The Ultimate Guide to Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

Thanksgiving is synonymous with cherished moments shared with loved ones, highlighted by a lavish feast that tantalizes the taste buds. While the majestic turkey often claims the spotlight, it’s the ensemble of side dishes that truly orchestrates the symphony of flavors. This year, elevate your Thanksgiving table with a collection of exceptional side dish recipes, ranging from timeless classics like creamy mashed potatoes and rich homemade gravy to innovative creations that redefine traditional favorites. Prepare to discover a treasure trove of culinary inspiration that will transform your holiday feast into an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Classic Thanksgiving Sides: Timeless Traditions

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without the classic side dishes that evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. From savory homemade stuffing, a testament to resourceful cooking and familial traditions, to the creamy indulgence of green bean casserole, these recipes are the cornerstones of a truly memorable Thanksgiving feast. These sides are the familiar faces at the table, offering warmth and familiarity with every bite.

Easy Homemade Stuffing

This easy homemade stuffing recipe is loaded with fresh herbs, buttery flavor, and the perfect soft-meets-crispy texture. It’s the ultimate Thanksgiving stuffing, perfectly paired with turkey!

Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Forget the canned soup! This creamy green bean casserole is made entirely from scratch, boasting fresh green beans and a homemade mushroom sauce.

Homemade Gravy from Scratch

Learn how to make the best homemade gravy from scratch. This recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for drizzling over turkey and mashed potatoes.

Corn Casserole

Forget the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix—this creamy corn casserole is made completely from scratch! Featuring a buttery cornbread mix, two types of corn, and sour cream, it’s the ultimate holiday side dish.

15-Minute Orange Cranberry Sauce

This cranberry sauce recipe is a classic holiday side dish made with just 4 ingredients. Perfect to pair with Thanksgiving turkey!

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

A comforting and cheesy side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. This broccoli cheese casserole is easy to make and perfect for Thanksgiving.

Easy Thanksgiving Bread Recipes: The Perfect Basket

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with the aroma of freshly baked bread. Whether you crave the comforting warmth of soft and buttery dinner rolls or the airy delight of the easiest-ever homemade popovers, these recipes provide the perfect additions to your breadbasket. Each recipe is designed to be approachable and simple, ensuring that even novice bakers can create a delightful assortment of breads to share with family and friends.

• Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls: These soft and buttery rolls are made with just a few pantry ingredients. If you can stir, you can make these easy dinner rolls! They are the perfect complement to any Thanksgiving meal.
• Easy Pumpkin Dinner Rolls: If you have a fear of yeast, this is the recipe for you. These pillowy soft rolls come together in minutes and have a subtle pumpkin flavor, adding a festive touch to your holiday spread.
• The Best Cheddar Biscuits: These biscuits are light, flaky, cheesy and, best of all, take only 30 minutes to make. The sharp cheddar cheese provides a delightful counterpoint to the rich flavors of the Thanksgiving meal.
• Easy Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter: Skip the refrigerated tubes-o-dough and bake your way to the best-ever buttermilk biscuits made with just six simple ingredients. Top with honey butter for an extra touch of sweetness.
• No Yeast Bread: Homemade bread can be a daunting endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be! I’ve skipped the yeast and the eggs for this quick-fix recipe that’s made with just five pantry ingredients. Perfect for last-minute bread needs.
• Easy Pull-Apart Pretzel Rolls: These pillowy rolls have the classic chewiness and taste of soft pretzels and are a breeze to make. When I whip up a batch of these pretzel rolls, my family members come by in droves to get their hands on the golden brown, chewy, salted carbs!
• Muffin Pan Popovers: Forget the single-use pan in favor of this fool-proof recipe that comes together in minutes. Best of all, you only need five simple ingredients: eggs, milk, salt, flour and butter. These light and airy popovers are a delightful alternative to traditional rolls.
• Skillet Cornbread: This variation is loaded with corn kernels (fresh or frozen), and the batter can be poured into just about any size muffin pan or baking dish. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread pairs perfectly with savory Thanksgiving dishes.
• Easy Homemade No Yeast Focaccia: This basic dough comes together in minutes and can be flavored with endless options in the form of fresh or dried herbs, spices, cheeses and more. Focaccia is a versatile bread that can be customized to complement any Thanksgiving menu.
• Homemade Garlic Knots: These easy garlic knots are an essential addition to any holiday menu! Store-bought or homemade pizza dough that’s twisted into knots then baked, brushed with garlic-parsley butter and showered with Parmesan. These savory knots are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Our Best Potato and Sweet Potato Sides: Versatile Delights

Potatoes, in all their glorious forms, are the unsung heroes of Thanksgiving. Their remarkable versatility opens the door to endless culinary possibilities, from the comforting embrace of creamy mashed potatoes, a timeless classic enhanced with a secret ingredient, to the satisfying crunch of crispy roasted spuds, perfectly seasoned and boasting a golden-brown exterior. Whether you’re a staunch traditionalist or an adventurous culinary explorer, you’ll discover a wealth of inspiration to transform your Thanksgiving potato dishes into unforgettable culinary creations.

The Best Secret Ingredient Mashed Potatoes

Elevate your side dish game with the creamiest mashed potatoes to ever cross your lips! This simple recipe is made with cream cheese, heavy cream and butter for a crowd-pleasing dish worthy of your holiday dinner table, and beyond.

Easy Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes

These easy cheesy hasselback potatoes are a stunning and delicious side dish. The thinly sliced potatoes are infused with cheese and baked to perfection.

The Best Mashed Sweet Potatoes

A surprising addition makes this recipe for The Best Mashed Sweet Potatoes the creamiest-ever to hit your lips! These sweet potatoes are both comforting and flavorful.

Extra Crispy Roasted Potatoes

These ultra crispy roasted potatoes are golden and crackly on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. The secret? A preheated pan for next-level crunch! Perfect for breakfast, brunch or dinner.

Spiralized Sweet Potato Noodle Casserole

A healthier and more creative take on the traditional sweet potato casserole. This spiralized version is packed with flavor and texture.

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

A healthier alternative to traditional fries, these baked sweet potato fries are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping. They are a fun and delicious side dish for Thanksgiving.

Vegetable Sides That Will Steal the Show: Beyond the Ordinary

Prepare to be amazed by these Thanksgiving vegetable side dishes that transcend the ordinary, transforming humble ingredients into culinary masterpieces. From the irresistible crunch of crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, infused with the savory notes of pancetta and drizzled with a luscious balsamic syrup, to the elegant simplicity of our favorite bacon-wrapped asparagus, these recipes celebrate the season’s bounty and provide a refreshing contrast to the richer, more decadent flavors of the holiday feast. These vegetable sides are a testament to the transformative power of simple, fresh ingredients, expertly prepared to create unforgettable flavor experiences.

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles

These crispy bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles are an elegant and flavorful side dish. The salty bacon perfectly complements the tender asparagus.

Easy Honey Roasted Carrots

Sweet, sticky and perfectly caramelized, these Honey Roasted Carrots turn a basic veggie into an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish. Finish with chopped pistachios for crunch and color.

Quick and Easy Corn Fritters

These quick and easy corn fritters are a delicious and unexpected side dish. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and packed with sweet corn flavor.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Balsamic Syrup

This is the Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe that has converted many Brussels sprouts haters into lovers! They’re made with just 4 ingredients, get super crispy and caramelized in the oven, and can be served hot or at room temp.

Mashed Cauliflower with Cheese and Chives

A healthier alternative to mashed potatoes, this mashed cauliflower is creamy, cheesy, and flavorful. It’s a delicious and guilt-free side dish.

Roasted Green Beans

Simple, flavorful, and quick to make, these roasted green beans are a Thanksgiving staple. The Parmesan cheese adds a touch of savory flavor.

Salads Your Guests Will Love: Refreshing Additions

While the heart of the Thanksgiving feast lies in the main course and traditional sides, a thoughtfully prepared salad can provide a welcome counterpoint, injecting a burst of freshness and vibrancy into the meal. In this section, we present a curated selection of salad recipes, perfectly suited for Thanksgiving, showcasing seasonal ingredients, crisp greens, and distinctive dressings that will captivate your guests and leave them craving more. For a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, be sure to try my Caesar pasta salad, a creamy and flavorful creation that consistently receives rave reviews.

And for a touch of nostalgia and sweet delight, don’t miss my family’s cherished recipe for Raspberry Applesauce Jell-O Salad, a recipe passed down through generations since the 1950s!

Kale Caesar Salad with Crispy Chickpeas

A healthier and more flavorful take on the classic Caesar salad. This version features kale, crispy chickpeas, and a creamy homemade dressing.

Citrus Salad with Honey Dressing

A bright and refreshing salad featuring a variety of citrus fruits, arugala, red onion and a delicate honey dressing. Perfect for cleansing the palate.

Shredded Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad with Lemon Dressing

A healthy and delicious salad featuring shredded kale and Brussels sprouts, toasted almonds, Parmesan cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing.

Quinoa Salad with Warm Goat Cheese

A hearty and flavorful salad featuring quinoa, vegetables, and warm goat cheese rounds. This salad is both satisfying and nutritious.

Iceberg Wedge Salad with Buttermilk Dressing

A classic salad featuring crisp iceberg lettuce, creamy buttermilk dressing, bacon, croutons and cherry tomatoes. A simple and satisfying side dish.

Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Lemon Dressing

A vibrant and flavorful salad featuring roasted cauliflower, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, Parmesan cheese, and a tangy lemon dressing.

Easy Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Ideas: Comfort Reinvented

Prepare to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration with the ultimate comfort food, mac and cheese, reimagined in a variety of irresistible variations. These recipes offer a delightful twist on the classic, adding a touch of indulgence and creativity to your holiday spread. From decadent and cheesy to subtly sweet and savory, there’s a mac and cheese recipe to suit every palate and preference.

• Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese: This mac and cheese is easy, cheesy, and best of all, can be made in advance. The roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that takes this classic to the next level.
• 30-Minute Pumpkin Mac and Cheese: Pumpkin purée seamlessly melds into the creamy cheese sauce, creating an irresistible side dish that’s both comforting and festive.
• Classic Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese: Ditch the boxed stuff in favor of this easy mac and cheese recipe, which will be on your table in 30 minutes or less! This classic recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• 30-Minute White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: While white cheddar is most definitely the star of the cheese show, I like to also use an entire cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The salty richness of the Parm punches up the creamy tanginess of the white cheddar.
• French Onion Mac and Cheese: This unique twist on the classic favorite stars caramelized onions and an extra-creamy white cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce, creating a symphony of flavors.

Our Favorite Butternut Squash Side Dishes: Autumn’s Sweet Embrace

Embrace the flavors of autumn with our collection of favorite butternut squash side dishes. These recipes celebrate the sweetness and versatility of butternut squash, transforming it into a variety of delectable creations. From savory fritters to creamy risotto, these butternut squash sides will add a touch of warmth and elegance to your Thanksgiving table.

5-Ingredient Butternut Squash Fritters

These 5-ingredient butternut squash fritters are a simple and flavorful side dish. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and packed with sweet butternut squash flavor.

Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto

A creamy and comforting risotto featuring roasted butternut squash. This risotto is packed with flavor and texture, making it a perfect side dish for Thanksgiving.

Baked Butternut Squash Tots

A healthier and more creative take on traditional tots, these baked butternut squash tots are a fun and delicious side dish. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and packed with sweet butternut squash flavor.

Easy Soups to Kick Off Your Holiday Feast: Warm and Inviting

Begin your Thanksgiving celebration with a warm and inviting bowl of soup. Our curated collection of Thanksgiving soup recipes captures the essence of autumn, showcasing seasonal ingredients and comforting flavors. Best of all, these soups can be made ahead, making them a convenient and stress-free choice for your Thanksgiving celebration. From creamy and decadent to light and refreshing, there’s a soup to suit every palate.

Butternut Squash Apple Soup

Cozy and comforting Butternut Squash Apple Soup is a fall staple. This soup is hearty, healthy and incredibly creamy without any added cream or milk.

Quick Cauliflower Soup

A quick and easy cauliflower soup recipe that’s both healthy and delicious. Top with crispy chickpeas for added texture and flavor.

Thai Coconut Pumpkin Soup

Warm up to a healthy, comforting bowl of Thai Coconut Pumpkin Soup loaded with fresh garlic, curry powder and creamy coconut milk. It’s made with just 7 simple ingredients and will be on your table in 30 minutes or less!

Chicken Wild Rice Soup

A creamy and comforting soup featuring chicken, wild rice, and vegetables. This soup is perfect for a chilly Thanksgiving day.

The Best Cranberry Sauce: A Thanksgiving Essential

It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without the best cranberry sauce! Whip it up a day in advance to really give the flavors a chance to develop, then serve it hot, cold, or room temp alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, or turn it into a toast topper for appetizers (hello, goat cheese bruschetta!). This versatile and tangy sauce is a Thanksgiving must-have.

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