Thanksgiving side dishes
Planning Thanksgiving dinner, but stuck on the side dishes? Here's a fact: sides make the feast. Our article lists 15 easy yet delicious sides that'll wow your guests... and save you from kitchen chaos.
Ready to give your feast that extra flair?
Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast with some mouthwatering side dish ideas. From classic mashed potatoes to savory roasted vegetables, these recipes will complement your turkey and leave everyone wanting more.
1. Parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts
Parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts are a game changer for your Thanksgiving dinner. Chop the sprouts, toss them with olive oil, and sprinkle them generously with Parmesan cheese. Then, just slide them into the oven until they're golden and crispy.
It's that easy! Your kitchen will soon fill with a mouth-watering aroma that promises something delicious is on its way to the table.
Nothing brings people together like good food.
Picture this: guests diving into these cheesy, oven-roasted delights before even sitting down. The combo of nutty Parmesan and earthy Brussels sprouts creates a side dish so irresistible; it might steal the spotlight from the turkey.
Everyone at your holiday gathering will rave about these little green gems—guaranteed.
2. Honey glazed carrots
Honey glazed carrots bring a burst of sweetness to your Thanksgiving table. They are the perfect mix of sweet and salty, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Picture slicing into tender, brightly colored carrots coated in a glossy, sweet honey sauce—that's what makes this dish stand out during the holiday feast.
It’s not just about adding color to your plate; it’s about crafting a flavor that complements everything from turkey to mashed potatoes.
Cooking these glazed wonders is as easy as pie. You toss fresh carrots in olive oil, season them with salt and pepper, and roast until they're just right. Then, you drizzle them with honey—maybe add a dash of thyme or rosemary for that extra zing—and back they go into the oven for that caramelized finish.
This side dish doesn't hang around long on the table because once someone takes a bite, word spreads like wildfire! Next up, let's talk arugula salad with apples....
3. Arugula salad with apples, cranberries, and pecans
Arugula salad with apples, cranberries, and pecans brings a fresh twist to the table. Sweet apples mix with tangy cranberries and crunchy pecans atop peppery arugula. This salad mingles sweet and savory flavors in every bite.
It's like a party where everyone's invited – sweet, savory, crunchy, and leafy.
Grab some plates because this dish won’t wait long on the Thanksgiving spread. Now let’s shift gears to another crowd-pleaser - Bacon green bean bundles are up next!
4. Bacon green bean bundles
Fresh green beans wrapped in savory bacon create a delectable side dish that perfectly complements your Thanksgiving feast. The crispy bacon adds a flavorful touch to the tender green beans, making it a delightful and popular choice for the holiday table.
These bacon green bean bundles are sure to be a hit among your guests, offering a classic yet delectable addition to your festive spread.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. - Leonardo da Vinci
- Gruyere and thyme stacked potatoes
5. Gruyere and thyme stacked potatoes
Sink your fork into layers of tender potatoes infused with aromatic thyme and savory Gruyere cheese. This delightful twist on traditional potatoes will elevate your Thanksgiving meal to gourmet heights.
Follow the simple baking instructions for these cheesy and herb-infused potato stacks, perfect for adding a touch of elevated flavor to your holiday table.
6. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic addition to any Thanksgiving feast, adding a comforting touch of savory and sweet flavors. Whether it's served in thick slices or crumbled into stuffing, this Southern staple is the perfect choice for your holiday table.
With its buttery aroma and golden crust, cornbread can be easily made with simple ingredients like cornmeal and buttermilk, allowing you to create a delectable breadbasket centerpiece that everyone will love.
This traditional side dish perfectly complements the richness of the Thanksgiving meal. The versatility of cornbread means it can be tailored to suit anyone's taste preferences - from sweet versions served with honey butter to savory varieties featuring herbs and cheese.
It's an essential addition that enhances the entire holiday experience while bringing comfort and warmth to your celebration.
7. Garlic mashed potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic and beloved Thanksgiving side dish. Incorporate roasted garlic for deeper flavor, along with butter, milk, and your favorite herbs to make these mashed potatoes even more indulgent.
They bring comfort and warmth to any holiday meal.
Enjoy the rich taste of creamy Yukon gold or russet potatoes whipped together with roasted garlic cloves. The aromatic fragrance and savory taste will captivate your taste buds. These creamy mashed potatoes can be enhanced further by adding textures such as chives or crispy bacon bits - resulting in an unforgettable Thanksgiving side that everyone will savor.
8. Fresh green beans wrapped in bacon
Fresh green beans wrapped in bacon are a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Combining the freshness of green beans with the savory taste of crispy bacon, this side dish is sure to please any crowd.
The healthy pairing of meat and veggies makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a delicious yet nutritious option on the holiday table. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or an intimate dinner, these bacon-wrapped green beans are a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving feast.
9. Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon: A classic Thanksgiving dish that perfectly combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts and the savory richness of crispy bacon. This side is a surefire hit for any holiday gathering, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will leave your guests craving more.
It's an ideal choice if you're looking to add a touch of indulgence to your festive spread while still keeping things delightfully simple.
The Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe provides a delectable blend of crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts complemented by the smoky, salty flavor of bacon. The aroma alone will have everyone gathered around the table in eager anticipation.
Whether you're whipping up a traditional feast or experimenting with modern twists on holiday classics, this crowd-pleasing side dish never fails to deliver when it comes to bringing comfort and satisfaction to the Thanksgiving dinner table.
10. Garlic herb roasted potatoes, carrots, and green beans
Transitioning from bacon-topped Brussels sprouts, let's delve into a mouthwatering medley of garlic herb roasted potatoes, carrots, and green beans. This classic side dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its savory, aromatic flavors and simple preparation.
The combination of tender roasted vegetables seasoned with garlic and herbs creates the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving table.
The beauty of this dish lies in its effortless nature - just toss the vegetables with olive oil, minced garlic, and a blend of your favorite herbs before roasting to crispy perfection.
It’s an excellent way to elevate traditional root vegetables into a delectable dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it's the earthy notes of thyme or the comforting warmth of roasted garlic, these herb-infused potatoes alongside perfectly caramelized carrots and snappy green beans offer the ideal balance between simplicity and irresistible flavor.
11. Pumpkin pie
After a hearty Thanksgiving feast, what better way to conclude the meal than with a classic slice of pumpkin pie? This traditional dessert holds a special place in many families' hearts.
The warm spices and creamy texture make it the perfect sweet ending to a holiday meal, especially when topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Whether it's served after turkey or eaten as an afternoon treat, pumpkin pie is a beloved part of Thanksgiving celebrations, evoking feelings of warmth and comfort during the autumn season.
As part of the Traditional Thanksgiving dessert lineup - Pumpkin Pie brings in flavors of fall that everyone looks forward to after enjoying savory dishes at the feast – it is indeed quintessential for its savory touch along with sweetness – ushering in feelings of nostalgia while embracing new traditions.
12. Roasted root vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are a classic Thanksgiving dish that brings out the natural sweetness of potatoes, carrots, turnips, and parsnips. The combination of earthy flavors and crispy edges makes this side dish a seasonal favorite.
Roasting the vegetables caramelizes their sugars, adding depth to your holiday spread. Sneak in some garlic cloves and fresh herbs for an extra punch of flavor - your guests will be asking for seconds!
Next up is "Roasted mushrooms in browned butter, garlic, and thyme sauce". This delectable dish adds depth to your Thanksgiving table with its rich umami flavors - it's sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
13. Roasted mushrooms in browned butter, garlic, and thyme sauce
Transitioning from the heartiness of roasted root vegetables to the sophisticated and flavorful side dish, roasted mushrooms in browned butter, garlic, and thyme sauce is a vegetarian delight packed with savory flavors.
The combination of tender mushrooms bathed in garlic-infused browned butter and aromatic thyme creates a gourmet experience that complements any holiday feast. This herbaceous sauce perfectly complements the earthy umami of the mushrooms, making it an ideal addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
The rich and robust flavor profile created by this dish makes it a standout among other Thanksgiving side dishes. It enhances the meal with its unique blend of ingredients, providing a delightful vegetarian option that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
14. Herb and garlic mashed potatoes
Creamy herb and garlic mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving classic. They can be made even creamier with milk, butter, and herbs. The creamy texture combined with the savory flavor of garlic makes this dish a must-have for holiday meals.
The creamy herb and garlic mashed potatoes will surely be a hit at any Thanksgiving gathering. The addition of fragrant herbs and garlic infuses the dish with irresistible flavors that perfectly complement the hearty nature of this side dish.
15. Easy sweet potato casserole
Transitioning from rich and creamy herb and garlic mashed potatoes, let's talk about an easy sweet potato casserole that will add the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors to your Thanksgiving dinner.
This vegetarian casserole is a holiday side dish favorite, combining tender sweet potatoes with a delectable topping of marshmallows or pecans. It’s an effortless yet delightful addition to your Thanksgiving meal, providing a fantastic vegetarian option for everyone at the table.
The easy sweet potato casserole offers a tantalizing blend of textures and flavors. Whether it’s as part of your traditional Thanksgiving spread or as the star of the show, this straightforward recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
It's a simple yet delicious way to elevate your holiday feast without any unnecessary fuss.
16. Cranberry orange relish
A tangy and zesty addition to your Thanksgiving table, cranberry orange relish combines the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy punch of oranges. It's a flavorful twist on traditional cranberry sauce that adds brightness to your holiday spread.
This homemade relish is quick and easy to make, bringing a burst of freshness to your festive side dishes. The combination of sweet and sour flavors creates a vibrant condiment that perfectly complements savory turkey or ham, making it an essential part of your Thanksgiving feast.
The next side dish in our lineup will add a burst of color and flavor—Mushroom risotto!
17. Mushroom risotto
Creamy and savory, mushroom risotto is an indulgent addition to any Thanksgiving dinner. The earthy flavor of mushrooms combined with the creamy texture of risotto makes it a perfect side dish for your festive feast.
Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply craving comfort food on the holiday, mushroom risotto offers a delicious way to elevate your meal.
This classic Italian rice dish can be tailored to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile and satisfying part of your Thanksgiving spread. With its rich and satisfying flavors, mushroom risotto is sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday table.
18. Candied pecan salad
Toss together mixed greens, roasted pecans, and cranberries for a sweet and nutty salad. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for a flavorful accompaniment to your Thanksgiving feast.
The combination of autumn flavors in this festive salad will satisfy everyone at the table.
The candied pecan salad is an easy holiday side dish made with seasonal ingredients that perfectly balance sweet and savory notes. It's an ideal addition to your Thanksgiving spread, offering a burst of flavor amidst the classic dishes on the table.
This nutty salad brings a delightful twist to traditional salads, making it an excellent choice for adding some variety to your menu this year. As you plan your holiday meal, consider including this vibrant candied pecan salad to elevate the overall dining experience – both visually and tastefully!
19. Roasted Brussels sprouts and cinnamon butternut squash
Roasted Brussels sprouts and cinnamon butternut squash come together beautifully for a festive autumn dish. The sweetness of the roasted cinnamon butternut squash complements the earthy flavors of the roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful contrast that will impress your guests at Thanksgiving.
It's a simple yet elegant addition to your holiday table, bringing seasonal cooking and vibrant colors to your spread. This side dish is an absolute winner when it comes to Thanksgiving feasts and is sure to be a hit with everyone gathered around the table.
The combination of caramelized flavors from roasting both vegetables makes this dish unique, infusing holiday meals with warm autumn flavors. It's an easy way to elevate your side dishes while ensuring diverse textures and tastes on each plate.
So why not surprise everyone with this delectable medley?
20. Homemade gravy
No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without homemade gravy. It's a classic and essential addition that brings all the flavors of the meal together. Whether you prefer it smooth or with chunks, this savory sauce highlights the taste of the turkey and mashed potatoes.
The rich, flavorful liquid poured from a gravy boat is sure to enhance your dining experience.
So don't forget to whip up a batch of delicious homemade gravy to complement your feast!
21. Holiday Honeycrisp salad
The Holiday Honeycrisp salad is a festive holiday salad that combines autumn flavors and seasonal ingredients. It features a delicious blend of sweet and tangy vinaigrette, nutty crunch from toasted walnuts, tart cranberries, and creamy blue cheese.
This harvest salad offers a variety of flavors and textures, creating the perfect accompaniment for Thanksgiving dinners.
The combination of tangy-sweet apple cider vinaigrette with dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and blue cheese makes the Holiday Honeycrisp salad an ideal addition to your Thanksgiving side dish lineup.
The burst of flavors in this colorful dish brings out the best in seasonal produce while adding a refreshing touch to your traditional feast.
22. Garlic parmesan roasted sweet potatoes
Add a punch of flavor to your Thanksgiving feast with garlic parmesan roasted sweet potatoes. These savory spuds are made with a delectable blend of garlic, parmesan, and rosemary seasoning.
They will surely be the star of your holiday side dishes, adding a burst of taste that complements any main course. Elevate your festive table with these flavorful sweet potatoes – an easy and scrumptious addition to your Thanksgiving dinner.
Sprinkle on the irresistible combination of parmesan and garlic for a delightful twist on classic roasted sweet potatoes. Your guests won’t be able to resist this festive vegetable side dish that's bursting with robust flavors!
23. Classic stuffing
Classic stuffing is a quintessential Thanksgiving side dish. Packed with savory flavors, it's a must-have for your holiday feast. A combination of bread, herbs, vegetables, and seasoning, this timeless recipe perfectly complements the main star of the meal – turkey.
Whether you prefer traditional stuffing or incorporate your unique twist by adding cranberries or nuts, classic stuffing never fails to delight the taste buds and bring warmth to the table.
Remember mashed potatoes aren't complete without gravy - similarly, no Thanksgiving meal is complete without classic stuffing on the menu!
24. Cheesy broccoli casserole
Cheesy broccoli casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that's perfect for Thanksgiving. It's a family favorite and an easy casserole recipe that combines the goodness of fresh broccoli with the richness of cheese.
This holiday side dish brings comfort and flavor to your festive cooking, making it a heartwarming addition to your Thanksgiving dinner.
Lemon Dijon roasted carrots
25. Lemon Dijon roasted carrots
The Lemon Dijon roasted carrots are bursting with zesty flavors. They bring a tangy side to the Thanksgiving table, combining citrus-infused tanginess with mustard-glazed sweetness.
The citrusiness from the lemon and the pungent kick of Dijon mustard creates an irresistible combination, making these herby-roasted carrots a savory accompaniment that's sure to delight your guests.
Next up - Roasted vegetables...
26. Butter rolls
Butter rolls are a classic Thanksgiving side dish. They can be served warm and slathered with butter for a comforting addition to your meal. These soft, fluffy bread rolls complement many other dishes on the table.
Whether you call them dinner rolls, bread rolls, or yeast rolls, these buttery delights are sure to please everyone at your Thanksgiving feast.
The aroma of freshly baked butter rolls fills the air, enticing everyone to dig in and enjoy their warmth. The golden-brown crust gives way to a pillowy soft interior that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for sopping up gravy or simply enjoying on their own, butter rolls add a touch of homestyle comfort to any Thanksgiving spread.
27. Crispy roasted cauliflower with cheddar and parmesan
Transitioning from comforting butter rolls to a delightful vegetable dish, let's talk about the crispy roasted cauliflower with cheddar and parmesan. This easy Thanksgiving side dish brings together the earthy flavor of cauliflower with the rich and tangy notes of cheddar and parmesan cheese.
It's a fun and tasty addition to your holiday spread, combining tender cauliflower florets with a golden crispness, all enhanced by the irresistible combination of melted cheeses.
This cheesy cauliflower gratin is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving dinner – it adds warmth and indulgence to any table, appealing even to those who are not typically fans of vegetables.
The crispy roasted cauliflower with cheddar and parmesan perfectly embodies that balance between comfort food and gourmet flavors, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking something special for their holiday meal.
28. Creamed spinach
Transitioning from the rich and cheesy flavors of crispy roasted cauliflower, we arrive at the comforting dish of creamed spinach. This holiday side dish offers a creamy blend of tender spinach with savory richness, perfect for adding a luxurious touch to your Thanksgiving table.
Creamed spinach presents a delightful option for those seeking creamy vegetable sides that perfectly complement the heartier Thanksgiving dishes. With its velvety texture and indulgent flavor, this spinach casserole is sure to be a hit among guests looking for something creamy and satisfying in their holiday spread.
29. Potatoes gratin
Indulge in the creamy goodness of the potatoes gratin, a comforting and easy Thanksgiving side dish. Elevate your holiday meal with thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Simple, yet decadent, this recipe is a must-try for those seeking a delicious addition to their holiday feast.
Savor each bite as the velvety sauce melds with tender potato slices, creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you're an experienced chef or new to the kitchen, these potatoes gratin are an effortless crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests coming back for more.
