Hello, my fellow friends, we all know Christmas is knowing the door snow falling, and it’s our time to shine bright by bringing some Amazing yet easy Christmas Dinner Sides.
If you’re hosting a Christmas dinner this year, you’ll want to make sure your guests are treated to a feast that’s memorable and full of holiday cheer. And while the turkey or ham may take center stage at your festive feast, the sides are what really tie everything together and give your guests a flavor-packed meal to remember.
In this section, we’ll explore a variety of festive Christmas dinner sides that are sure to impress your guests with their delicious flavors and holiday charm. These mouth-watering dishes will add a touch of cheer to your holiday meal and leave everyone wanting more.
Key Takeaways
- Christmas dinner just wouldn’t be complete without flavorful and festive sides to complement the main course.
- From traditional classics to creative new dishes, there’s a side for everyone to enjoy.
- Impress your guests with these mouth-watering Christmas dinner sides that are sure to add a touch of holiday cheer.
- Whether you’re catering to vegetarians or looking for make-ahead options, we’ve got you covered.
- Make this holiday season a truly special one by wowing your guests with a variety of delicious and festive Christmas dinner sides.
30+ Amazing Christmas Dinner Sides Idea
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic, butter, and cream for a rich, comforting side.
Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed in butter, topped with toasted almonds for a crunchy, nutty twist.
Cranberry Orange Sauce: Tangy cranberry sauce with a zesty kick of fresh orange zest, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection with garlic, olive oil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, creating a savory-sweet profile.
Sweet Potato Casserole: Mashed sweet potatoes crowned with a pecan and brown sugar streusel, offering a delightful balance of textures and sweetness.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Carrots glazed with honey and thyme, providing a sweet and savory harmony to the holiday table.
Creamed Spinach: Spinach cooked in a creamy blend of garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese, delivering a luscious, indulgent side dish.
Buttered Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn on the cob brushed with herb-infused butter, creating a simple yet flavorful accompaniment.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Asparagus spears wrapped in crispy bacon, offering a savory and visually appealing side dish.
Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Potatoes seasoned with Parmesan, garlic, and herbs, then roasted until golden and flavorful.
Quinoa Salad with Pomegranate: Nutty quinoa paired with arugula, feta, and juicy pomegranate seeds, creating a vibrant and wholesome salad.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and cheese, offering a delightful appetizer or side.
Herb-Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of root vegetables roasted with fresh herbs, resulting in a fragrant and hearty side dish.
Caprese Salad Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze, presenting a bite-sized burst of freshness.
Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty wild rice cooked with mushrooms and aromatic herbs, creating a flavorful and satisfying accompaniment.
Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Broccoli tossed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon, roasted to perfection for a zesty and crunchy side.
Candied Pecan Salad: Mixed greens, cranberries, and candied pecans topped with a balsamic vinaigrette, offering a sweet and savory salad.
Sautéed Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Shrimp cooked in a buttery lemon-garlic sauce, providing a succulent and elegant seafood option.
Cornbread Stuffing: Classic stuffing made with cornbread, celery, onions, and herbs, embodying the essence of holiday comfort.
Caramelized Onion Tart: Flaky pastry topped with caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, and thyme, creating a savory and sophisticated dish.
Maple Glazed Acorn Squash: Acorn squash slices roasted and glazed with maple syrup and cinnamon, offering a sweet and festive side.
Pesto Pasta Salad: Tri-color pasta tossed with pesto, cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella, providing a colorful and flavorful addition.
Deviled Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs filled with a creamy mixture of yolks, mayo, and mustard, serving as a classic and irresistible appetizer.
Balsamic Glazed Roasted Vegetables: Assorted vegetables roasted to perfection and drizzled with balsamic glaze, delivering a flavorful and visually appealing dish.
Cauliflower Gratin: Cauliflower baked in a cheesy béchamel sauce until golden and bubbly, offering a delicious and indulgent side.
Pear and Walnut Salad: Mixed greens with sliced pears, crumbled blue cheese, and candied walnuts, creating a refreshing and elegant salad.
Lemon Herb Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous tossed with lemon, herbs, and olive oil, providing a versatile and flavorful side.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles: Asparagus spears bundled in prosciutto and baked until crispy, offering a savory and visually stunning side.
Butternut Squash Soup: Creamy soup made from roasted butternut squash, onions, and spices, serving as a warm and comforting starter.
Cheddar Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheddar cheese and garlic, perfect for savoring alongside holiday meals, offering a savory and irresistible treat.
Also Check: 19 Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Tamales This Christmas
Easy Christmas Side Dishes
When planning your Christmas dinner, side dishes are just as important as the main course. But who has time for complicated recipes during the holiday rush? If you’re looking for easy Christmas side dishes that don’t sacrifice flavor, look no further! Here are some quick and simple options to add some pizazz to your holiday meal:
1. Garlic Roasted Carrots
Upgrade your basic roasted carrots with this easy recipe that calls for just five ingredients. Toss baby carrots in garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then roast in the oven for 15 minutes. The result? Deliciously caramelized carrots that are sure to impress.
2. Cranberry Orange Salad
Bring some freshness and color to your Christmas table with this vibrant salad. All you need is mixed greens, fresh cranberries, mandarin oranges, and a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and red-wine vinegar. It’s the perfect complement to any main dish.
3. Scalloped Potatoes
This classic dish is a crowd-pleaser for a reason – it’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting. And with just a few ingredients – potatoes, heavy cream, Gruyere cheese, and garlic – it’s surprisingly easy to make. Top with chopped fresh thyme for a flavorful touch.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Even Brussels sprouts haters will love this dish! Simply roast the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until crispy, then drizzle with a balsamic vinegar reduction. The result is a sweet and tangy side dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
5. Green Bean Casserole
Nothing says “holiday dinner” like a classic green bean casserole. This retro recipe features canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and a crispy onion topping. It’s easy to put together and always a hit with guests.
These easy Christmas side dishes are sure to save you time and impress your guests. Whether you prefer classic holiday flavors or something a little more modern, these recipes offer something for every taste and budget. Happy holidays!
Also Read: What to serve with Lasagna for Christmas Dinner- 24 Meal
Traditional Christmas Sides
When it comes to Christmas dinner, traditional side dishes are always a hit. These classic Christmas sides have been enjoyed for generations and bring a sense of nostalgia to the holiday feast. Whether you’re a fan of mashed potatoes or green bean casserole, these traditional Christmas recipes are sure to please.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Creamy Mashed Potatoes | Smooth, buttery potatoes blended with cream and milk |
| Green Bean Casserole | Green beans topped with crispy fried onions and baked in a creamy mushroom sauce |
| Stuffing | Bread, vegetables, and herbs baked together for a delicious and savory side dish |
| Cranberry Sauce | Sweet and tangy sauce made from fresh cranberries, perfect for pairing with turkey |
| Sweet Potato Casserole | Sweet potatoes mixed with brown sugar and topped with a crunchy pecan topping |
These traditional Christmas side dishes are also great for preparing in advance, making meal planning a breeze. Add classic Christmas side dishes to your menu and bring a sense of comfort and familiarity to your holiday meal.
Festive Holiday Sides
Add some excitement to your Christmas dinner with these creative holiday side dish ideas that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Not only are they delicious, but they also add a pop of color to your table.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 lb. brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved | Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and 1 clove of minced garlic. Toss in the brussels sprouts until they are coated well. Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roast the brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. |
Sweet Potato Gratin
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 3 sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds | Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of chopped rosemary, and salt and pepper. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a large baking dish. Pour the cream mixture over the top of the sweet potatoes. Bake in the oven for about an hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. |
These festive holiday side dishes are the perfect accompaniment to any Christmas meal. They’re quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making your holiday cooking a breeze. Try them out, and you won’t be disappointed!
Crowd-Pleasing Christmas Sides
What’s a Christmas dinner without some delicious and crowd-pleasing sides to balance out the meal? In this section, we’ve curated a list of must-have Christmas side dishes that will not only please your guests but also complement your main course.
The Best Christmas Sides to Impress Your Guests
Looking to impress your guests this holiday season? These tried and true recipes are guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table:
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Green Bean Casserole | A classic casserole with a crunchy topping that is always a crowd-pleaser. |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | The perfect savory side dish to balance out all the sweet holiday treats. |
| Cornbread Stuffing | This savory stuffing is loaded with flavor and adds a delicious texture to your meal. |
| Honey Glazed Carrots | A sweet and colorful side dish that’s easy to make and satisfies both kids and adults alike. |
Crowd-Pleasing Holiday Sides
These delicious Christmas side dishes are guaranteed to be a hit with your guests:
- Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
- Balsamic Roasted Vegetables
- Creamy Mac and Cheese
- Candied Yams
Must-Have Christmas Side Dishes
No Christmas dinner is complete without these must-have side dishes:
- Cranberry Sauce
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- Creamed Spinach
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Add some variety to your Christmas dinner with these delicious and crowd-pleasing holiday sides. Your guests will thank you!
Vegetarian Christmas Sides
Looking to cater to your vegetarian guests this holiday season? Look no further than these mouth-watering Christmas sides that are sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table. Our delicious side dishes for Christmas dinner will have your guests begging for the recipes.
First on the list is our roasted vegetable quinoa salad, a flavorful combination of roasted veggies and fluffy quinoa. Pair this with our stuffed mushrooms, filled with creamy goat cheese and herbs, for a delectable vegetarian main course.
No vegetarian feast is complete without a hearty casserole, and our golden potato and fennel gratin is sure to please. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes and fennel are baked with delicious gruyere cheese, creating a creamy and indulgent side dish.
For those looking for a bit of heat, our spicy roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce will do the trick. Tender cauliflower florets are tossed in a spicy blend of herbs and spices before being roasted to golden perfection. Served with a tangy tahini sauce, this dish packs a flavorful punch.
Selection of Vegetarian Christmas Sides
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad | A flavorful salad of roasted veggies and fluffy quinoa. |
| Stuffed Mushrooms | Creamy goat cheese and herb stuffed mushrooms. |
| Golden Potato and Fennel Gratin | Creamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes, fennel, and gruyere cheese. |
| Spicy Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce | Tender cauliflower tossed in a spicy herb blend and served with tangy tahini sauce. |
With these flavorful holiday side dishes, your vegetarian guests will feel included and satisfied at your Christmas dinner. But even those who prefer meat won’t be able to resist these delicious offerings.
Make-Ahead Christmas Sides
With all the chaos of the holiday season, it pays to have some make-ahead Christmas side dishes that can be prepared in advance. Not only will this save you time, but it will also reduce the stress of preparing a big dinner. Plus, you will get to spend more time with your loved ones on the big day! Here are some quick, easy, and delicious side dishes that you can make in advance:
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Turkey Gravy | Prepare the broth and then refrigerate or freeze it. Reheat, whisk, and serve on the day of the holiday. |
| Green Bean Casserole | Assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate it. Add the crispy onion topping and bake it on the day of the holiday. |
| Cranberry Sauce | Make and refrigerate the sauce up to 2 weeks in advance. Serve chilled or at room temperature. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Peel, cube, and refrigerate uncooked potatoes in a bowl of water. Drain, boil, mash, and reheat with milk and butter on the day of the holiday. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Cut and season the veggies in advance. Roast them on a baking sheet and reheat them in the oven on the day of the holiday. |
These make-ahead Christmas side dishes will not only make your life easier but also add a burst of flavor to your holiday table. Try them out this year and enjoy a stress-free and delicious Christmas dinner!
Healthy Christmas Side Dishes
While indulging in holiday treats is a part of the celebration, it’s essential to balance them out with nutrient-packed dishes. These healthy Christmas side dishes will keep you feeling satisfied and guilt-free:
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Quinoa Salad | This colorful salad is packed with fiber and protein, making it a perfect plant-based Christmas side dish for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. |
| Roasted Vegetable Platter | Mix up your holiday platter with a variety of roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower, to create a colorful, flavorful, and nutrient-dense festive dish. |
| Baked Apples | A healthy dessert to balance out the indulgence of Christmas treats, baked apples are simple, easy, and delicious. Combine apples with oats, spices, and honey for a sweet and satisfying treat. |
These healthier Christmas side dishes are a great way to incorporate fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your festive meal while still enjoying the holiday season’s flavors and traditions.
Classic Holiday Side Dishes
What’s a Christmas dinner without classic holiday side dishes? These timeless recipes are crowd-pleasers and will transport you back to the Christmases of your childhood. Here are some of the most beloved ones:
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Green Bean Casserole | This creamy and crispy casserole is made with green beans, mushroom soup, and fried onions, resulting in a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Sprouts roasted with garlic and olive oil are a delicious and healthy side that kids and adults will love. |
| Candied Yams | The ultimate comfort food, candied yams are made with sweet potatoes coated in cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter for a dish that’s sweet and savory at the same time. |
| Cranberry Sauce | A tangy and sweet sauce made with cranberries, sugar, and orange zest is a classic accompaniment for roasted turkey. |
| Glazed Carrots | Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey, butter, and thyme are the perfect side for any roasted meat or poultry. |
Bring the holiday cheer to your dinner table with these classic holiday side dishes!
Must-Try Christmas Side Dishes
Why settle for the same old sides when you can try something new and delicious this Christmas? These must-try Christmas side dishes are sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday meal to new heights.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage and Walnuts
This flavorful dish combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the earthy taste of sage and the crunch of walnuts. It’s a perfect side dish for any holiday meal.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
These Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze that takes the flavor to the next level. They’re a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.
Garlic and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Upgrade your traditional mashed potatoes with garlic and parmesan. This savory side will add a burst of flavor to your holiday meal and is sure to become a family favorite.
Maple-Glazed Carrots
These sweet and savory carrots are roasted to perfection and glazed with maple syrup for the perfect balance of flavors. They’re a colorful and tasty side dish that will be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Harvest Quinoa Salad
This hearty salad is filled with autumnal flavors like cranberries, pecans, and roasted sweet potatoes. It’s a filling, healthy, and delicious option for vegetarians and anyone looking for a lighter side dish.
Must-Try Christmas Side Dishes Comparison
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Accessibility | Best Served With |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage and Walnuts | Earthy, sweet, and nutty | Vegan, gluten-free | Roast beef, turkey, or ham |
| Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze | Tangy, savory, and crispy | Vegan, gluten-free | Pork loin, chicken, or beef tenderloin |
| Garlic and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes | Savory and cheesy | Vegetarian, gluten-free (if made with GF broth) | Roast chicken, prime rib, or baked ham |
| Maple-Glazed Carrots | Sweet and savory | Vegan, gluten-free | Roast beef, turkey, or pork |
| Harvest Quinoa Salad | Sweet, nutty, and filling | Vegan, gluten-free | Grilled tofu, roasted vegetables, or stuffed squash |
These must-try Christmas side dishes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the possibilities for your holiday meal. Get creative and have fun experimenting with new flavors and combinations this Christmas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Christmas dinner sides are an essential part of your holiday feast. They add flavor, charm, and variety to your meal. Whether you opt for traditional classics like stuffing and mashed potatoes, or explore new and exciting dishes, the options are endless.
From easy and quick recipes to healthy and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with festive holiday sides that will leave them wanting more. Don’t forget to try out some of the must-try Christmas side dishes featured in this article.
Make your Christmas dinner unforgettable with the perfect selection of sides that complement your main course. So, start planning, get creative, and have fun while you’re at it. We hope our guide to Christmas dinner sides has been helpful in making your holiday preparations easier and more enjoyable. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a happy feasting!