53 Easy Christmas Dinner Side Dishes for Beef Tenderloin
Beef tenderloin is a show-stopping centerpiece for your Christmas dinner, but choosing the perfect side dishes to complement its rich, savory flavor is just as important.
For any special occasion or the holiday season, you can make beef tenderloin your main dish and incorporate any of the side dishes in this blog post to make your special dinner complete.
From creamy mashed potatoes to vibrant roasted vegetables, this guide offers 53 easy, crowd-pleasing sides that will elevate your holiday meal.
Throughout this guide, we’ll also cover foolproof methods, discuss why side dishes like creamed pearl onions and twice-baked potatoes make such great options, and ensure the easiest things to prepare for large gatherings.
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1. Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with beef tenderloin. Whether adding them as a part of your Christmas day meal or special occasion, they’ll complement any main course.
Use Yukon gold potatoes for a buttery flavor and add a splash of heavy cream for extra creaminess. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for the perfect blend.
Using an instant-read thermometer ensures the mashed potatoes hold the ideal creamy consistency.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
These roasted Brussels sprouts are crispy, caramelized, and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a touch of indulgence.
Don’t forget that brussels sprouts are a versatile favorite recipe for any holiday table.
3. Creamed Spinach
Rich and creamy, this side dish is a steakhouse favorite. Sauté fresh spinach with garlic and onion, then mix it with a luxurious cream sauce made from butter, flour, and heavy cream. It’s a creamy side with a perfect balance of flavors.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots
Sweet and savory, honey-glazed carrots bring a pop of color to your table. Roast whole carrots with olive oil, honey, and a pinch of thyme for a festive side dish.
5. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these roasted potatoes are seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and thyme. They’re an easy, crowd-pleasing option that shines on a large platter.
6. Green Bean Almondine
This simple yet elegant dish combines tender fresh green beans with toasted almonds and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Perfect for balancing the richness of beef tenderloin.
7. Parmesan Polenta
Creamy polenta topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the tender beef tenderloin recipe.
8. Wild Rice Pilaf
A nutty wild rice pilaf with dried cranberries and chopped pecans adds texture and a hint of sweetness to your meal. It’s a great way to include simple ingredients with a sophisticated twist.
9. Classic Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons, fresh Parmesan, and a zesty homemade dressing is a refreshing side that complements the richness of beef tenderloin.
10. Yorkshire Pudding
These light and fluffy popovers are an essential Christmas side dish in many households. Serve them with a drizzle of beef jus for a traditional touch. Yorkshire pudding pairs excellently with roast beef tenderloin or prime rib.
11. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon
Roasted asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil and fresh lemon juice make a vibrant and healthy addition to your plate.
12. Cranberry Orange Relish
Add a burst of tart and citrusy flavor to your meal with this cranberry-orange relish. It’s a bright and zesty side that cuts through the richness of the beef tenderloin roast.
13. Gratin Dauphinois
This French potato dish is made with thinly sliced potatoes, heavy cream, and Gruyère cheese. It’s baked until golden brown and bubbling—the ultimate indulgence for your holiday table.
14. Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic
Earthy mushrooms sautéed with garlic and butter are a savory complement to beef tenderloin. Add a splash of white wine for extra depth. This is one of the best side dishes to serve alongside a classic beef tenderloin or filet mignon.
15. Buttered Peas with Mint
Bright green peas tossed with butter and fresh mint create a light and refreshing side dish. Use simple ingredients like teaspoons of kosher salt to highlight their flavor.
16. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Layered with cheese and baked until golden, these scalloped potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and irresistible.
17. Roasted Root Vegetables
A medley of roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, adds rustic charm and natural sweetness to your table.
18. Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with spinach and artichokes, this casserole is a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with beef.
19. Sweet Potato Casserole
Top creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan and brown sugar topping for a sweet and savory dish that’s always a hit.
20. Broccoli Cheddar Gratin
This cheesy broccoli bake combines tender florets with a creamy cheddar sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.
21. Herbed Dinner Rolls
Soft and fluffy dinner rolls infused with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme are perfect for sopping up any juices or sauces from the beef tenderloin.
22. Celeriac Mash
For a twist on classic mashed potatoes, try creamy celeriac mash. Its subtle celery flavor pairs beautifully with rich meats.
23. Garlic Butter Green Beans
These tender green beans are sautéed in garlic butter and finished with a squeeze of lemon for a simple yet flavorful side dish.
24. Beet and Arugula Salad
A vibrant salad of roasted beets, peppery arugula, and crumbled goat cheese is a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty beef.
25. Roasted Acorn Squash
Slices of acorn squash roasted with olive oil, maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon make a festive and flavorful side.
26. Truffle Mac and Cheese
Rich and creamy macaroni and cheese infused with truffle oil makes a decadent addition to your Christmas dinner.
27. Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice
A savory wild rice dish with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans adds festive flavor and texture.
28. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Tender asparagus spears wrapped in crispy bacon create an elegant and flavorful side dish.
29. Herb-Roasted Cauliflower
Roast cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs for a crispy and flavorful side.
30. Maple-Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Roast sweet potatoes with a maple syrup glaze for a sweet and savory dish that complements the beef tenderloin.
31. Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
Shave fresh Brussels sprouts and toss with a citrus vinaigrette, dried cranberries, and toasted almonds for a refreshing salad.
32. Gruyère Potato Bake
Layered potatoes with Gruyère cheese and a touch of cream create a rich and satisfying side.
33. Lemon-Dill Roasted Carrots
Carrots roasted with lemon and dill bring bright, fresh flavors to the table.
34. Charred Broccoli with Lemon
Char broccoli in a hot oven and drizzle with lemon juice for a smoky, tangy side.
35. Spinach Salad with Pomegranate Seeds
A crisp spinach salad topped with pomegranate seeds, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds a festive touch.
36. Cornbread Stuffing
A Southern classic, cornbread stuffing is rich, hearty, and the perfect complement to beef tenderloin.
37. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Add roasted garlic to creamy mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
38. Butternut Squash Risotto
Creamy risotto with sweet butternut squash and a touch of sage is a comforting and elegant side dish.
39. Glazed Pearl Onions
Tender pearl onions glazed in butter and sugar are a traditional and flavorful side.
40. Smashed Red Potatoes
Boil red potatoes, smash them slightly, and roast until crispy for a rustic side dish.
41. Cranberry Pistachio Couscous
Fluffy couscous with cranberries, pistachios, and fresh parsley adds a Middle Eastern-inspired twist.
42. Winter Squash Gratin
A cheesy gratin made with winter squash is warm, comforting, and perfect for the holiday table.
43. Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables
A hearty farro salad with roasted vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette is both nutritious and delicious.
44. Honey Balsamic Glazed Turnips
Roast turnips with honey and balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy twist.
45. Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Mushrooms
These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms are creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
46. Citrus Roasted Fennel
Roast fennel with orange slices and olive oil for a bright, citrusy side dish.
47. Cheddar Chive Biscuits
Fluffy biscuits with sharp cheddar and fresh chives are perfect for soaking up savory sauces.
48. Caramelized Onion Tart
A buttery tart filled with caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese makes an elegant addition to your meal.
49. Creamy Parsnip Puree
A smooth and creamy puree made from parsnips is a unique and flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes.
50. Kale and Apple Salad
A fresh salad of kale, thinly sliced apples, and a tangy Dijon dressing adds crunch and brightness.
51. Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks
Soft, buttery breadsticks topped with garlic and Parmesan cheese are a family favorite.
52. Roasted Leeks with Thyme
Leeks roasted with olive oil and fresh thyme bring a mild, sweet flavor to the table.
53. Holiday Ratatouille
A colorful medley of eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers baked in a rich tomato sauce is a stunning and flavorful side dish.
The list now includes 53 unique and delicious recipes, from traditional favorites to creative twists. Each dish is designed to make your Christmas dinner unforgettable. Pair these sides with your perfectly cooked beef tenderloin for a holiday feast that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Conclusion
Christmas dinner is all about indulgence and celebration. With these 53 side dishes, you’ll have plenty of options to create a memorable meal for your loved ones. Whether you prefer classic recipes or want to try something new, these sides are guaranteed to impress.
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