Holiday Side Dishes: Create a Memorable Christmas Feast with 30 Simple Recipes
The holiday season often comes with the delightful challenge of preparing an impressive Christmas dinner, which typically includes a variety of scrumptious side dishes. However, amid the hustle and bustle, many find themselves crunched for time and torn between numerous options—how can one possibly choose between green bean casserole and buttery mashed potatoes? Thankfully, there’s no need to compromise! Here’s a curated list of 30 simple yet delectable recipes that will elevate your Christmas feast without overwhelming your schedule.
Fast and Easy Creamed Spinach
Indulge in a lighter version of traditional creamed spinach! This recipe offers a quick and easy method, using thawed, drained frozen spinach to save you even more time. Reviewers rave about the bright lemon notes and hints of nutmeg, making it a welcome addition to any holiday table.
Simple Roasted Butternut Squash
With just four ingredients, this roasted butternut squash is a crowd favorite, garnered from over 1,000 five-star ratings! Its flavor is enhanced with minced garlic, making it an effortless yet sophisticated side that pairs beautifully with any main dish.
Maple Glazed Carrots
These simple yet exquisite carrots are glazed in a mixture of maple syrup, butter, sugar, and salt—a sweet treat that will charm your guests. A hit at Thanksgiving, one reviewer claims that guests are already requesting them for Christmas!
Creamed Corn Like No Other
A standout side dish, this creamy corn recipe has a near-perfect rating thanks to its delicious flavor and ease of preparation. One reviewer even mentioned it was the first side to disappear at their holiday gathering!
Mouth-Watering Stuffed Mushrooms
With just five basic ingredients, these stuffed mushrooms offer big-time flavor. Users praise their versatility, noting variations that include options like smoked paprika or crispy bacon for a charming twist.
Patty’s Mashed Turnips
This nostalgic recipe brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table. Reviews highlight its buttery richness, making it an ideal pairing with turkey, ham, or roast beef.
Parmesan-Roasted Acorn Squash
A simple and nutritious option, this acorn squash recipe is noted for its ease of preparation and health benefits. Even those who typically avoid squash find it a hit!
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Classic for a reason, this recipe combines just four ingredients for an easy yet satisfying dish. With optional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s sure to please every palate at your family gathering.
Green Beans Almondine
A French classic, this dish features green beans tossed in butter and topped with toasted almonds, offering a gourmet touch without the fuss. Adding dried cranberries can bring an extra pop of color and flavor.
Mushy Peas
A delightful addition to your Christmas menu, this simple British side can be whipped up with just three ingredients. Perfect for those who want to add some vibrant color to their table!
Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes
This beloved recipe boasts a rich cheesy flavor that has captured the hearts of many home cooks. Reviewers frequently praise its creamy texture and comforting taste, making it a must-have for any holiday feast.
Smashed Brussels Sprouts
Fun and crispy, this dish allows Brussels sprouts to shine by smashing them lightly and adding cheese for extra flavor and texture. Reviewers appreciate how quickly this side comes together.
Easiest Sausage Stuffing
Perfect for busy hosts, this stuffing enhances boxed mixes with ground sausage. Its popularity among guests makes it a worthwhile addition to your holiday spread!
Cranberry Jell-O Salad
A light and refreshing dish that challenges the traditional cranberry sauce, this Jell-O salad adds a fun twist to your table. A sprinkle of orange zest elevates it to new heights.
Sautéed Swiss Chard
This vibrant dish makes a fantastic pairing with richer sides. Its simple process allows for easy preparation ahead of time, helping you bounce back during the busyness of holiday cooking.
Spiralized Brown Butter Sage Sweet Potato
Impress guests with beautifully spiralized sweet potatoes topped with sage-infused butter. This dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with delicious, comforting flavors.
Tasty Roasted Beets
Enhancing the earthy flavor of beets, this easy recipe highlights dried thyme and takes just 20 minutes. It’s versatile enough to pair with many dishes or stand alone as a salad addition.
Simple Macaroni and Cheese
Appealing to all ages, this no-fuss macaroni and cheese allows for personal touches, making it a versatile side. Users appreciate its ability to adapt and scale up for larger crowds.
Roasted Romanesco
Introduce your guests to this visually striking vegetable! Known for its unique fractal shape, consider pairing it with herbs to create a beautifully fragrant side.
Apple Cider Turkey Gravy
Rich in flavor, this gravy is made from homemade turkey stock and a splash of cider. It’s perfect for draping generously over your turkey or any of your other hearty sides.
Grandma Jeanette’s Amazing German Red Cabbage
Bringing sweet and sour notes, this tradition-rich dish is flavored with sugar and vinegar, making it a delightful compliment to your roasted meats.
Potato Rolls
An homage to warmth and family, these traditional rolls are said to freeze well and only get better toasted. They’re simple enough to prepare ahead of time.
Christmas Pomegranate Salad
Bursting with festive colors, this quick salad requires no chopping and highlights pomegranate’s juicy bursts. It’s easy, versatile, and refreshingly festive!
Oven-Baked Parsley Red Potatoes
A classic dish, these potatoes can be prepped in advance, adding to their appeal during the busy season. They elevate the meal with simplicity and flavor.
Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts
Sweet, spicy, and crispy, these Brussels sprouts can be made ahead, offering flexibility for your holiday meal timing while still being delightful.
Creamy Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
These luscious mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead of time, significantly reducing stress on the big day. A generous helping of butter upon reheating gives them a freshly made taste.
Cranberry Sauce with Apples
Add a tart twist to traditional cranberry sauce by incorporating apples. This can be made days in advance, contributing to a streamlined holiday culinary experience.
Cheese Grits Casserole
This southern comfort food is a family favorite, bringing warmth and nostalgia to breakfast or festive dinners. Prepare it ahead to ensure a stress-free morning.
Sweet Stuffing
With a perfect balance of sweet and savory, this stuffing is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Its adaptability allows for personal touches, making it a versatile addition.
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Finally, these Brussels sprouts achieve crispy perfection while being caramelized with maple syrup and bacon. It’s an indulgent side sure to receive rave reviews.
These 30 easy recipes will not only save time in the kitchen but also make your Christmas dinner a feast to remember, ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied and delighted. Why not bring a blend of traditional and trendy flavors to your holiday table this year?