33+ Easy Christmas Dinner Sides That Will Wow Your Guests and Brighten Your Holiday Table!
Imagine the warm glow of holiday lights and the delightful aroma of festive dishes filling your home. This Christmas, elevate your dinner table with sides that are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Your guests will be raving about these dishes long after the last bite!
These creamy mashed potatoes are infused with roasted garlic, giving them a rich and savory depth. The buttery texture makes them a comforting classic that pairs perfectly with any holiday main dish.
2 pounds of potatoes
1 head of garlic
1/2 cup of butter
1/2 cup of heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
What makes these mashed potatoes truly special is the hint of sweetness from the caramelized garlic, creating a delightful contrast to the buttery richness. They’re a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
These vibrant carrots are sweetened with honey and a touch of butter, making them a visually appealing and tasty side. The glaze brings out their natural sweetness and adds a festive touch to your table.
1 pound of carrots
2 tablespoons of honey
2 tablespoons of butter
Salt and pepper to taste
This dish stands out for its simplicity and bright flavor. Roasting the carrots enhances their sweetness, making them a delightful addition to your holiday feast.
This homemade cranberry sauce is tart and refreshing, with a zesty kick from fresh orange juice and zest. It’s a quintessential holiday condiment that complements savory dishes beautifully.
12 ounces of fresh cranberries
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of orange juice
Zest of one orange
This sauce is not just a side; it’s a burst of flavor that adds brightness to your plate. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet orange makes it a favorite that everyone looks forward to at Christmas.
These crispy Brussels sprouts, sautéed with savory bacon, offer a delicious balance of flavors. The smokiness of the bacon enhances the nutty taste of the sprouts, creating a satisfying side.
1 pound of Brussels sprouts
4 slices of bacon
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
The combination of crispy and tender textures makes this dish irresistible. It’s a fun twist on a classic vegetable that might even convert Brussels sprout skeptics!
These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms are filled with a creamy mixture of cheese and herbs, making them a perfect appetizer or side. Their earthy flavor combined with cheesy goodness is sure to impress.
1 pound of button mushrooms
8 ounces of cream cheese
1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon of garlic powder
Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) for garnish
Stuffed mushrooms are a favorite at gatherings because they are easy to pop into your mouth and pack a flavor punch. They also look elegant on the table, making your holiday spread even more festive!
These roasted sweet potatoes are caramelized to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness. Tossed with olive oil and your choice of spices, they’re a colorful addition to your feast.
2 pounds of sweet potatoes
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Roasting sweet potatoes enhances their flavor and creates a delightful crispy edge. They’re not only delicious but also a healthy option, making them a great side for any holiday meal.
This classic green bean dish is enhanced with toasted almonds and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. The crunch of the nuts adds a delightful texture, making it an elegant side.
Green bean almondine is special because it combines freshness with a nutty crunch. It’s a simple dish that feels sophisticated and festive, perfect for impressing your guests!
Rating: 4.8 (669 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.
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This creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes dish is baked to golden perfection, making it a comforting side. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes soaked in a rich sauce create a deliciously indulgent experience.
2 pounds of potatoes
2 cups of heavy cream
2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)
1 onion, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Scalloped potatoes are a holiday classic that brings warmth to your table, and they’re a great way to use up potatoes. The creamy sauce and melted cheese create a dish that everyone will love!
This creamy dip is packed with spinach and artichokes, making it a flavorful and hearty side. Baked until bubbly, it’s perfect for spreading on crackers or bread.
1 cup of frozen spinach, thawed
1 cup of canned artichokes, chopped
1 cup of cream cheese
1/2 cup of sour cream
1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
This dip is a crowd favorite because it’s rich and indulgent, yet easy to make. It adds a fun element to your holiday spread and is always a hit at parties!
This crunchy coleslaw is dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, providing a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday dishes. It adds a nice crunch and bright flavor to your table.
1 small head of green cabbage
1 small head of purple cabbage
2 carrots, grated
1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup of sugar
Coleslaw is popular for its crisp texture and zesty flavor, making it a perfect side dish for rich main courses. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, which is a huge plus during the busy holiday season!
This cheesy broccoli casserole is creamy and comforting, packed with flavor that even the kids will love. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, it’s a delightful side dish.
2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar works great)
1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of breadcrumbs
This casserole is a classic comfort food that brings a bit of nostalgia to the holiday table. It’s a great way to get more greens on the plate while still being indulgent!
These crispy potato wedges are seasoned with fresh rosemary and garlic, making them a fragrant and flavorful side. Baked until golden, they’re a healthier alternative to fries.
2 pounds of potatoes
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Potato wedges are loved for their crispy texture and delightful flavor. The rosemary adds an aromatic touch that makes them feel special enough for the holiday table!
These Brussels sprouts are roasted to a caramelized perfection and drizzled with honey for a sweet and savory side. They’re a unique twist on a classic vegetable that can win over even the pickiest eaters.
1 pound of Brussels sprouts
2 tablespoons of honey
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
What makes this dish special is the balance of flavors; the sweetness of honey complements the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts. It’s a great side that adds a pop of color and flavor!
This garlic roasted cauliflower is tender and flavorful, with a golden crust that makes it irresistible. Tossed in olive oil and garlic, it’s a simple yet elegant side dish.
This dish shines with its simplicity, allowing the natural flavor of the cauliflower to come through. It’s a healthy option that’s perfect for a holiday feast!
This potato salad is creamy and tangy, making it a comforting and nostalgic side dish. Packed with diced pickles and a hint of mustard, it’s a classic that everyone loves.
2 pounds of potatoes
1/2 cup of mayonnaise
1 tablespoon of mustard
1/4 cup of diced pickles
Salt and pepper to taste
What makes this potato salad special is its creamy texture and zesty flavor, which pairs perfectly with rich holiday dishes. It’s also a great make-ahead option, saving you time on the big day!
This tart features a flaky crust filled with sweet caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese, creating a delightful combination of flavors. It’s a sophisticated side that looks as good as it tastes.
1 sheet of puff pastry
2 large onions, thinly sliced
4 ounces of goat cheese
2 tablespoons of olive oil
This dish is popular for its impressive presentation and rich flavors. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate a touch of elegance into your holiday meal!
This colorful medley of roasted vegetables is drizzled with maple syrup, bringing out their natural sweetness. It’s a vibrant and healthy addition to your holiday table.
1 pound of assorted vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips)
2 tablespoons of maple syrup
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish a standout. It’s a great way to celebrate seasonal produce and add a touch of sweetness to your meal!
Rating: 4.8 (435 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.
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This roasted beet salad is earthy and refreshing, topped with tangy feta cheese and walnuts. It’s a stunning dish that adds color and flavor to your holiday spread.
2 cups of roasted beets, diced
1/2 cup of feta cheese
1/2 cup of walnuts
2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
The vibrant colors of this salad make it a showstopper at any holiday gathering. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress your guests!
This quinoa salad is hearty and nutritious, featuring tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. It’s a colorful side that’s both healthy and satisfying.
1 cup of quinoa
1/2 cup of dried cranberries
1/2 cup of pecans, chopped
2 cups of vegetable broth
This dish stands out for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a filling side that complements any main dish. It’s a perfect way to lighten up your holiday meal while still feeling indulgent!
This stuffed acorn squash is a visually stunning dish filled with a savory mixture of grains, nuts, and spices. It’s hearty and full of flavor, making it a great centerpiece for your table.
2 acorn squashes
1 cup of cooked quinoa
1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg)
This dish is not only delicious but also adds a festive flair to your holiday meal. The sweetness of the squash pairs wonderfully with the nutty filling, making it a special side!
This herbed rice pilaf is fragrant and fluffy, seasoned with fresh herbs and toasted nuts. It’s an easy side dish that complements a variety of main courses beautifully.
This rice pilaf is loved for its lightness and aromatic flavors. It’s a simple yet elegant side that adds a touch of sophistication to your holiday dinner!
This spiced apple chutney is sweet and tangy, with a hint of warmth from spices like cinnamon and cloves. It’s a delightful condiment that pairs perfectly with savory dishes.
4 apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup of sugar
1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
Spices (cinnamon, cloves)
This chutney is a wonderful way to add a burst of flavor to your holiday spread. Its unique taste makes it a standout companion for meats and cheeses alike!
This creamy cauliflower gratin is baked with a cheesy topping, creating a comforting side that feels indulgent. The combination of flavors is sure to win over even the most devoted cheese lovers.
1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of shredded cheese (Gruyère or cheddar)
1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
This gratin is popular for its rich, creamy texture and crispy topping. It’s a wonderful way to elevate a simple vegetable into something extraordinary!
This classic stuffing is filled with herbs, vegetables, and bread, creating a savory side that’s a holiday favorite. It’s perfect for soaking up gravy and adding flavor to your plate.
1 loaf of bread, cubed
1 onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 tablespoon of sage
2 cups of vegetable broth
What makes this stuffing special is its comforting flavor and aroma, instantly evoking holiday memories. It’s a must-have side that completes any Christmas dinner!
This refreshing radish salad is crisp and zesty, tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. It’s a simple yet delicious side that cuts through the richness of holiday meals.
1 bunch of radishes, sliced
1 cucumber, diced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Juice of one lemon
This salad stands out for its crunch and tangy flavor. It’s a light and fresh option that balances out heavier dishes, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table!
This colorful vegetable medley is sautéed to perfection, featuring a mix of seasonal veggies. It’s a simple yet vibrant side that adds a healthy touch to your feast.
1 cup of bell peppers, chopped
1 cup of zucchini, sliced
1 cup of carrots, sliced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
This dish is loved for its freshness and versatility, allowing you to use whatever vegetables are in season. It’s a great way to add color and nutrients to your holiday spread!
This fennel and citrus salad is refreshing and bright, with a mix of flavors that awaken the palate. The crisp fennel pairs perfectly with sweet citrus for a delightful side.
1 bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
2 oranges, segmented
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
What makes this salad stand out is its unique combination of flavors and textures. It’s a light and zesty dish that adds a touch of elegance to your holiday meal!
These Parmesan roasted potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, coated in a cheesy crust. They’re a delightful side that everyone will love!
2 pounds of potatoes, cubed
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
The combination of crispy potatoes and rich cheese creates an irresistible dish. They’re perfect for soaking up sauces and gravies, making them a holiday favorite!
