17 Vegan Winter Side Inspirations For When the Season Slows Everything Down

ByMandy Applegate

Those quiet winter weeks tend to mean more time indoors, and 17 vegan winter side inspirations can make meals feel less routine. Changing up the sides on your plate is a simple way to bring balance and variety when comfort food starts to take over. Gathering new ideas helps solve the usual “what goes with this?” question. Flipping through these side options might spark some new favorites this season.

A casserole dish filled with creamy vegan green bean casserole topped with breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, with a serving spoon.
Creamy Vegan Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.
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Loaded Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a layered dish with melted cheese, corn, beans, diced tomatoes, and green onions.
Loaded Vegan Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Nothing pulls a winter dinner together quite like this Loaded Vegan Enchilada Casserole. Layers of hearty goodness create a dish that grabs everyone’s attention and doesn’t let go. Bursting with rich flavors, people always ask how it fills them up yet feels so light. I find it disappears from the table before you know it, thanks to that irresistible texture.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Crispy Golden Shallots

A pile of crispy shallots on a plate.
Crispy Golden Shallots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The golden crunch from these Crispy Golden Shallots pairs perfectly with cozy meals when the weather gets cold. It brings an unexpected punch that guests remember long after the last bite. Whether sprinkled over other dishes or served as a side, the crunch always adds something extra. I like making a bit more, since everyone comes back for just a pinch more.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Golden Shallots

Golden Roasted Potatoes

Close-up of vegan roasted potato wedges garnished with chopped parsley. The potato skins are slightly crispy and browned, with visible seasoning.
Golden Roasted Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Few things bring comfort like these Golden Roasted Potatoes when the evenings turn chilly. The color alone lights up any plate, while the crisp outside is an instant favorite. Friends often mention that they find them just right—never too heavy. Warm and full of simple charm, these potatoes keep spirits high throughout the season.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Potatoes

Vegan Squash Casserole

A bowl of roasted butternut squash and vegetables, garnished with chopped herbs, with a gold fork on the side.
Vegan Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bright and warming, this Vegan Squash Casserole is a reminder of all the best parts of winter eating. It manages to taste creamy and light at the same time, surprising everyone who gives it a try. I serve it when I want something cozy without feeling weighed down. The golden top keeps guests reaching for another helping.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Squash Casserole

Mushroom Gravy

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with mushroom and onion gravy, garnished with rosemary.
Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Rich, comforting layers build up in this Mushroom Gravy, giving nearly any side a bold finish. Cozy comfort fills the air once it’s poured over the plate, drawing excited smiles from guests. People always ask for the secret—no one misses traditional versions. Even with simple meals, flavors soar with a spoonful of this gravy.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Savory Baked Mushroom Rice

A plate of mushroom baked rice served next to a cast iron skillet.
Savory Baked Mushroom Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

With each forkful, this Savory Baked Mushroom Rice delivers the heartiness we crave as the weather cools. Earthy notes and gentle richness make it stand out during winter gatherings. I’ve noticed even picky eaters can’t resist sneaking extra spoonfuls. This side really holds its own next to any main course on chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Savory Baked Mushroom Rice

Creamy Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish filled with baked broccoli and mushrooms topped with crispy fried onions, with a serving spoon lifting out a portion.
Creamy Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Wrapped in a dreamy sauce, this Creamy Broccoli Casserole turns humble broccoli into a winter table star. It’s the kind of comfort food that has folks coming back for more, even if they thought they didn’t enjoy broccoli. The creamy texture gets everyone talking. Sharing it always leads to new fans of this classic side.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli Casserole

Tender Sautéed Kale

A white bowl filled with sautéed kale and sliced garlic, with a fork lifting a portion from the bowl.
Tender Sautéed Kale. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A plate of this Tender Sautéed Kale brings deep green vibrancy right when it’s needed most. It feels substantial but remains light enough to pair with any hearty meal. Friends seem surprised at how flavor-packed kale can be prepared this way. I like to serve it alongside richer dishes just to balance out the flavors of a big meal.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Granola with nuts and oats is drizzled with honey, creating a symphony of flavors reminiscent of a vegan sweet potato casserole.
Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Winter nights call for something that feels extra cozy, and this Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole fits perfectly. Each bite brings warmth and gentle sweetness, creating that just-right finish to a feast. The bright color draws plenty of attention at big gatherings. After just one spoonful, everyone’s mood lifts.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

A bowl of cooked rice mixed with kidney beans, garnished with chopped herbs on top, placed on a light-colored surface with fresh greens on a wooden board in the background.
Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Catch everyone off guard with the punchy flavors in this Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans. Each forkful carries warmth and a little kick, providing a nice change from traditional winter sides. People are often surprised by how comforting yet lively it tastes. Whenever I make this, the plates seem to empty faster than usual.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

A baked sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan and oat crumble, with a serving scooped out, revealing the orange filling.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Simple prep meets maximum flavor in this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole. The blend of sweet and savory comes together seamlessly, surprising anyone who tries it. I always find myself scooping a little extra because of the pleasing texture. Bringing this to a winter meal guarantees it won’t stick around for long.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy dish with a spoon, likely consisting of mashed potatoes or a similar textured food. The mixture appears smooth and slightly chunky.
Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

That smooth, creamy bite of this Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese draws people in with its golden glow. Cozy to the core, it makes a chilly night feel warmer and brighter. Even folks who usually pass on plant-based dishes discover a new favorite here. Lifting the lid and seeing the bubbling top always puts smile across the table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A plate of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with pine nuts on parchment paper.
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A side of these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze quickly changes minds about Brussels sprouts. The glaze adds sweet tang, balancing the earthiness and creating layered flavors. I’ve noticed these disappear first whenever I serve them, no matter who’s gathered. Bringing this dish out is a sure-fire way to spark conversation.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with browned breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, with a serving spoon inside.
Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Winters become instantly better with a pan of this Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole on the table. Each forkful brings golden crunch and creamy comfort, all in one. Friends often mention they wish they’d had it sooner. Even people who aren’t big on casseroles find themselves reaching for another scoop.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas

Skillet with creamy chickpeas, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with herbs.
Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A clever blend of flavors makes these Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas really stand out on winter menus. The smooth sauce offers something special when dinner calls for an upgrade. It’s so easy to pair with everything that I find myself making it often. One bite, and you’ll wonder why this wasn’t always part of your cold-weather table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas

Hearty Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs.
Hearty Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cold winter evenings seem to melt away when sharing this Hearty Vegetable Casserole. Each layer brings another delicious surprise without being too filling. Friends usually ask for the recipe after just a bite or two. Bringing it to any gathering always gets big smiles, especially when folks crave something soul-warming.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Casserole

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme.
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Roasted until crisp and tender, this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables dish brings loads of color and comfort to frosty days. The simple roasting technique lets the natural flavors shine. I like watching everyone’s eyes light up as the tray hits the table. This side makes any winter meal pop with brightness and warmth.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

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