Looking for some tasty and varied side dishes to complement your Thanksgiving feast? Check out this list of over 25+ Thanksgiving sides that are sure to make your meal memorable. From classic favorites to unique twists, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy!
Buttery Corn Casserole
Buttery corn casserole is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. This dish combines sweet corn with a creamy base, creating a comforting side that everyone loves.
The image shows a golden, bubbling casserole, surrounded by autumn leaves and small pumpkins. This setting perfectly captures the cozy vibe of the holiday season.
To make this casserole, you’ll need ingredients like corn, butter, cream, and a few spices. Start by mixing the corn with the other ingredients and pour it into a baking dish. Bake until it’s golden and set.
It’s simple, yet so satisfying. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear from the table!
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
These maple glazed Brussels sprouts are a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant green of the sprouts shines through, making them visually appealing. The crispy bacon bits add a savory touch that balances the sweetness of the maple glaze.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts, maple syrup, and crispy bacon. Start by trimming the sprouts and cutting them in half. Sauté the bacon until crispy, then remove it from the pan. In the same pan, add the Brussels sprouts and cook until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
Next, drizzle in the maple syrup and toss everything together. The glaze will coat the sprouts beautifully, creating a sweet and savory flavor that everyone will love. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear from the table!
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a must-have side dish for Thanksgiving. They bring comfort and warmth to the table, making them a favorite for many. The image shows a bowl of fluffy mashed potatoes, topped with a pat of butter and a drizzle of olive oil. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color, making the dish even more inviting.
To make these mashed potatoes, you’ll need simple ingredients: potatoes, garlic, butter, cream, salt, and pepper. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender. Meanwhile, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Once the potatoes are ready, mash them with the garlic butter, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
This dish pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy, adding a rich, savory flavor to your Thanksgiving feast. Don’t forget to adjust the garlic to your taste—some like it strong, while others prefer a milder touch. Enjoy these creamy delights with family and friends!
Pumpkin and Sage Risotto
Pumpkin and sage risotto is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. This creamy dish brings warmth and comfort, perfect for the season. The vibrant orange color of the pumpkin adds a festive touch, while the sage offers a fragrant aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
To make this risotto, you’ll need arborio rice, fresh pumpkin, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and sage. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic until fragrant. Then, add the rice and toast it slightly before gradually adding the broth. Stir in the pumpkin and sage as it cooks, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finish off with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added richness. This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on your table, making it a must-try for your Thanksgiving feast!
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon
Roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon are a delightful side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any Thanksgiving table. The vibrant orange cubes are not just visually appealing; they also offer a sweet and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with savory dishes.
To make this dish, you’ll need sweet potatoes, cinnamon, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Start by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes. Toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with cinnamon and salt, and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven until they are tender and caramelized, which usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
This side dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. The natural sweetness of the potatoes combined with the warm spice of cinnamon creates a comforting taste that complements turkey and other traditional sides. Plus, it’s a great way to add some color to your Thanksgiving spread!
Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic side dish that brings a fresh and crunchy element to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant green beans are perfectly cooked, maintaining their crispness, and are topped with toasted almonds for that delightful nutty flavor.
This dish is simple yet elegant, making it a great addition to any holiday spread. The bright lemon zest adds a refreshing twist, balancing the richness of other dishes. Plus, it’s a colorful option that looks beautiful on the plate.
To make Green Bean Almondine, you’ll need fresh green beans, sliced almonds, butter, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Start by blanching the green beans until they’re bright green and tender-crisp. Then, sauté the almonds in butter until golden, and toss everything together with the lemon zest. It’s that easy!
Not only does this dish taste amazing, but it also adds a lovely pop of color to your Thanksgiving feast. Your guests will appreciate the lighter side among the heavier dishes, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry orange relish is a refreshing addition to any Thanksgiving table. The vibrant colors of the dish, with bright red cranberries and zesty orange pieces, make it visually appealing. This relish not only looks great but also brings a burst of flavor that complements the savory dishes.
To make this delightful side, you’ll need fresh cranberries, oranges, and a bit of sugar. Start by washing the cranberries and peeling the oranges. Then, chop everything into small pieces. Mixing them together creates a sweet and tangy treat that balances out the richness of turkey and gravy.
Serve it chilled for the best taste. This relish can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a simple yet tasty way to add a pop of color and flavor to your Thanksgiving feast!
Savory Herb Stuffing with Celery and Onions
This savory herb stuffing is a classic side dish that brings warmth to any Thanksgiving table. The golden-brown cubes are perfectly seasoned, making them a delightful addition to your feast.
The stuffing features a mix of celery and onions, adding a fresh crunch and aromatic flavor. These ingredients work together to create a comforting dish that pairs well with turkey and gravy.
To make this stuffing, start with cubed bread, sautéed onions, and chopped celery. Toss in your favorite herbs like thyme and sage for that holiday essence. Once everything is mixed, bake until golden and crispy on top. It’s simple yet satisfying!
Serve this stuffing alongside your main dishes, and watch it disappear from the table. It’s a must-have for any Thanksgiving celebration!
Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
This roasted beet salad is a colorful and tasty addition to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant beets are roasted to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness. Paired with creamy goat cheese, this dish offers a delightful contrast in flavors.
The salad is topped with crunchy walnuts, adding a nice texture. Fresh greens provide a refreshing base, making it a well-rounded side. A sprinkle of salt enhances the flavors, making every bite enjoyable.
To make this salad, start by roasting the beets until tender. Once cooled, slice them and arrange them on a bed of greens. Crumble goat cheese over the top and add walnuts for crunch. A simple vinaigrette can tie everything together, but the salad is also delicious on its own.
Classic Coleslaw with a Twist
This classic coleslaw brings a fresh twist to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant colors of red and green cabbage, along with crunchy carrots and bell peppers, make it visually appealing and delicious.
The creamy dressing adds a rich flavor, while the addition of nuts gives it a satisfying crunch. This dish is not just a side; it can also be a refreshing palate cleanser amidst the heavier holiday dishes.
To make this coleslaw, you’ll need shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and a handful of nuts like peanuts or almonds. Toss these with a dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and a hint of sugar for sweetness. Chill it for a bit to let the flavors meld together, and you’re all set!
Glazed Carrots with Honey and Thyme
These glazed carrots are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. Their vibrant orange color and glossy finish make them visually appealing. The sweetness from honey combined with the earthy notes of thyme creates a perfect balance of flavors.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh carrots, honey, thyme, butter, and a pinch of salt. Start by washing and trimming the carrots. Then, in a skillet, melt some butter and add the carrots. Drizzle honey over them and sprinkle with thyme. Cook until the carrots are tender and nicely glazed.
This side dish not only tastes great but also adds a pop of color to your meal. It’s simple enough to prepare, yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Pair these carrots with your turkey or other sides for a complete Thanksgiving feast!
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake
This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake is a warm and comforting dish perfect for Thanksgiving. The image showcases a creamy blend of broccoli, pasta, and melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a side that not only looks inviting but also tastes amazing.
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like fresh broccoli, rice or pasta, cream of mushroom soup, and a generous amount of cheddar cheese. Start by cooking the rice or pasta until tender. In a baking dish, combine the cooked rice or pasta with steamed broccoli and the soup. Top it off with shredded cheese before baking until bubbly.
This bake is a fantastic way to add some greens to your holiday table while keeping things delicious. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Baked macaroni and cheese is a classic side dish that brings comfort to any Thanksgiving table. The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta, creating a warm and inviting dish. Topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, it adds a delightful texture that everyone loves.
In the image, you can see a beautiful serving of baked macaroni and cheese. The pasta is perfectly cooked, and the golden-brown breadcrumbs on top promise a satisfying crunch. This dish is not just about taste; it also looks appealing, making it a feast for the eyes.
To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, and breadcrumbs. Start by cooking the pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, prepare a cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking in milk and cheese until smooth. Combine the pasta with the sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake until golden and bubbly.
This baked macaroni and cheese is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering. It pairs well with turkey and other sides, making it a must-have on your holiday menu.
Herbed Quinoa Salad with Pomegranate
This Herbed Quinoa Salad with Pomegranate is a colorful and refreshing addition to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant red pomegranate seeds pop against the fluffy quinoa, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing.
The salad combines cooked quinoa with fresh herbs, adding a burst of flavor. Ingredients like parsley and mint bring a bright note, while the pomegranate seeds add sweetness and crunch. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
To make this dish, start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions. Once it’s fluffy, let it cool. Then, mix in chopped herbs and pomegranate seeds. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper ties everything together.
This salad is not only healthy but also a great way to impress your guests. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a delightful side that complements any Thanksgiving feast.
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice
Stuffed acorn squash is a colorful and inviting dish that brings warmth to any Thanksgiving table. The image showcases a beautifully roasted acorn squash, filled to the brim with wild rice and garnished with bright red cranberries. This dish not only looks appealing but also offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
The acorn squash serves as a perfect vessel for the wild rice, which is often cooked with herbs and spices to enhance its taste. The addition of cranberries adds a hint of sweetness and a pop of color, making it a festive choice for the holiday season.
To make this dish, you’ll need acorn squash, wild rice, cranberries, and some herbs like rosemary or thyme. Start by roasting the squash until tender, then prepare the wild rice according to package instructions. Mix in the cranberries and seasonings before stuffing the mixture into the squash. Bake it a bit longer to let the flavors meld together.
This stuffed acorn squash is not just a side; it can easily be a main dish for vegetarians. It’s hearty, nutritious, and sure to impress your guests!
