Ah, Christmas dinner! It’s that magical time of year when festive side dishes take center stage, elevating our holiday gatherings to a whole new level. I can still picture my grandmother’s table, overflowing with vibrant greens and rich, comforting flavors. This collection of Christmas dinner sides is all about bringing that nostalgic warmth to your table, but with my personal twist. From beautifully roasted Brussels sprouts to creamy mashed potatoes, each dish is quick to prepare yet packed with flavor. Trust me, these sides will not only complement your main course but also steal the show!

Ingredients List

4 cups Brussels sprouts, halved – Fresh and vibrant, these little green gems roast up beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil – This will help get that lovely golden color and flavor.
1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Just the right kick to complement the sprouts.
1 cup cranberry sauce – A sweet and tangy contrast that’s perfect with savory dishes.
1 cup mashed potatoes – Creamy, fluffy, and oh-so-comforting.
1/2 cup butter – Because let’s be honest, everything’s better with butter!
1/4 cup milk – To make those mashed potatoes extra smooth and dreamy.

How to Prepare Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for getting those Brussels sprouts nice and crispy!
While the oven is warming up, grab a large bowl and toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they’re well-coated; this is where the flavor magic happens!
Next, spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts evenly on a baking sheet. Give them a little space; we want them to roast, not steam.
Pop those beauties in the oven and roast for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should turn golden and deliciously caramelized!
While the sprouts are roasting, let’s make the mashed potatoes. Start by boiling your potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
Once they’re ready, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add in butter and milk, then mash until creamy and smooth. You can adjust the milk to get your desired consistency!
Finally, serve the roasted Brussels sprouts alongside the creamy mashed potatoes and don’t forget that cranberry sauce—it’s the perfect holiday touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation means you can spend more time enjoying the holiday rather than stuck in the kitchen.
Festive presentation with vibrant Brussels sprouts and creamy mashed potatoes will wow your guests.
Healthy options like Brussels sprouts provide a nutritious balance to the indulgent holiday meal.
Delicious combination of flavors, from the earthy roasted sprouts to the sweet tang of cranberry sauce, creates a perfect harmony on your plate.
These sides are incredibly versatile and can pair beautifully with any main dish you choose!

Tips for Success

To really nail these Christmas dinner sides, start with the freshest Brussels sprouts you can find—look for firm, bright green ones! When seasoning, don’t be shy; taste as you go, and feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. For the mashed potatoes, using starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Gold will give you that fluffy texture we all crave. And remember, let the mashed potatoes sit covered in a warm spot while the sprouts roast; they’ll stay cozy and ready to serve. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds a lovely festive touch too!

Variations

If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize these Christmas dinner sides! For the Brussels sprouts, try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans before roasting for a delightful crunch. You could also toss in some diced bacon or pancetta for a savory twist—yum! If you want to switch up the veggies, roasted carrots or sweet potatoes make a colorful and tasty alternative. And for the mashed potatoes, consider mixing in some roasted garlic or herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor boost. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

These Christmas dinner sides shine brightest when paired with a well-cooked main dish. Think succulent roasted turkey or glazed ham for a classic holiday vibe—both complement the earthy flavors of the Brussels sprouts beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a herb-crusted prime rib adds a touch of elegance and pairs wonderfully with the creamy mashed potatoes. Don’t forget about beverages! A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, will balance the richness of your sides, while a warm spiced apple cider can bring a cozy touch to your festive table. Cheers to a delicious holiday feast!

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers—nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so these values are approximate. But here’s a general idea of what you’re looking at for each serving of these delightful Christmas dinner sides:

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 300mg

So, while you enjoy these festive flavors, you can feel good knowing you’re also getting some nutritious goodness on your plate!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Frozen Brussels sprouts can be a convenient option, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before tossing with olive oil and seasoning. They may take a bit longer to roast, so keep an eye on them.

What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
No worries! You can substitute it with any tart fruit sauce or even a simple apple sauce. It adds that sweet-tangy balance we love with our savory sides!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving again. They’ll still taste great!

Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the mashed potatoes ahead and keep them warm in a slow cooker. Just add a little extra milk or butter when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.

What’s a good vegetarian alternative for the butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute in the mashed potatoes. They’ll still be deliciously creamy!

Christmas Dinner Sides: 5 Dishes to Delight Your Guests

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting and Boiling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A collection of festive side dishes for your Christmas dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cranberry sauce
1 cup mashed potatoes
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup milk

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet.
Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden.
Prepare mashed potatoes by boiling potatoes until tender.
Drain and mash with butter and milk.
Serve cranberry sauce alongside roasted Brussels sprouts and mashed potatoes.

Notes

Feel free to add nuts to the Brussels sprouts for added crunch.
You can use canned or homemade cranberry sauce.
Adjust seasoning to taste.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Christmas dinner sides

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