10 Best Christmas Side Dishes to Serve at Your Holiday Feast
We may earn a commission through all links on this website. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of roasting turkey and savory stuffing wafts through the air, but it’s the side dishes that truly bring the magic to the table. While the main event is undoubtedly the star of the show, it’s the supporting cast of colorful, flavorful, and texturally diverse dishes that elevate the overall dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary.
From classic favorites like green bean casserole and sweet potato mash, to creative twists on traditional recipes and innovative new ideas, the possibilities for Christmas side dishes are endless, and the perfect opportunity to showcase your culinary skills and bring joy to your loved ones.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a creamy and flavorful addition to any Christmas feast. Infused with the rich taste of garlic and butter, they bring comfort and warmth to the holiday table. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for festive gatherings.
1. Begin by peeling and cubing 2 pounds of potatoes. Place the cubes in a large pot and cover with salted water. 2. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. 3. While the potatoes are cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat and add 4 cloves of minced garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. 4. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. 5. Add the sautéed garlic and butter mixture, along with 1/2 cup of warm milk and salt to taste. 6. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk for your desired consistency. 7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey Glazed Carrots are a delightful addition to any Christmas table, bringing a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your feast. These tender, caramelized carrots are lightly coated in honey and butter, enhancing their natural flavors and making them irresistible. With their glossy finish and warm aroma, they are sure to impress your guests this holiday season.
1. Start by peeling 1 pound of baby carrots and set them aside. 2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. 3. Add the carrots to the skillet and stir to coat them in the butter. 4. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey over the carrots and season with salt and pepper to taste. 5. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and glazed. 6. For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry Orange Relish is a vibrant and tangy side dish that perfectly complements holiday meals. This fresh and zesty condiment balances sweet and tart flavors, making it a delightful addition to your Christmas table. Serve it chilled alongside turkey, ham, or as a topping for cream cheese on crackers for a festive appetizer.
1. Begin by rinsing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cold water and removing any stems. 2. In a food processor, combine the cranberries with 1 large orange (peeled and sectioned) and 1 cup of granulated sugar. 3. Pulse until finely chopped, but not pureed, and then transfer the mixture to a bowl. 4. Allow the relish to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld together. 5. Serve chilled as a side dish or condiment.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a delectable and nutritious side dish that perfectly complements your Christmas feast. Their outer leaves become crispy while the insides remain tender, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Seasoned with olive oil, salt, and a hint of garlic, these Brussels sprouts are sure to be a hit at your holiday table.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Rinse the Brussels sprouts and trim the stems, then cut them in half. 3. Toss the halved sprouts in a mixing bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until evenly coated. 4. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. 5. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. 6. Remove from the oven, and serve warm, optionally garnished with grated parmesan cheese or balsamic glaze.
Creamy Spinach Gratin
Creamy Spinach Gratin is a decadent side dish that perfectly complements any holiday meal. With its rich and velvety cheese sauce paired with tender spinach, this gratin is sure to impress your guests. Baked until golden and bubbly, it adds a festive flair to your Christmas table.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and sauté 3 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant. 3. Add 1 pound of fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. 4. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. 5. Combine the cooked spinach with the cream mixture and pour it into a greased baking dish. 6. Top with an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and breadcrumbs if desired. 7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling. 8. Let cool slightly before serving.
Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a delightful addition to any holiday feast, combining the natural sweetness of the potatoes with rich maple syrup. These vibrant orange gems are perfectly caramelized in the oven, creating a warm and inviting side dish that pairs beautifully with savory mains. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, they are sure to become a festive favorite at your Christmas dinner table.
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). 2. Peel and dice 2 large sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. 3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. 4. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 5. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and golden. 6. Remove from the oven and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild Rice Pilaf is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that pairs wonderfully with holiday meals. Featuring hearty wild rice blended with aromatic herbs, sautéed onions, and colorful vegetables, this dish adds texture and depth to your Christmas table. Its earthy notes and delightful chewiness make it a perfect complement to roasted meats and festive flavors.
1. Rinse 1 cup of wild rice under cold water until the water runs clear. 2. In a saucepan, combine the wild rice with 3 cups of vegetable broth and bring to a boil. 3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. 4. While the rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. 5. Add 1 diced onion, 1 diced carrot, and 1 diced celery stalk, sautéing until soft (about 5-7 minutes). 6. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute. 7. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. 8. Mix in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. 9. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Wild Rice Pilaf!
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Stuffed Acorn Squash is a festive and nutritious side dish that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. The sweet and tender acorn squash pairs beautifully with a savory filling made from quinoa, cranberries, and nuts, creating a delightful balance of flavors. This vibrant dish not only looks stunning on the table but also offers a warm and comforting taste that everyone will love.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. 3. Brush the insides of the squash halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. 4. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until tender. 5. In a saucepan, cook quinoa according to package instructions, replacing water with vegetable broth for added flavor. 6. In a large skillet, toast nuts and sauté diced onions and garlic until fragrant. 7. Add cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, and your choice of herbs to the skillet, mixing well to combine. 8. Once the squash is done roasting, fill each half with the quinoa mixture. 9. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through. 10. Serve warm as an elegant side dish.
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a delightful and comforting side dish that’s perfect for your Christmas feast. Packed with tender broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce, this casserole brings a rich, savory flavor that complements any holiday meal. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, it’s both satisfying and festive, making it a must-have on your holiday table.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside. 3. In a separate saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and cook for 1 minute. 4. Gradually add 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. 5. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. 6. Combine the broccoli with the cheese sauce and pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. 7. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole. 8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Savory Herb Stuffing
Savory Herb Stuffing is a delightful blend of bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables, making it the perfect accompaniment to any holiday feast. This classic dish is infused with rich flavors, providing a comforting and hearty addition to your Christmas dinner table. Whether baked separately or stuffed inside the turkey, it’s sure to become a family favorite during the festive season.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add diced onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. 3. In a large bowl, combine dried bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and parsley. 4. Pour in vegetable or chicken broth gradually, mixing until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy. 5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. 7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown. 8. Serve warm and enjoy the festive flavor!
