Christmas is a time for joy, family, and, of course, delicious food. While the main dish often steals the show, it’s the side dishes that can create unforgettable flavors and seasonal cheer on your table. From savory to sweet, these 13 Christmas side dish recipes are set to charm your taste buds and leave your guests talking long after dinner.
1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
These creamy mashed potatoes are bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Boil potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain and mash with garlic, milk, and butter until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Make it Unique:
Mix in cream cheese for extra creaminess or add roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots
A classic side that adds a sweet touch to your feast.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.
- Drizzle with honey and cook for 5 more minutes.
Make it Unique:
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth or toss in some orange zest for zesty flavor.
3. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
These hearty Brussels sprouts are a crowd favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts and bacon in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
Make it Unique:
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving or drizzle balsamic reduction on top.
4. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
This vibrant sauce brings brightness to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- Zest of 1 orange
Process:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water; bring to a boil.
- Add cranberries and orange zest, simmering until berries burst.
- Cool before serving.
Make it Unique:
Mix in chopped walnuts for crunch or spice with a pinch of cinnamon.
5. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
A cheesy delight that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Process:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine broccoli, cheese, sour cream, and soup in a baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 25 minutes.
Make it Unique:
Add cooked chicken for protein or swap cheddar for gouda for a smoky taste.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans
This sweet potato dish is a feast for the senses.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Process:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix sweet potatoes, brown sugar, milk, and eggs; pour into a baking dish.
- Top with pecans and bake for 30 minutes.
Make it Unique:
Add a splash of maple syrup for sweetness or fold in mini marshmallows for a fun twist.
7. Roasted Garlic Green Beans
A healthy and savory option to accompany any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss green beans and garlic in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes.
Make it Unique:
Top with slivered almonds for crunch or sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving.
8. Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This dip is perfect for sharing.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Process:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl and transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly.
Make it Unique:
Serve with tortilla chips or add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
9. Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Apples
Sweet and savory flavors come together beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 cups diced apples
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Process:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts and apples in maple syrup and olive oil.
- Roast for 25 minutes.
Make it Unique:
Add pecans for crunch or sprinkle with goat cheese before serving.
10. Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
A salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium beets, roasted and sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens
- ½ cup goat cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette
Process:
- Arrange greens on a serving platter.
- Top with sliced beets and crumbled goat cheese.
- Drizzle with vinaigrette before serving.
Make it Unique:
Add walnuts for crunch or use feta cheese as a swap.
11. Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
A simple yet satisfying addition.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss cauliflower with olive oil, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes.
Make it Unique:
Add garlic powder for flavor or drizzle with a lemon squeeze for brightness.
12. Classic Stuffing
This stuffing is the perfect sidekick to any main dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 3 cups chicken broth
Process:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté onion and celery until soft.
- Mix with bread cubes and broth; bake for 30 minutes.
Make it Unique:
Add sausage for heartiness or include dried cranberries for sweetness.
13. Sugar Snap Peas with Sesame
A refreshing green addition to balance your holiday meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sugar snap peas
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Process:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil; add sugar snap peas and sauté for about 3 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce and sesame seeds, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Make it Unique:
Drizzle with chili oil for heat or toss in sliced bell peppers for color.
With these 13 delightful side dishes, your Christmas feast will be everything but ordinary. Whether you choose one or try them all, each recipe is sure to bring joy and flavor to your holiday table. Happy cooking, and may your Christmas be filled with delicious moments!