Christmas is all about good food, great company, and laughter. While the roast turkey or ham usually gets all the attention, let’s not forget the real stars of the show: Christmas side dishes!
They’re the unsung heroes that bring the feast together and pair beautifully with any meal, making every bite unforgettable.
From creamy mashed potatoes to zesty salads, these Christmas side dishes are the glue that holds your holiday feast together. And if you’re looking for inspiration to make your Christmas dinner truly memorable, you’re in for a treat.
Let’s dig into these 24 hearty Christmas side dishes that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds).
24 Hearty Christmas Side Dishes That Pair Well With Any Dish
1
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes with a touch of roasted garlic are the ultimate comfort food. Pair them with gravy or eat them solo—they’re a hit either way. And hey, they’re the perfect start to your collection of Christmas side dishes for carb-lovers.
2
Honey-Glazed Carrots
Sweet, tender, and oh-so-shiny, these carrots are more than just a healthy option. They add a pop of color to your table and pair beautifully with any main dish. Plus, the glaze gives them a festive sparkle!
3
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Who knew Brussels sprouts could taste this good? Roast them until crispy, toss with bacon, and watch even the pickiest eater devour them. These are the kind of Christmas side dishes that win over skeptics.
4
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
This layered potato dish, swimming in creamy cheese sauce, is the definition of indulgence. It’s like the fancy cousin of mashed potatoes, perfect for your holiday table and a must-try among your Christmas side dishes.
5
Classic Stuffing
No Christmas feast is complete without stuffing. Whether you like it with sausage, cranberries, or just a heap of herbs, this dish is a must-have for that perfect holiday bite.
6
Green Bean Casserole
This creamy, crunchy classic will have your guests scraping the dish clean. The crispy fried onions on top? Chef’s kiss. Definitely a must in your lineup of Christmas side dishes.
7
Sweet Potato Casserole
Is it a side dish or dessert? Who cares! Topped with gooey marshmallows or crunchy pecans, this side dish is the sweet and savory combo your meal needs.
8
Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus might not scream Christmas, but roast it with garlic and Parmesan, and it’ll earn its spot on the table. Plus, it’s a lighter option to balance the heavier Christmas side dishes.
9
Herb-Buttered Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob gets a holiday upgrade with a generous slather of herb butter. It’s simple, but the flavors pop like Christmas fireworks.
10
Cranberry Sauce
A tangy, sweet cranberry sauce is the yin to your turkey’s yang. Bonus points if you make it fresh instead of reaching for the canned stuff.
11
Buttery Dinner Rolls
What’s a feast without rolls? Soft, fluffy, and dripping with butter, they’re perfect for mopping up all those delicious sauces from other Christmas side dishes.
12
Zesty Citrus Salad
Add a refreshing twist to your table with a salad of mixed greens, oranges, and pomegranate seeds. The zesty citrus dressing ties it all together beautifully.
13
Loaded Potato Skins
Potato skins stuffed with cheese, bacon, and sour cream? Yes, please! They double as a side dish and finger food, perfect for rounding out your Christmas side dishes.
14
Roasted Root Vegetables
A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes brings earthy flavors to your table. Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra holiday vibes.
15
Cauliflower Gratin
This cheesy, creamy casserole is proof that cauliflower can be exciting. It’s like mac and cheese’s veggie-forward cousin.
16
Balsamic-Glazed Mushrooms
These mushrooms are savory, tangy, and downright addictive. They’re a versatile side that fits perfectly with both mains and other Christmas side dishes.
17
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Yes, it’s technically an appetizer, but who’s stopping you from serving it as a side? This creamy, cheesy dip is a crowd-pleaser every time.
18
Deviled Eggs
A retro classic that never goes out of style. Add some paprika or bacon crumbles for extra flair.
19
Wild Rice Pilaf
Earthy, nutty wild rice with dried cranberries and almonds is the side dish you didn’t know you needed. It’s festive and filling without being too heavy.
20
Caprese Salad
Slices of mozzarella, tomato, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add an elegant touch to your table. Plus, it pairs surprisingly well with heartier Christmas side dishes.
21
Mac and Cheese
Who can resist a creamy, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese? Add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy, golden crust that screams holiday indulgence.
22
Garlic Butter Mushrooms
These sautéed mushrooms, drenched in garlic butter, are simple yet irresistible. Serve them alongside your main dish or mix them with other Christmas side dishes.
23
Apple Walnut Salad
Crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and creamy goat cheese come together in this refreshing salad. It’s a nice break from the heavier dishes.
24
Mini Yorkshire Puddings
These little puffed delights are perfect for soaking up gravy. Plus, their bite-sized nature makes them a fun addition to your holiday table.
These side dishes are not only hearty and delicious but also the perfect complement to your feast. So, go ahead and mix and match these Christmas side dishes to create a holiday meal that’s as unforgettable as the company around your table!!
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