Mistletoe and munchies go hand in hand when it comes to holiday meals. The right side dishes can make your Christmas dinner memorable, and these 15 recipes are sure to please a crowd. From classic favorites to new twists, these sides are easy to make and perfect for any gathering. No matter who’s sitting at the table, these dishes will have everyone coming back for more.
Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
A mix of zucchini, squash, and tomatoes brings color and flavor to your Christmas dinner with this Italian-inspired ratatouille. It’s a fresh, savory side that’s both easy to make and sure to impress. This dish stands out among other sides, adding variety and flavor to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
Cinnamon Apples
These cinnamon apples are a warm, sweet side that pairs perfectly with any Christmas meal. The Instant Pot cooks them to tender perfection, bringing out the natural sweetness of the fruit. This simple side adds a special, cozy flavor to your Christmas feast.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apples
Grilled Baby Bok Choy
Grilled baby bok choy is a fresh and flavorful side that adds variety to your Christmas spread. The Asian marinade highlights its natural sweetness, making it a great match for meats or fish. This easy-to-make side adds a pop of color and flavor to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Baby Bok Choy
Smoked Brie Potato Gratin
Smoked brie and tender potatoes come together in this rich, creamy gratin that’s perfect for Christmas dinner. The layers of flavor are comforting and indulgent, making it a memorable side. It’s easy to prepare and will have guests asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brie Potato Gratin
Buttery Dinner Rolls
Soft and fluffy, these buttery dinner rolls are a must-have for any Christmas meal. Their light texture and rich flavor pair well with roasts, soups, and everything in between. These rolls will be gone before you know it, so make extra for your holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Dinner Rolls
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side that completes any Christmas dinner. The creamy sauce and layers of cheese make them rich and satisfying. This dish is easy to make and will quickly become a favorite at your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Harvest Quinoa Salad
Harvest quinoa salad adds a refreshing and colorful touch to your Christmas dinner. The combination of nutty quinoa, sweet butternut squash, and tangy feta is both delicious and beautiful. This simple side brings a burst of flavor to your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Quinoa Salad
Mashed Potatoes
These creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that everyone will love. Made in the Instant Pot, they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them the perfect complement to any main dish. This velvety side is a must-have for any Christmas celebration.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon brings out their natural sweetness while adding a smoky, savory kick. This simple yet flavorful side is perfect for any Christmas spread. It’s easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Corn Casserole
This cheesy corn casserole is a rich and comforting side that’s perfect for Christmas. The combination of sweet corn, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese sauce creates a satisfying dish. It’s an easy-to-make side that will be gone in no time at your holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
Cranberry Orange Sauce
Cranberry orange sauce adds a tangy, refreshing contrast to your Christmas meal. The burst of citrus and tart cranberries make it the perfect complement to roasted meats or savory dishes. This simple side brings balance and brightness to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Sauce
Dinner Roll Knots
These soft, buttery dinner roll knots are perfect for sopping up gravy or pairing with hearty dishes. Their rich flavor and fluffy texture make them a favorite at any Christmas meal. This easy-to-make side will disappear quickly, so be sure to make extra.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Roll Knots
Buttery Crescent Rolls
Buttery crescent rolls are a golden, flaky addition to any Christmas dinner. Their melt-in-your-mouth interior and rich flavor make them the perfect complement to roasts or soups. This simple side is sure to become a holiday table favorite.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Crescent Rolls
Spinach Orzo Salad
Spinach orzo salad is a fresh, savory side that adds variety to your Christmas spread. The hot orzo and fresh spinach blend together for a flavorful, balanced dish. This easy-to-make side pairs well with meats and fish, making it a great choice for your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Orzo Salad
Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa
Spinach and Parmesan quinoa offers a light yet flavorful side for your Christmas meal. Packed with protein and vibrant flavors, it’s a great option for those looking for a healthier dish. This easy-to-make side adds variety and a burst of flavor to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa