70 Best Christmas Side Dishes

Christmas side dishes

70 Best Christmas Side Dishes

Difficulty: Beginner
Christmas side dishes pinit

When it comes to holiday meals, the Christmas side dishes are what bring it all together. Sure, the main course might be the star, but without those delicious, carefully chosen sides, it’s just not the same! Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or a cozy meal with friends, having a variety of good Christmas side dishes can make your table feel extra special. Here are ideas that range from classics to a few fresh twists. And trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this for next year too—these are the 70 easy Christmas side dishes you didn’t know you needed.

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    70 Easy Christmas Side Dishes

    1. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

    You can’t go wrong with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. Add a little garlic and parmesan, and you’ve got one of the most comforting Christmas side dishes that everyone will pile high on their plates.

    2. Maple-Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pecans

    Sweet and nutty, these roasted sweet potatoes add a beautiful color to your table. Maple syrup gives it that extra holiday feel, making this dish perfect for those who love traditional yet exciting flavors. It’s one of those good Christmas side dishes that feels like a treat.

    3. Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Bacon

    The brussels sprout haters might just become believers with this one. Bacon and cranberries add savory and sweet notes, giving you one of the 70 easy Christmas side dishes that packs a serious flavor punch.

    4. Honey Glazed Carrots

    These tender carrots are easy to make and look beautiful on your Christmas table. Drizzled with honey, they’re the kind of good Christmas side dishes that even picky eaters will enjoy.

    5. Herb and Garlic Green Beans

    A little twist on the usual green beans, adding fresh herbs and garlic makes these stand out. Green beans are already a Christmas staple, but this version is a step up—yet it’s still one of those 70 easy Christmas side dishes you can make without breaking a sweat.

    6. Roasted Root Vegetables

    Roasting root vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, and you can mix and match any combo you like. It’s a wonderful way to add warmth and variety to your meal, and this is one of those Christmas side dishes that’s both healthy and hearty.

    7. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

    If you’re looking for a dish that’s a little more decadent, cheesy scalloped potatoes are the way to go. Rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, these will be a hit with anyone who loves comfort food.

    8. Classic Stuffing

    No list of Christmas side dishes would be complete without stuffing! You can keep it simple or add some extras like cranberries or sausage for a bit of a twist. It’s a good Christmas side dish that everyone expects and loves.

    9. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

    A tangy, fresh cranberry sauce with a hint of orange zest feels right at home on any Christmas table. The bright, bold flavor cuts through the richness of the meal and balances everything out perfectly.

    10. Creamed Spinach

    Smooth, creamy, and full of flavor, creamed spinach is one of those classic Christmas side dishes that always impresses. It’s easy to make, and it feels fancy, even though it’s one of those 70 easy Christmas side dishes.

    11. Herbed Wild Rice Pilaf

    If you’re looking for something a little different, an herbed wild rice pilaf can be a great addition to your table. It’s a hearty, good Christmas side dish that’s full of earthy flavors and pairs beautifully with any main.

    12. Parmesan Crusted Asparagus

    Crispy, cheesy asparagus is a simple way to bring something green to your Christmas table without skimping on flavor. This one is quick to make and feels festive without a lot of fuss.

    13. Buttery Dinner Rolls

    There’s nothing like warm, buttery rolls fresh from the oven. Serve them with a little herb butter, and you’ve got one of the most beloved Christmas side dishes that everyone will grab.

    14. Gravy

    Gravy might not be a “side” exactly, but it’s definitely an essential! Whether you go for classic turkey gravy or a rich, savory beef version, a good gravy can elevate all your Christmas side dishes to new levels.

    15. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

    For something unique, try adding a light soup to your spread. This butternut squash soup is warming and full of cozy flavors. It’s one of those 70 easy Christmas side dishes that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.

    Classic Potato and Vegetable Christmas Side Dishes

    1. Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
      Sweet potatoes and marshmallows—it’s a holiday classic! Top it off with a crunchy pecan crumble for extra texture.
    2. Duchess Potatoes
      These piped mashed potatoes look as elegant as they taste. Crispy edges with creamy insides make these a crowd favorite.
    3. Twice-Baked Potatoes
      With a mix of cheese, bacon, and green onions, these potatoes are pure comfort in every bite.
    4. Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary
      Fingerling potatoes are easy to prep and come out beautifully golden and crispy with rosemary for that seasonal touch.
    5. Buttery Mashed Cauliflower
      A lighter option, mashed cauliflower is still creamy and flavorful and makes a great low-carb side for any holiday spread.

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    Holiday-Season Salads

    1. Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
      Fresh greens, crisp apples, walnuts, and a homemade maple vinaigrette make this salad as festive as it is refreshing.
    2. Pomegranate and Orange Winter Salad
      Juicy pomegranate arils, fresh oranges, and goat cheese bring bright flavors to your holiday table.
    3. Kale and Cranberry Salad with Pecan Dressing
      Kale gets a holiday upgrade with cranberries and a sweet, nutty pecan dressing that’s hard to resist.
    4. Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
      Earthy roasted beets with creamy goat cheese and a sprinkle of pistachios make for a colorful, delicious side.
    5. Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad
      Shredded brussels sprouts add a fresh, seasonal twist to classic Caesar salad, perfect for Christmas dinner.

    Baked and Cheesy Dishes

    1. Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
      Comforting, creamy, and cheesy, this broccoli casserole is one of those good Christmas side dishes that’s easy to make ahead.
    2. Cauliflower Gratin
      A rich and creamy gratin with roasted cauliflower, perfect for anyone who loves a cheesy dish without the carbs.
    3. Baked Macaroni and Cheese
      No one can resist gooey, baked mac and cheese with a golden breadcrumb topping. It’s one of the ultimate 70 easy Christmas side dishes.
    4. Cornbread Casserole
      A sweet and savory twist on cornbread that’s great for scooping and pairs with all the classic holiday flavors.
    5. Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
      This iconic holiday dish is even better with extra crispy onions and a rich mushroom sauce.

    Roasted and Sautéed Veggie Sides

    1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate
      A pop of red from the pomegranate arils adds both flavor and color to roasted brussels sprouts.
    2. Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots
      These carrots are glazed to perfection and have that sweet-tangy flavor that goes with everything.
    3. Sautéed Mushrooms with Thyme
      Earthy mushrooms cooked in butter with a touch of thyme make for an easy and elegant side dish.
    4. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest
      Simple but zesty, roasted asparagus with a hint of lemon zest brings a light, fresh option to your table.
    5. Glazed Pearl Onions
      Sweet and tender, these glazed onions are a great addition, especially for those who love classic Christmas side dishes.

    Bread and Grain-Based Sides

    1. Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf
      This nutty, slightly sweet rice pilaf adds a beautiful texture to your spread.
    2. Traditional Dinner Rolls
      Soft, fluffy, and perfect for sopping up gravy or any extra sauce left on the plate.
    3. Garlic Knots
      For something a little different, try serving soft, garlicky knots that everyone will grab.
    4. Cornbread Muffins
      Sweet and moist, these muffins are a great alternative to traditional bread or rolls.
    5. Buttermilk Biscuits
      Light, flaky biscuits that taste amazing with a little honey butter or as a side with your main dishes.

    Fruit-Inspired Festive Sides

    1. Cranberry Sauce with Cinnamon and Orange Zest
      Fresh cranberry sauce is a must for a holiday meal, and this one adds a spicy, citrusy twist.
    2. Baked Cinnamon Apples
      Soft, cinnamon-sugar apples are perfect for adding a bit of sweetness without being a full-on dessert.
    3. Fruit and Nut Stuffing
      Sweet and savory stuffing with apples, cranberries, and nuts—this one’s for the adventurous side-dish lovers.
    4. Apple and Pecan Slaw
      This crunchy, fresh slaw is a lighter alternative that still feels festive.
    5. Grapefruit and Fennel Salad
      Bright, refreshing, and different, this salad is an unexpected addition that cuts through richer dishes.

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    More Festive Favorites

    1. Buttered Peas with Mint
      Simple yet flavorful, peas with a touch of mint are a great way to add green to your holiday plate.
    2. Maple Glazed Acorn Squash
      Sweet and earthy, this acorn squash dish adds a beautiful color to your table.
    3. Parmesan Roasted Artichokes
      Crispy, cheesy artichokes make for a unique and tasty Christmas side.
    4. Glazed Chestnuts
      For a unique, classic holiday flavor, glazed chestnuts are delicious and cozy.
    5. Stuffed Mushrooms with Herbs and Cheese
      Perfectly savory and bite-sized, stuffed mushrooms add a bit of elegance to your holiday lineup.

    Sweet and Savory Combos

    1. Honey Roasted Parsnips
      Sweet and subtly spiced, roasted parsnips are an underrated, delicious choice.
    2. Caramelized Shallots
      Sweet, buttery shallots are an amazing, melt-in-your-mouth treat.
    3. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
      Everything’s better with bacon! Wrap asparagus in bacon and roast until crispy.
    4. Balsamic Glazed Roasted Veggies
      Use any vegetables you love, and drizzle them with a balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
    5. Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Walnuts
      For a touch of sweetness, this salad combines fresh pears, cheese, and crunchy walnuts.

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    Comforting Classics

    1. Sweet Corn Pudding
      Sweet and creamy, corn pudding feels like a warm hug on a chilly holiday night.
    2. Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
      Perfect for sharing, this bread is cheesy, garlicky, and fun to eat!
    3. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
      Serve this warm, creamy dip as an appetizer or a side. It’s always a hit with guests.
    4. Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan
      This simple but flavorful roasted cauliflower is deliciously cheesy and crispy.
    5. Maple Bacon Green Beans
      Green beans get a smoky, sweet upgrade with maple bacon—everyone will go back for seconds!

    70 Best Christmas Side Dishes

    Difficulty: Beginner
    Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

    Description

    When it comes to holiday meals, the Christmas side dishes are what bring it all together. Sure, the main course might be the star, but without those delicious, carefully chosen sides, it’s just not the same! Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or a cozy meal with friends, having a variety of good Christmas side dishes can make your table feel extra special. Here are 60 ideas that range from classics to a few fresh twists. And trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this for next year too—these are the 70 easy Christmas side dishes you didn’t know you needed.

    Instructions

    1. Choose the christmas side dish of your choice

    Keywords: christmas side dishes, 70 easy christmas side dishes
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