15 Vegetarian Christmas Dinner Side Dishes

If you’re planning a festive feast and want to keep things meat-free, these 15 vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes will make your holiday table feel complete and cozy.

From creamy potatoes and cheesy vegetable bakes to bright roasted veggies and stuffing, these dishes pair beautifully with any main course and are hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table.

Keep staples like vegetable broth, extra-virgin olive oil, and good-quality Parmesan cheese on hand so you can pull these sides together with ease.

Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-forward options to your holiday menu, these 15 vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes will bring color, flavor, and comfort to every plate.

1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Rich, buttery mashed potatoes with garlic and Parmesan are a must-have on any vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes menu. They’re simple, comforting, and pair beautifully with gravy, roasted veggies, and more.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Add the potato chunks to a large pot, cover with cold water, and season generously with salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
2. While the potatoes cook, warm the heavy cream, butter, and minced garlic cloves together in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter melts.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with a sturdy potato masher, then gradually stir in the warm cream mixture.
4. Fold in the Parmesan, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm in a covered dish until serving.

2. Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

These roasted Brussels sprouts are caramelized, tangy, and slightly sweet thanks to dried cranberries and balsamic glaze. They bring a festive pop of color to your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 1 large rimmed baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread in an even layer on the prepared pan and roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until browned and tender.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl, toss with the dried cranberries, and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

3. Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Gratin

This cheesy gratin combines broccoli and cauliflower in a creamy sauce, baked with a golden breadcrumb topping. It’s one of those vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes that feels indulgent and cozy.

Ingredients

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cups cauliflower florets
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3-quart casserole dish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a 3-quart casserole dish using a little of the butter.
2. Steam the broccoli and cauliflower florets until just tender, then transfer to the prepared dish.
3. In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk and simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened. Stir in the Gruyère, cheddar, garlic powder, and nutmeg until smooth.
5. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and gently toss with a silicone spatula to coat.
6. In a small bowl, combine the panko with the remaining 1 tablespoon melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
7. Bake 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

4. Herb and Mushroom Vegetarian Stuffing

This savory stuffing is loaded with mushrooms, herbs, and vegetable broth, making it a perfect vegetarian Christmas dinner side dish that still tastes classic and cozy.

Ingredients

• 10 cups day-old bread cubes
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 12 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 9x13-inch casserole dish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10–12 minutes until dry and lightly golden.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and mushrooms; cook 8–10 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
3. Stir in the parsley, sage, and thyme.
4. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the vegetable mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth and beaten eggs, tossing gently until the bread is evenly moistened.
5. Transfer to a greased casserole dish and cover with foil. Bake 25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until the top is lightly crisp.

5. Honey-Roasted Carrots with Thyme

Sweet, tender carrots roasted with honey and thyme bring brightness and color to your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes. They’re beautiful on a big platter and easy to prep.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Rimmed baking sheet

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the carrot sticks on a baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and honey, then sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring once, until the carrots are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with any extra pan juices before serving.

6. Spinach and Artichoke Scalloped Potatoes

Combine the flavors of spinach artichoke dip with scalloped potatoes for a rich, crowd-pleasing vegetarian Christmas dinner side dish that feels special and festive.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (12-ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 9x13-inch baking dish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, and Parmesan until smooth.
3. Stir in the thawed spinach and chopped artichoke hearts.
4. Layer half of the potato slices in the baking dish. Spread half of the spinach artichoke mixture over the potatoes.
5. Repeat with remaining potatoes and spinach mixture. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes, then remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes

These roasted sweet potatoes are tossed with maple syrup and crunchy pecans for a cozy, slightly sweet side that fits perfectly among your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• Rimmed baking sheet

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup, then sprinkle with cinnamon and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Roast 20 minutes, stir, then sprinkle with the chopped pecans and roast another 10–15 minutes until tender and caramelized.

8. Green Bean Almondine with Lemon

A lighter, bright alternative to heavier casseroles, this green bean almondine brings freshness and crunch to your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• ½ cup sliced almonds
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice + 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook 4–5 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately plunge into a bowl of ice water.
2. In a large skillet, toast the almonds over medium heat until golden, then remove to a small bowl.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the drained green beans and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then season with salt and pepper. Toss with the toasted almonds just before serving.

9. Cranberry Orange Wild Rice Pilaf

This wild rice pilaf is studded with cranberries and orange zest for a festive, naturally gluten-free addition to your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups wild rice blend
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ cup toasted slivered almonds (optional)

Directions

1. Rinse the wild rice blend under cold water. Add to a saucepan with the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 40–45 minutes until tender.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook 5–6 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir the cooked onion, cranberries, orange zest, and parsley into the cooked rice. Toss well.
4. Top with toasted almonds before serving, if using.

10. Baked Creamed Spinach with Gruyère

Rich, cheesy creamed spinach baked until bubbly is a classic, comforting side dish that fits perfectly on any vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes menu.

Ingredients

• 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2-quart baking dish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter. Add the onion and cook 5 minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook 1 minute more.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and simmer until thickened.
4. Stir in the Parmesan, Gruyère, and nutmeg until smooth.
5. Fold in the squeezed spinach with a spatula, then transfer to the baking dish.
6. Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned on top.

11. Roasted Garlic and Herb Root Vegetables

A colorful mix of root vegetables roasted with garlic and herbs makes a rustic, beautiful platter that adds warmth to your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 2 small turnips, peeled and chopped
• 4 small red potatoes, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the chopped carrots, parsnips, turnips, and red potatoes on a large baking sheet.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle over the vegetables and toss with your hands or a spatula to coat.
4. Roast 30–35 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the veggies are browned and tender.

12. Festive Caprese Christmas Salad

This simple tomato, mozzarella, and basil salad becomes holiday-ready arranged in a wreath shape. It’s a fresh, colorful addition to your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes lineup.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. On a large round platter, arrange the tomato halves, mozzarella pearls, and basil leaves in a wreath shape.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
3. Season lightly with salt and pepper just before serving.

13. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Crisp-tender asparagus spears roasted with Parmesan and lemon make an elegant yet easy addition to your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the asparagus on a baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Parmesan, and toss to coat.
3. Roast for 10–12 minutes until crisp-tender, then sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.

14. Brie and Cranberry Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized mushrooms filled with brie and cranberry sauce are a beautiful, rich appetizer or side that fits right into your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes spread.

Ingredients

• 24 large white button mushrooms, stems removed
• 6 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cubed
• ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Olive oil cooking spray

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil spray.
2. Arrange the mushroom caps hollow side up. Place a small cube of brie in each cap.
3. Top each with about ½ teaspoon cranberry sauce and a few thyme leaves.
4. Bake 12–15 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted.

15. Herbed Goat Cheese and Roasted Beet Salad

This roasted beet salad with creamy herbed goat cheese and walnuts is colorful, tangy, and elegant—perfect for rounding out your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes.

Ingredients

• 4 medium beets, trimmed
• 6 ounces goat cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
• 5 cups baby arugula or mixed greens
• ½ cup toasted walnut halves, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Aluminum foil

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet in foil and place on a baking sheet. Roast 45–60 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife. Cool, then peel and slice.
2. In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese with the herb blend until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the greens with the dressing, then top with beet slices, dollops of herbed goat cheese, and walnuts.

FAQ

Can I make these vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes ahead of time?

Yes, many of these vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes are very make-ahead friendly. Casseroles like scalloped potatoes, broccoli gratin, and creamed spinach can be assembled in a covered casserole dish, refrigerated for up to 24 hours, and then baked just before dinner. Roasted vegetables can be chopped the day before and stored in glass containers with lids to save time.

How can I keep these vegetarian sides warm for serving?

To keep vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes warm without overcooking, transfer them to heat-safe serving dishes and place them in a low oven (around 200°F) covered with foil. You can also use a buffet warming tray or small slow cookers for mashed potatoes and creamed dishes.

Are these vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes easily made gluten-free?

Many of these dishes can be made gluten-free with a few simple swaps. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or stuffing mix for gratins and stuffing, and substitute cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for regular flour in sauces. Always check labels on items like vegetable broth to be sure they’re certified gluten-free.

What are the best tools to have on hand for making vegetarian Christmas sides?

A few reliable tools make prepping vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes much easier. A sharp chef’s knife, a sturdy cutting board, a set of mixing bowls, and a few rimmed sheet pans will carry you through most recipes. A good mandoline slicer is also helpful for thinly slicing potatoes and root vegetables.

How can I balance richer dishes with lighter ones on my menu?

When planning your vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes, try pairing richer casseroles and potatoes with a couple of lighter, fresher options. For example, serve creamy mashed potatoes alongside a crisp salad like the beet or caprese salad, and include a bright dish such as green bean almondine or lemony asparagus. Using smaller serving bowls and simple white platters helps everything look cohesive while keeping portions flexible.

Can I make these sides dairy-free while keeping them vegetarian?

Yes, many of these vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes can be adapted with dairy-free alternatives. Swap butter for vegan butter, use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk in place of cream, and choose dairy-free shredded cheese for casseroles. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and wild rice pilaf are especially easy to make dairy-free with these swaps.

Conclusion

These 15 vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes prove you can build a festive, satisfying holiday menu without relying on meat.

From creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy gratins to bright salads and roasted vegetables, you’ll have plenty of flavors and textures to fill every plate.

With pantry staples like vegetable broth, olive oil, and Parmesan on hand, it’s easy to mix and match these recipes all season long.

As you plan your menu, choose a few vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes from different “families”—like one potato dish, one casserole, one roasted vegetable, and one salad—to create a balanced table.

Most importantly, have fun with these vegetarian Christmas dinner side dishes and customize them to your family’s tastes.