Thanksgiving sides have a way of stealing the spotlight, and this big batch of 49 recipes proves it. Each one adds a little extra charm to the table, making people reach for seconds before the turkey even gets its turn. These dishes bring that mix of comfort and tradition that everyone secretly hopes for during the feast.
Stuffed Cabbage
A Thanksgiving table isn’t complete without Stuffed Cabbage as a side dish. These tender cabbage leaves filled with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings bring a hearty twist to the holiday. They’re baked in a savory marinara-like sauce, ensuring every bite is deliciously moist. This dish is perfect for guests looking for a warm and comforting addition to their meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Cabbage
Amish Breakfast Casserole
Serve Amish Breakfast Casserole as a versatile side dish that can double as brunch for guests staying overnight. Packed with eggs, hash browns, cheese, and sausage, it’s the perfect combination of protein and flavor. This casserole is baked to perfection, creating a golden crust that pairs beautifully with Thanksgiving spreads.
Get the Recipe: Amish Breakfast Casserole
Stuffing Balls
If you love individual portions, Stuffing Balls add a unique touch to your Thanksgiving table. Made by shaping traditional stuffing into bite-sized balls, they’re baked to achieve a crispy exterior with a tender inside. This fun take on stuffing allows for easy serving and clean-up. They’re a creative way to impress guests while sticking to classic flavors.
Get the Recipe: Stuffing Balls
Cabbage Casserole
A wonderful balance of earthy and creamy, Cabbage Casserole adds depth to your Thanksgiving meal. Shredded cabbage baked with a rich sauce and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs makes every bite irresistible. The dish is simple to prepare but delivers complex textures that pair well with turkey and other sides. It’s ideal when you need a dish that pleases a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole
Cornbread Stuffing
Southern inspiration shines through with Cornbread Stuffing as part of your Thanksgiving sides. Cornbread crumbs mixed with herbs, onions, celery, and broth are baked to create a comforting and savory dish. It’s especially perfect if you’re looking to offer gluten-free options for the guests at your table. Every forkful celebrates the holiday’s traditional flavors with a personal twist.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Stuffing
Butternut Squash Risotto
The subtle sweetness of Butternut Squash Risotto pairs wonderfully with savory Thanksgiving staples. Creamy Arborio rice, tender squash, and parmesan come together in a rich dish that guests won’t forget. This risotto is perfect for showcasing seasonal produce while adding a touch of elegance to your spread. With flavors that complement turkey, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto
Ham and Potato Casserole
For those who love comforting classics, Ham and Potato Casserole brings home-style warmth to Thanksgiving. This dish layers tender potato slices with savory ham and a creamy cheese sauce for indulgent perfection. It’s hearty enough to share the spotlight while being easy to prepare for a bigger family gathering. A great addition for variety alongside turkey and traditional sides.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Casserole
Cauliflower Steaks
Offering a plant-based option, Cauliflower Steaks impress with their simplicity and flavor. These thick-cut cauliflower slices are baked and lightly seasoned for a smoky richness that complements holiday dishes. An ideal alternative for non-meat eaters, they provide a nutritious yet hearty side. They’re a visually striking addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks
Greek Salad
Fresh and vibrant, Greek Salad brings crisp vegetables together with briny olives, feta, and vibrant dressing. This healthy addition provides a refreshing contrast to heavier Thanksgiving sides. In just minutes, you can add color and Mediterranean-inspired flavors to your table. It’s a simple solution for offering lighter options to balance the richness of the holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad
Chicken and Rice Casserole
For families looking for comforting flavors, Chicken and Rice Casserole delivers everything you need. With tender chicken and fluffy rice baked in creamy sauce, this entry stands out among sides. A great choice if you’re aiming to serve versatile dishes that everyone will enjoy. Rich and filling, it easily complements mashed potatoes, turkey, and all the Thanksgiving fixings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole
Focaccia Bread
Having fresh, homemade bread is always a hit during Thanksgiving, and Focaccia Bread steals the spotlight. Aromatic with olive oil and herbs, it boasts a soft interior and slightly crisp crust. It’s perfect for pairing with gravy or spreading with butter after coming fresh out of the oven. In addition to its bold flavor, it’s also visually appealing with its traditional rustic appearance.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread
Cinnamon Applesauce
Sweet yet not overly so, Cinnamon Applesauce is an excellent side to add a fruity balance to your Thanksgiving meal. Made with fresh apples and a dash of cinnamon, it offers a comforting and familiar taste. Whether accompanying turkey or pork dishes, the applesauce shines with natural flavors and works well for all age groups. It’s quick to prepare and can even be made ahead.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Applesauce
Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
A transformed twist on a Thanksgiving table staple, Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze boast tangy and subtle sweetness. Roasted until crisply caramelized, the sprouts are drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze to enhance their flavor. Whether serving as a vegetarian option or a complementary veggie side, this dish consistently wins over guests. It’s a beautiful addition full of character.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Bread Stuffing
Create a classic Thanksgiving experience with Bread Stuffing, a timeless favorite. Combining cubes of bread with savory herbs, onions, and celery, it soaks up flavors perfectly when baked to a golden finish. It’s versatile enough to serve as a standalone dish or complement the turkey. A side that embodies the warmth and tradition of the holiday season, it will surely impress.
Get the Recipe: Bread Stuffing
Celery Salad
Add a refreshing crunch to your table with Celery Salad, a great light alternative for guests seeking fresh flavors. Featuring crisp celery, lemon, garlic, and a touch of Parmesan, it’s an effortless addition to the lineup. Quick to prepare and bursting with texture, this salad balances heavier dishes on Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Celery Salad
Cranberry Sauce
Staple in holiday spreads, Cranberry Sauce is the perfect accompaniment for turkey. Made with simple ingredients like fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange vibrant, this sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet touch. Its vibrant color brightens the table and highlights the festive spirit of the season. Guests will appreciate its homemade flavor, which rivals any store-bought option.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Sauce
7 Layer Salad
Make your Thanksgiving table stand out with 7 Layer Salad, a visually appealing and layered dish. Featuring lettuce, tomatoes, peas, cheese, bacon, and more, all topped with creamy dressing, it looks fabulous in a clear bowl. The layers not only create contrast but also ensure varied bites with every spoonful. This festive salad is a great way to add color alongside traditional side dishes.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Creamed Spinach
Bring richness to your Thanksgiving menu with Creamed Spinach, a flavorful side that’s always a hit. Fresh spinach is cooked to perfection, then combined with a creamy sauce for a lush texture. A blend of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese enhances its appeal. Whether as a standalone side or paired with steak or turkey, this dish maintains its place as a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe
Perfect for both kids and adults, Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe strikes the balance between sweet and savory. Tender carrots cooked with butter and honey deliver natural sweetness paired with a glossy sheen. Ideal for busy Thanksgiving meal prep, this recipe takes little time but produces a spectacular side. Serve it as a simple yet flavor-packed addition to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe
Egg Casserole
Give every guest something to enjoy with Egg Casserole, an easy and filling Thanksgiving side. Mixed with cheeses, vegetables, or meats, this dish is customizable to fit your family’s favorite flavors. Its versatility makes it a great option to pair with a variety of main and side dishes on the table. Made in one dish, it’s also perfect for keeping dinner preparation stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole
Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes
Add bold flavors to your dinner with Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes, a departure from traditional sides. Juicy steak paired with perfectly seasoned potatoes offers a combination that challenges the usual Thanksgiving choices. The slight kick of chipotle and sweet honey creates a balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes
Eggplant Casserole
Enjoy hearty flavor and texture with Eggplant Casserole, a unique addition to Thanksgiving side dishes. Layers of tender eggplant, tomatoes, and cheese provide a dish that’s brimming with classic, comforting elements. It caters to vegetarians while being a satisfying option for everyone at the table. This dish is a great choice to diversify your holiday spread without overwhelming flavors.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole
Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board
Add a stunning centerpiece to your Thanksgiving table with Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board. Featuring cheese, fruits, meats, and crackers arranged in the shape of a turkey, it’s sure to spark conversation. This DIY board allows guests to pick at light bites before the main course while admiring the creativity.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board
Garlic Knots
Let Garlic Knots be the bread choice guests simply can’t ignore at your Thanksgiving dinner. With their soft texture and bold garlicky flavor, these knotted pieces of bread complement just about any side dish or main. Served warm, they add an inviting touch to your feast. Whether dipped into gravy or enjoyed on their own, they bring comfort to every plate.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Antipasto Salad
Offer something refreshing and light alongside heavy dishes with Antipasto Salad. Packed with a mix of veggies, olives, salami, cheese, and tangy dressing, it celebrates bold flavors without being overwhelming. Guests will enjoy this colorful addition that contrasts with the traditional greens and rich sides. It’s also a great option for those who prefer a healthier choice during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Baked Potato
Sometimes simplicity is key, and Baked Potato brings a classic, filling side to the Thanksgiving table. Baked to pillowy perfection, they can be customized with a variety of toppings like sour cream, cheese, chives, or butter. These potatoes serve as a versatile base for building individual servings according to taste. Their familiarity and comfort make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
When seeking a lighter protein-based side dish, try Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. This combination of shredded chicken, dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy dressing offers sweetness alongside nutty textures. It’s a great addition as a make-ahead dish for guests who prefer non-traditional items.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Creamy comfort food is made easy with this dish, cooked quickly in a pressure cooker. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving spread, offering a rich and cheesy texture. The simplicity of preparing it makes it a go-to dish for busy holiday meals. It’s guaranteed to be loved by both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Honeycrisp Salad
A refreshing option for Thanksgiving, this salad highlights seasonal ingredients like crisp apples. Honeycrisp Salad combines sweet fruit, crunchy nuts, and greens for an irresistible balance of textures. Tossed with a light dressing, it brings a crisp, fresh addition alongside heartier sides. This dish adds vibrancy and color to your table.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
Mac and Cheese
An undeniable Thanksgiving staple that brings cheesy and creamy goodness to the table. Mac and Cheese is an easy crowd-pleaser, drawing guests back for second helpings. The blend of melted cheeses makes it hearty and comforting amid the holiday spread. It’s perfect for a family gathering, offering warm familiarity to everyone.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Hot Honey Chicken Salad ensures flavor-packed bites that stand out among traditional sides. The slight hint of spice adds character while balancing well with the other ingredients. Great on its own or next to other dishes, it’s both bold and versatile. A unique twist for your table, this salad blends the sweetness of hot honey with the savory taste of chicken.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
A rich and filling option for Thanksgiving, this recipe highlights creamy potatoes baked to perfection. Mississippi Mud Potatoes combine butter, cheese, and bacon for layers of flavor in each bite. It’s an easy dish to prepare, yet its depth of flavor is memorable. Perfect for adding indulgence to your spread, it complements other sides beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Mushroom Risotto
Add a sophisticated touch to your table with this classic grain-based side dish. Mushroom Risotto brings a velvety, hearty texture paired with earthy mushrooms to balance the richness of other Thanksgiving dishes. Though simple to prepare, its creamy consistency and depth of flavor make it a standout. Always appreciated for its versatility and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto
Potato Casserole
Potato Casserole is a blend of rich ingredients that harmonize well with turkey and other favorites. It’s easy to portion out and stays warm, making hosting simpler on a busy day. Whether topped with cheese or breadcrumbs, it always gets rave reviews. A timeless dish that offers creamy layers of potato goodness baked together.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole
Pumpkin Soup
Served warm, this autumn-inspired dish makes a great starter for Thanksgiving dinner. Pumpkin Soup is flavorful and smooth, ideal for opening a hearty meal with a lighter option. Garnished with seasonal spices or seeds, it adds festive flair. Its rich, earthy flavors complement the rest of the holiday meal perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup
Potato Croquettes
Bite-sized and crisp, these potato treats are perfect for any Thanksgiving celebration. Potato Croquettes consist of mashed potatoes rolled, coated, and fried for a golden result. They’re ideal for both kids and adults, pairing well with other sides or dipping sauces. Their texture is a fun contrast to softer items on the table.
Get the Recipe: Potato Croquettes
Roasted Broccoli
A healthy, vibrant dish that shines when paired with richer sides. Roasted Broccoli is easy to prepare and gains a smoky flavor from the oven. Topped with garlic or lemon, it’s an excellent option for balancing the heavier Thanksgiving menu. This simple yet flavorful vegetable adds color and nutrition to the table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Broccoli
Sautéed Kale
For those looking to bring greens to their Thanksgiving spread, this option is quick yet impactful. Sautéed Kale uses fresh greens cooked with oil, garlic, or onions for a flavorful side. Its slightly crisp yet tender texture works well alongside mashed potatoes or other hearty dishes. Serve it as a lighter alternative to typical sides.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Kale
Seven Layer Salad
Perfect for visual appeal, this layered dish is as exciting to look at as it is to eat. Seven Layer Salad highlights colorful ingredients like lettuce, eggs, and peas for variety and richness. Dressed lightly, it stays fresh and crisp, making for a welcome addition to heavier plates. This salad is ideal for sharing and encourages guests to dig in from the moment they see it.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad
Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Highlight seasonal produce with this colorful and hearty dish. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables feature carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes cooked to perfection. A little oil and seasoning pull out natural sweetness while caramelizing the edges. It’s a wholesome side that pairs wonderfully with turkey and other traditional fare.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Smashed Potatoes
Perfect for a rustic touch, this dish celebrates the simplicity of potatoes. Smashed Potatoes are boiled, pressed, and lightly roasted with herbs and garlic for an excellent side. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them an ideal choice for complementing heavy Thanksgiving dishes. This is a versatile dish you’ll want to add to your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes
Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Bring a unique addition to your Thanksgiving table with this tender pasta alternative. Sweet Potato Gnocchi is made with pureed sweet potatoes and flour, offering a soft texture. Served in a butter sauce or with sage, the flavor feels both indulgent and hearty. This simple dish adds variety and novelty to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi
French Onion Soup
Warm and hearty, this soup’s rich flavors make it a perfect choice for cozy Thanksgiving gatherings. French Onion Soup features caramelized onions cooked into a flavorful broth, topped with a cheesy bread crust. Ideal for serving as a first course, it sets a satisfying tone for the entire meal. Whether robust or light, it complements the holiday feast elegantly.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup
Sweet Potato Wedges
A lighter alternative to mashed sweet potatoes, these wedges offer a great mix of softness and crispness. Sweet Potato Wedges are roasted and lightly seasoned for a side dish with a balanced texture. Pairing well with other mains, they can be made extra flavorful using spices or herbs. Quick to prepare, they’re a welcoming addition to the menu.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges
Turkey Gravy
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a flavorful sauce to complement the turkey. Turkey Gravy uses the drippings from the bird to create an essential and rich addition. Smooth and poured over turkey, stuffing, or mashed potatoes, it ties the meal together. A true staple for the holiday, it’s quick to prepare and endlessly customizable.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Gravy
Easy Tater Tot Casserole
For a playful twist on a traditional casserole, this dish delivers crunch and flavor. Easy Tater Tot Casserole features crisp tots as a topping over a hearty filling of meat and vegetables. Convenient to assemble, it provides warmth and hominess on the big day. A favorite among kids and adults, it’s always a hit at family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole
Turkey Soup
Repurpose holiday leftovers with this flavorful and comforting dish. Turkey Soup uses cooked turkey and simple vegetables to create a post-Thanksgiving meal everyone can enjoy. Cooked in a single pot, it’s quick and requires minimal effort after a holiday full of cooking. Perfect for adding variety to meals after the feast.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Soup
Green Bean Casserole
An iconic side dish that effortlessly belongs at every Thanksgiving table. Green Bean Casserole brings together tender green beans, creamy soup, and crispy onions for added texture. Ready in minimal time, it’s a convenient way to add a veggie option without overwhelming preparation. Whether you’re hosting or attending, it never fails to impress as a reliable favorite.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole
Beet Salad
An excellent side with earthy flavors and vibrant hues, this dish adds brightness to Thanksgiving spreads. Beet Salad uses tender beets paired with fresh herbs and light vinaigrette dressing. Serve it for an elegant and refreshing option alongside heavier dishes. Its vibrant colors make it stand out as a beautiful addition to any table.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad
