13 Holiday Sides So Good, You Won’t Even Miss The Turkey Or Ham
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Holiday sides deserve more attention, because they’re often the dishes everyone actually goes back for. With flavorful and comforting favorites on the table, no one’s worried about the turkey or ham they passed up. These recipes make hosting easier, cut down on dry mains and complicated prep, and ensure everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey-glazed carrots add a bright, glossy pop that often outshines whatever roast is on the table. The sweet honey, warm garlic, and tender carrots bring a cheerful lift to holiday plates. They come together fast and deliver a flavor that feels both simple and special.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Carrots
Stuffing with Sausage and Bread
Stuffing with sausage and bread brings the kind of holiday magic that easily holds its own next to any turkey or ham. The mix of sage, onion, and savory sausage creates a warm, comforting flavor that anchors the entire meal. It’s rich, cozy, and memorable enough to make the main dish feel optional.
Get the Recipe: Stuffing with Sausage and Bread
Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Parmesan roasted green beans slide onto the holiday table with so much flavor that no one even wonders where the turkey went. The crisp edges, garlicky seasoning, and cheesy finish make them a standout side that can hold its own. They’re easy to roast and even easier to love during any festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts deliver a smoky crunch that instantly wins people over, even those who usually skip the sprouts. The sweet caramelization and crisp bacon exterior make them a standout that draws attention away from the main dish. They’re easy to prep, fast to cook, and guaranteed to disappear before anything else on the platter.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Bacon and Cheddar Biscuits
Bacon and cheddar biscuits show up with so much savory richness that they instantly compete with whatever main dish is nearby. The fluffy interior, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon create a bite that feels indulgent without being fussy. They fit seamlessly into any holiday spread, and once people grab one, the rest vanish before you can blink.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Cheddar Biscuits
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes always steal the spotlight, especially when the main dish suddenly isn’t the thing everyone’s talking about. The rich butter, smooth texture, and mellow garlic bring a cozy comfort guests can’t resist. They fit right into any holiday plate and keep the meal grounded in pure, creamy goodness.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Parmesan and Garlic Wings
Parmesan and garlic wings bring a crispy, buttery burst of flavor that turns any holiday spread into something more fun. The savory coating and aromatic garlic make them irresistible from the moment they hit the table. Whether served with casual bites or full festive dinners, they easily compete with the star entrée.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan and Garlic Wings
Parmesan Potatoes
Parmesan potatoes deliver a crispy, golden bite that can easily compete with the centerpiece of the meal. The buttery insides and cheesy crust create a side everyone keeps reaching for. They pair with anything and bring that festive comfort people crave during big gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Potatoes
Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Baked cauliflower mac and cheese brings nostalgic comfort with a lighter twist that still feels indulgent at the holiday table. The creamy sauce and golden top make each bite rich and cozy enough to compete with the star of the meal. It’s a warm, cheesy option that wins big with guests looking for something different.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Buttermilk Drop Biscuits
Buttermilk drop biscuits bring that comforting, homemade charm that always gets attention on a packed holiday table. Their golden tops, tender centers, and buttery flavor make them a quiet standout next to heavier dishes. They mix together in minutes, bake up beautifully, and always leave guests reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Drop Biscuits
Mashed Cauliflower Potatoes
Mashed cauliflower potatoes bring a lighter twist that still carries enough flavor to make anyone forget about ham or turkey. The creamy blend and smooth texture offer that same comfort you expect from a holiday classic. They make the perfect option when you want something cozy without feeling heavy.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Cauliflower Potatoes
Potato Skins
Potato skins bring enough bold flavor to turn heads before anyone remembers the main course. The crispy shells, melted cheese, and bacon crumble make every bite feel fun and comforting. They’re a crowd-pleaser that belongs on any holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins
Braised Cabbage
Braised cabbage steps up as a tender, flavor-packed side that melts right into a holiday lineup. Slow cooking brings out its natural sweetness while layering in savory undertones that pair effortlessly with everything else on the table. It’s simple, warming, and strong enough to shine even without a meat-based centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Braised Cabbage
