‘Tis the season for feasting, merrymaking, and of course, indulging in a variety of delicious holiday dishes. While the main event – turkey, ham, or whatever your centerpiece may be – is certainly important, it’s the supporting cast of characters that often steals the show. We’re talking about those mouthwatering side dishes that add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to your Christmas table.
From classic comfort foods like creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy scalloped potatoes, to savory roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts and carrots, there’s something for everyone on this list of 20 festive Christmas sides recipes. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for some inspiration for your own family gathering, these dishes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your table.
So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to cozy up your holiday spread with these scrumptious side dish ideas!
Garlic Butter Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this easy and flavorful recipe that brings out the best in Brussels sprouts. With the richness of garlic butter, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with salt and pepper until evenly coated.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
4. Add the garlic butter mixture to the Brussels sprouts and toss until they’re fully coated.
5. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Herbs
Elevate your mashed potato game with the addition of fresh herbs and a touch of creaminess. This recipe yields a rich and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the olive oil to enhance the flavor and texture.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy flavor of thyme, all tied together with a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle honey over the carrots, followed by sprinkling thyme sprigs evenly across the top.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and softened butter. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of potatoes.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
5. Repeat steps 3-4, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle paprika over the cheese.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Orange Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to your holiday dishes, from turkey to ham to yogurt parfaits. Made with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and juice, this recipe is easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
This comforting casserole combines tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions for a delicious side dish perfect for holidays or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil; blanch green beans for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, sauté sliced onion in butter until golden brown. Set crispy onions aside.
4. In the same skillet, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, and cooked green beans. Stir until smooth.
5. Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with crispy onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple Syrup
Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple Syrup Recipe
This sweet and savory recipe brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash, perfectly balanced by a hint of maple syrup. Perfect as a side dish or topping for salads, soups, and more.
Ingredients:
• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and pulp.
3. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the squash, sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven, drizzle with maple syrup, and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the tender vegetable with crispy, savory bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Stuffing with Sausage
This recipe combines the flavors of herbs and sausage to create a delicious and savory stuffing perfect for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture, bread, melted butter, chicken broth, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping: A classic Southern dessert that combines sweet potatoes, sugar, spices, and crunchy pecans to create a deliciously comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in melted butter and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with chopped pecans, spreading evenly to cover the surface.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of cauliflower with the savory punch of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower. Toss to combine.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Roasted Beets
Roasting beets brings out their natural sweetness, while a balsamic glaze adds a tangy depth of flavor. This simple recipe is perfect for a side dish or as a topping for salads or grains.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil, leaving space for steam to escape.
3. Roast the beets for 45-50 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the beets are roasting, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey in a small bowl.
5. After the beets have cooled slightly, peel off the skin and slice into wedges.
6. Brush the balsamic glaze over the roasted beets, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamed Spinach with Nutmeg
A rich and creamy spinach dish infused with the warm, comforting flavor of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add the spinach to the saucepan and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the cream simmer for 5-7 minutes or until it has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornbread Pudding with Cheese
This comforting side dish is a twist on classic cornbread, featuring a creamy pudding texture and melted cheese throughout. Perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornbread mix, heavy cream, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until puffed and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Root Vegetables with Rosemary
Roasted Root Vegetables with Rosemary Recipe
Introduction
Elevate the humble root vegetable to new heights with this aromatic roasted recipe, perfectly balanced with the piney flavor of rosemary.
Ingredients
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the carrots, parsnips, and turnips.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
This sweet and savory side dish is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or as a hearty topping for sausages. The natural sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the red cabbage, creating a comforting and flavorful autumnal treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped apples, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the apples are caramelized.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the nutty goodness of Parmesan cheese with the earthy sweetness of broccoli. Perfect as a side dish or added to pasta, salads, and more!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced (for an extra boost of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until broccoli is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the broccoli and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted and golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and season with garlic (if using). Serve hot!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Wild Mushroom and Sage Risotto
A hearty and earthy risotto dish that combines the rich flavors of wild mushrooms with the warmth of sage, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the mushrooms, garlic, and sage to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add 1 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1-cup increments and stirring until absorbed, for a total of 20-25 minutes or until the rice is creamy and cooked.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Spiced Cranberry Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is perfect for the holiday season, serving as a delicious condiment to pair with crackers, cheese, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. The combination of cranberries, spices, and brown sugar creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened and reduced slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the added crunch of breadcrumbs! This simple recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your holiday table with these 20 festive Christmas side recipes! From classic comfort dishes like creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy scalloped potatoes, to savory roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts and carrots, there’s something for everyone. Try unique twists like honey-glazed beets or balsamic-glazed roasted squash, or go all out with decadent sides like sweet potato casserole with pecan topping or baked mac and cheese with breadcrumbs. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous cook, these recipes are sure to bring joy to your holiday gatherings.