The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it a mix of joy and stress. For many of us, one of the most daunting tasks is deciding on the perfect side dishes to accompany our main course – turkey, ham, beef, or fish. Do we stick to tried-and-true classics or try something new and exciting? The pressure to make the right choice can be overwhelming. To help alleviate some of that stress, I’ve compiled a list of my go-to Christmas side dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food or something innovative to impress your guests, this selection has got you covered.
PARMESAN PUMPKIN BREAD ROLLS
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors and textures presented by these no-yeast Parmesan Pumpkin Bread Rolls, infused with aromatic herbs and crowned with a generous sprinkling of melted cheese. A match made in heaven for a warm, comforting bowl of soup.
HONEY BUTTER SKILLET CORN
Join forces in the kitchen as you whip up a mouthwatering honey butter skillet corn recipe that’s ready in just 15 minutes! This delightful side dish is an excellent choice for a speedy weeknight meal, combining frozen corn, honey, butter, and cream cheese. The harmonious blend of creamy and sweet flavors will have your family coming back for more.
CHEESY SCALLOPED POTATOES
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese, a delectable dish that’s simplicity itself. This crowd-pleaser boasts just a few essential ingredients, yet manages to deliver a richly satisfying experience. Thin layers of potatoes are generously blanketed by a velvety-smooth cheese sauce, resulting in a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that’s sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
BROCCOLI CHEESE CASSEROLE
Indulge in the comfort of Broccoli Cheese Casserole, a delectable side dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its trifecta of simple yet satisfying ingredients – tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and crunchy buttery Panko topping – this casserole is sure to become a staple at your holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS & CINNAMON BUTTERNUT SQUASH
A delicious and nutritious holiday side dish, Julia’s Album combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts, the crunch of pecans, and the tanginess of cranberries. This gluten-free and high-fiber recipe is perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, offering a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional holiday fare.
5-INGREDIENT GARLIC FRIED CORN
When it comes to satisfying the cravings of a crowd, simplicity often reigns supreme. Take, for instance, a classic pan-fried corn recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This quick and easy side dish is perfect for large gatherings or family meals, and can be whipped up in no time with just a few basic ingredients – including frozen corn kernels.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting addition to your holiday spread or a satisfying accompaniment to your favorite main course, this pan-fried corn recipe is sure to hit the spot. And if you’re in need of even more culinary inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of top-rated Christmas appetizer recipes.
SLOW COOKER MAPLE & BROWN SUGAR GLAZED CARROTS
Indulge in the sweet and savory delight of Maple and Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots, a show-stopping slow cooker recipe that’s as effortless as it is impressive. This mouthwatering vegetarian and gluten-free side dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings with family and friends. The best part? It’s a cinch to make ahead of time or transport to potlucks, ensuring everyone gets their fair share of these tender, caramelized carrots.
SWEET CORN CASSEROLE
Southern cuisine’s quintessential side dish, the salty casserole, has earned its spot at family gatherings and casual get-togethers alike. Its simplicity is part of its charm, as it can be whipped up with a mere handful of familiar ingredients that likely reside in your pantry. No fuss, no muss – just a warm, satisfying accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods.
MAKE-AHEAD MASHED POTATOES
Indulge in the quintessential comfort of Five Heart Home’s Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes, a show-stopping holiday side dish that effortlessly balances creaminess and richness. With its subtle yet aromatic mellow garlic undertones, fresh herb nuances, and a satisfying crunch from a golden Parmesan crust, this delectable recipe is sure to become a cherished family tradition.
GOUDA MAC N’ CHEESE
Innovative flavors combine in this rich and creamy homemade gouda mac n cheese recipe, where the marriage of two distinct types of gouda cheese yields an unparalleled level of creaminess and depth. Meanwhile, the inclusion of al dente pasta ensures that each satisfying bite is a masterclass in cheesy indulgence.
BRIE & CHIVE BISCUITS
When it comes to elevating a dish, few combinations can rival the harmonious union of creamy brie and pungent chives. The velvety texture of the cheese, coupled with the bright, oniony flavor of the herbs, creates a delightful contrast that adds depth and complexity to any meal.
GARLIC ROSEMARY POTATOES
Indulge in the savory delight of Big Bear’s Wife, a remarkably straightforward recipe that yields mouthwatering results in under an hour. This delectable garlic rosemary potato dish is an ideal accompaniment for grand gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas, yet its appeal knows no season. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your daily meals or seeking the perfect side dish for a special occasion, Big Bear’s Wife will surely satisfy your cravings.
ROASTED CARROTS WITH CANDIED PECANS & GOAT CHEESE
This autumn and holiday season, elevate your side dish game with the mouth-watering combination of roasted carrots, candied pecans, and creamy goat cheese. The sweet and savory flavors will surely tantalize your taste buds.
SCALLOPED SWEET POTATOES
Elevate your holiday gathering with a delectable twist on traditional sweet potatoes. This scalloped dish is infused with the warmth of brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a rich and aromatic sauce. To add a playful pop of color and texture, top it off with toasted marshmallows and chopped pecans for an unforgettable finishing touch that’s sure to delight your guests.
CALIFORNIA BLEND VEGETABLES WITH PARMESAN BREAD CRUMBS
A West Coast-inspired delight, this versatile side dish combines the nutritional powerhouses of broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower in perfect harmony. To elevate its flavor profile, a sprinkle of Parmesan bread crumbs provides a satisfying crunch, while a subtle kick from cayenne pepper adds depth to each bite.
SLOW COOKER STUFFING
Transforming a beloved traditional stuffing recipe into a slow cooker masterpiece, this Easy Holiday Slow Cooker Stuffing is a game-changer for the busy season. By cooking it in a slow cooker, you’ll not only save precious oven space but also ensure that your side dish is consistently warm and ready to serve throughout the gathering.
CRANBERRY SALAD
Indulge in the sweet spirit of the season with this scrumptious Cranberry Salad. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect treat to add a touch of festive flair to any meal. A delightful medley of fruit, fluffy marshmallows, and creamy whipped goodness comes together to create a dish that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates at your holiday gathering.
SLOW COOKER CHEESY VEGETABLE CASSEROLE
Cooking for a crowd? Slow cookers are often the unsung heroes of meal prep, especially when it comes to side dishes. Take this Slow Cooker Cheesy Vegetable Casserole, for instance. Its ease and simplicity make it an ideal solution for busy home cooks. Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, then let its gentle heat do the rest.
LEMON BUTTER PARMESAN GREEN BEANS
Indulge in the simplicity and sophistication of Lord Byron’s Kitchen with Sautéed Lemon Butter Parmesan Green Beans, a culinary delight that effortlessly impresses even the most discerning palates. This crowd-pleasing side dish is as effortless to prepare as it is delightful to devour.
CARROT SALAD
A nostalgic nod to family traditions is woven into every bite of this delectable carrot salad. The harmonious balance of textures – courtesy of crunchy shredded carrots – and flavors – with sweet pineapple and a tangy hint of lemon – evokes memories of warm, comforting meals shared around the table, much like my grandmother’s cooking.
BROCCOLI-RICE CASSEROLE
In many ways, my kitchen is my own personal playground where I get to unleash my creativity and experiment with new flavors. And what better way to do that than with a rich and creamy casserole that’s packed with cheesy goodness? This delightful dish is sure to be the star of any holiday feast or casual family gathering, bringing people together with its warm and comforting charm.
CORNBREAD CASSEROLE
Elevate the classic cornbread casserole by incorporating the bold flavors of crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a spicy kick from jalapeño peppers. The result is a mouth-watering masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
VEGAN GARLIC KNOTS
Indulge in the irresistible charm of these vegan garlic knots, crafted with ease using just a handful of straightforward ingredients. The perfect accompaniment to any culinary experience, their light and fluffy texture is sure to captivate your senses.
SWEET POTATO AND APPLE CASSEROLE
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of this sweet potato and apple casserole, elevated by the aromatic presence of pumpkin pie spice and toasted pecans. This delightful dish is sure to become a staple at your next gathering or family dinner.
ROASTED MUSHROOMS IN BROWNED BUTTER
The allure of mushrooms has long been a fascination for me. Their versatility shines particularly when used as a side dish, such as these delectable roasted mushrooms smothered in a rich browned butter, garlic, and thyme sauce. This recipe is surprisingly effortless, requiring only the simple steps of roasting the mushrooms, browning some butter, adding aromatics like garlic and thyme, and finally, tossing in the roasted mushrooms to combine.
GREEN BEAN BUNDLES WITH BACON
Impress your dinner party guests with the ease and flair of Bacon Green Bean Bundles! Not only do these bundles save you time by allowing for advance prep, but they also provide a visually stunning side dish that’s sure to delight. Plus, each guest gets their own tidy bundle, making cleanup a breeze.
CHEESY BROCCOLI CAULIFLOWER CASSEROLE
Looking for a delectable side dish that’s quick to prepare and pleasing to the palate? Look no further than this Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole, which is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy, cheesy goodness, it’s no wonder everyone – even the pickiest of eaters – will be clamoring for seconds. And the best part? It’s perfect for any special occasion or holiday meal, making it a great addition to your menu.
PARMESAN ZUCCHINI CORN
As a homesteader, I’ve found that simplicity is key when it comes to cooking. This refreshing summer recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep and cooking time, making it an ideal solution for hot days when the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. What’s more, it’s the perfect way to showcase the season’s freshest vegetables and can be easily paired with a wide range of main courses.
SOUTHERN SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
For generations, Erhardts Eat has been a beloved Christmas tradition in many families. This timeless recipe has been a staple on holiday tables, with its perfectly balanced combination of crunchy pecans and velvety sweet potatoes. The harmonious blend of textures and flavors is sure to delight guests at your next festive gathering.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS GRATIN
Indulge in the unparalleled flavor of these delectable Brussels sprouts, which will leave you craving for more. The harmonious balance of crunchiness and tenderness is achieved through a delightful baking process in a rich and creamy sauce.
COPYCAT CRACKER BARREL HASHBROWN CASSEROLE
The 100k Recipes team has perfected a Hashbrown Casserole recipe that’s a staple in many households. This comforting dish is not only filling but also packed with flavor, making it an ideal solution for unexpected cravings or last-minute meal needs.
GARLIC BUTTER PARMESAN RICE
Savoring the Flavors of Weeknights: A Delicious Twist on Side Dishes Imagine a dish so divine, it’s loved by both kids and adults alike – a culinary masterpiece that elevates any meal to new heights! This Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice recipe is just that. Its bold flavors will leave you wanting more. Not only is this side dish incredibly easy to prepare, but its versatility knows no bounds.
It pairs perfectly with chicken, steak, or seafood, making it an ideal accompaniment for your Christmas dinner, whenever that may be. As the holiday season approaches, remember that what truly matters are the people you share a meal with. So go ahead, serve up these four mouthwatering side dishes and let the joy of sharing a meal bring everyone closer together.
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As the holiday season approaches, many of us are on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to add some cheer to our celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your dessert cravings or a savory dish to bring people together on Christmas morning, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of best Christmas pie recipes, salad recipes, and breakfast recipes is sure to inspire your culinary creativity and make your holiday season even more special.
SOME CHRISTMAS SIDE DISH BOWLS THAT YOU CAN BUY:
Sweese’s 10-ounce porcelain bowls are designed for everyday use, making them perfect for serving small snacks, desserts, and side dishes. The unique curve-shaped design adds a modern touch to any table setting. These practical bowls hold 10 ounces of your favorite treats and are easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. They’re also safe for microwave, oven, and freezer use.
The Aquiver ceramic dessert plates offer a minimalist and unique design that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday use. The pure clay raw material is bisque-fired at a low temperature and then glaze-fired at high temperature to ensure durability and longevity. Each plate features exquisite hand-painted color glaze craftsmanship, ensuring the bright colors will never fade. LIFVER’s 36-ounce serving bowls are designed for large gatherings and entertaining.
The unique design inspired by traditional Chinese ingots is both eye-catching and symbolic of wealth and prosperity. These high-quality porcelain bowls are made from premium materials and feature a smooth, delicate texture that’s lead-free and odorless. With their durable construction and stable design, they’re perfect for serving salads, soups, side dishes, pasta, and more.
