Cranberry sauce is a sweet and tangy addition to many meals, perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes.

Whether you're planning a holiday feast or looking for ways to use up leftovers, here you can find 15 tasty side dishes that pair wonderfully with cranberry sauce.

These sides add balance and variety to your meal, ensuring every bite is enjoyable and satisfying.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with cranberry sauce are pork loin roast, glazed ham, chicken skewers, roasted duck, roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, roasted brussels sprouts, duck breast, sweet potato casserole, greek yogurt, quinoa oatmeal, and brie cheese.

Now, let's get cooking!

Table of Contents

1. Pork Loin Roast
2. Glazed Ham
3. Chicken Skewers
4. Roasted Duck
5. Roasted Turkey
6. Mashed Potatoes
7. Stuffing
8. Green Bean Casserole
9. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
10. Duck Breast
11. Sweet Potato Casserole
12. Greek Yogurt
13. Quinoa Oatmeal
14. Brie Cheese
15. Roasted Butternut Squash
What To Serve With Cranberry Sauce

1. Pork Loin Roast

Pork loin roast is a succulent and flavorful meat that pairs perfectly with cranberry sauce. Seasoned with herbs and garlic, and roasted until tender, the pork loin's savory flavor is complemented by the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. This combination creates a balanced and satisfying meal that's ideal for special occasions.

2. Glazed Ham

Glazed ham, with its sweet and savory notes, is an excellent match for cranberry sauce. The glaze, often made with honey or brown sugar, caramelizes on the ham, adding a rich flavor. The tartness of the cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the glaze, creating a delightful and balanced dish.

3. Chicken Skewers

Chicken skewers are a versatile and flavorful side that pairs perfectly with cranberry sauce. Marinate chicken pieces in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grill until juicy and slightly charred. The savory and smoky flavors of the chicken skewers are beautifully complemented by the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a delicious and well-balanced dish.

4. Roasted Duck

Roasted duck is a rich and savory dish that goes wonderfully with cranberry sauce. The crispy skin and tender meat of the duck, seasoned with herbs and spices, are enhanced by the tart and sweet flavors of the cranberry sauce. This pairing creates a luxurious and delicious dining experience.

5. Roasted Turkey

Roasted turkey is a classic pairing with cranberry sauce. The tender, juicy turkey, seasoned with herbs and roasted to perfection, is beautifully complemented by the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry sauce. The combination is traditional and always a crowd-pleaser, making it a perfect centerpiece for any holiday meal.

6. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a comforting and creamy side that pairs well with cranberry sauce. The smooth texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes provide a perfect contrast to the tartness of the cranberry sauce, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. Add a touch of garlic or herbs for extra flavor.

7. Stuffing

Stuffing is a savory and flavorful side that complements cranberry sauce beautifully. Made with bread, herbs, vegetables, and sometimes sausage, stuffing is rich and hearty. The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor that balances the savory elements, making for a delicious combination.

8. Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a creamy and crunchy side that goes great with cranberry sauce. Made with fresh green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, this dish is a holiday favorite. The tangy cranberry sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy casserole, enhancing the overall flavor.

9. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a healthy and tasty side that pairs well with cranberry sauce. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until caramelized and tender. The slightly bitter and nutty flavor of the Brussels sprouts is complemented by the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a balanced and delicious dish.

10. Duck Breast

Duck breast is a tender and flavorful meat that pairs beautifully with cranberry sauce. Pan-sear the duck breast until the skin is crispy and the meat is juicy. The rich, gamey flavor of the duck is complemented by the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, making for an elegant and delicious combination.

11. Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a sweet and savory side that goes perfectly with cranberry sauce. Made with mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and topped with marshmallows or pecans, this dish is a holiday staple. The tartness of the cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the casserole, making for a delightful combination.

12. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a light and refreshing side that pairs surprisingly well with cranberry sauce. The creamy and tangy yogurt balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce, creating a simple yet delightful pairing. This combination is perfect for a light and healthy option, adding a unique twist to your meal.

13. Quinoa Oatmeal

Quinoa oatmeal is a hearty and nutritious side that complements cranberry sauce. Cook quinoa and oats together, and mix with a touch of honey or maple syrup. The nutty flavor and chewy texture of the quinoa oatmeal pair nicely with the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, making for a wholesome and satisfying dish.

14. Brie Cheese

Brie cheese is a creamy and rich side that pairs wonderfully with cranberry sauce. The soft and buttery texture of the Brie, combined with the tangy and sweet cranberry sauce, creates a luxurious and delicious flavor combination. Serve with crackers or a baguette for an elegant appetizer or side.

15. Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash is a sweet and savory side that goes great with cranberry sauce. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until caramelized and tender. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberry sauce, creating a balanced and flavorful dish.