The Best Christmas Dinner Sides for Your Holiday Meal
Let’s be real—while the main dish tends to steal the spotlight on Christmas Day, what really makes the meal memorable are the Christmas dinner sides. Whether you’re serving a juicy roast, a glazed ham, or a tender turkey, the sides are what keep everyone coming back for seconds. From creamy casseroles to crispy potatoes, it’s the side dishes that can really transform your holiday table into a feast.
It’s All About the Christmas Dinner Sides For Us!
But with so many Christmas side dishes to choose from, where do you even begin? No worries! We’ve rounded up some of the best Christmas dinner side dishes that’ll have your guests drooling (and asking for the recipes, guaranteed). Keep reading to find the perfect side dishes that are easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and bound to become new traditions at your holiday table, like the salad with delicata squash, pomegranate and burrata pictured below.
#1 The Importance of Christmas Dinner Sides
You’ve probably heard it before—“It’s not a proper Christmas meal without the sides.” But why are these side dishes so important? Sure, your main dish might be the centerpiece, but it’s the side dishes that bring balance and harmony to the table. They complement the flavors, add texture, and sometimes even steal the show.
Think about it: Can you imagine Christmas without an epic platter, sweet potatoes, or cranberry sauce? No way! Whether it’s the crunch of perfectly roasted parsnips or the creamy goodness of a cheesy casserole, Christmas dinner sides complete the holiday feast in ways that can’t be overlooked.
#2 Sides That Steal the Show
If you’re anything like us, you’ve got some favorite side dishes that are a must every holiday season. But what if you’re looking to spice things up this year? Let’s dive into a few side dish ideas that’ll have your family and friends raving long after the meal ends.
Potatoes
We’ve all had mashed potatoes before, but have you ever tried crispy smashed potatoes? These are the perfect hybrid of mashed and roasted, offering a fluffy inside with an irresistibly crispy outside. Just smash boiled baby potatoes, drizzle with olive oil, season, and roast until golden brown. Trust me, these crispy beauties will be your new perfect side dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole
There’s just something about sweet potatoes that screams “holiday season.” Whether you’re topping your sweet potato casserole with marshmallows or a brown sugar crumble, this dish is an undeniable crowd-pleaser. And if you’re looking for something a bit different this year, try a sweet potato salad for a delicious savory side that will be a hit!
#3 Vegetable Side Dishes to Balance the Feast
Of course, no Christmas dinner is complete without some veggies on the table. While carbs and casseroles tend to dominate the spotlight, vegetable side dishes bring a much-needed balance to the meal.
Brussels Sprouts
Love ‘em or hate ‘em, Brussels sprouts have made a big comeback in recent years. When roasted until crispy and golden, they become nutty and delicious, making them the perfect accompaniment to richer dishes like ham or turkey.
Carrots
Looking for something simple yet stunning? Carrots bring color and sweetness to your holiday table. Toss them in olive oil, season with herbs, and roast until caramelized. Carrots are not only easy to prepare but also pack a flavorful punch.
Wild Rice
For a hearty, veggie-forward side, try a wild rice stuffed winter squash. The nutty flavor of the rice pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash, and when mixed with toasted pecans and dried cranberries, it’s a side that feels like a meal in itself.
Winter Squash
Winter squash is a cozy, colorful addition that brings warmth and a touch of sweetness to your holiday table. From the rich, earthy flavors of Honeynut squash to the vibrant yellow and green stripe pattern of delicata squash, these hearty veggies add depth and a beautiful pop of color to your spread.
#4 Simple and Savory: The Ultimate Comfort Food
If your holiday motto is “Go big or go home,” then you’ll love these rich, comforting side dishes. Sure, they’re indulgent, but hey—it’s Christmas!
Creamy Casserole
A creamy casserole is like a warm hug in a dish. Whether you opt for a broccoli and cheddar bake or a creamy mushroom-laced casserole, this side will disappear fast. Bonus points if you top it with crispy breadcrumbs or fried onions for added crunch.
#5 Bringing It All Together: New Traditions at the Christmas Table
With so many delicious side dishes to choose from, it’s hard to pick just a few. Whether you’re cooking up collard greens, shaving parsnips for salad, or sticking to the classics like creamy potatoes, it’s the variety that makes Christmas dinner so special.
Don’t be afraid to mix things up this year. Maybe try a twist on a family favorite or introduce something new like Brussels sprouts or irresistibly crispy roasted potatoes. After all, the holidays are about creating new memories, and nothing says “new tradition” like finding a dish that’ll be passed down for years to come.
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