45 Christmas Sides Recipe Ideas For When the Plate Needs More Holiday Spirit

Holiday meals always feel a little more special when there’s variety, and 45 Christmas sides recipe ideas deliver just that. Many people want something simple yet memorable to serve with the main course as friends and family gather. Filling the table with fresh options is a good way to keep dinner exciting without overcomplicating the prep.

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.

Cheesy Potato Casserole

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

Comfort arrives at the table every time you bring out this Cheesy Potato Casserole. Bubbling cheese and tender potatoes spark holiday joy for all ages. I have noticed empty plates whenever this dish shows up. Guests tend to hunt for seconds once the flavors hit just right.
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.

Bright green florets promise a burst of freshness when you serve this Tender Roasted Broccoli. Roasting draws crowds eager for a veggie that’s both crispy and satisfying. People often mention how it balances heartier plates during big celebrations. This side never feels out of place among festive fare.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Rich Banoffee Pie

A slice of Banoffee pie with whipped cream and caramel. — Rich Banoffee Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Caramel and banana meet in this Rich Banoffee Pie that feels almost too good for just a side. Creaminess melts away winter worries with every spoonful. I have found this dessert brings out smiles no matter the weather. It’s the one treat people keep reaching for during holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Rich Banoffee Pie

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.

Hearty layers and bold flavor put this Cheesy Eggplant Casserole on many people’s must-have lists. Melty tops invite everyone to take a bite before the main meal is even served. I’ve watched guests linger at the dish, focusing their praise on its rich taste. Sharing helps make any celebration brighter.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Creamy scoops of these Mashed Sweet Potatoes side add just enough comfort to a chilly evening. Subtle sweetness rounds off heavier dishes at Christmas feasts. People often ask how the texture stays so smooth. Every holiday plate feels more complete for its presence.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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

Sweet apples combined with cinnamon make this Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce a winter favorite. Folks appreciate having something light beside richer holiday recipes. Each spoonful brings out a gentle warmth perfect for cold celebrations. I make extra to keep everyone happy until the last bite.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

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.

Pouring this Vegetarian Gravy over veggie sides always sparks curiosity. Rich flavor blends into every bite, creating comfort food for everyone, regardless of preference. Guests pause to ask how it gets so savory without meat. The magic lies in how it pulls the whole meal together beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Gravy

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.

Pillowy dumplings anchor the spread with this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi treat. People talk about the soft texture as soon as they try one. Holiday tables fill with cheery conversation whenever this is served. I have found kids and adults alike go back for another helping.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

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.

Crisp apples, nuts, and a creamy base transform this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make into a classic Christmas side. Every bite combines crunch with nostalgia for old holiday meals. Folks debate which ingredient they like best. Sharing this at dinner makes tradition come alive.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

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

Thick slices in this Tender Cauliflower Steaks dish provide a hearty vegan option for guests. Roasted to perfection, the flavors appeal even to meat-lovers at the table. I enjoy watching friends relax as they indulge something so filling. The side fits into any festive lineup with ease.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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

Layers stacked with creamy sauce bring these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes to the center of the celebration each time. Beautifully baked, it draws even picky eaters in for a sample. Compliments echo around the table every holiday. I have gotten requests for this recipe at almost every family party.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Mushroom Gravy

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

Earthy notes shine in this Mushroom Gravy that finds its way onto many Christmas tables. Poured atop warm sides, the taste blends seamlessly into festive dishes. Guests often ask how something so simple can add so much depth. Sharing creates just the right atmosphere for winter meals.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

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.

Juicy bites and light crunch welcome everyone to try this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad with their holiday dinner. A bright pop among heavier spreads, it keeps things feeling fresh. People compare the apples and dressings, encouraging newcomers to try a slice. You’ll notice this dish vanishes quickly.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

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.

Vegan guests flock to the table for this Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks each year. The roasting brings out a deep flavor anyone can appreciate. This impressive side has a way of turning heads at gatherings. There’s always chatter about how pretty the slices look on a holiday plate.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Butter and cream team up in this Creamy French Dauphinoise Potatoes recipe, creating a crowd-pleasing sensation. Slices hold rich flavor that never feels too heavy at a winter meal. People ask for the secret behind its smooth texture. A classic comfort that fits right into every Christmas spread.
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.

Thin pastry and warm apple filling make this Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices ideal for cold weather holidays. The scent always draws guests into the kitchen before dinner starts. Crumbles disappear quickly from serving platters. Even simple desserts can help keep spirits high on chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Perfect Baked Potato

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

Steaming centers paired with crispy skins mean this Perfect Baked Potato side gets a lot of attention. People love choosing their favorite toppings to personalize each bite. I set out extras whenever company comes over. No festive meal feels quite right without a potato dish on the table.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato

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.

Velvet texture and deep color turn this Rich Creamed Spinach into a Christmas winner. Guests mention how it rounds out roasted meats and bread. Scooping it onto plates seems to invite comfort and conversation. Sharing new sides like this creates lasting memories at winter meals.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

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.

Bright veggies and tangy dressing keep this Fresh Greek Salad a top pick for gatherings focused on something light. Crunchy bites break up the heavier spread, giving plates an appealing boost. I get asked for the recipe after every holiday. Colorful sides like this always draw the most smiles.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek 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.

Breezy day flavors blend into winter meals through this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto bowl. Smooth texture and bold taste anchor the feast, winning praise from vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Guests pause to comment on its golden hue. I always set out extra bowls just to be safe.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

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.

Served in slices or wedges, this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower becomes a centerpiece for plant-based eaters at Christmas. Warm from the oven, it fills the kitchen with festive scents. People stop to admire its beautiful color before taking a serving. Cold-weather dinners feel brighter with this option.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Colorful 7 Layer Salad

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

Layers stacked with veggies and crunch transform this Colorful 7 Layer Salad into a showstopper at holiday dinners. People compete to guess every layer before grabbing a scoop. Bright colors spark curiosity and conversation among guests. Salads like this add party spirit to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Soft and cheesy servings draw hungry eyes toward this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole whenever it appears. Each bite settles nicely next to heavier holiday fare, giving balance to the meal. This dish often sparks conversations about new holiday favorites. I have watched it disappear again and again.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower 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.

Quick to make and full of color, this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes keeps snacking lively. Bright tomatoes and cheese feel refreshing alongside roasted plates. I like how people request seconds just to taste it again. Fast, cheerful sides always help the mood during holiday get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

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.

Crowd-pleasers like this Cheesy Funeral Potatoes bring out the smiles at every winter celebration. Creamy, cheesy scoops disappear before the main meal even starts. People urge one another to take another helping. Sharing this dish always makes the holidays more memorable.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

The Best Corn Casserole

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

Bringing a sweet-and-savory combo, The Best Corn Casserole earns raves at every Christmas meal. Steamed scoops brighten any plate, never feeling heavy. I find guests linger near the pan, going back for more. Simple sides like this stand out among holiday classics.
Get the Recipe: The Best Corn Casserole

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

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

Holiday shapes draw attention on the appetizer table with this Festive Caprese Candy Cane recipe. People pause to admire the layout before grabbing a bite. Bright colors deliver cheer before the first forkful. Festive presentations help meals feel special throughout December.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

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.

Crunchy outside and soft inside make this Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes dish a holiday must-have. Party guests pick them up until there’s nothing left on the platter. I keep seeing requests for the recipe pop up every year. Crispy sides never last long at Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

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

Rich flavor and creamy texture combine in this Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto dish winter after winter. People indulge each spoonful and mention how filling it feels. There’s always someone asking how to get it so perfect. Recipes like this make every plate a bit more festive.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

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.

Cream layers make this Mashed Potato Casserole easy to scoop and even easier to finish. Guests praise its texture and bring it up long after dinner ends. I notice the tray goes empty before dessert arrives. Comforting dishes like this fit right in with holiday spreads.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole

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 bread twists tangled with garlic turn these Soft Garlic Knots into a top pick for holiday snacking. Friends sneak extra servings, giggling about how good they are. Each bite delivers gentle flavor with a touch of home. You’ll discover plates empty fast when the aroma fills the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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

A little crunch and subtle sweetness keep these Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges side in high demand. Guests reach out just to grab another wedge for dipping. I find these add bright color to wintry plates, helping break up traditional spreads. Lively sides like this never go unnoticed.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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.

Soft rolls with a caramel apple twist send sweet smells through the house once these Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls appear. Kids and adults stop by for a quick treat during any winter gathering. The combination feels playful but matches the season perfectly. Little extras can boost holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

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 from this Crunchy Celery Salad refresh palates after heavy Christmas mains. Bits of crunch help balance out the meal, giving plates a lighter feel. Quick sides like this help fill up bowls for even the pickiest eaters. Bringing it to the table feels like a breath of fresh air.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

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.

Rich flavors and soft texture make this Savory Cornbread Stuffing the ultimate side for comfort-loving winter guests. People talk about the sweet and salty combo long after the meal ends. I always see plates filled up again and again. Stuffings like this create holiday memories.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

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

Whipped to perfect softness, this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes recipe belongs on every Christmas table. Each spoonful feels cozy enough to chase away winter chills. Conversations turn to old stories while eating this staple. Creamy sides bring the whole group together.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

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.

Baskets full of these Soft Dinner Rolls have a way of bringing out eager hands at every festive dinner. Breaking bread becomes an event when the rolls are warm. Friends and family share stories between bites. Simple sides like this always make the holidays brighter.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

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.

Tender vegetables mixed with creamy sauce put this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole ahead of the holiday curve. Folks who don’t always love sprouts go back for seconds here. I watch as plates fill quickly whenever this appears. The cozy flavors help round out every season’s Christmas menus.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

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.

Tangy bread and savory stuffing bring this Sourdough Stuffing to tables packed with new and old friends. Warm seasoning makes people pause and enjoy each bite. Guests ask what makes it so special compared to regular stuffing. The flavor fits right in among the holiday lineup.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing

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.

Rich chocolate and a hint of spice set these Decadent Biscoff Brownies apart among winter sweets. People mention how the flavor stands out from regular brownies after their first bite. Empty trays prove its popularity at every party. Dessert sides add cheer to colder days in December.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

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

Comfort comes in each serving of this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves as it fills plates with cheesy goodness. Crowds gather for a sample before the main meal starts. Friendly chatter follows every bite. I notice requests for this one during every holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

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.

Balanced sweetness and tang meet in this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze dish, turning even casual eaters into fans. People discuss what makes this veggie special among the spread. Festive plates get brighter each year with these on them. Sharing this side adds a new spark to old traditions.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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.

Soft, crumbly edges make these Buttermilk Biscuits perfect for soaking up gravy and sauces. Plates fill fast as folks scoop up extras with holiday meals. The simple pairing feels just right for winter. Casual sides bring out the comfort for everyone gathered.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

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

Breakfast flavors meet dinnertime comfort with this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole. Bubbly tops invite guests to scoop out bigger servings. Light crunch complements creamy bites, making this casserole a repeat request. You’ll appreciate how easily it rounds out every Christmas menu.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Fresh Beet Salad

Vibrant color and a bit of crunch bring this Fresh Beet Salad to life at holiday parties. Guests stop by for another serving after seeing how bright it looks on their plates. New flavors add a welcome twist to long-standing traditions. Sharing salads creates community at the winter table.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad