Christmas is just around the corner, so it’s time to start planning the ideal menu for your holiday dinner. Without Lasagna, it is just missing the tradition.
Serving lasagna for Christmas dinner ensures that each person has something they have enjoyed on their plate.
Lasagna is one dish that often stands out on the menu; Delicious yet versatile, and the perfect side makes it an unforgettable holiday meal.
While there are endless possibilities to pair with lasagna, the best part is that These sides not only go on Christmas dinner but also you can have any holiday meal.
For a quick list of what to serve with Lasagna for Christmas dinner, try any of these- Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Twice Baked Potato Casserole, Sautéed Spinach with Garlic, Antipasto platter, Baked Sweet Potato, Mixed Baby Green, Roasted Bell Pepper Puff Pastry Bites, Cheesy Baked Tomato, Savoury Vegan Muffins, Baked Cheese Broccoli, Marinated Roasted Bell Peppers, Bacon Maple Brussels Sprouts, Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms, Summer Veggie Gratin, and more I discuss later in detail.
What is Lasagna? What does Lasagna Taste like?
Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that has been pleasing diners for generations. Prepared with layers of pasta alternating with a delicious sauce and a blend of meats, vegetables, cheese, and other ingredients.
Rich and flavorful yet not too heavy or overwhelming, Lasagna always delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Lasagna’s unique flavor comes from the extraordinary combination of its signature textures and tastes.
Each layer is lightly spiced with herbs like parsley, oregano, garlic, and bay leaves to create an unforgettable sensory experience.
24 Amazing Side Dishes To serve with Lasagna for Christmas Dinner
1. Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
Christmas dinner can be a notoriously difficult meal to coordinate, but it doesn’t have to be that way!
A surefire choice for a side dish to serve at the holiday table is Roasted Fingerling Potatoes. With their creamy and tender insides, these potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to the classic lasagna that is often the centerpiece of Christmas dinner.
Roasting them in olive oil gives them a nutty flavor, and then adding chopped herbs such as parsley or oregano takes them over the top. They’ll really shine alongside your cheese-filled pasta creation and make you look like a master chef!
2. Twice Baked Potato Casserole
The combination of flavors compliments the meal perfectly: A robust tomato sauce filling with cheesy layers, blended with creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and chopped-up bacon.
It’s an unbeatable way to add texture and flavor to your lasagna on this special night.
Plus, it’s a breeze to make in advance so you can spend more time with family instead of in the kitchen. Consider adding Twice Baked Potato Casserole as a side to your Christmas dinner – you won’t be disappointed!
Also Read: What to serve with Focaccia for Dinner
3. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
Christmas dinner is always a delicious affair, and with the right sides, it can quickly become everyone’s favorite holiday meal!
To that end, why not try sautéed spinach with garlic for your lasagna? It provides a healthy dose of vitamins like Vitamin A and Vitamin C, as well as calcium and iron, and its garlicky flavor adds a great depth to the hearty dish.
Plus, it’s also low in fat and calories, so you can enjoy it guilt-free during the holiday season.
With Sauteed Spinach with Garlic as your go-to side this Christmas, you’ll be sure to have a merry good time at the dinner table.
4. Antipasto platter
When it comes to the perfect side dish to accompany lasagna at a Christmas dinner, an antipasto platter is the way to go.
This traditional Italian appetizer consists of a variety of delicious cold cuts, cheeses, fresh vegetables, bread, and olives – everything you need to make your Christmas meal complete!
Setting up an antipasto platter can be fun as you get creative with different ingredients and presentation styles.
With its colorful array of flavors and textures, this delectable spread will be sure to impress your guests and give them something extra special to look forward to.
5. Baked Sweet Potato
Baked Sweet Potato is a popular side dish choice for a Christmas dinner, and serving it alongside lasagna makes for an amazing meal.
This classic combination is ideal because the sweet potatoes offer a complementary texture and flavor to lasagna’s layers of sauce and cheese.
Sweet potatoes are also packed with nutrients like beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin C, making them an excellent accompaniment to your festive feast.
For bonus points, try adding flavors such as rosemary or olive oil or combine them with roasted vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms to give your Christmas dinner a delicious twist.
6. Mixed Baby Green
Christmas dinner is a special occasion, and it’s important to pick the right side dishes to complement the main course.
Lasagna is usually a big hit — so why not add Mixed Baby Greens as a side dish?
Not only are they are rich in nutrition, but they also provide color contrast and lightness next to a heavy dish like lasagna.
By combining your choice of greens, you can add some texture and flavor to your dinner — perfect for satisfying even the pickiest eaters in your family.
Plus, every bit of nutrition from these fresh greens also helps make up for that extra dollop of cheesy goodness in the lasagna!
7. Roasted Bell Pepper Puff Pastry Bites
Roasted Bell Pepper Puff Pastry Bites make the immaculate side dish for lasagna at Christmas dinner.
The best part is that it is easy to make, flavorful and crunchy texture offers a delicious contrast that pairs wonderfully with the gooey layers of lasagna.
To create this delightful snack, simply roast some bell peppers in a hot oven before surrounding them in flaky, buttery puff pastry and baking until golden brown. It’s an effortless side dish that will bring out the best in your Christmas dinner.
8. Cheesy Baked Tomato
A delicious Italian favorite like lasagna deserves an equally mouth-watering side dish. Cheesy Baked Tomato is the perfect accompaniment for an opulent Christmas dinner.
This additional course matches lasagna’s aromatic cheesy sauces and rich tomato flavor, adding a well-rounded flavor profile to the meal.
A warm oven brings out the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, their juiciness balanced by garlicky herbed flavors and melted cheese.
Choosing Cheesy Baked Tomato as your side with lasagna takes your festive menu to the next level, bringing a little extra joy to this special time of year.
9. Savoury Vegan Muffins
Serving savory vegan muffins at Christmas dinner is a great way to make your lasagna extra special, especially for vegan friends.
These big and fluffy treats are absolutely delicious and 100% plant-based, too – perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle.
Perfectly complementing the classic Italian flavors of the lasagne, their subtle blend of herbs and seasoning offers an added boost of umami to every dish.
And if you are looking for an even heartier treat, why not add some lightly roasted walnuts or sesame seeds? These crunchy toppings pair magnificently with the savory vegan muffins, making them an ideal side for everyone at the table!
10. Baked Cheese Broccoli
Christmas dinner is one of the many joys of the season, and it wouldn’t be complete without a delicious main course.
Baked Cheese Broccoli is the addition of melted cheese that provides just the right amount of richness to balance out the flavors in the lasagna.
Meanwhile, the Broccoli gives that pop of color that any holiday spread needs. A great way to ensure everything stays warm while it’s served is to stick it in a preheated oven set to low heat until you are ready.
This way, all of your guests can enjoy their meal at its best – warm and savory!
11. Marinated Roasted Bell Peppers
Marinated Roasted Bell Peppers are colorful and grilled to perfection with an array of delicious Italian herbs and spices.
The peppers do provide beautiful colors for presentation, and their combination of sweet and savory flavors helps to elevate the Lasagna’s deliciousness.
Plus, roasted bell peppers are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for Christmas dinner. With this delightful side, your festive dinner will be sure to impress!
12. Bacon Maple Brussels Sprouts
For many families, the holiday season brings with it the tradition of making a special meal for Christmas.
Bacon Maple Brussels Sprouts are a delicious combination of sweet and salty flavors that perfectly complement the classic Italian taste of lasagna.
It is also incredibly simple to prepare. The bacon and maple syrup provide a glaze to lightly sear the Brussels sprouts in, leaving them tender and full of flavor.
Just toss together some freshly cooked Brussels sprouts with bacon pieces, maple syrup, salt & pepper, and butter in a large skillet until heated through. Enjoy!
13. Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms
Try making Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms this Christmas.
This flavorful side dish is cooked in the slow cooker and combines mushrooms, parmesan cheese, garlic, and other seasonings to create a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.
It pairs perfectly with lasagna and will bring out its delicious flavors for a complete, full-flavored meal.
14. Summer Veggie Gratin
This year spice things up a bit and try something new with summer veggie gratin.
This is a delicious veggie dish made from fresh vegetables baked in a creamy and cheesy sauce. It’s the perfect addition to any Christmas dinner table, as it is both healthy and full of flavor.
It is also easy to make, so everyone can enjoy it with minimal fuss. With the irresistible aromas of gratin bubbling away in the oven, your family will be in for one memorable lasagna night this holiday season!
15. Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is the perfect complement to lasagna, combining both flavors in a smooth and creamy mix that is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
The casserole also offers a fantastic level of interactivity; you can play around with different cheeses and spices or add vegetables of your choice – such as mushrooms or corn – for even more flavor!
Whatever you decide on, one thing is certain: Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole will make any Christmas dinner memorable.
16. Chicken Wings
The quintessential Italian dish is a classic favorite around the holidays. Some say it is unparalleled when paired with chicken wings.
For those of us who are looking for something beyond the traditional sides, serving up some of the succulent fried and smoked chicken wings will help take the Christmas dinner spread to the next level.
You don’t need to go all out – even just a single plate of wings will work as a great accompaniment.
The flavors mix wonderfully with that signature cheesy flavor that always comes through in lasagna dishes, making it an enjoyable and memorable side dish option on this most festive of occasions.
Know More: What to Serve With Chicken Thighs
17. Grilled Zucchini
Serving Grilled Zucchini alongside your lasagna at Christmas dinner is a great way to go!
Not only is it healthy, being that Zucchini is very low in fat and calories, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients like vitamin C, magnesium, folate, and dietary fiber.
With its mild flavor, Grilled Zucchini goes perfectly with any type of lasagna you choose to serve. Plus, you can easily execute a delicious version of Grilled Zucchini by simply sautéing the squash in a pan or grilling for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
For an added hint of flavor, sprinkle over olive oil, salt, and pepper to make your side dish even more enjoyable at this special family gathering.
18. Gluten-free Corn Casserole
If lasagna is a must-have for you, why not take it up a notch and serve it with some gluten-free Corn Casserole?
This delicious side dish will make all of your guests feel like they’re getting something special without adding any extra effort.
The sweet and savory combination of corn and cheese pairs perfectly with rich and hearty lasagna, making this combination an instant hit.
Not to mention, it’s convenient to make ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy your holiday festivities.
So if you’ve been searching for the perfect side dish to accompany your Christmas lasagna feast, try out the Gluten-free Corn Casserole – everyone at your dinner table will be sure to love it!
19. Honey Coated Carrots
Honey Coated Carrots are often overlooked, but it adds a splash of sweetness and crunch that complements the cheesy layers in lasagna perfectly.
Plus, they can usually be prepared in under 20 minutes – making them an ideal last-minute fix for your Christmas meal!
To really capture their flavorsome goodness, start by grating carrots with a cheese grater and then lightly fry them in sesame oil for an umami-rich base.
Add butter and salt, and let them simmer on low heat before sweetening up with honey. Voila! The perfect pairing for your lasagna dish!
20. Vegetables
For an especially festive feast, consider adding Christmas-colored vegetables such as roasted red peppers or a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers.
Adding color is not only aesthetically pleasing but can also boost the nutritional profile of your dish.
Other seasonal vegetables, like broccoli and zucchini, are widely available at this time of year.
Toss them in olive oil along with some garlic and herbs before roasting them in the oven so that they get nice and crisp before adding them to your lasagna.
This adds texture as well as flavor! If you’re feeling adventurous, mushrooms or fresh greens such as kale or spinach can also be added for additional flavor layers.
Serve your flavorful lasagna with these colorful veggies for a truly classic Christmas meal!
21. Bread
When planning the perfect Christmas dinner, it can be difficult to decide which bread to serve with a traditional lasagna dish.
One of the best options is focaccia – an Italian flatbread made with olive oil and salt and typically topped with herbs.
Its flavor blends seamlessly with melted cheese and rich tomato sauce in a lasagna dish. More importantly, it has a light texture that won’t feel too heavy between all the other components of the meal.
To make your lasagna night even more special, consider making your own focaccia by hand – it has a characteristic dimpled crust that is even better when it comes hot and fresh out of the oven.
If you have limited time on your hands, store-bought focaccia will also do very well when served at a festive dinner table.
22. Salads
Salads provide an excellent side that is both light and flavorful. If you’re looking for the perfect thing to accompany your lasagna, why not try one of these salads?
Caesar salad would be a classic choice with crunchy croutons, flavorful Parmesan cheese, and tangy dressing working together in harmony.
Alternately, a Greek salad is full of color and flavor – crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, salty feta, and green olives create an exciting medley.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with simply making yourself a nice green salad, as well as using seasonal ingredients like spinach, kale, or Brussels sprouts, plus things like nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
23. Desserts
For extra pleasure, pair this classic Italian dish with a variety of beautiful desserts that will have everyone indulge in the festive spirit.
From decadent tiramisu to creamy panna cotta paired with fresh fruits, any of these can be your perfect dessert choice.
If you’re feeling a little more creative, try making mini cannoli cups filled with sweet ricotta cheese or rich chocolate mousse-a perfect way to conclude your Christmas dinner on a sweet note!
24. Drinks
Christmas dinner is a time for indulgence, and what better way to indulge than with delicious lasagna and some scrumptious drinks?
Choosing the ideal beverage to pair with your festive feast can be difficult.
To admire the aromas of your cozy lasagna dish, select something fresh and light – perhaps a white Italian wine or a nice homemade Italian beer.
If you want more flavor to match the robust tomato sauce, consider selecting from a range of red wines, such as Merlot or Chianti.
For those looking for something bubbly and exhilarating, enjoy pairing your lasagna with an Italian-style Prosecco.
Ultimately, finding the best drink to accompany Christmas dinner all comes down to personal taste – so make sure to choose the right beverage that complements each other’s flavors!
How do you jazz up a lasagna?
Lasagna is one of those dishes that’s sure to please a crowd, but the same old recipe can get boring.
To really jazz up your lasagna, start with a good-quality pasta sauce; store-bought or homemade, it’ll be the cornerstone of the dish.
Add variety to your cheese selection – try different types of mozzarella, Ricotta, and Parmesan to add multidimensional flavor.
Spice up the mixture by adding minced onion, chopped green peppers, and garlic right into the mix.
And finally, don’t forget about that delicious crunch by topping the dish with a fresh sprinkle of bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese before baking it in the oven.
With just a few small tweaks, you can turn an ordinary lasagna into a flavorful masterpiece!
Do you really need side dishes to pair up with Lasagna?
Lasagna is one of the most cherished Italian dishes and is renowned for its delicious flavor and ease of preparation. But does it really need side dishes to be enjoyed?
In short, it depends. If you’re looking for a feast or want to make the extra meal special, then yes, side dishes can add significantly to the experience.
Salads like Caesar, Greek, or Waldorf can all provide a light yet flavorful contrast to the rich lasagna, while garlic bread or focaccia bread is the perfect accompaniment, particularly when they are topped with herbs appropriate to an Italian menu.
Vegetable sides such as roasted vegetables or grilled vegetables also pair nicely with lasagna and allow you to get creative with your presentation.
Overall, adding side dishes can be a nice addition when serving lasagna – but it’s certainly essential. I guess!
What flavor goes with Lasagna?
Lasagna is an Italian dish with a variety of flavor combinations to choose from.
A popular choice for seasoning the dish is oregano, which gives it a distinctly Mediterranean flavor, coupled with garlic and other spices.
Olives and capers can also be added for salty contrast, as well as sweet bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and sweetness.
A variety of cheeses are also used in lasagnas, such as ricotta or mozzarella, providing a creamy texture as well as savory notes.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add herbal aromatics that balance out the strong flavors in the dish. All these ingredients come together to create an incredibly delicious and flavorful experience.
What is the most pleasing way to serve Lasagna on any occasion?
When it comes to lasagna, presentation is everything.
To make it pleasing to the eye as well as mouth-wateringly delicious, layer ingredients in a wide pan, such as a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Use pre-made marinara or your favorite homemade sauce, then top with alternate layers of cheese, cooked vegetables or meats, and whatever seasonings best suit your family’s tastes.
Cover the layers with more sauce and extra cheese before baking in a preheated oven.
Don’t forget to let it rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven! This gives you plenty of time to create an impressive presentation featuring slices drizzled with additional marinara and sprinkled with fresh herbs.
Lasagna can be served on any special occasion and will be sure to please even the pickiest guests.
As a bonus, keep in mind that cold lasagna can make an incredibly flavorful leftover meal too.
See…
From countless dishes and vegetables to bread, desserts, drinks, and even a festive salad, there are plenty of choices for what to serve with your lasagna!
With so many options, you can try something different every time or stick with your favorite accompanying dishes from past years.
Regardless of what you choose, everyone at Christmas dinner will be sure to remember your signature lasagna paired with just the right sides.
FAQs
Do people have lasagna for Christmas?
Christmas is a wonderful time of year when we come together with family and friends to celebrate the season.
For those looking to make a festive feast, there are plenty of options that will fill your table and delight your guests.
Traditional Christmas fare varies widely depending on culture and religion, but one dish that has become popular worldwide is a classic Italian favorite—lasagna!
Although it’s not as widely served over the holidays as methods such as roasting or baking, lasagna can still be a delicious addition to your Christmas dinner.
With all the tasty ingredients you’d find in a regular lasagna – from pasta to cheese, tomatoes, and herbs – it can work wonderfully well for those wanting something different this holiday season.
And best of all, once assembled, lasagna requires minimal effort to prepare: just pop it in the oven, and you’re ready to enjoy your holiday meal!