When it comes to big holiday dinners, the sides are the secret agents keeping conversation lively and plates piled high. With a collection reaching 29, that’s enough options to avoid the picky-eater showdown and keep the mood cheerful. These side dishes know how to hold their own, whether you’re catching up with an old friend or negotiating who gets the last roll.

A Corn Pudding Casserole topped with chopped chives in a metal baking dish, with a portion being lifted out on a serving spatula. — Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

If you’re hoping to bring a bit of comfort and tradition to your table, Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds checks both boxes. Roasting delivers a natural, nutty taste, while brown butter and toasted almonds offer something a little special. This side dish naturally complements a plate that’s loaded with both conversation and celebration. Paired with classic mains, these sprouts create room for family stories and laughter around candlelight.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

Pages of family recipe books often circle back to Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup to round out a gathering. Fresh ingredients keep it light and familiar, while skipping canned soup means all the flavors shine through. It’s the type of side dish that has everyone asking for a second helping as they share memories across the table. Adding this to your spread gives every guest something to smile about as they enjoy their full plate.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

⭐

I've gathered 31 of my favorite casseroles for you and your family to love! I've created and tested each recipe many times, and you can be sure of no AI. Just dependable, scratch-made dishes to dig into!

You'll get ad-free recipes like:

✅ Spaghetti Casserole
✅ Sloppy Joe Casserole
✅ Sausage-Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
✅ Tuna Noodle Casserole.
✅ and so many more!

$7.99 for a limited time!

This is a digital product. You'll receive an instant download link after purchase.

Carrots au Gratin

Family meals often feature warm, bubbling casseroles, and Carrots Au Gratin fits right in with those beloved favorites. Layers of tender carrots and a blanket of cheese come together in a way that encourages everyone to pause, connect, and enjoy good company. The dish brings a feeling of welcome to every plate filled beside candlelight. Served with other sides, it brings comfort and conversation to every gathering.
Get the Recipe: Carrots au Gratin

Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

A white rectangular plate with Potatoes & Cabbage garnished with parsley on a patterned surface. — Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!). Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Generations gather around tables and share familiar flavors, and Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!) brings such memories forward. This dish creates a hearty blend of potatoes and cabbage, offering a homey addition to any celebration meal. As plates are passed and stories unfold, it brings warmth and connection to the table. Gathering together is more special when this side is served alongside lively talk and glowing candles.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

Baked Bean Casserole

Families often look for a simple companion dish to hearty main courses, and Baked Bean Casserole fills that spot so well. It blends beans in a sauce that draws people back for extra spoonfuls and stories. As candlelight flickers and conversation flows, it stands as a tried-and-true part of sharing joy. Friends and relatives will remember both the flavors and the time spent together.
Get the Recipe: Baked Bean Casserole

Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Sometimes a little twist on a classic is just what a full plate needs, and Smoked Brussels Sprouts deliver that gentle surprise. A touch of smoke brings new life to the traditional vegetable without overshadowing familiar flavors. These sprouts pair perfectly with bites and laughter shared under the glow of candles. Adding them is a simple way to invite curiosity and fun to every meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon

A plate of roasted green beans garnished with sliced almonds, accompanied by lemon slices on a black serving board. — Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Holiday tables often welcome a bit of brightness, and Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon bring that element naturally. The green beans roast up crisp, while citrus and nuts add depth to the experience. Guests appreciate the fresh lift, especially as they enjoy bites surrounded by laughter and candlelight. Such a dish helps balance a full plate and keeps conversation flowing effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon pieces, with one square being served from the dish using a spatula. — Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For many families, Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is a must-have when everyone comes together. The rich, creamy texture feels both familiar and slightly upgraded, fitting perfectly with moments of warmth and story-sharing. Guests fill their plates with this cozy option alongside classic offerings. Passing this casserole around encourages another helping and a little more joy to go with every conversation.
Get the Recipe: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Some recipes bring back memories with every bite, and Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots does just that for many. Glazed carrots are a staple at gatherings where friends and relatives sit long after meals end. Their gentle sweetness brings balance to a plate filled with comforting options. Surrounded by candlelight and laughter, this side dish helps keep traditions strong and hearts full.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate. — Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cozy meals often include familiar favorites, and Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans is one of them. Slow cooking with seasonings gives the beans just the right texture, letting people focus on good conversation. This side dish goes well with main courses and other classic foods. When it’s time to eat and connect, these beans are always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Ricotta and Tomato Pasta in a white bowl. — Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Every gathering is better with a little pasta, and Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes adds a creamy, comforting option to the mix. Silky ricotta and juicy tomatoes create just enough interest to spark conversation without overpowering the plate. It encourages friends and relatives to share, linger, and enjoy the moment. This side brings both a soft texture and happy faces to a table full of good company.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

A slice of sweet potato casserole topped with pecan crumble on a white plate with a spoon, surrounded by pecans and sunflowers. — Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Some recipes invite a bit of sweetness to the center of every meal, which is where Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping shines. The crunchy pecan topping balances tender sweet potatoes in a way that’s hard to resist. As the table fills with laughter and conversation, this old favorite brings everyone together for another spoonful. Candlelight and smiles only make it better.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

When it’s time for something slightly unexpected, Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs surprise the crowd in the best way. Roasted corn paired with parmesan and garlic offers a blend that keeps people reaching for more. This dish adds a fun talking point as friends gather with full plates and bright conversation. Paired with classic sides, corn ribs become a new tradition everyone can get behind.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Comfort is often found in familiar sides, and Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese is a classic that never fades from memory. Cream cheese brings smoothness and flavor that turn every bite into a moment worth enjoying. As candles flicker and stories are shared, this dish fits right beside a full plate. Generations come together to enjoy both old traditions and newfound warmth over these potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole

Looking for a heartier bite to serve alongside other mainstays? Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole is a robust mix that stands out without taking over. This dish encourages a little extra time at the table, talking and enjoying the company. Between bites and candlelight, guests appreciate the way it rounds out the experience with familiar comfort.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Elegance isn’t always about complexity, as proven by Au Gratin Potato Stacks in many family kitchens. Delicate layers settle together, creating a side that looks impressive but feels welcoming. As conversation flows and plates fill up, guests enjoy the familiar taste presented in a fresh new way. Moments beside candlelight feel even more special with these on the table.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Sometimes a little freshness helps balance richer dishes, and Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill does that effortlessly. Citrus and herbs brighten the cauliflower, making it more inviting on a plate filled with other favorites. Discussions grow more lively, and plates are cleared faster with this welcome addition. Sharing this side beside candlelight heightens the joy around the table.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon. — Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Rich flavors are often complemented by tart and sweet touches, like those in Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Combining crisp apples and smoky bacon with tangy sauerkraut creates interest alongside more familiar bites. It welcomes a mix of tradition and innovation, encouraging guests to try something new. Gatherings become more memorable with this side as part of the spread.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

A white bowl filled with seasoned roasted sweet potato cubes, garnished with chopped herbs, with a metal serving spoon on the side and a printed napkin partially visible. — Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Many people love sides that are both comforting and just a little lighter, which is where Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes come in handy. Air frying brings out a natural sweetness and a lovely texture that appeals to guests of all ages. This addition keeps conversation easy and plates full around the candlelit table. Sharing this dish makes gathering together feel even more special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Fasolakia Lathera – (Greek Green Beans)

Greek Green Beans served in a white bowl. — Fasolakia Lathera – (Greek Green Beans). Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’d like an extra splash of color and flavor, Fasolakia Lathera – (Greek Green Beans) offers a taste of tradition. Tomatoes, onions, and herbs hug green beans that become deeply flavored, especially when shared with loved ones. Friends find reasons to go back for seconds as laughter fills the air. This side belongs beside hearty dishes and fond conversation alike.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera – (Greek Green Beans)

Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Hearty meals often begin with stories of favorite recipes, and Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole holds a special place in many hearts. Familiar ingredients layered carefully create a dish that feels like a warm hug from the past. Loved ones reconnect over spoonfuls and talk of years gone by. Candlelight and nostalgia go hand in hand when this casserole is served.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan

Tables filled with friends are even brighter when Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan sits among the other traditional choices. Vibrant squash and parmesan come together, making every bite feel complete and balanced. This side pairs well with rich or simple main courses, happily fitting into the pattern of laughter and shared memories. Each serving adds a subtle touch of comfort to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan

Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist

Sometimes classic dishes gain a new friend in Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist. Extra touches add excitement to a beloved favorite, bringing fun and comfort in equal measure. Guests of all ages find themselves returning for another spoonful and another story as they relax under candlelight. With this side, tradition meets a little adventure at every meal.
Get the Recipe: Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist

Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes

A plate of roasted vegetables including potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and squash, garnished with fresh herbs, with a serving spoon on a white plate. — Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Gathering around the table calls for sides that are both colorful and full of flavor, just like Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes. Roasting together allows each vegetable to shine while complementing the others. Guests appreciate the inviting look and combination of tastes. This side creates a moment of connection as everyone fills their plates alongside laughter and warmth.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes

Squash Casserole

Some dishes are passed down for generations, such as Squash Casserole. Squash blends with simple, homestyle ingredients to bring a familiar comfort to tables where candles flicker, and stories are shared. Guests look forward to heaping this onto their plates next to other beloved sides. The feeling of unity and contentment grows with every bite as old memories and new laughter find a home.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole

Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Even lesser-used ingredients can become favorites when made simply, like in Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta. Adding pancetta to beet greens transforms them into a dish welcomed by everyone seated around a busy, joyful table. This side stands out, encouraging guests to try something a bit different while enjoying each other’s company. A plate filled with conversation and light is better when this green option is included.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

A white plate with loaded sweet potato casserole topped with sour cream, bacon, cheese, and green onions, set on a brown charger plate with a fork and cooking utensils in the background. — Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a dish that draws both attention and smiles, look no further than Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole. Loaded toppings and creamy sweet potatoes turn this into a star attraction without taking focus away from meaningful conversations. It sits beautifully beside other sides, adding excitement and variety. Sharing this dish invites everyone to slow down and enjoy every mouthful as stories unfold.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

A blend of comfort and elegance appears when Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone is put on the table. Mascarpone adds a touch of richness that encourages guests to reach again for this creamy green dish. Its place beside other classic sides creates an experience that feels both complete and inviting. Garden-fresh spinach and gentle cheese pair easily with laughter and candlelight.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Round black dish filled with seasoned roasted potato wedges, placed on a white wooden surface alongside a white and yellow striped cloth napkin. — Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

History and togetherness come alive when Greek Lemon Potatoes are passed from hand to hand. Tangy lemon and herbs soak into every bite, providing an exciting contrast to familiar favorites. Through every conversation, this side helps bring something special to a plate already filled with comfort. Those searching for an extra touch of brightness welcome this addition at every gathering.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes