![Spice-Rubbed Tenderloin with Mustard-Cream Sauce](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.southernliving.com/thmb/76dwxNpVxpi2EnDl9uMp8VUglP8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2429801_marve_0568_0_0-2000-d7ff542de11e42ce907a3e9208e5553e-aa2f71e759f24da689a648e1ae348578.jpg)
Alison Miksch
Christmas is about spending time with those you love, and that's often best done with a full plate and happy heart. After 25 hectic days of festivities and feasting, there's always one last meal on our minds: Christmas dinner. In the South, that means casseroles, crown roasts, gratins, and biscuits aplenty. With a spread like this, you'll find that the only hard part is having to pick what makes it on your plate. Pair Cider-Braised Pork Shoulder with our ham-hocked collards and rustic buttermilk mashed potatoes, or maybe Orange-Glazed Ham with our best-ever macaroni and cheese recipe and a green bean casserole. With classics and fresh takes alike, these delicious dishes will get you through Christmas supper and beyond. Take a look through these easy Christmas dinner recipes to find the holiday menu that's made for your celebration style.
Smoked Turkey Breast
![Smoked Turkey Breast - Southern Living](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/oqUdWy0-eXRnyspmmDB1xsxwyfc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Smoked_Turkey_Breast_001-5999bebe06a04acb995b5711e62f0e9b.jpg)
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Nothing says Christmas like fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs. After only 20 minutes of hands-on work, sit back and let the smoker infuse your bird with Christmas flavor.
Our Best Ambrosia Ever
![a plate of ambrosia salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/_eTqvud9_RQ18QzRHOIEIpzuwwo=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-ambrosia-ever-f68e7e8ffb254b3783197e13930b1a21.jpg)
Ambrosia's story goes back further than your grandmother's table, but you can bring the best version to your table this holiday season. Whether you use ambrosia in dessert or cocktail or enjoy it alone, you can't go wrong with this class dish.
Cheddar Cheese Shortbread Crackers
![Cheddar Shortbread Crackers](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/T-ZuhIYgyrihnAtJg2J3T74OaJk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2586701_holid_9341_0-2000-8fcebe6fc53e4b80a562949e109a10f0-9177cd4de0554c259fd9edb0cf8f0263.jpg)
Victor Protasio; Prop Styling: Heather Chadduck Hillegas; Food Styling: Torie Cox
For a holiday appetizer like no other, look no further than these cheddar cheese shortbread crackers. For even more festivity, check out the optional addition of pecan and thyme.
Prime Rib With Horseradish Dipping Sauce
![Prime Rib With Horseradish Dipping Sauce](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/rDSyLvDbdF7MSoA_xQrjHpseVLg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Southern-Living-Prime-Rib-with-Horseradish-dipping-Sauce-3x4-591-64915363d63f47ebbe82065fc911872c.jpg)
Alison Miksch; Food Stylist: Karen Rankin; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
Despite its sophisticated ambience, prime rib isn't actually hard to cook. This recipe will delivers a perfectly cooked and seasoned main course every time.
Grits Dressing
![Grits Dressing Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5GPdHb0M_qTSDjS3PhkMR5rCyPw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2547202_south00003_0_0-e189a396ee48444184d77115d45d5c13.jpg)
Though cornbread dressing might reign supreme at Thanksgiving, we're letting this grits-based version head the holiday table this December.
Old-School Green Bean Casserole
![Old-School Green Bean Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/AiP4SwWaN6TtmgwG5MhZtcrka84=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2540801_makea_0958_0_0_0_1_0-2000-1f5f72369ca1491c984b4c6115fef427.jpg)
This old-school recipe is the definition of "don't mess with a good thing." From the frozen French-cut green beans to the crispy fried onion topping, it's a familiar staple on every Southern table, no matter the occasion.
Honey-Glazed Spiced Carrots
![Honey-Glazed Spiced Carrots](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/OAlCS4U5Xs3CDgtaer620wF-MXk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hanukkah-side-dishes-2483801_spect_238_3_1_0_0_0-2000-3a61627176e34ec9afea7a703ff9b032.jpg)
During Christmastime, Southerners will cover just about any vegetable with butter, sugar, and a bevy of festive spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. These carrots really hammer the holiday spirit home with their bright and colorful demeanor.
Baked Ham With Brown Sugar Glaze
![Southern Living Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze on a platter to serve](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/sop9jOhPkkgYXmkcuewr7pOrMHw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Baked_Ham_Brown_Sugar_Glazed_231-1-911fbf51eb9d4ab6a4085f2cb8034507.jpg)
Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Baked ham is mainly a hands-off main dish. No brining, no marinades. This ham bakes for several hours. Then, you'll glaze it with a spicy-sweet sauce until the rind is crisp and caramelized.
Baked Brie Bites
![Baked Brie Bites](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/zKjlnJNBiILuSShDi3_fEYUSz-0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/baked_brie_bites-2000-30ef82e3f18e41559efe1788b3c92c8a.jpg)
There's no better way to kick off Christmas celebrations than with these melty baked Brie bites. With only five ingredients and 18 minutes of prep, these little stars are topped with a dollop of pepper jelly, flaky sea salt, and a few crunchy toasted pecans for a Southern touch.
Make-Ahead Yeast Rolls
![Make-Ahead Yeast Rolls](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Z8BPtHTXgNskp5gOvlmM4Z2dOiU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2547202_south00032_0-2000-824074fcc6f4464eb913a16a03105c53.jpg)
If it isn't broken, don't fix it. If you can also make it ahead before the in-laws come into town, don't dare forget it. These yeast rolls made their mark in our November 1995 issue and are still one of our favorite holiday staples.
Balsamic Green Beans with Pearl Onions
![Balsamic Green Beans with Pearl Onions Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/dnZUADrmJ84Tmv3qmDXhS5E1GUs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/balsamic_green_beans_with_pearl_onions_0_0_0_0_0_0_0-2000-16995d76ad7b42cb975d795f65bce503.jpg)
Enter your most versatile Christmas side. It goes with any main meat dish you're cooking, but that doesn't mean it has to be plain, thanks to a tangy glaze of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and butter.
Roasted Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese
![Roasted Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/WHR04uVDAiI0GKlQbJ6y5g1KMno=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2540801_makea_0668_2_0_0_0_0_0_1_0_0_0_0_0_0_1_0_0-2000-d509c95869de418d84efe1cc139fc026.jpg)
Warm roasted broccoli makes macaroni and cheese feel a little more wintry. Plus, it elevates the classic pasta bake from ho-hum to standout status on the holiday spread.
Our Favorite Buttermilk Biscuit
![Plenty of Biscuits and Cornbread](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5H5-qejiTNE1ve8Wiwg2EKTXaPY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fo_28bfdc05412ecbe8_spcms_1-2000-bb614356b63f4ce4b9c7a7bb572876f5.jpg)
Trust us, we've tried hundreds of biscuit recipes. This is the hands-down favorite we keep coming back to. Look at them—they're practically begging to be perched on the edge of your dinner plate.
Savory Corn Pudding
![Savory Corn Pudding](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/2c1l3z4cVPpSh73ma1flwEagL_A=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/savory_corn_pudding_0_1_0_1_0_0_0_0_0_0_1_1_0-2000-5c985abf5ccf482087de2e64fe2fbf81.jpg)
Naturally one of our sweeter side dishes, corn pudding is a Southern favorite during the holiday season. In this recipe, fresh thyme adds a savory twist that makes it taste fresh and new.
Italian Casserole
![Italian Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/sI9VqVxAaB0qqR7F7Vwb4uo-iVA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2547201_south16891_0_0_2-2000-b6e31bf6a1e94845be9dca9b4c8352d5.jpg)
This vintage recipe makes an appearance every year, whether made ahead to be served on busy gift-wrapping nights or added to the Christmas dinner menu when feeding a huge crowd (and kids!).
Sweet Potato and Chorizo Sausage Bites
![Sweet Potato and Chorizo Sausage Bites](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/MgXUemWNiRqYv0u4DbHMYkczo_8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sweet-potato-chorizo-sausage-bites-2484001_1_0_0_0_0_0-2000-82da6f48b78d46ef8a5bc821966fb300.jpg)
Is it Christmas in the South without sausage balls? No. No, it's not. Switch things up with this seasonal twist that incorporates spicy, peppery Mexican-style chorizo sausage and mashed sweet potatoes.
Classic Candied Yams
![Classic Candied Yams](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/T-74-8rSpY-DYWmX0QYZzuADlhk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/classic_candied_yams_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0-2000-0d5c9dd1cff0499380ad028606a9c313.jpg)
Don't call this classic dish outdated, at least before you've tasted it. Lightly spiced and oh-so-sweet, these candied yams are about to become a mainstay alongside the sweet potato casserole.
Chicken-and-Biscuit Cobbler
![Chicken-and-Biscuit Cobbler](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/1aykTFYjlhoJ2-MdB6rOiqy78Co=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2335301_ibhfo_3342-2000-921f837042954ac5839296a75e3ba888.jpg)
Cobbler? For dinner? Groundbreaking. What sets this comforting chicken casserole apart is that it's topped with fluffy homemade biscuits (that happen to have chopped bacon in them).
Slow-Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
![Slow-Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/CNE7XkBmC9VbXBV-F835uUn-muA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/slow-cooker_collard_greens_with_ham_hocks_0_0_0_0_0-2000-dab9a103ebce4e33947a3be06e651cb6.jpg)
Free up your oven space, and let these too-easy, too-flavorful collards wow the Christmas crowd. After a simple 15 minutes of prep time, these ham-hocked collard greens finish in your slow cooker.
Best Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
![Roasted Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/WHR04uVDAiI0GKlQbJ6y5g1KMno=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2540801_makea_0668_2_0_0_0_0_0_1_0_0_0_0_0_0_1_0_0-2000-d509c95869de418d84efe1cc139fc026.jpg)
There's no better case for serving macaroni and cheese at Christmas dinner than this best-ever version. You won't find a creamier, meltier macaroni and cheese rendition in all the land.
Bacon-Brussels Sprout-Green Bean Casserole
![Old-School Green Bean Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/AiP4SwWaN6TtmgwG5MhZtcrka84=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2540801_makea_0958_0_0_0_1_0-2000-1f5f72369ca1491c984b4c6115fef427.jpg)
If it's topped with fried onions and crispy bacon, is there a Southerner that won't love it? This casserole is a glorious mashup of two of our favorite vegetables to serve during the holidays: green beans and Brussels sprouts.
Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with Burgundy-Mushroom Sauce
![Stuffed Beef Tenderloin with Burgundy-Mushroom Sauce](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/gUdrXDSMWOoeQ9aVjo8CznI7KsU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2547001_cooki154_0_0-4e2e585095d44756ba334298fbdc7bb6.jpg)
Find a prettier main dish, we challenge. These tender spirals of beef filled with creamy spinach and leeks always receive perfect scores on taste and style.
Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole
![Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/ALk_jqct62FftCSVQrM-UVLjBZM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/kentucky_hot_brown_casserole_2548401_slowc_243.1_0-2000-effd6f76841f4304b42099380b1dd860.jpg)
Why not gussy up a classic Southern sandwich for the holiday season? If it's from the South, chances are we're going to try to make a casserole out of it, and this one is (thankfully) quite incredible.
Slow-Cooker Green Beans
![Thanksgiving Sides: Root Vegetable Gratin](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/c3dgjPhTbAb9Aild5FXYZIg3nFk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/slow-cooker-green-beans_0-2000-9fcfb2b9960a421a8f052b7579db9978.jpg)
Crave the taste of your grandmother's green beans? This slow-cooker recipe gets you there, with a little extra bacon. We'll swear up and down that this side dish makes every festive dinner just a little bit better.
The Ultimate Make-Ahead Gravy
![Make-Ahead Gravy](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/E7UJ97uI-KWZNcNa48tov-yiw0U=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/friendsgiving-recipe-make-ahead-gravy-2319201_TheUI01_0-2000-f4cd0c6c618e4660b461872635b4ed6e.jpg)
Get out your best gravy boat—because this gravy deserves a nice home. Though this recipe takes only one pot and 30 minutes, you can still make it ahead to mark something off your to-do list.
Classic Cranberry Salad
![Classic Cranberry Salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/vQCuifb9-YldV2A6rkOvJaLs0U0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/classic_cranberry_salad_2540801_makea_1299_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0-2000-0d463bd17d7d409b8bc5828be29c57a5.jpg)
We know you're already stocking up on those cans of congealed cranberry, but this fresh cranberry salad can fit on the table, too. Filled with pears, pineapple, celery, and pecans, this recipe offers a fresh, crunchy take on the nostalgic dish.
Old-Fashioned Chicken Pot Pie
![Old-Fashioned Chicken Pot Pie Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/O69lWaP7_fIMdNZ3tz33imKPnxk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2547201_south17269_0_0-2000-ec2b18919db44d7195ccca3dd1bbf988.jpg)
There's always room for pot pie. If hosting a large crowd or a potluck-style Christmas meal, look no further than this old-school chicken casserole with a golden, crispy crust.
Herbed Potato Stacks
![Herbed Potato Stacks Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/LaVp2QRlqaoFvnUMQ5S_IGjaRg0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/herbed_potato_stacks_0_0_0_0_0-2000-aab15bebd7bd4e9c8071b59e5f626a11.jpg)
These stacks make the short list for most adorable side dish and feature a short ingredient list to boot. Baked in a muffin pan, the tiny potato towers get deliciously crispy on the outside, yet creamy and tender on the inside.
Skillet Squash Blossom
![Thanksgiving Side Dish: Skillet Squash Blossom](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/JWaxHfYFQhAVbdZhJIpo5cvObkk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/skillet_squash_casserole_0_0_0_0-2000-9b312a2bc77946a6b567cc371543410f.jpg)
At first glance, we're intrigued. At first bite, we're sold. Bacon, thyme, and a little maple syrup help make up the squash blossom's success.
French Onion Soup Casserole
![French Onion Soup Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/3M92MB4xtFElIK_xmPZue97pIEs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2565401_oadvi0560_0_1_0_0_0-2000-02eb8c12acc8405f994027bb68cf973b.jpg)
Like we said, we'll make anything a casserole. Transform your comforting bowl of onion soup into this cheesy, caramelized, layered masterpiece.
Smashed Baby Red Potatoes
![Smashed Baby Red Potatoes](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/q5nRuUWENBgrG3dE8lFjYa8Y2cU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/smashed_baby_red_potatoes-619d2490cc174e028f59317cadd28c85.jpg)
Smashed, not mashed. You'll find something inherently satisfying about smashing these baby red potatoes. Coated in a heavenly garlic-herb butter sauce, these will be an instant hit.
Cheesy Broccoli-and-Rice Casserole
![Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/A3TtxMbpAZExzpY_Yy48JTopQXE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cheesy-broccoli-casserole_0_1_0-2000-03e21a275d1748c981debf0734a989ff.jpg)
If broccoli-and-cheese casserole is wrong, then we don't want to be right. (We'd wager that just about every Southerner feels the same.) Make the classic dish a little extra special by using this recipe that skips the canned cream of mushroom soup and frozen broccoli.
Oyster Casserole
![Oyster Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/UG7r6DtiZZn0hzpQXl09gqxROSU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/december_recipes_oyster_casserole_2492901_south_04-2000-2c93d5f8a4d447dda233ccc208a87df9.jpg)
You might know it as oyster dressing, oyster pie, or even scalloped oysters. Oyster casserole is part of many Southerners' Christmas traditions, and this recipe is our Test Kitchen's favorite rendition.
Buttery Toasted Pecans
![Buttery Toasted Pecans](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/P2LROCUYz7dOt4s3A35egtJrUb4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/new-years-eve-apps-2248501_3fest_0062-1-61611788172d4199b9156f6471156452.jpg)
This quick and easy recipe will get you into the holiday spirit. Set these out for snacking or use them to top your holiday pie.
Classic Lasagna
![Classic Lasagna](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/MCLGMiEZO9QEPDTvDN9LZBI2W-Y=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/gettyimages-998672040_0-1-43118d8d8d844f1ca7a5afdb315948e0.jpg)
Lasagna can be served any time of year, but we love to serve it on Christmas for a bit of comfort food.
Cider-Braised Pork Shoulder
![Cider-Braised Pork Shoulder](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Ui6qU_ZBdBlYebxwkfkkCJT88a8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2335501_ibhf0_3018_0-f5d8a55e826b43e891463d8340749fda.jpg)
Even a humble pork shoulder roast likes to dress up for the occasion. Between the apple cider, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar, this main dish hits the trifecta of flavor.
Skillet Cornbread
![Skillet Cornbread](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Keo6ET9AvAKwd26-PHXwxnOQyy4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/classic-skillet-cornbread-2480801-6550_2_0_0-2000-8d05d7b85a3e47f09c79527c496126ca.jpg)
Three words: Hot. Bacon. Drippings. Say hello to the secret weapon behind this perfect skillet recipe for Southern cornbread.
Perfect Beef Tenderloin
![Perfect Beef Tenderloin](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/OQdmMdvNVGxVKXE_LHe767dn6Q0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2248501_3fest_0045_1-58042377328e45039f1d9d2d07d9ab5a.jpg)
It's all in the technique. If you're a less-is-more, quality-first type of person, this perfectly cooked beef tenderloin will soon become a Christmas staple. (Hint: It also makes for great leftovers, placed inside a biscuit.)
Classic Fresh Field Peas
![Classic Fresh Field Peas](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/sXRBWv2CGKkd1gRvJ8_3JN3D0Pg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2258701_field20118_0_0_0_0-2000-26cff6aa0a15437c9c253ea68141c0ca.jpg)
If there's a recipe that couldn't benefit from the addition of ham hocks or bacon drippings, we've yet to find it. Luckily, this recipe for fresh field peas covers its bases, using both.
Hot Cheesy Crab Dip
![Hot Cheesy Crab Dip](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/oTo4CNHMMi8ipnAGU4VxZ2uVfmQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/26887_CheeseAppetizers_11713_Hot-Cheesey-Crab-Dip-2000-1f7faa6b063d4253b848bb334c4ec73d.jpg)
Jumbo lump crab meat makes this cheesy dip worthy of a holiday spread. It will only take a few bites for your guests to start requesting the recipe.
Baked Ham with Brown Sugar-Citrus Glaze
![Baked Ham with Brown Sugar-Citrus Glaze](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/YVcUZ1wr_bYlBft9AEHIoIXa1Ks=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2616901_artof_09879_0-2000-cf5c12109e2c4fe1b92693820a3e6dfc.jpg)
Give your go-to ham glaze the holiday season off and swap in this bright, fresh version made with orange juice, marmalade, and brown sugar.
Christmas Snow Salad
![Christmas Snow Salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/e8IGZcQx5qdvG87jwmnSZHFNg9A=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/christmas-snow-salad-sl_digi_121118_congealedsalads522_0_1-a580249b00694281851a66d42e27bd69.jpg)
No Southern holiday is complete without at least one jiggly gelatin masterpiece. Like a delightfully retro Christmas tree ornament, this colorful salad will stand out on your dining room sideboard.
Mamau's Cheese Straws
![Mamau’s Cheese Straws](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/LnSlqD3f66-pMQBo89LYF1gzPxY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2667801_DecEd_12w-2000-c2d08460758c400cb9a254619ce7c8cc.jpg)
This take on a Southern classic was inspired by our editor-in-chief's grandmother, Mamau. She never broke the tradition of serving this same little snack on Christmas Eve.
Southern Cornbread Dressing
![Southern Cornbread Dressing](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/g5rqgyqwqkVKeBSHuhCa7-goNAw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cornbread-dressing-sl_1_0_0_0-a2f8e6ecec9c49229cb271813959e088.jpg)
Thought cornbread dressing was just for Thanksgiving? You'll be pleasantly surprised when you taste how well this buttery side dish pairs with beef tenderloin, duck, and ham.
Roasted Carrots and Parsnips
![Roasted Carrots and Parsnips](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/StdWc-yxoCVDi2fN59fOMBUoOp0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2636201_Roasted_Carrots_and_Parsnips_0006-2000-bc2a00f2d7ee489cbd90be2d223f0de9.jpg)
Delightfully caramelized roasted vegetables balance out any rich sides on your holiday table. The carrots and parsnips get of boost of flavor from a “fall” herb butter made with fresh thyme, sage, and parsley.
Sweet Potato Stacks
![Sweet Potato Stacks](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/rs_Aau_MRgEsa1TTIWsj3i4bn0I=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2636201_Thank_Sweet_Potato_Stacks_0001-2000-c82478a0910d4829955aea27e7852485.jpg)
If you’re thinking of skipping the sweet potato casserole this year, these stacks pair perfectly with a holiday turkey. Stack sliced sweet potatoes in a muffin tin and top with sweetened rosemary-infused butter before baking.
Stuffed-Pepper Wreath
![Stuffed-Pepper Wreath](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/r0bwkp6e8vw0RmozNz1Qon5LivY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/southern-living-27286_HIHwreath_0041_preview-d5f82b1d48804ae5a4f95156540cfb63.jpg)
Victor Protasio; Food Styling: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Styling: Christine Keely
Check easy and pretty off your to-do list with this festive wreath of peppers and olives. This arrangement is almost too pretty to eat.
Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
![Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/saJZTBKPm49KuxUqSjwo-tv3jzA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fo_c4fe6ad24fd419cd_spcms_3-2000-67855f842ab74fcc8707c66d683aafe9.jpg)
Bacon brings the flavor to a simple holiday main dish that cooks in under 30 minutes. Slice into rounds for serving to ensure bacon in every forkful.
Oven-Roasted Root Vegetables with Spicy Pecan Topping
![Oven-Roasted Root Vegetables with Spicy Pecan Topping](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/sFnDwVSv-oe_GCvw7wBN4Ygole4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2615201_pecan_roastedrootswithspicypecantoppin_0_0-1-359537fa8308402f988fec82e94731f7.jpg)
Round out the holiday menu with a platter of roasted root vegetables, including sweet potatoes, carrots, onion, and two types of beets. Make a double batch of the spiced pecans for topping. They make a great cocktail snack.
Sheet Pan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
![Sheet Pan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/xDj-zD6kKGHF0DNZwSBVRBZIRg0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2644801_Mac__Cheese_144-2000-50844df409de4517a7b38e2ac9611572.jpg)
It’s not a holiday without mac and cheese and this version includes a seasonal twist—pureed butternut squash. This impressive side cooks on a sheet pan and is table ready in 30 minutes.
Harvest Salad
![Harvest Salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/nElKFIisPKDmftv7xLDJqcY03mo=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2636201_Thank_Harvest_Salad_0002-2000-f56d656626ea4eba97fb9316a2876fcd.jpg)
Don’t kick off the celebration with an ordinary salad. Filled with kale, Brussels sprouts, apples, and roasted squash, guests will make room on their plates for this holiday-worthy salad.
Classic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes
![Classic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/wtqF8NUhhGzoASPls5-szDvRnfo=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/classic_parmesan_scalloped_potatoes_38e12f76bc08b7e1-2000-d972baab9c0240f89939c3bbd6294a58.jpg)
Though this dish does bake awhile, there’s practically no hands-on time. It takes just a few ingredients to create this creamy classic that's perfect for the holidays and weeknights.
Spice-Rubbed Tenderloin with Mustard-Cream Sauce
![Spice-Rubbed Tenderloin with Mustard-Cream Sauce](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/78k5SxgITI9oI_38M-xveYP3Jaw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2429801_marve_0568_0_0-2000-d7ff542de11e42ce907a3e9208e5553e.jpg)
When it comes to the tenderest of tenderloins, your spice cabinet has you covered for Christmas. The tangy mustard-cream sauce is just the kick of flavor on top.
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
![Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Xd4abMKLQIfvOTee5h0yckizrJc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Southern_Living_Instant_Pot_Potatoes_013-a7b199e3933d45ed8bc38b309188eabb.jpg)
Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
You only need to spend 20 minutes preparing these mashed potatoes to have the perfect side dish for almost any meal. The instant pot makes the process even easier and will keep the potatoes warm until ready to serve.
Macaroni Corn Casserole
![Macaroni Corn Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/_ac-QZpzCaelkn3ydY14r6hey84=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Mararoni-corn-cassarole-2000-4ebfbcb3d4974b32b02a7cf6451de1cf.jpg)
This recipe mash-up combines two of our favorite dishes into a creamy, cheesy casserole. We recommend letting the casserole sit for 15 minutes before serving.