31 Thanksgiving Side Dishes Everyone Will Want Seconds Of
Thanksgiving dinner is all about bringing family and friends together around a table filled with delicious food. While roasted turkey often takes center stage, the side dishes are what make the holiday meal truly unforgettable. From creamy mashed potatoes and buttery dinner rolls to cheesy casseroles, roasted vegetables, and homemade cranberry sauce, the right sides can turn an ordinary dinner into a spectacular Thanksgiving feast.
Whether you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving dinner, preparing a meal for a large family gathering, or simply looking for new recipes to add to your holiday menu, these 31 Thanksgiving side dishes have something for everyone. You’ll find traditional favorites, comforting casseroles, fresh vegetable dishes, and flavorful holiday classics that are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Each recipe includes a list of ingredients and simple step-by-step instructions to help you prepare a delicious dish without unnecessary stress. Many can also be prepared ahead of time, making Thanksgiving Day easier and more enjoyable.
Let’s explore 31 irresistible Thanksgiving side dishes that everyone will want seconds of!
1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Perfect Garlic Roasted Mashed Potatoes Recipe & Techniques
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a must-have Thanksgiving side dish. Made with tender potatoes, butter, warm milk, and roasted garlic, this comforting recipe is rich, smooth, and full of flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup warm milk
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup sour cream
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes.
- Place them in a large pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil.
- Cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add butter, warm milk, garlic, and sour cream.
- Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Classic Green Bean Casserole
Can You Microwave Green Bean Casserole? – Food Fanatic
This traditional green bean casserole combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions. It’s an easy holiday favorite that pairs beautifully with turkey and other Thanksgiving dishes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or canned green beans
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If using fresh green beans, boil them for 5 minutes and drain.
- Mix mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Add the green beans and half of the crispy onions.
- Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining fried onions over the top.
- Bake for another 5–10 minutes until golden and bubbling.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet, buttery, and beautifully caramelized, honey glazed carrots bring color and natural sweetness to your Thanksgiving table. They’re simple to prepare and pair wonderfully with savory holiday mains.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, peeled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh thyme
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash, peel, and cut the carrots into evenly sized pieces.
- Melt the butter and mix it with honey and olive oil.
- Toss the carrots with the honey mixture.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.
4. Southern Cornbread Dressing
Southern Cornbread Dressing – Cooking At Pam’s Place
Southern cornbread dressing is a comforting holiday classic made with crumbled cornbread, aromatic vegetables, broth, and traditional herbs. Its soft center and golden top make it an excellent addition to Thanksgiving dinner.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 6 cups crumbled cornbread
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt butter in a skillet and sauté onion and celery until softened.
- Place crumbled cornbread in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cooked vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the broth gradually and mix.
- Stir in the beaten eggs.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is lightly golden.
5. Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Best Southern Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe
Baked macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort-food side dish. Tender pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce and finished with a golden baked topping makes this recipe especially popular with both kids and adults.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour.
- Gradually add milk while stirring until thickened.
- Add cheddar, mozzarella, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until the cheese melts completely.
- Combine the sauce with cooked macaroni.
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranates
Roasted Brussels sprouts become wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that balances the richness of Thanksgiving favorites.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Add dried cranberries and serve immediately.
7. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and pecans.
Sweet potato casserole is a holiday favorite that combines naturally sweet potatoes with brown sugar, butter, and toasted marshmallows. Its soft, creamy filling and fluffy topping make it a delicious addition to the Thanksgiving spread.
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes.
- Boil them for 15–20 minutes until tender.
- Drain and mash with butter, brown sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Spread the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Cover the top with mini marshmallows.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the marshmallows are golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
8. Homemade Cranberry Orange Sauce
Simple Cranberry Sauce – Giadzy
Fresh cranberry orange sauce adds a refreshing sweet-and-tangy flavor to a rich Thanksgiving meal. Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and sugar, it’s much more flavorful than store-bought sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries and remove any damaged berries.
- Combine sugar, orange juice, and water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add cranberries and orange zest.
- Cook for 10–15 minutes until the berries burst.
- Stir occasionally and add cinnamon.
- Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
9. Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
homemade dinner lush buns, top view
Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up gravy and enjoying alongside Thanksgiving favorites. A garlic butter topping gives these homemade rolls extra flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let stand for 5–10 minutes.
- Add flour, melted butter, and salt.
- Knead until a soft dough forms.
- Cover and allow to rise for about 1 hour.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape into balls.
- Place in a greased baking dish and rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes.
- Mix softened butter with garlic and parsley, then brush over warm rolls.
10. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Parmesan roasted asparagus is a light and flavorful side dish that balances heavier holiday foods. Fresh asparagus, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese create a simple recipe that tastes delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper
- ½ lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the asparagus and trim the woody ends.
- Place the asparagus on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 10–15 minutes.
- Sprinkle Parmesan over the asparagus.
- Return to the oven for 2 minutes.
- Finish with fresh lemon juice before serving.
11. Loaded Twice-Baked Potatoes
Twice-Baked Loaded Potatoes Recipe by Tasty | Recipe Cart | Recipe Cart
These loaded twice-baked potatoes are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Filled with cheese, sour cream, butter, and fresh chives, they’re a satisfying side dish that feels extra special.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and pierce the potatoes with a fork.
- Bake for 45–60 minutes until tender.
- Cut each potato in half and scoop out the centers, leaving a thin shell.
- Mash the potato centers with butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in half the cheddar cheese.
- Spoon the filling back into the potato skins.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake for another 15 minutes. Garnish with chives.
12. Creamed Spinach
Rich Creamed Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan
Creamed spinach is a restaurant-style side dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Fresh spinach, garlic, cream, and Parmesan create a smooth and flavorful combination that complements roasted turkey perfectly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Wash the spinach thoroughly.
- Heat butter in a large skillet.
- Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese.
- Add Parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes until creamy.
- Serve warm with freshly grated Parmesan.
13. Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Maple roasted sweet potatoes offer a wonderful combination of natural sweetness and savory seasoning. Their caramelized edges and soft centers make them an excellent alternative to traditional sweet potato casserole.
Ingredients
- 3 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into cubes.
- Combine olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the sweet potatoes in the mixture.
- Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the potatoes.
- Serve warm with fresh herbs if desired.
14. Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing
Homemade Thanksgiving Dressing Stuffing
Traditional bread stuffing is one of the most recognizable Thanksgiving side dishes. Made with toasted bread cubes, celery, onions, butter, and aromatic herbs, this recipe delivers the familiar flavors everyone loves during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 8 cups cubed day-old bread
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes.
- Melt butter in a skillet.
- Add celery and onion and cook until softened.
- Place bread cubes in a large bowl.
- Add the vegetables, herbs, and broth gradually.
- Mix until the bread is lightly moistened.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden.
15. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Old-Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich, creamy cheese sauce make this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The golden top and tender potato layers make it perfect for a festive Thanksgiving dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes.
- Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour.
- Slowly add milk, stirring until thickened.
- Add cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange half the potatoes in a greased baking dish.
- Pour over half the sauce and repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake another 15 minutes until golden.
16. Roasted Butternut Squash with Herbs
Roasted butternut squash is a colorful and nutritious addition to your Thanksgiving menu. Its naturally sweet flavor becomes even richer when roasted with olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the squash, remove the seeds, and cut into cubes.
- Place the cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- Add olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread on a lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once.
- Serve when tender and lightly caramelized.
17. Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Broccoli cheese casserole transforms simple vegetables into a rich and comforting holiday side. Tender broccoli covered in creamy cheddar sauce and finished with a crunchy topping makes it especially popular with families.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam broccoli for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender.
- Mix mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, cheddar, salt, and pepper.
- Add broccoli and stir gently.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
18. Honey Butter Corn
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Easy Delicious Side Dish – Recipe Website
Honey butter corn is a quick, sweet, and savory side dish that adds a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of tender corn, melted butter, and honey makes it an easy favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups sweet corn kernels
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the corn kernels.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until the corn is evenly coated.
- Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
19. Southern Collard Greens
Collard Greens With Smoked Turkey Leg
Southern collard greens bring traditional comfort and deep savory flavor to a Thanksgiving feast. Slow cooking the greens with garlic, onion, broth, and smoked turkey creates a tender dish packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds collard greens
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Wash the collard greens thoroughly and remove tough stems.
- Cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot.
- Add onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the collard greens and stir.
- Pour in broth and add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer for 40–50 minutes until tender.
- Finish with apple cider vinegar and serve hot.
20. Parmesan Garlic Roasted Cauliflower
Best Roasted Cauliflower Recipe – How to Make Roasted Cauliflower
This parmesan garlic roasted cauliflower is a delicious way to serve vegetables during the holidays. Roasting brings out the cauliflower’s natural sweetness, while Parmesan and garlic create a savory, crispy finish.
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- Toss with olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle Parmesan over the cauliflower.
- Roast for another 8–10 minutes until golden.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
21. Homemade Creamy Coleslaw
Traditional coleslaw recipe with honey twist
Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to a rich Thanksgiving menu. Fresh cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy mayonnaise dressing make this a simple make-ahead side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Shred the cabbage and carrots.
- Combine mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Whisk until smooth.
- Add the shredded vegetables.
- Toss until everything is coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Stir again before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
22. Classic Deviled Eggs
La receta para hacer huevos endiablados en menos de 30 minutos | TN
Deviled eggs are a traditional party favorite that also deserve a place on your Thanksgiving table. Their creamy yolk filling, mild mustard flavor, and paprika topping make them easy to prepare and serve.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- Salt and pepper
- Paprika
- Fresh chives
Instructions
- Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and turn off the heat.
- Let stand for 10–12 minutes.
- Transfer eggs to an ice bath and cool.
- Peel and cut each egg in half lengthwise.
- Remove yolks and mash with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon or pipe the mixture into the egg whites.
- Sprinkle with paprika and chopped chives.
23. Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries and Pecans
One Pot Wild Rice Pilaf – Hunger Task Force
Wild rice pilaf is a beautiful holiday side dish that combines nutty rice with sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans. Fresh herbs bring everything together for a flavorful and colorful addition to Thanksgiving dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice blend
- 2½ cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water.
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add onion and cook until softened.
- Add rice and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
- Cook according to the rice package instructions, usually 40–50 minutes for a wild rice blend.
- Stir in cranberries and toasted pecans.
- Season with salt and pepper and garnish with parsley.
24. Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Recipe | The Kitchn
Baked Parmesan zucchini is a lighter alternative to heavy holiday casseroles. Fresh zucchini slices coated with Parmesan and herbs become tender and golden in the oven.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice zucchini into even rounds.
- Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle Parmesan over each slice.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes.
- Broil briefly if you want extra golden edges.
- Serve immediately while warm.
25. Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe – How To Make Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky buttermilk biscuits are a wonderful addition to any Thanksgiving meal. Their soft centers and buttery layers make them perfect for serving with gravy, mashed potatoes, or honey butter.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold butter
- ¾ cup cold buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cut cold butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add buttermilk.
- Gently mix until a soft dough forms.
- Pat the dough into a thick rectangle and cut into biscuits.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Brush with melted butter and serve warm.
26. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are a colorful and wholesome addition to Thanksgiving dinner. A mixture of carrots, parsnips, beets, and potatoes develops a delicious caramelized flavor when roasted with olive oil and herbs.
Ingredients
- 2 carrots
- 2 parsnips
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 beet
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel and chop all vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
- Place them in a large bowl.
- Add olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30–40 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Serve hot with additional fresh herbs.
27. Creamy Mushroom Gravy
How to Thicken Gravy, According to Our Test Kitchen
A rich mushroom gravy is an excellent accompaniment to mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted vegetables, and turkey. Fresh mushrooms, butter, garlic, and broth create a savory sauce that brings the entire Thanksgiving plate together.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- ¼ cup cream
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh thyme
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and mix well.
- Slowly pour in broth while whisking.
- Simmer for 5–8 minutes until thickened.
- Add cream, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Stir until smooth and serve warm.
28. Corn Pudding Casserole
The Creamy, Easy Vegetable Side Dish That’s Always on My Thanksgiving Table
Corn pudding casserole is a comforting Southern-inspired dish with a soft, custard-like texture and naturally sweet corn flavor. It’s easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with savory Thanksgiving mains.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1 cup creamed corn
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 box cornbread muffin mix (about 8.5 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk the eggs in a large bowl.
- Add corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and sugar.
- Stir in the cornbread muffin mix.
- Mix until just combined.
- Pour into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes until the center is set.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
29. Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Maple glazed Brussels sprouts with bacon combine sweet, smoky, and savory flavors in one delicious dish. The crispy bacon adds richness, while the maple syrup creates a lightly caramelized coating.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 4 bacon strips, chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
- Cook chopped bacon in a skillet until crisp and drain excess fat.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with maple syrup and bacon.
- Return to the oven for another 5–8 minutes.
- Serve immediately while warm.
30. Cheesy Garlic Bread
How To Make Garlic Bread – Food.com
Cheesy garlic bread is a simple crowd-pleasing side dish that adds a delicious combination of crunchy bread, melted cheese, and aromatic garlic to the holiday table. It’s especially good alongside creamy casseroles and soups.
Ingredients
- 1 French bread loaf
- ½ cup softened butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the bread lengthwise into two halves.
- Mix softened butter with minced garlic and parsley.
- Spread the garlic butter over the bread.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Slice and serve warm.
31. Creamy Parmesan Risotto
13 Risotto Recipes You’ll Want To Make On Repeat
Creamy Parmesan risotto is an elegant Thanksgiving side dish that adds a restaurant-quality touch to your holiday dinner. Arborio rice slowly cooked with warm broth, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich, velvety texture that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups Arborio rice
- 5 cups warm vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup cream (optional)
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a separate large pan.
- Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add Arborio rice and stir for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in one ladle of warm broth and stir until absorbed.
- Continue adding broth gradually, stirring frequently, until the rice is creamy and tender, about 18–25 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan and cream if using.
- Season with salt and black pepper, then serve immediately.
How to Plan the Perfect Thanksgiving Side Dish Menu
Preparing 31 different dishes isn’t necessary to create an unforgettable Thanksgiving dinner. The secret is choosing a balanced selection of recipes that offer different flavors, textures, and colors.
Here are some simple tips for planning your holiday menu:
- Choose potato favorites: Include creamy mashed potatoes or cheesy scalloped potatoes.
- Add vegetable dishes: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and green beans add freshness.
- Include comforting casseroles: Mac and cheese, corn pudding, and broccoli casserole are excellent crowd-pleasers.
- Don’t forget the bread: Homemade dinner rolls and buttermilk biscuits are perfect for serving with gravy.
- Prepare ahead: Cranberry sauce, coleslaw, and some casseroles can be prepared in advance.
- Balance sweet and savory: Combine maple-glazed vegetables with savory stuffing and cheesy sides.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to enjoy delicious homemade food and create wonderful memories with family and friends. These 31 Thanksgiving side dishes offer something for every taste, from creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy casseroles to roasted vegetables, homemade bread, and traditional holiday favorites.
Whether you choose a few classic recipes or try something new this year, these dishes will help make your holiday table more colorful, flavorful, and memorable.
Prepare your favorite recipes, share them with loved ones, and don’t be surprised when everyone comes back for seconds!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes?
Some of the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes include mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, macaroni and cheese, sweet potato casserole, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls.
2. How many side dishes should I serve for Thanksgiving?
For a gathering of 6–8 people, around 4–6 different side dishes are usually sufficient. For larger gatherings, you can offer 6–10 options depending on your menu and guests’ preferences.
3. Which Thanksgiving side dishes can I make ahead of time?
Cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, and coleslaw can be prepared partially or completely ahead of time. Store them properly in the refrigerator and reheat when needed.
4. What are some easy Thanksgiving side dishes for beginners?
Honey glazed carrots, roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, honey butter corn, and roasted Brussels sprouts are excellent beginner-friendly recipes.
