The most wonderful time of the year is finally here – Christmas dinner time! ️ You know what that means… all the side dishes for Christmas dinner we’ve been dreaming about all year are finally on the table. I’m talking creamy mac and cheese, crumbly cornbread dressing, and all the fixin’s. So, what makes a southern holiday menu truly unforgettable? In my humble opinion, it’s all about the sides, baby!
When it comes to planning the perfect side dishes for Christmas dinner, I always ask myself: what are the must-haves? For me, it’s all about the classics with a twist. You know, the ones that make you go, “mmm, this is the best baked macaroni and cheese I’ve ever had!” or “this collard greens recipe is off the chain!” So, without further ado, let’s get to the good stuff.
The Ultimate Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This baked macaroni and cheese recipe is the real deal, folks. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite. I mean, who doesn’t love a good mac and cheese?
Ingredients:
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions.
3. In a separate saucepan, make a roux with the flour and butter.
4. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly.
5. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Why You’ll Love It:
This baked macaroni and cheese is a game-changer. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s a great side dish for Christmas dinner that’s sure to become a new tradition.
Cornbread Dressing with a Twist
Now, I know what you’re thinking… cornbread dressing is a classic southern holiday menu staple. But trust me, this recipe takes it to the next level.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cornbread, crumbled
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tsp sage
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and celery until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, melted butter, and sautéed onion and celery.
4. Stir in the sage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Why You’ll Love It:
This cornbread dressing is a side dish for Christmas dinner that’s sure to impress. The addition of sage gives it a unique flavor that complements the other dishes perfectly. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until the big day.
Braised Collard Greens with a Kick
Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “collard greens? really?” But trust me, these collard greens are a total game-changer.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb collard greens, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until tender.
3. Add the chopped collard greens, garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Why You’ll Love It:
These collard greens are a delicious and healthy side dish for Christmas dinner. The addition of apple cider vinegar gives them a nice tanginess that complements the other dishes perfectly. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be made ahead of time.
Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet potato casserole is a classic southern holiday menu staple. It’s sweet, it’s creamy, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and heavy cream.
3. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with marshmallows.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Why You’ll Love It:
This sweet potato casserole is a delicious side dish for Christmas dinner that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The addition of marshmallows gives it a nice crunch and a touch of sweetness.
In conclusion, these side dishes for Christmas dinner are sure to make your holiday meal unforgettable. From the creamy baked macaroni and cheese to the sweet and tangy collard greens, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Christmas dinner one to remember!
