19 Vegan Winter Side Ideas That Feel Especially Welcome This Time of Year

ByMandy Applegate

Planning winter meals gets easier with 19 vegan side ideas tailored for the colder months. Some nights simply call for an array of crowd-pleasing extras to round out dinner. Big gatherings or quiet evenings both deserve a little extra care on the side. Picking the right recipes makes the whole season feel a bit more special.

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.
Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.
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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.

Crispy edges and caramelized flavors give these Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables a spot on every winter table. They bring vibrant color and natural sweetness, making even picky eaters reach for more. I serve this recipe during chilly months and always notice leftovers disappear fast. Everyone asks how something so simple can taste so rich.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

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.

Warm, plant-based comfort takes shape in this Vegan Squash Casserole. It’s creamy, layered, and brings a gentle sweetness that stands out during cold-weather meals. I love serving it for holiday dinners or potlucks since guests come back for another serving. Sharing this casserole often sparks requests for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Squash Casserole

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.
Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Spiced aroma fills the kitchen with Caribbean Rice and Beans simmering nearby. Bright flavors wake up tired weeknights and fit perfectly beside any main course. I take this dish to gatherings where everyone brings something unique. The bowl is usually scraped clean by the end.
Get the Recipe: Caribbean Rice and Beans

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.

Melted cheese flavor meets golden crunch in this Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole that feels made for cozy winter weekends. Each square holds together with just the right balance of seasonings. I keep this recipe on repeat when friends visit because no one can stop at just one piece. Lively conversations carry on as the dish empties.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

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.

Earthy mushrooms make this Savory Baked Mushroom Rice stand out in a sea of side dishes. Rich aromas greet guests before the pan even hits the table. I prepare it for chilly evenings to pair with simple mains. Friends often comment on how unique and comforting it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Savory Baked Mushroom Rice

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.

Sweet meets savory in every bite of these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. The glaze adds a tangy pop that makes the sprouts shine. I recommend serving it alongside a variety of plant-based entrees. People who thought they didn’t like Brussels sprouts usually grab seconds.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Hearty Vegetable Casserole

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

Chunky vegetables and warm flavors take center stage in this Hearty Vegetable Casserole. Filling but never heavy, it anchors plant-based meals throughout the season. I rely on this dish for family-style suppers in winter. Every serving brings comfort and lots of smiles.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Casserole

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with chopped chives and black pepper.
Vegan Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy texture and a buttery flavor come together in these Vegan Mashed Potatoes. They’re so rich, no one ever misses the dairy. I prepare these for potlucks and always see people reaching for seconds. Most guests ask about the trick to making them so fluffy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

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

Thick, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked beans create a classic comfort in these Vegan Green Bean Casserole. This side fits right in during the busiest winter holidays. I bake it for festive tables when everyone craves something familiar. People usually debate who gets to scrape out the last spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Golden Shallots

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

Sweet, mellow, and perfectly roasted, these Golden Shallots upgrade every winter meal. Their natural caramel flavor makes them an unexpected but welcome addition to any spread. I like to serve them for both big celebrations and simple weeknight dinners. Compliments tend to focus on the amazing aroma and color.
Get the Recipe: Golden Shallots

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.

Layers of bold, saucy flavor pack every bite in these Loaded Vegan Enchilada Casserole. It’s one of those dishes that wins fans even among meat-eaters. I built this for potluck suppers and watch people go back for more. Piping hot and easy to slice, it always grabs attention.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Mushroom Gravy

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

Deep, umami flavor gives these Mushroom Gravy a starring role at winter tables, dressing up everything from potatoes to casseroles. Poured generously, it brings earthy richness to even the simplest sides. I whip up batches for big meals and weeknight dinners alike. Comments always follow about its bold taste and creamy finish.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

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.

Slow roasting in the air fryer gives these Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole a crispy shell and fluffy center. Sweet and comforting, it works as both a side and a surprising dessert. I love how quickly this dish comes together on busy nights. People ask for more before the pan cools down.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato 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.

Tender greens make an appearance with these Tender Sautéed Kale sizzling in the skillet. Garlic and gentle heat turn it into a crave-worthy winter vegetable. I add this dish to weeknight meals when the table needs a green boost. Most eaters are shocked by how much they enjoy it.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

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.

Silkiness meets crunch in these Creamy Broccoli Casserole, delivering rich comfort that fits right in with cold-weather dinners. Bright green florets peek out from a savory, warm base. I add this to buffets knowing it will appeal to everyone. The first scoop usually brings out a round of happy chatter.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli Casserole

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.

Crunchy outside and soft inside create the magic of these Golden Roasted Potatoes. These potatoes fit naturally alongside everything from roasts to vegan mains. I serve a tray for almost every winter gathering since they disappear so quickly. Even leftover pieces seem to vanish overnight.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Potatoes

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.

Plant-based meals get a date-night makeover with these Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas. Every spoonful is loaded with satisfying richness and gentle spice. I cook up a pot for cozy evenings or to impress vegan friends. First bites often bring a surprised smile at how comforting chickpeas can be.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas

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.

Silky sweet potatoes, a crispy layer, and warm spices describe these Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole at its best. Warm aromas fill the kitchen as it bakes. I bring this dish out for festive tables and watch every serving disappear. It’s the kind of comfort food that wins over new fans every time.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

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.
Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creaminess and bold color bring these Vegan Mac and Cheese straight to the comfort food hall of fame. You’d never guess it’s plant-based with its rich, cheesy flavor. I dish it up for big gatherings or weeknight dinner cravings. Expect kids and grown-ups to come back for another scoop.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

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