These delicious Christmas side dishes will bring all the good cheer to your table. Watch out, holiday ham. This year you have competition!
1/45
Green Bean Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This green bean casserole has always been one of my favorite dishes—it’s so easy to put together! You can make it before any guests arrive and keep it refrigerated until baking time. —Anna Baker, Blaine, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 163 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 485mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
Perfect for family gatherings, this classic can be made ahead of time and popped in the oven when guests arrive. Use fresh or frozen green beans, make a quick sauce and top with crunchy onions.
2/45
Cheese & Herb Potato Fans
From the Recipe Creator:
It's downright fun to make and serve this potato recipe. The fresh herbs, butter and cheeses are just what a good potato needs. —Susan Curry, West Hills, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 potato: 318 calories, 15g fat (10g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 797mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 8g protein.
Also known as Hasselback potatoes, named after the hotel in Sweden where they originated, these cheesy spuds look great on the Christmas dinner table. Here’s an easy tip for getting the slices just right without going all the way through to the bottom: Place a wooden spoon along the side of the potato, then cut carefully until the blade hits the handle.
3/45
Pretzel-Topped Sweet Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone I've shared this recipe with says it's the tastiest way to serve sweet potatoes. I like to make it for special dinners and even for brunch as a colorful go-with dish. The mingled sweet, tart and salty flavors are an unusual treat. —Sue Mallory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 484 calories, 24g fat (11g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 606mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (43g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein.
These creamy mashed sweet potatoes loaded with sweet-and-savory toppings like pretzels, cranberries, brown sugar and pecans are a wonderful alternative to the classic holiday side. This recipe might just become the new family favorite!
4/45
Roasted Cauliflower
From the Recipe Creator:
Roasting is a simple way to prepare cauliflower. Seasoned with a wonderful blend of herbs, this side is easy enough for weeknight dinners. It's one of the best baked cauliflower recipes I've found. —Leslie Palmer, Swampscott, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 107 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 120mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
There’s nothing easier than roasted cauliflower for dinner. Covered in herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and baked in the oven until caramelized and a little sweet, the vegetable is transformed into a Christmas side dish that goes with everything—roast beef, ham, turkey or even tofu!
5/45
Cranberry Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
One of my piano students taught me the perfect lesson in holiday recipes: this fresh cranberry salad. The keys are tangy fruit, fluffy marshmallows and crunchy nuts. —Alexandra Lypecky, Dearborn, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 200 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 32mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
A salad that eats like a dessert? Sign us up! A mix of tangy fruit, fluffy marshmallows and crunchy nuts makes this a standout for the holidays. For more side dish inspo, here are some of our best Christmas salad recipes.
6/45
Festive Rice
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom and I transformed plain rice by adding feta, cranberries, pumpkin seeds and cayenne. We wound up with a sweet and spicy crowd-pleaser. —Lisa de Perio, Dallas, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 244 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 514mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
Everything deserves a little sprucing during the holiday season, even plain old rice. Here it’s transformed with sweetened pepitas, cranberries, salty feta cheese and a kick of cayenne. Keep that festive spirit going with some of our best Christmas punch recipes.
7/45
Sharp Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Try as I might, I can never follow a recipe exactly. Here's what I came up with when I made a family friend's scalloped potatoes recipe in my own kitchen. These potatoes are so good—you'll just keep going back for more. —Susan Simons, Eatonville, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 436 calories, 26g fat (16g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 576mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 15g protein.
Butter, cream and two kinds of cheese make these scalloped potatoes impossible to resist. Great with any roasted meat, they’re the perfect Christmas side dish.
8/45
Garlic-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Mustard Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Don’t be afraid to bring out the roasted Brussels sprouts. Mellowed with mustard sauce, they may just delight even the most skeptical folks. —Becky Walch, Orland, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 167 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 241mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein.
We’re not saying roasted Brussels sprouts need embellishment, but when you add lots of garlic and this delicious mustard cream sauce, they become something spectacular.
9/45
Sweet Potato Pilaf
From the Recipe Creator:
The combination of sweet potatoes, bacon, asparagus and kale makes this simple wild rice dish taste amazing! To save time and dishes, use a pressure cooker to cook the rice and also to saute the other ingredients. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 156 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 350mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
Sweet potatoes, kale, asparagus and bacon (yay!) create a beautiful symphony of color and flavor when combined with wild rice. For a shortcut, use your Instant Pot to cook the rice.
10/45
Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
With five different dairy products, you know this make-ahead mashed potato casserole is going to be super rich and, of course, delicious. It gets even better topped with onions and bacon! —JoAnn Koerkenmeier, Damiansville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 354 calories, 20g fat (12g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 400mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein.
These loaded, and we mean loaded, potatoes can be made at least one day ahead of time and popped back in the oven right before you serve dinner. Yes, there are at least five kinds of dairy products and bacon. They’ll be a Christmas side dish your friends and family will ask for each year.
11/45
Corn Pudding
From the Recipe Creator:
Cornbread mix and canned corn make this southern corn pudding casserole a snap to prepare. Now, this is real comfort food! —P. Lauren Fay-Neri, Syracuse, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 435 calories, 22g fat (12g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
If you’re looking for easy Christmas dinner ideas, look no further than this southern corn pudding casserole. Simply combine cornbread mix, two kinds of canned corn and a few other ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious side in a snap.
12/45
Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish is especially wonderful when locally grown asparagus is in season. It's so easy for celebrations because you can serve it hot or cold. —Jannine Fisk, Malden, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 95 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 294mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
Year-round asparagus is easy to come by these days, and it’s particularly good with this Italian-inspired roasted vegetable recipe. Dressed up with grape tomatoes, pine nuts and a little lemon zest, it can be served hot or cold—perfect for day-long holiday celebrations.
13/45
Crockpot Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
If you're hosting a big Thanksgiving dinner this year, add this simple slow-cooked stuffing to your menu to ease entertaining. The recipe comes in handy when you run out of oven space at large family gatherings. I use this Crockpot dressing recipe often. —Donald Seiler, Macon, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 178 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 635mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
This simple slow-cooked stuffing makes a great Christmas side dish for big holiday get-togethers. Pop sautéed vegetables, herbs and bread cubes into a slow cooker and forget about it for a few hours, then serve when ready.
14/45
Creamed Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
This side has earned a permanent place on our special-occasion menus. While my whole family loves it, my son would be especially disappointed if I forgot to include our corn dish. —Deb Hauptmann, Mohnton, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 317 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 425mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
Ultra creamy, this corn side dish feels special-occasion without the fuss. It’s all in the roux—the combination of butter and flour that serves as the base of a good sauce. Plus, heavy cream and a quick hit under the broiler create a cheesy golden brown top.
15/45
Honey-Thyme Butternut Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
This golden, honey-sweetened squash is just as hearty and comforting as your favorite potato dish. With its bright color, it makes an attractive side for special autumn meals. —Bianca Noiseux, Bristol, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 145 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 161mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
Like comfort in a bowl, the combination of creamy whipped butternut squash with a bit of honey and a touch of thyme will complete any Christmas table. While you can serve it alongside potatoes, it’s a nice alternative on its own.
16/45
Broccoli Parmesan Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
I began making this creamy side dish years ago as a way to get my kids to eat broccoli. They have since grown up but still request this satisfying casserole. It's truly a family favorite. —Barbara Uhl, Wesley Chapel, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 191 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 388mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 6g fiber), 11g protein.
Even kids who hate broccoli will dig into this creamy baked version. After steaming the florets, cover them in a cheese sauce, top with bread crumbs and pop in the oven until browned. It’s good for the holidays or any day.
17/45
German Red Cabbage
From the Recipe Creator:
Sunday afternoons were a time for family gatherings when I was a kid. While the uncles played cards, the aunts made treats such as this traditional German red cabbage recipe. —Jeannette Heim, Dunlap, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 64 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 23mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
Red cabbage cooked with apple creates a perfectly festive Christmas side dish for the holiday table. A touch of vinegar gives the mixture a subtle sweet-tart flavor.
18/45
Cranberry-Walnut Brussels Sprouts
From the Recipe Creator:
Brussels sprouts are one food that picky eaters often resist, but a burst of cranberry flavor may change their minds. You can also add garlic and other dried fruits. —Jennifer Armellino, Lake Oswego, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 281 calories, 20g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 26mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 5g fiber), 5g protein.
Dried cranberries add just enough sweetness to these easy caramelized Brussels sprouts, and walnuts give some crunchy texture. All together, the combo is a satisfying side for any main dish.
19/45
Potatoes Lyonnaise
From the Recipe Creator:
I learned how to make this classic dish in culinary school. It’s comforting and simple to prepare. I like to switch up the herbs to give it a different flavor every time. The side is fantastic for casual dinners but also elegant enough for any holiday. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 190 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 134mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
Potatoes cooked with butter, onion and herbs: What could be better? Simple to make, it’s a wonderful accompaniment to things like baked ham or roast pork tenderloin.
20/45
Skillet Sausage Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
To make this sausage stuffing, I dressed up a package of stuffing mix with pork sausage, mushrooms, celery and onion. It impressed my in-laws at a family gathering and has since become a popular side dish with my husband and children. —Jennifer Lynn Cullen, Taylor, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 219 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 756mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
During the bustling holiday season, we all need a few cooking hacks to make things easier. Here, packaged stuffing mix gets a boost of flavor and texture from sausage, mushrooms, celery and onion. It goes from stovetop to table in under 30 minutes.
21/45
Creamed Spinach
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother made a variety of spinach dishes when I was growing up. This rich, delicious creamed version is the only one that stayed with me through the years. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 129 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 357mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
Quickly steam fresh spinach, then saute it with onions, cream and Parmesan cheese. It’s like a quick gratin without all the work.
22/45
Acorn Squash with Cranberry Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
If you have squash or cranberry lovers at the table, here’s your new go-to recipe. It’s colorful, the blend of flavors is delicious and it’s a fitting addition to a Thanksgiving menu. —Dorothy Pritchett, Wills Point, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 270 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 367mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (36g sugars, 5g fiber), 2g protein.
Amp up acorn squash with fresh cranberries, a bit of tart apple, butter and savory herbs. Both colorful and festive, this is a fitting addition to a small-scale Christmas dinner.
23/45
Celery Gratin
From the Recipe Creator:
This celery gratin was a dish our family came to love. My grandmother knew how to create a dish out of just a few simple ingredients. —David Ross, Spokane Valley, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 331 calories, 27g fat (17g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 390mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
Let celery be the star of your Christmas sides with this easy, creamy gratin. The simple dish comes together in a snap and makes a lovely side for glazed ham or roast beef.
24/45
Butternut Squash Jumble
From the Recipe Creator:
I took this to a Thanksgiving potluck one year when I couldn't go home for the holiday. It was a huge hit. I like it because it's something different without being too nontraditional. It's also good at room temperature, so it's one less thing to worry about when you're trying to time serving everything. I like Gorgonzola for this, but any blue cheese would work. If you can find the precrumbled cheese, even better. —Kara Brocious, Indianapolis, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 311 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 402mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 8g fiber), 6g protein.
The beauty of this roasted squash and sweet potato dish isn’t just the color. It’s the delicious salty-sweet additions of dried cranberries, Gorgonzola cheese and toasted pecans for a nice contrast. The recipe can be served at room temperature, which means one less oven dish to worry about.
25/45
Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
I couldn’t shake my mashed potato habit—until I tried mashed cauliflower with a similar consistency. Now I make my own, and my family loves it. —Meredith Howard, Franklin, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 154 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 290mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, try mashing cauliflower with butter, cream and Parmesan cheese instead. This is one of those Christmas side dishes you’ll turn to every year.
26/45
Spiced Carrots with Pistachios
From the Recipe Creator:
Give the classic carrot side dish a little extra crunch with this recipe. This quick and easy dish is gluten-free and vegetarian. It'll satisfy everyone at the table for holiday gatherings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 181 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 223mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein.
Turn traditional candied carrots into something special with a hint of warm spices, plus golden raisins and pistachios. It will please every palate, from gluten-free to vegetarian and vegan.
27/45
Perfect Winter Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my most-requested salad recipe. Serve it as a side salad along with your holiday meal, or enjoy it for lunch the next day with cubed turkey or chicken on top. —DeNae Shewmake, Burnsville, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 235 calories, 18g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 47mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
Laced with tart apples, crunchy pecans and dried cranberries, this easy winter salad makes a delightful Christmas side dish.
28/45
Ginger Butternut Squash Bisque
From the Recipe Creator:
This soup is filling enough for my husband and it’s vegetarian, which I love. The couple who introduced us made it for us on a freezing night and we’ve been hooked ever since. —Cara McDonald, Winter Park, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 386 calories, 21g fat (14g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 749mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 10g fiber), 7g protein.
A lightly spiced bisque goes well with any holiday meal. Serve it beforehand as an appetizer or alongside other sides for a nontraditional Christmas dinner. Served with rice and topped with dried coconut and peanuts, it can even be a vegetarian main course.
29/45
Cranberry-Sesame Spinach Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
For a feast or any occasion, we love this snappy fall salad that balances sweet and sour with good crunch from almonds and sesame seeds. —Stephanie Smoley, Rochester, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 257 calories, 21g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 207mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
This snappy salad balances sweet cranberries with subtly tart apple cider vinaigrette, plus added crunch from almonds and sesame seeds. It’s a terrific side dish with other seasonal favorites like creamy mashed potatoes, stuffing and roast turkey.
30/45
Collard Greens with Bacon
From the Recipe Creator:
Collard greens are a staple vegetable of southern cuisine. This side dish is often made with smoked or salt-cured meats, such as ham hocks, pork or fatback. —Marsha Ankeney, Niceville, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 157 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 651mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein.
Simmer hearty collard greens with bacon, a few herbs and chicken stock for the most flavorful Christmas side dish. If you’re serving glazed ham, you need these greens.
31/45
Thyme-Roasted Vegetables
From the Recipe Creator:
The smell of our house as this is baking calls everyone to dinner. Normally, it serves eight, but my husband's been known to have more than just one serving at a time. It's that good. —Jasmine Rose, Crystal Lake, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 151 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 274mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
For a delicious and no-fuss holiday side, simply toss cubed sweet potatoes, mushrooms and bell peppers in a bit of olive oil and herbs, put it on a sheet pan and roast in the oven. The aroma alone will make the house feel like the holidays.
32/45
Cranberry Sauce with Walnuts
From the Recipe Creator:
Traditional cranberry sauce is nice, but this jazzed-up version is several steps above. It travels well, and all the women in my family serve it. The apricot preserves, lemon and toasted walnuts make it different. —Dee Buckley, Salado, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 178 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 5mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (37g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
Cranberries (fresh are better but frozen will do) cooked with apricot preserves, lemon and sugar go with just about everything. But this tangy side dish is particularly good with roasted meats, especially beef.
33/45
Coconut-Bourbon Sweet Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
What is it about sweet potatoes that unnerve some people? For those who firmly state they hate a yam because of the color or texture, the rich addition of coconut, bourbon and spices might just win them over. —Rebecca Anderson, Driftwood, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 444 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 167mg sodium, 73g carbohydrate (42g sugars, 6g fiber), 6g protein.
This sweet potato casserole is packed with so much flavor and texture, it’ll be your new favorite Christmas side dish. It has everything: cream, bourbon, brown sugar, marshmallows, coconut, raisins and spices all brought together from a short bake in the oven.
34/45
Air-Fryer Cauliflower
From the Recipe Creator:
A standout cauliflower side is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. Crushed red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 161 calories, 14g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 342mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1 vegetable.
If you don’t have an air fryer yet, this recipe might be the one that will convince you. With a total cooking time of only 20 minutes, this quick and easy side is a little bit tart, a little bit spicy and extremely tasty.
35/45
Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta
From the Recipe Creator:
I always loved Brussels sprouts growing up, so I decided as an adult to bring them home to our family table. I've been making them ever since. —Brenda Washnock, Negaunee, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 253 calories, 18g fat (3g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 407mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 6g fiber), 8g protein.
One of the main differences between pancetta and bacon is that pancetta isn’t smoked. Here, the salty porky bits elevate the Brussels sprouts to make them feel extra fancy. Don’t skimp on the balsamic vinegar, which brings the whole dish together.
36/45
Gluten-Free Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
Gluten-free eaters, rejoice! Now you can enjoy everyone's favorite Thanksgiving dish too. This easy side has all the classic stuffing flavor minus the gluten. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 146 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 561mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
Having a large family gathering usually means at least one guest will have a dietary restriction. The recipe can also be made vegan by using vegan butter and an egg substitute.
37/45
Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh green beans are wrapped in bacon and covered in a sweet sauce in this fast and simple side dish. Every time I take these bacon-wrapped green beans to a luncheon or family dinner, people beg me for the recipe. —Julie Hewitt, Union Mills, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 bundle: 196 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 355mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
You’ll want to drizzle this irresistible glaze on everything. And with just four ingredients—butter, brown sugar, garlic salt and soy sauce—it’s easy enough to whip up anytime.
38/45
Cranberry Wild Rice
From the Recipe Creator:
Cranberries and red onion make this wild rice recipe colorful and perfect for fall. Don’t skip the toasting of the pine nuts—the flavor boost is well worth the effort. —Dawn Bryant, Thedford, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 238 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
If you insist on having at least one nutritious side on the table, let it be this flavorful wild rice dish. With dried cranberries, pine nuts and thyme, every bite is loaded with flavor and crunch. We have even more rice side dishes if you want to have options on the table.
39/45
Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Cream cheese is the secret ingredient in these comforting spuds. Simply mash, mix and let them warm in the slow cooker. —Frieda Bliesner, McAllen, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 341 calories, 24g fat (15g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 267mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
Let’s get this party started! Cream cheese, sour cream and fresh herbs make these creamy and garlicy mashed potatoes extra special.
40/45
Parmesan Butternut Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
Butternut squash sprinkled with Parmesan and bread crumbs makes a superb side dish we love to share. Using the microwave cuts down on long roasting time. —Jackie O'Callaghan, West Lafayette, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 112 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 168mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.
Ordinarily, squash can take upwards of an hour to roast, but this is a microwave shortcut recipe that cuts down on the cooking time significantly. Pop the dish into the broiler for a minute or two right before serving.
41/45
Dill & Chive Peas
From the Recipe Creator:
Growing my own vegetables and herbs helps keep things fresh in the kitchen, but frozen peas make this side is a breeze to prepare. —Tanna Richard, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 113 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
Let’s face it, plain frozen peas are a snooze. Add fresh dill, chives and lemon-pepper seasoning to transform them into a side dish that’s worthy of a celebration.
42/45
Honey-Glazed Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother used sugar in this recipe, but a local man who keeps bees on our farm shares honey with us, so I use that instead to make honey-glazed carrots. —Julie Anglen, Riverton, Wyoming
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 124 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 126mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein.
This simple, sweet side dish will be a hit with everyone, but especially with kids and picky eaters. Any type of honey works well, but clover or orange blossom honey is especially delicious.
43/45
Sourdough, Sausage and Blueberry Dressing
From the Recipe Creator:
I was looking in my pantry for raisins to make a dressing just like my mom's, but I was out. Then I spied a bag of dried blueberries and thought, Why not? Michigan is known for its blueberries, second only to cherries, so this is a nod to my former home state. —Teri Schloessmann, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 290 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 581mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
When it comes to stuffing or dressing (which is what the dish is called when it’s cooked outside of the bird), adding blueberries probably never crossed your mind. But hear us out! It’s a unique flavor combination that will have your guests begging for the recipe.
44/45
Beer-Cheese Green Bean Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Being from Wisconsin, where beer, cheese and snap beans abound, I thought I'd try a local spin on a beloved casserole. My mom deemed this even better than the traditional recipe. One point to America's dairyland! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 235 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 410mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
If Christmas dinner at your house means decadence, look no further than this ooey-gooey side. It’s as if macaroni and cheese and green bean casserole had a really delicious baby.
45/45
Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
My children absolutely love these tender mini potatoes. Fingerling potatoes can be found at farmers markets and specialty grocery stores, though Yukon Gold potatoes work too. —Michelle Herren, Las Vegas, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 141 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 184mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
If you can’t find these cute mini potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes work too. In the unlikely event that there are leftovers, they’ll last for up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge.
Christmas Side Dishes FAQ
What are some easy Christmas side dishes to make?
The easiest Christmas side dishes are largely hands-off, like slow-cooker potatoes or stuffing, or ones that can be made ahead of time with few ingredients, like cranberry sauce recipes. A medley of root vegetables can be quickly roasted with simple seasonings and a sprinkle of herbs. It tastes great with caramelized edges if you leave the veggies in a few extra minutes. If you don’t want to cook anything else, toss one of our Christmas salad recipes together for a light, bright addition to dinner.
What vegetables are good for Christmas dinner?
The best part of a big Christmas dinner is having a big mix of flavors and ingredients. Truly almost any vegetable you like will be good to serve at the feast. Think about offering one starchy vegetable, like potatoes; one green vegetable, like Brussels sprouts; and one colorful vegetable, like beets or carrots. I also love to make one vegetable side dish room temperature or chilled to balance other heavier ones.
What can I prepare ahead for Christmas side dishes?
So you aren’t stuck in the kitchen all day, add some Christmas dinner accompaniments to your menu that can be prepped or completely made in advance. The best make-ahead side dishes for a crowd include casseroles that can be assembled the day before, hearty grain or pasta salads that get better with time, and slow-cooker sides that can simmer away without your attention.
