25 Christmas Side Dishes Everyone Will Love

From classic potatoes and vegetable bakes to bright salads and buttery breads, these Christmas side dishes pair perfectly with ham, turkey, beef roasts, or whatever main dish you’re serving.

You can easily shop everything you need—from a heavy-duty potato masher to festive serving platters—to help your holiday table look and taste amazing.

1. Classic Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with roasted garlic are a must-have among Christmas side dishes. They’re perfect for soaking up gravy and pairing with any holiday main course.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 whole head of garlic
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh chives (optional)

Directions

1. Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast at 400°F for 35–40 minutes until soft and golden; let cool, then squeeze out the cloves.
2. Add the potatoes to a large pot of cold salted water, bring to a boil, and simmer 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain well and return potatoes to the pot; let them steam dry for a few minutes, then mash with a sturdy potato masher.
4. Warm the cream and butter in a small saucepan until melted, then stir into the potatoes along with the roasted garlic.
5. Season generously with salt and pepper, adjust consistency with extra cream if needed, and garnish with chopped chives before serving.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness and beautiful color to your Christmas side dishes. They’re simple to make but feel special enough for any holiday table.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or coins
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Salt
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Add the prepared carrots to a large skillet with ½ cup water and a pinch of salt, cover, and simmer over medium heat for 6–8 minutes until just tender.
2. Drain any remaining water, then add the butter, honey, and cinnamon to the skillet.
3. Cook, stirring frequently with a heat-safe silicone spatula, until the glaze thickens and coats the carrots, about 4–5 minutes.
4. Season to taste with salt, transfer to a serving dish, and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving warm.

3. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Rich, cheesy scalloped potatoes are one of those Christmas side dishes everyone goes back for seconds of. Thin layers of potato baked in a creamy sauce create the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Butter for greasing the dish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch rounds.
3. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; heat gently until warm but not boiling.
4. Layer half the potatoes in the dish, pour over half the cream mixture, and sprinkle with half the Gruyère and cheddar; repeat with remaining potatoes, cream, and cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes, then uncover and bake another 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top; let rest 10 minutes before serving.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts with smoky bacon are a savory favorite among Christmas side dishes. The caramelized edges and salty bits of bacon make this dish irresistible even to sprout skeptics.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large sheet pan.
2. Scatter chopped bacon over the sprouts and toss lightly to distribute.
3. Roast at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the sprouts are browned and the bacon is crisp.
4. Drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar right before serving if you like a tangy finish.

5. Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a velvety, classic addition to Christmas side dishes, bringing richness and color to your plate. It pairs beautifully with roast beef, ham, or turkey.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds fresh baby spinach
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ small onion, finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 ounces cream cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

Directions

1. Rinse the spinach and cook it in a large covered skillet for 2–3 minutes until wilted; drain and squeeze out excess moisture with a fine mesh strainer or towel, then chop.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced onion until soft, then add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
3. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Add the chopped spinach back to the pan, stir in Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer gently for a few minutes until creamy and heated through, then serve warm.

6. Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Maple roasted sweet potatoes bring caramelized edges and cozy flavor to your Christmas side dishes. They’re slightly sweet, lightly savory, and so easy to make.

Ingredients

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Sea salt

Directions

1. Spread the cubed sweet potatoes on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet.
2. Whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, then pour over the sweet potatoes and toss until evenly coated.
3. Roast at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway, until tender and caramelized around the edges.
4. Season with a bit more sea salt to taste and serve hot.

7. Green Bean Almondine

Green Bean Almondine is a simple yet elegant addition to your Christmas side dishes, with tender green beans and toasty sliced almonds. A hint of lemon keeps everything bright and fresh.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• ½ cup sliced almonds
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Blanch the green beans in boiling salted water for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender, then transfer to an ice bath using a slotted spoon.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add sliced almonds; cook until they are fragrant and lightly golden, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the buttery almond mixture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, then serve immediately.

8. Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

This cranberry pecan stuffing adds a sweet-tart crunch to your Christmas plate while still feeling cozy and traditional. It’s a great way to upgrade boxed stuffing mix with dried fruit, nuts, and a bit of fresh herb flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 (12-ounce) bag herb-seasoned stuffing mix
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 celery stalks, finely diced
• 2–2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• ¾ cup dried cranberries
• ¾ cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Cooking spray for a 9x13 baking dish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly coat a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then sauté the diced onion and celery for 6–8 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the herb stuffing mix, sautéed veggies, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans.
4. Pour in 2 cups of warmed broth, along with the chopped sage, parsley, salt, and pepper; toss gently until the stuffing is evenly moistened, adding a bit more broth if needed.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and crisp around the edges.

9. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Parmesan roasted asparagus is a bright, elegant side that adds color to your Christmas table. The tips get slightly crisp, while a shower of cheese and lemon keeps everything light and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, zested and cut into wedges
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 large rimmed baking sheet

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
2. Spread the asparagus spears in a single layer on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper; toss with your hands to coat evenly.
3. Roast for 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness, until the asparagus is crisp-tender and just starting to brown at the tips.
4. Remove from the oven, immediately sprinkle with the Parmesan and lemon zest, and gently toss so the cheese clings to the hot spears.
5. Serve right away with lemon wedges on the side so guests can squeeze extra citrus over their portions.

10. Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

This sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a nostalgic favorite topped with gooey, golden puffs. It’s sweet, cozy, and perfect alongside ham, turkey, or beef at Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3–4 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 greased 9x13 baking dish

Directions

1. Add the cubed sweet potatoes to a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook 15–18 minutes until very tender, then drain well.
2. Return the potatoes to the warm pot and add the butter, brown sugar, cream, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and pepper; mash with a potato masher until smooth and creamy.
3. Spoon the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish and spread into an even layer with a spatula.
4. Top generously with an even layer of mini marshmallows, covering all the sweet potatoes.
5. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until the marshmallows are puffed and toasted golden brown. Let sit 5 minutes before serving so it sets slightly.

11. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft, buttery dinner rolls are a must-have Christmas side dish for sopping up gravy and sauces. These rolls rise high and bake up golden, making your holiday table feel extra special.

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 3–3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
• 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• 9x13 metal baking pan

Directions

1. In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, stir together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add 3 cups of flour, melted butter, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms, adding up to ¼ cup more flour if too sticky.
3. Knead by hand on a floured counter or with the dough hook for 6–8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until doubled.
5. Punch down the dough, divide into 15–18 equal pieces, and shape into smooth balls. Arrange in a greased 9x13 pan, cover, and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
6. Bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes until golden brown. Brush the tops with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.

12. Balsamic Roasted Root Vegetables

Balsamic roasted root vegetables are colorful, caramelized, and slightly tangy, making them a gorgeous addition to your holiday spread. This side is an easy way to bring earthy flavor and lots of veggies to the table.

Ingredients

• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 3 small beets, peeled and chopped
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Large sheet pan lined with parchment

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Add the chopped carrots, parsnips, beets, and red onion to a large bowl.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper; toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared pan, avoiding overcrowding so they roast instead of steam.
5. Roast for 30–40 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized at the edges. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

13. Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Broccoli cheese casserole is a bubbly, cheesy side that feels like pure comfort food. It’s perfect for guests who love classic vegetable casseroles topped with a little crunch.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken or mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 2-quart casserole dish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
2. Steam the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender, then drain well to remove excess moisture.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the steamed broccoli and 1 ½ cups of the cheddar cheese, then spread the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
5. In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top along with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden and crisp.

14. Sautéed Green Beans With Garlic

Sautéed green beans with garlic are simple, bright, and add freshness to a rich Christmas menu. They cook quickly on the stovetop and are easy to finish right before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
• ½ lemon, for squeezing
• Large sauté pan with lid

Directions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the green beans; cook for 3 minutes until bright green and just tender, then drain and plunge into ice water to stop the cooking.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the drained beans to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 3–4 minutes, tossing frequently until heated through and lightly blistered in spots.
4. Stir in the butter if using and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before transferring to a serving dish.

15. Cornbread With Herbed Butter

Cornbread with herbed butter brings a cozy, Southern-style touch to your Christmas meal. The bread itself is slightly sweet, and the whipped herb butter makes every slice feel extra festive.

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted (plus ½ cup for herbed butter)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 8-inch square baking pan

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, and ⅓ cup melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined.
4. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly before cutting.
5. While the cornbread bakes, beat ½ cup softened butter with the chopped parsley, chives, and a pinch of salt using a small hand mixer until light and fluffy.
6. Serve warm squares of cornbread with a dollop of herbed butter on top or in a small dish on the side.

16. Herbed Wild Rice Pilaf

This herbed wild rice pilaf is a fragrant, elegant Christmas side dish with nutty grains, tender veggies, and fresh herbs. It’s a great alternative to plain rice and pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or beef.

Ingredients

• 1 cup wild rice blend
• 1 cup long grain white or basmati rice
• 3 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 1 large carrot, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• ⅓ cup toasted sliced almonds (optional)

Directions

1. Rinse the wild rice blend and white rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cool water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then sauté the diced onion, celery, and carrot for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the drained rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently so the grains get lightly coated in butter and toast just a bit.
4. Pour in the warmed broth, add the thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with a snug lid, and simmer for 35–40 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let the pilaf sit covered for 5–10 minutes, then fluff with a fork and stir in the chopped parsley and toasted almonds before serving.

17. Festive Caprese Salad

Festive caprese salad turns classic tomato, mozzarella, and basil into a wreath-style centerpiece. It’s fresh and light, making a great contrast to rich Christmas side dishes.

Ingredients

• 4–5 ripe Roma or vine tomatoes, sliced
• 16 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• ⅓ cup pomegranate arils (optional for sparkle)

Directions

1. On a large round serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in a ring around the edge to form a wreath shape.
2. Tuck whole basil leaves between the slices so you see pops of green all the way around.
3. Drizzle the salad with olive oil and a thin zigzag of balsamic glaze, then sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Finish with a handful of pomegranate arils scattered over the top for a jeweled, Christmas-y look.

18. Brown Sugar Glazed Parsnips

Brown sugar glazed parsnips are sweet, caramelized, and a fun change from regular carrots. They bring a rustic, cozy feel to your Christmas side dishes lineup.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds parsnips, peeled and cut into batons
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

Directions

1. Add the cut parsnips to a large skillet with 1 cup of water, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 5–7 minutes until just tender but not falling apart. Drain any remaining water.
2. Add the butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat, gently tossing the parsnips to coat.
3. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring frequently, for 5–8 minutes until the sugar dissolves and forms a glossy glaze over the parsnips.
4. Stir in the chopped rosemary if using, then transfer to a warm serving dish and spoon extra glaze from the pan over the top.

19. Loaded Cauliflower Bake

This loaded cauliflower bake is a cheesy, bacon-topped side that gives you all the flavors of loaded potatoes with extra veggies. It’s an indulgent but slightly lighter option among your Christmas side dishes.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh cauliflower florets
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• ¼ cup sliced green onions
• 2-quart baking dish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
2. Steam the cauliflower florets for 5–7 minutes until just tender, then drain very well so there’s no excess moisture.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Fold in the drained cauliflower, 1 ½ cups of the cheddar, and half of the crumbled bacon, stirring gently to coat.
5. Spread the mixture into the prepared dish, then top with the remaining cheese and bacon. Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly, then sprinkle with green onions before serving.

20. Pomegranate Winter Salad

Pomegranate winter salad is crisp, colorful, and full of sweet-tart flavor. It’s a refreshing addition to your Christmas side dishes, balancing out all the creamy casseroles and potatoes.

Ingredients

• 6 cups mixed salad greens or baby spinach
• 1 cup pomegranate arils
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup balsamic or pomegranate vinaigrette

Directions

1. Add the salad greens to a large salad bowl, gently fluffing with your hands to separate the leaves.
2. Top with the pomegranate arils, mandarin segments, feta, and toasted walnuts, scattering them evenly.
3. Right before serving, drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette and toss gently with salad tongs to coat without bruising the greens.

21. Cheddar Chive Biscuits

Cheddar chive biscuits are fluffy, cheesy, and perfect for soaking up gravy and sauces. They’re a savory, crowd-pleasing bread option for your Christmas side dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh chives
• ¾–1 cup cold buttermilk

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the cheddar and chopped chives, then add ¾ cup of buttermilk and gently mix until a soft dough forms, adding a splash more buttermilk if needed.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, pat into a ¾-inch-thick rectangle, and cut into rounds or squares with a biscuit cutter or sharp knife.
5. Place biscuits on the prepared pan, close together for softer sides or spaced apart for crisper edges, and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and puffed.

22. Roasted Chestnut and Mushroom Medley

This roasted chestnut and mushroom medley is rich, earthy, and feels very old-world festive. It’s a lovely savory side to round out your Christmas side dishes, especially with roast meats.

Ingredients

• 2 cups peeled roasted chestnuts
• 1 pound cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7–10 minutes until they release their liquid and become golden in spots.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant, then add the chestnuts, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for another 3–5 minutes, gently tossing, until the chestnuts are warmed through and lightly coated in the pan juices.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley before transferring to a warm serving bowl.

23. Apple Walnut Waldorf Salad

Apple walnut Waldorf salad is crunchy, creamy, and lightly sweet, adding a classic touch to your Christmas side dishes. It’s a great make-ahead option that stays crisp in the fridge.

Ingredients

• 3 crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp), cored and chopped
• 3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
• 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
• 1 cup walnut halves, toasted and roughly chopped
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1–2 tablespoons honey

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and honey until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, celery, grapes, and toasted walnuts.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently with a spatula until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before serving to let the flavors meld and keep the salad crisp.

24. Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread

Garlic Parmesan pull-apart bread is a show-stopping Christmas side dish that doubles as a centerpiece everyone will happily tear into. Soft, buttery dough pieces are coated in garlicky butter and Parmesan, then baked together until golden and irresistible.

Ingredients

• 2 cans refrigerated biscuit dough (8-count each)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 nonstick Bundt pan
• Nonstick cooking spray

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously coat a nonstick Bundt pan with cooking spray so the bread releases easily.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese.
3. Open the cans of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into 4 pieces. Toss the dough pieces in the butter mixture a handful at a time until each piece is coated.
4. Layer the coated dough pieces into the prepared Bundt pan, sprinkling in a little extra Parmesan between layers so every bite is cheesy and flavorful.
5. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is deep golden brown and the center feels set when gently pressed. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
6. Let the pull-apart bread cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Brush with any remaining butter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm so guests can pull off pieces at the table.

25. Caramelized Onion Gratin

Caramelized onion gratin is a rich, ultra-cozy Christmas side dish with layers of sweet onions baked under a blanket of cheese and cream. It’s a great option when you want something a little different from the usual potatoes but just as indulgent.

Ingredients

• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 shallow baking dish or 9-inch pie dish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a shallow baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large, heavy sauté pan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until they are deeply golden and caramelized.
3. Stir in the thyme and cook 1–2 minutes more. If the pan looks dry, add a splash of water to loosen the browned bits from the bottom.
4. Spread the caramelized onions evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the heavy cream over the onions so it settles around them.
5. In a small bowl, combine the shredded Gruyère, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the onions.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and crisp and the cream is bubbling around the edges. Let the gratin rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets slightly and slices more cleanly.

FAQ

Can I make these Christmas side dishes ahead of time?

Yes, many of these Christmas side dishes can be prepped a day or two in advance, which is a lifesaver for busy holiday cooking. Casseroles, gratins, and stuffing can usually be assembled in a 9x13 baking dish, covered, and refrigerated, then baked right before serving. Just add a splash of broth or cream if anything looks a little dry before it goes into the oven.

How do I keep my Christmas side dishes warm while everything finishes cooking?

The easiest way to keep Christmas side dishes warm is to use a combination of a low oven, slow cookers, and covered serving dishes. Set your oven to about 200°F and hold casseroles and roasted veggies in oven-safe serving dishes covered with foil. For mashed potatoes and gravies, a divided slow cooker buffet works wonderfully to keep everything hot without drying out.

What are some easy ways to add color to my Christmas side dish spread?

To make your Christmas side dishes really pop, mix in bright ingredients like pomegranate arils, fresh herbs, roasted carrots, and leafy greens. Serving salad or veggie sides in a large white porcelain platter and adding garnishes like chopped parsley, lemon wedges, or toasted nuts instantly makes everything look more festive. Even something simple like transferring cranberry sauce to a pretty glass serving bowl can upgrade your table.

How can I accommodate vegetarian or gluten-free guests with these Christmas side dishes?

It’s easy to adapt many Christmas side dishes by swapping a few key ingredients. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in stuffing or rice, and choose gluten-free breadcrumbs or crispy onions for toppings. You can also set aside a portion of roasted veggies before adding any bacon or meat, and label dishes clearly with small buffet place card holders so everyone knows what fits their needs.

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftover Christmas side dishes?

Most Christmas side dishes keep well for 3–4 days when stored in airtight glass storage containers in the refrigerator. Reheat casseroles and roasted veggies in the oven, covered with foil, at 300–325°F until warmed through, adding a bit of broth or cream if needed. Smaller portions of sides like mashed potatoes or stuffing can be reheated gently in the microwave in a covered microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway so they heat evenly.

Christmas Side Dishes

With these Christmas side dishes, you’ll turn your holiday table into a feast that dazzles every guest.

Whether you crave comforting classics or crave worthy new twists, you’ve got the perfect lineup for a memorable celebration.

So, grab your favorites, gather your loved ones, and let these irresistible sides make your Christmas dinner truly unforgettable.

Get the scoop on more like this:

• 25 Christmas Treats for Kids to Make
• 25 Easy Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas
• 25 Christmas Crafts to Make With Kids
• 25 Christmas Desserts You Have to Try