmas. There’s a gentle sweetness that lifts the richness of roasts and gravies. Guests quickly come back for seconds, especially on chillier nights. Week after week, this side finds a spot on my table.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

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.

Bright tomatoes and creamy slices draw everyone to this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes. It’s a quick fix during busy holiday prep, but the simple beauty makes it seem extra thoughtful. Freshness cuts through heavier foods with every bite. This side shows that not everything at Christmas needs to be rich.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Creamy, gooey goodness makes this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole a hit at any winter celebration. The bubbling top brings a round of applause from everyone at the table. Plates get scraped clean soon after serving starts. If cheesy sides are your thing, you’ll want to make this every year.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Mushroom Gravy

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

Pouring this Mushroom Gravy over almost anything turns a meal into a celebration. Depth and richness in every spoonful gets people talking more than you’d expect about a sauce. Comfort fills the room as it’s passed around. I use this recipe for adding old-school dinner magic to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Perfect Baked Potato

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

Every holiday meal could use this Perfect Baked Potato. Crispy outsides and soft insides tempt even those who usually skip the plain dishes. There’s a quiet excitement when toppings come out. If you’re looking for a no-fuss addition to Christmas, you can’t go wrong here.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato

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.

Holiday dinners bring back memories with this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Crunchy apples and nuts take center stage, and the throwback vibe always gets people swapping stories. Everyone seems to dig in with a smile. I love bringing a bit of old-school fun to a modern spread.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

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

Southern comfort shines in this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes recipe. The extra-creamy finish keeps people filling their plates a second time. There is always a little debate about the best way to top them, but everyone agrees they’re a must-have. I save these for big festive meals every December.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

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

Every gathering gets a little easier with this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves. The creamy sauce and crunchy topping merge in a way people can’t resist. Even kids go back for more without any nudging. For me, it’s a go-to side that never gets old around the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

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.

Plant-based spreaders can enjoy the holidays too with this Vegetarian Gravy. Warm and smooth, it ties sides together for guests who want something lighter. No one feels left out when this is on the table. I’ve found lots of non-vegetarians love it just as much as regular gravy.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

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.

Soft layers and bubbling cheese turn this Cheesy Eggplant Casserole into a comfort food star. Diners rave about the balance of textures and how it feels fresh yet soothing. The dish disappears faster than most others at gatherings. My best tip is to make more than you think you’ll need.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

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

Special sides become the talk of the meal with this Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto. The creamy texture draws out plenty of “wows” from around the table. It never feels out of place, even with the fanciest main course. I choose this for dinners where I want to add a little sparkle to my usual set.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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

Layers of these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes always get scooped up before anything else on the table. Each warm, creamy slice pulls in the crowd and prompts stories about past dinners. The bubbly edge always wins a few fans. Whether serving ham or a plant-based main, this dish works every time.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

The Best Corn Casserole

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

Soft, golden, and just sweet enough, this The Best Corn Casserole keeps everyone coming back for one more helping. People ask about it as soon as it appears at dinner. The tender center and crisp top balance out other sides on the spread. I’m convinced no Christmas dinner is quite complete without it.
Get the Recipe: The Best Corn Casserole

Rich Banoffee Pie

A slice of banoffee pie with layers of banana, caramel, whipped cream, and a crumbly biscuit crust on a white plate. — Rich Banoffee Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dessert dreams come true with this Rich Banoffee Pie on the table. Creamy, sweet, and cool, each slice wraps up dinner with a special touch. The pie starts friendly conversations about favorite treats from past holidays. I save this one for nights when dessert should finish with a bang.
Get the Recipe: Rich Banoffee Pie

Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

A close-up of a spoon lifting creamy, melted cheese sauce with macaroni from a pot. — Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheesy comfort comes to life with this Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese. Warm, creamy goodness encourages everyone to grab a second serving, even after a big meal. There’s always a hush over the table for that first bite. I find this is the most requested side whenever I ask for family favorites.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac n Cheese

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.

Plates brighten up thanks to this Rich Creamed Spinach by the roast or turkey. People who normally pass on spinach even come back for a little more. Velvety and smooth, it acts like a warm blanket for the rest of the meal. I love adding it for extra color and winter comfort.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

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.

Every Christmas meal gains a little sparkle with this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Even sprouts doubters end up with big smiles after the first forkful. The creamy, cheesy top helps tie all the other dishes together. You might want to double this if you’re feeding a hungry group.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts 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.

Heaps of these Soft Dinner Rolls disappear before dinner is even finished. Fresh from the oven, they make the holiday table look welcoming and warm. People break them apart to share, laughing and chatting while they do. I bake double the amount every year because someone always wants seconds.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

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.

Heartier bites like these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes make holiday feasts more playful. The crunchy shell always gets compliments, especially next to silky sauces. Guests love the mix of comfort and fun that comes from the very first bite. This side belongs at any party dinner in December.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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

Bold, center-of-the-plate flavor shines through with these Tender Cauliflower Steaks. The edges get perfectly crisp, adding something totally different to the menu. Non-meat eaters feel welcome and everyone leaves happy. For friends who want lighter sides that still feel special, this is one to try.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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.

Laughs and nostalgia flow easily with a big dish of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Warm, creamy, and bubbly, these potatoes seem to disappear by the spoonful. Even those who claim to be too full sneak a little extra on their plate. It’s rarely a holiday meal without this crowd favorite sitting front and center.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Everyone feels included when these Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks show up for holiday dinner. The bright, golden crust keeps people talking about how plant-based sides can steal the show. Guests always want to know how they get so crisp. I rely on this recipe for a modern, inclusive Christmas spread.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks