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56 Thanksgiving Side Dish Ideas (With 100+ Side Dish Recipes)

posted October 21, 2025 by Jacob // 0 Comments »

When most people think of Thanksgiving, the first food that comes to mind is turkey. 

And while our comprehensive guide to thanksgiving dinner ideas takes you through ALL components of this special meal, including several main course options and some decadent desserts, I wanted to spend some extra time exploring my favorite part of Thanksgiving.

The sides!

In my humble-but-100%-correct-opinion-with-absolutely-no-room-for-dispute, it’s the incredible array of side dishes that truly make the Thanksgiving special.

Whether you’re attending your first Thanksgiving or your fiftieth, you’ll find both familiar favorites and new discoveries on tables across the country. This guide celebrates the sides that have become the backbone of American Thanksgiving traditions.

The Top 10 Classic Sides For Thanksgiving

These dishes appear on more Thanksgiving tables than any others, and for good reason. They’re the tried-and-true staples that make the holiday feel like home. If you’re planning your menu and wondering what to include, start here—these are the dishes your guests will expect and love.

1. Mashed Potatoes (Classic, Creamy, Garlic, or Loaded)

The foundation of almost every Thanksgiving plate, mashed potatoes are endlessly versatile. Whether you prefer them silky smooth and buttery, infused with roasted garlic, or loaded with cheese and bacon, there’s a version for everyone. They’re the perfect canvas for soaking up gravy and deserve a place of honor at your table.

2. Stuffing (Also known as Dressing)

This savory bread-based dish is arguably the most debated side on Thanksgiving—people have strong opinions about whether it should be called stuffing or dressing, and exactly how much moisture it should contain. Regardless, this herb-and-celery-forward comfort food is an absolute must-have.

3. Sweet Potato Casserole (Topped with marshmallows or a pecan streusel)

Sweet potatoes get their moment to shine on Thanksgiving, typically baked into a rich casserole and crowned with either gooey marshmallows or a crunchy pecan streusel. This dish perfectly bridges the gap between savory and sweet.

4. Green Bean Casserole (Traditionally with cream of mushroom soup and fried onions)

Green Bean Casserole Recipe

This mid-century classic has become a Thanksgiving icon. Crispy fried onions and creamy mushroom sauce transform humble green beans into a beloved side dish that tastes like nostalgia.

5. Cranberry Sauce (Both homemade and canned jelly)

Apple Cider Cranberry Sauce

Tart, bright, and essential, cranberry sauce provides the perfect counterpoint to rich turkey and gravy. Whether you make it from scratch or crack open a can of the jellied version (no judgment here), it’s non-negotiable on the Thanksgiving table.

6. Macaroni and Cheese (Often a baked, casserole-style mac)[=

20 Homemade Holiday Side Dishes

Often made with multiple cheeses and baked until the top is golden and crispy, Thanksgiving mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s richer and more indulgent than weeknight versions, making it the perfect special occasion dish.

7. Gravy (Turkey gravy or mushroom gravy)

The condiment that ties everything together, gravy transforms your entire plate into something greater than the sum of its parts. Whether you’re making it from turkey drippings or opting for a vegetarian mushroom version, this silky sauce is essential.

8. Dinner Rolls (or Biscuits)

Soft, warm, and buttery, dinner rolls are the perfect vehicle for your turkey and gravy. Whether you make them from scratch or use a reliable store-bought option, they add comfort and substance to every plate.

9. Roasted Brussels Sprouts (Often with bacon or a balsamic glaze)

Roasted until crispy and caramelized, Brussels sprouts have become a modern Thanksgiving essential. Add smoky bacon or tangy balsamic vinegar, and you’ve got a vegetable side that even skeptics will enjoy.

10. Cornbread (or Cornbread Dressing)

This golden, slightly sweet bread can be served on its own with butter, crumbled into your dressing, or even baked into a casserole. Cornbread brings a distinctly American comfort to the table.

Potato & Squash Dishes For Thanksgiving

For many people, Thanksgiving isn’t complete without multiple forms of starches and root vegetables. This category celebrates the endless possibilities beyond classic mashed potatoes, showcasing the versatility of potatoes and squash when given the attention they deserve.

11. Scalloped Potatoes (Potatoes Au Gratin)

Layers of thinly sliced potatoes suspended in a creamy, cheese-filled sauce and baked until tender—pure elegance on a plate. This classic French-inspired dish adds sophistication to your Thanksgiving spread.

12. Candied Yams

Sweet yams glazed with brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter create an indulgent side that’s almost dessert-like. It’s a traditional favorite that brings warmth and spice to the table.

  • Candied Yams
  • Yams With Marshmallows

13. Roasted Butternut Squash

Caramelized edges and a naturally sweet, creamy interior make roasted butternut squash a beautiful and healthy addition to your menu. The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory turkey and herbs.

  • Roasted Butternut Squash
  • Cranberry Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash

14. Roasted Potatoes (Often with garlic and herbs)

Roasted Fingerling Potatoes Recipe

Simple yet satisfying, roasted potatoes tossed with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil offer a lighter alternative to cream-based potato dishes. Their crispy exterior and tender center make them irresistible.

15. Butternut Squash Soup

A velvety, warming soup that can be served as a first course or alongside other sides, butternut squash soup is elegant and deeply satisfying. A touch of sage or nutmeg brings out the squash’s natural sweetness.

  • Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
  • Vegan Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

16. Mashed Sweet Potatoes (A savory alternative to the casserole)

Hasselback Sweet Potatoes with Brown Butter Recipe

Hasselback Sweet Potatoes with Brown Butter Recipe

For those who find sweet potato casserole too sugary, mashed sweet potatoes with savory seasonings offer a more balanced approach. Topped with herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, they become something truly special.

17. Baked Potatoes

Sometimes the simplest preparations are the best. A perfectly baked potato with a fluffy interior and crispy skin becomes a blank canvas for all your favorite toppings and gravies.

  • Baked Potatoes
  • Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

18. Acorn Squash (Often roasted with brown sugar)

Golden-orange acorn squash halves, roasted and filled with brown sugar and butter, offer both visual appeal and delicious flavor. They’re individual portions that add a touch of elegance to the table.

19. Potato Salad

Tangy Red Potato Bacon Salad by This Gal Cooks. The flavors will knock your socks off!

A cold, creamy potato salad provides a refreshing contrast to hot, heavy sides. With the right balance of mayo, mustard, and fresh herbs, it’s a welcome addition to any Thanksgiving plate.

20. Twice-Baked Potatoes

Potatoes are hollowed out, mixed with cheese, sour cream, and bacon, then baked again until golden. These crispy-skinned, creamy-centered delights are comfort food at its finest.

Casseroles & Bakes For Thanksgiving

These warm, comforting one-dish wonders are the backbone of many Thanksgiving tables. Whether made ahead or assembled last-minute, casseroles are the reliable workhorses that feed crowds and satisfy everyone at the table.

21. Corn Casserole (or Corn Pudding)

Sweet corn suspended in a custard-like base creates a side that’s almost dessert but perfectly savory. Often topped with a buttery topping, it’s rich, creamy, and utterly addictive.

  • Corn Casserole
  • Jiffy Corn Casserole
  • Corn Pudding

22. Broccoli Casserole (Often with cheese and a cracker topping)

Broccoli gets a major upgrade when combined with a creamy sauce and a crispy cracker topping. This vegetable-forward casserole proves that healthy eating can be delicious.

  • Broccoli Casserole
  • Broccoli Rice Casserole
  • Chicken Broccoli Casserole

23. Cauliflower Casserole (or Cauliflower Gratin)

Cauliflower florets suspended in a cheese sauce and baked until bubbly, cauliflower casserole offers a lighter alternative to heavier sides without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

24. Cheesy Potato Casserole (Hashbrown Casserole)

Shredded potatoes, melted cheese, and a creamy binder create a golden, crispy-topped casserole that’s pure comfort. It’s potato perfection in dish form.

  • Hashbrown Casserole
  • Cheesy Potato Casserole

25. Squash Casserole (Usually with yellow squash)

Mild yellow squash takes on rich flavors when baked with cheese, butter, and breadcrumbs. This vegetable-forward dish is often a favorite among guests looking to add more produce to their plates.

26. Asparagus Casserole

Tender asparagus spears blanketed in a creamy sauce and topped with breadcrumbs or cheese create an elegant yet accessible side dish that doesn’t require much technique.

  • Asparagus Casserole
  • Old Fashioned Asparagus Casserole

27. Spinach Casserole (or Creamed Spinach Gratin)

Earthy spinach combined with cream, garlic, and often a little nutmeg creates an elegant vegetable dish. It’s sophisticated enough for special occasions but simple enough for everyday cooking.

  • Spinach Casserole
  • Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

28. Baked Bean Variations

A classic side dish of beans slow-baked in a sweet and savory sauce, with popular variations including additions like bacon, molasses, or smoky barbecue flavors.

29. Sweet Potato Variations

Sweet potatoes can go in either a sweet or savory direction, making them a versatile choice for a wide variety of thanksgiving side dishes.

30. More Casseroles 

There’s a lot more casserole where that came from!

Vegetable Sides For Thanksgiving

Beyond the casseroles, this collection of fresh and prepared vegetables rounds out the table with color, nutrition, and flavor. From glazed root vegetables to sautéed greens, these sides celebrate the season’s best produce.

31. Glazed Carrots (Often with honey or brown sugar)

Sweet and tender, glazed carrots caramelized in a brown sugar and butter sauce are a Thanksgiving classic. Their bright color and natural sweetness make them a menu essential.

32. Creamed Corn

oven-roasted-corn-on-the-cob-on-baking-sheet

Tender corn kernels suspended in a velvety cream sauce create a side that’s simultaneously simple and indulgent. Fresh corn is best, but frozen works beautifully too.

33. Collard Greens (Especially popular in the Southern U.S.)

Slow-cooked until tender and silky, collard greens seasoned with garlic, ham hock, or bacon bring deep, complex flavors to the table. They’re a staple in Southern Thanksgiving traditions.

34. Roasted Root Vegetables (A mix of parsnips, carrots, and potatoes)

Slow Cooker Chuck Roast with Carrots | This Gal Cooks

A medley of seasonal root vegetables roasted until caramelized offers variety and visual interest on your plate. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness and creates crispy, golden edges.

35. Green Beans Almondine

Green beans topped with an almond mixture create a textural contrast that elevates this simple vegetable into something special. The almonds add crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.

  • Green Beans Almondine

36. Sautéed Green Beans (Often with garlic)

Quick to prepare and elegant to present, garlicky sautéed green beans offer a lighter alternative to heavy casseroles. A touch of butter and fresh garlic is all you need.

  • Sautéed Green Beans

37. Roasted Asparagus

Grilled Asparagus Recipe

Grilled Asparagus Recipe

Thin asparagus spears, tossed with olive oil and garlic, roast in minutes to create a tender-crisp side. They’re elegant, simple, and always impressive.

38. Creamed Spinach

Earthy spinach wilted into a silky cream sauce offers depth and sophistication. It pairs beautifully with turkey and complements almost any other side on your table.

  • Creamed Spinach

39. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms browned in butter and garlic create an umami-rich side that adds depth to your plate. They’re elegant, earthy, and absolutely delicious.

40. Broccolini with Sauce

Charred Broccolini Recipe

Tender broccoli florets blanketed in a smooth sauce create a side that appeals to more than just vegetable lovers. It’s comfort food that happens to be relatively healthy.

41. Peas (Often creamed or with onions)

Whether served creamed for richness or sautéed with pearl onions for freshness, peas add a pop of color and a hint of spring to your autumn Thanksgiving table.

  • Sweet Peas

42. Lentil Dishes

Vegetarian Spiced Lentils with Toasted Coconut | This Gal Cooks

Lentils are the perfect base for any number of hearty, savory sides, stews and soups, often featuring earthy spices, herbs, and other vegetables.

Breads & Stuffing Variations For Thanksgiving

No Thanksgiving plate is complete without bread, whether as part of your stuffing or on the side. This category celebrates the infinite variations on these essential carbohydrates that add texture and substance to every bite.

43. Sausage Stuffing

Hearty sausage adds depth and richness to traditional bread stuffing, creating a more robust and meat-forward version of the classic. The sausage fat ensures every cube of bread is flavorful and moist.

44. Cornbread Stuffing

Crumbled cornbread replaces traditional white bread in this regional variation, adding a slightly sweet, crumbly texture. It’s particularly popular in Southern Thanksgiving traditions.

45. Biscuits (Cheddar bay or buttermilk)

Warm, flaky biscuits—whether studded with cheddar cheese or made with traditional buttermilk—are perfect for soaking up gravy and serving as edible vessels for turkey and sauce.

46. Crescent Rolls

Four Ingredient BBQ Chicken Roll Ups. A Simple Appetizer | This Gal Cooks

These buttery, flaky rolls add elegance and ease to your table. Their individual portions make them perfect for guests who want just a small amount of bread.

47. Classic Bread Stuffing (with celery, onion, and herbs)

The traditional version remains unbeaten: cubed bread, diced celery, onion, and aromatic herbs combined into a savory, herb-forward side. It’s the benchmark by which all other stuffing is judged.

48. Oyster Stuffing

For a coastal twist or a nod to tradition, oyster stuffing combines briny shellfish with bread and herbs. It’s elegant, unusual, and deeply flavorful—perfect for adventurous diners.

49. Specialty Breads & Additional Variations

Cranberry Orange Bread Recipe

Thanksgiving is the perfect venue to showcase fall flavors and seasonal novelties.

Other Popular Sides & Salads For Thanksgiving

Rounding out the Thanksgiving table are salads, fruits, and classic appetizer-style sides that add freshness, brightness, and variety to your menu. These dishes often provide a much-needed contrast to heavier, richer sides.

50. Deviled Eggs

Creamy, tangy deviled eggs served as part of the main course (not just as an appetizer) are a charming, classic addition. Their cool, rich filling provides a palate-cleansing contrast to hot sides.

51. Waldorf Salad

Tart apples, crisp celery, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy dressing come together in this elegant salad. It’s light, refreshing, and provides a welcome break from heavier sides.

52. Side Salad (Often a simple green salad with a vinaigrette)

A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of turkey, gravy, and creamy sides. Don’t underestimate the power of simplicity.

53. Fruit Salad (or Ambrosia Salad)

A medley of seasonal fruits, perhaps with coconut and a light dressing, brings brightness and sweetness to the table. It’s a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of heavier fare.

54. Grain-Based Salads

Farro Salad is packed full of tender sun dried tomatoes, artichokes and crunchy pine nuts. Tossed with an olive oil, red wine and Greek seasoning dressing for an outstanding pop of flavor!

Add heartiness and nutrition with grain salads that provide wonderful variety and texture.

55. Stuffed Mushrooms

curry crab stuffed mushrooms

Large mushroom caps filled with a savory breadcrumb mixture and baked until tender make an elegant side dish that bridges the gap between appetizer and vegetable course. They’re impressive, delicious, and easy to prepare ahead.

The beauty of Thanksgiving is that there’s room for all these dishes and traditions. Whether you’re serving the essential top 10 classics or branching out into more adventurous territory, the most important thing is that your table reflects your family’s tastes and traditions. So plan your menu, make your lists, and prepare to celebrate a table full of the foods that make Thanksgiving truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Here are a few answers to some questions I get a lot.

1. How many side dishes should I make for Thanksgiving?

A good rule of thumb is to offer 3 to 5 side dishes for a smaller gathering (under 8 people) and 5 to 7 side dishes for a larger crowd. This provides enough variety to satisfy everyone without completely overwhelming you or your oven. For very large groups (15+), 7 to 9 sides can work well, especially if you’re coordinating a potluck where guests can contribute their own specialties.

The key isn’t just the number, but the balance. Aim for variety in flavor, color, and texture. A well-rounded menu should include at least one potato dish (like mashed), one green vegetable (like green beans or Brussels sprouts), one “comfort” casserole (like mac and cheese or sweet potato casserole), a bread (like rolls or cornbread), and something bright or tangy (like cranberry sauce). This balance ensures there’s something for everyone and creates a more interesting plate.

2. What are the best make-ahead Thanksgiving side dishes?

The best make-ahead side dishes are those that reheat well or are traditionally served cold. Casseroles are your best friend here: stuffing (or dressing), mac and cheese, and sweet potato casserole can all be fully assembled a day or two ahead, covered, refrigerated, and then baked just before serving. Cranberry sauce is actually better when made a few days in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

You can also prep many other sides to save time. Mashed potatoes can be made a day ahead and reheated in a slow cooker (on low) or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream. Vegetables like Brussels sprouts and carrots can be washed, trimmed, and stored in an airtight container, so they are ready to be roasted on the day. Even your gravy base can be made a week ahead and frozen; you just need to thaw it and reheat it, whisking in any last-minute turkey drippings for extra flavor.

3. What are the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes?

Year after year, the most popular and essential Thanksgiving side dishes form the classic core of the meal. At the very top of almost every list, you’ll find mashed potatoes and stuffing (or dressing). These are the two non-negotiable dishes for most families. They are closely followed by sweet potato casserole (topped with either marshmallows or a pecan streusel), green bean casserole (with its iconic fried onion topping), and creamy baked macaroni and cheese.

No table would be complete without the classic supporting sides either. Homemade or canned cranberry sauce is a must-have for its sweet and tart flavor that cuts through the richness of the other foods. Finally, a basket of warm dinner rolls or fluffy biscuits is essential for sopping up every last bit of gravy and cleaning the plate.

4. What side dishes go best with turkey?

The best side dishes to serve with turkey are those that both complement and contrast its savory, roasted flavor. For complementary pairings, you can’t go wrong with herb-heavy dishes like classic sage stuffing, as those are the same flavors often used with the turkey. Earthy, roasted root vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts with bacon or honey-glazed carrots, also pair beautifully with the main course.

Just as important are the contrasting sides. Turkey is a rich, savory meat, so it benefits from dishes that provide brightness, tartness, and creaminess. This is why cranberry sauce is non-negotiable; its bright acidity cuts through the fat and resets the palate. Likewise, creamy, buttery mashed potatoes offer a soft, comforting texture that balances the chew of the turkey meat, while a rich gravy ties everything on the plate together.

5. How do I keep Thanksgiving side dishes warm?

This is often the biggest challenge of the day! Your best and most valuable tool is a slow cooker. Mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, creamed corn, and even gravy can be held on the “Keep Warm” setting for hours, freeing up stove and oven space. You can also use a simple insulated cooler as a “hot box”—place a kitchen towel on the bottom, add your foil-wrapped hot dishes, and place another towel on top. It will keep food steaming hot for at least an hour.

Once the turkey is out of the oven and resting (which it must do for at least 30 minutes!), your oven is free. You can place all your pre-made casseroles and sides back into the oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F) to reheat and stay warm until it’s time to eat. Also, plan your cooking strategically: dishes that are best at room temperature, like cranberry sauce or salads, should be plated first, while gravy should be the very last thing you finish before serving.

6. What are some easy Thanksgiving side dishes?

“Easy” doesn’t have to mean “boring.” The easiest side dishes are often those with minimal steps or ingredients. Simple roasted vegetables are a perfect example: toss broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast on a sheet pan at 400°F until tender and caramelized. Another simple option is glazed carrots, which can be made on the stovetop in one pan by simmering baby carrots in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and a little water until the liquid reduces to a perfect glaze.

Don’t forget your appliances! Slow-cooker creamed corn is a classic “dump and go” recipe—just combine frozen corn, cream cheese, butter, and seasonings and let it cook on low for a few hours. And perhaps the easiest side dish of all? A good-quality jellied cranberry sauce, which only requires a can opener and a serving dish to be ready for the table.

7. What are some unique Thanksgiving side dishes?

If you want to add a memorable “wow” factor to the table, try putting a modern twist on a classic side dish. Instead of standard mashed potatoes, consider making a savory mashed sweet potato version with chipotle and lime, or a “loaded” twice-baked potato casserole with bacon and chives. You could also upgrade your Brussels sprouts by shredding them for a raw salad with a lemon-parmesan vinaigrette or roasting them with a spicy “hot honey” glaze.

For something completely new, a grain salad is a fantastic addition. A quinoa or farro salad with roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, pecans, and a maple vinaigrette adds a wonderful, chewy texture and fresh flavor to the plate. Another great option is a savory butternut squash gratin, layered with cheese and cream, which serves as an elegant alternative to the traditional (and much sweeter) sweet potato casserole.

8. Can I freeze Thanksgiving side dishes?

Absolutely! Freezing side dishes is a huge time-saver. The best candidates for the freezer are casseroles like stuffing/dressing, baked mac and cheese, and some sweet potato casseroles. You can assemble them completely in a foil pan, leave them unbaked, and wrap them tightly in both plastic wrap and foil. They can go straight from the freezer to the oven (just be sure to add 30-45 minutes to the baking time). Soups (like butternut squash soup) and gravy (especially if it’s not cream-based) also freeze beautifully.

Be careful with dishes that are very dairy-heavy or rely on a fresh, crisp texture. Mashed potatoes can be frozen, but their texture can become a bit watery upon reheating; they’re much better made 1-2 days ahead and refrigerated. Dishes like green bean casserole can also suffer, as the fried onions will get soggy. A better approach is to make the casserole base, freeze that, and then add the fresh fried onions right before baking.

9. What is the most essential (or non-negotiable) Thanksgiving side dish?

While this question can cause heated debates in many families, national polls consistently show a two-way tie for the most essential, non-negotiable Thanksgiving side dish: stuffing (or dressing) and mashed potatoes. Fans of stuffing argue that its savory, herb-filled flavor is the flavor of Thanksgiving, and it’s the one special dish you typically only get to enjoy this time of year.

On the other hand, mashed potato lovers will argue that the entire plate is just a vehicle for mashed potatoes and gravy. Without that creamy, buttery base, the meal feels incomplete. Ultimately, the “most” essential side is a personal choice for each family, but if you’re planning a menu for guests, these are the two dishes you absolutely cannot skip.

10. What is the most forgotten Thanksgiving side dish?

The most forgotten side dish is often the one you literally forgot to serve: the cranberry sauce! It’s so common to buy the can (or make it days ahead) and store it in the back of the refrigerator, only to find it sitting there after the meal is over. Because it’s one of the only dishes not served hot, it often gets overlooked during the last-minute rush of getting all the hot food to the table.

Categories: Recipe Collections

posted October 21, 2025 by Jacob

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