18+ Delicious Christmas Dinner Sides That Will Wow Your Guests and Brighten Your Holiday Table
Christmas dinner is about more than just the main course; it’s about creating a feast that delights and brings everyone together. Imagine the aroma of roasted veggies mingling with the sound of laughter around the table. Let’s explore some sides that will not only impress your guests but also brighten up your holiday spread!
There’s something undeniably comforting about creamy mashed potatoes, and when you add roasted garlic, they become a side dish that steals the show. The technique of roasting the garlic brings out its natural sweetness, making the potatoes rich and flavorful. This dish is a classic that every holiday table needs, and it pairs perfectly with just about anything!
What makes garlic mashed potatoes special is their simplicity and versatility. You can whip them up quickly, and they’re easily customizable. Add some cream cheese for extra richness or sprinkle in fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor!
Picture vibrant orange carrots, shiny and glistening with a sweet honey glaze. Roasting these beauties caramelizes their natural sugars, bringing out an irresistible sweetness that balances beautifully with a hint of butter. This side is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes!
Honey-glazed carrots are a favorite because they add a touch of elegance to your dinner table. Plus, they’re super easy to make! Just toss your carrots with honey, butter, and a sprinkle of salt, then roast until tender. Your guests will be reaching for seconds!
Creamed spinach is a rich, decadent dish that’s sure to impress. With its velvety texture and savory flavor, this side dish takes fresh spinach and transforms it into something truly special. The combination of cream, garlic, and a hint of nutmeg makes it irresistible!
This dish is popular for its luxurious feel and comforting taste. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens during your holiday feast, and it pairs wonderfully with turkey or ham. Your guests will be raving about this creamy goodness long after the meal is over!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
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Brussels sprouts have become a holiday favorite, especially when roasted to crispy perfection with bits of savory bacon. The roasting process caramelizes the sprouts, bringing out a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the salty, smoky bacon. It’s a combination that’s hard to resist!
This dish is loved for its unique flavor profile and satisfying crunch. The contrast of textures, with crispy outsides and tender insides, makes every bite a delight. Plus, it’s an easy way to add some green to your holiday table without sacrificing flavor!
If you want a side that feels like a warm hug, cheesy broccoli casserole is the way to go! Broccoli florets are smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and then baked until bubbly and golden. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for any holiday gathering!
This dish stands out because it combines healthy greens with ooey-gooey cheese, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and popped in the oven just before serving. Your guests will appreciate this delicious twist on a classic green veggie!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, brown sugar, cinnamon, black pepper, miniature marshmallows Total Time: sweet potatoes, brown sugar, cinnamon, black pepper, miniature marshmallows.
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, orange juice, large marshmallows Total Time: 1 hr.
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Sweet potato casserole is a holiday staple that brings a bit of sweetness to the table. Topped with fluffy marshmallows that toast beautifully in the oven, this dish is both a side and a dessert! The creamy sweet potatoes paired with the gooey marshmallow topping create a delightful flavor experience.
This casserole is cherished for its nostalgia and warmth. It’s perfect for those who love that sweet-savory balance during the holiday season. Serve it alongside your main dishes, and watch it disappear in no time!
Green bean almondine is a fresh and vibrant side that adds a lovely crunch to your holiday meal. Sautéed green beans are tossed with toasted almonds and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that complements any main course beautifully!
This side is popular because it’s light and refreshing, providing a nice contrast to the heavier dishes typically served during Christmas. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and adds a lovely pop of color to your table. Your guests will appreciate the fresh flavors and delightful textures!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 1 h 40 min Total Time: 1 h 40 min.
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Stuffing is a classic holiday side, but when you add sausage and apples, it takes on a whole new level of deliciousness. The savory sausage pairs wonderfully with sweet, tart apples, creating a perfect marriage of flavors. Baked until golden, this stuffing is a crowd-pleaser that complements turkey or ham perfectly!
This dish is loved for its homey feel and hearty texture. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead option that can be assembled the day before. Serve it warm, and watch your guests come back for more, drawn in by the mouthwatering aroma!
