Thanksgiving dinner isn’t complete without side dishes. While turkey may be the star, the sides truly bring the meal together and make the table feel abundant. From creamy potatoes and cheesy casseroles to roasted vegetables and fresh salads, side dishes offer comfort and variety.
They add color, flavor, and balance to your plate, making every bite more exciting. The best part is most are simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which means less stress on the big day.
Whether you love traditional favorites like stuffing or want to try something new, side dishes make Thanksgiving extra special. This list of 30 recipes will help you mix and match flavors so everyone at your table finds something to enjoy
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are smooth, buttery, and comforting. Whipped until fluffy, they pair perfectly with turkey and gravy. Add garlic or cream cheese for extra richness, or keep them classic with butter and milk.
They’re simple to make and always a favorite. Mashed potatoes are the side dish everyone expects at Thanksgiving, and they never disappoint on the holiday table.
2. Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is creamy, savory, and topped with crispy fried onions. Fresh or canned green beans are mixed with mushroom soup to create this comforting side dish. It’s warm, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Easy to make ahead and bake right before dinner, this casserole is a Thanksgiving staple that adds both texture and tradition to your meal.
3. Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing brings sweetness and savory flavors together. Cubes of cornbread are mixed with herbs, onions, and celery, then baked until golden. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for soaking up gravy.
This Southern-inspired side dish is a twist on traditional stuffing and adds variety to the Thanksgiving spread. Simple to prepare, it’s a delicious and filling dish everyone will enjoy.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is both savory and sweet. Mashed sweet potatoes are baked with butter and sugar, then topped with marshmallows or pecans. The result is creamy inside with a crunchy topping that makes every bite special.
This side dish feels like dessert but pairs beautifully with turkey and ham. It’s a holiday favorite that adds warmth and sweetness to the table.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender inside. Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, they develop a delicious caramelized flavor in the oven.
Add balsamic glaze, garlic, or bacon for extra taste. These sprouts are simple to prepare but feel gourmet on the plate. A healthy and colorful side dish that brightens any Thanksgiving dinner spread.
6. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and loved by all ages. Elbow pasta is coated in a rich cheese sauce and baked until golden on top.
This side dish is indulgent and comforting, perfect for Thanksgiving when you want something hearty. It balances well with turkey and vegetables, making it a favorite addition to the holiday table every single year.
7. Garlic Butter Rolls
Garlic butter rolls are soft, fluffy, and flavorful. Freshly baked rolls brushed with garlic butter are perfect for sopping up gravy or dipping in sauces.
They’re simple to make or buy pre-made and warm before serving. Guests love the cozy aroma and taste of these rolls. A classic side that completes the Thanksgiving meal and brings comfort to the table.
8. Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is tangy, sweet, and refreshing. Fresh cranberries simmered with sugar and citrus create a bright side dish that balances the richness of Thanksgiving foods.
Whether smooth or chunky, cranberry sauce adds color and flavor to every plate. It’s quick to prepare and keeps well, making it an easy addition to the holiday. A must-have on the table.
9. Roasted Carrots with Honey
Roasted carrots with honey are colorful and naturally sweet. Glazed with honey and butter, they caramelize beautifully in the oven. Sprinkle with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
This side dish is simple, healthy, and festive, bringing vibrant color to your Thanksgiving table. Kids and adults alike will love the sweetness and soft texture of these roasted carrots.
10. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are rich, creamy, and layered with cheese. Thin slices of potatoes are baked in a cheesy sauce until tender and golden. This side dish feels indulgent and makes a great alternative to mashed potatoes.
It’s hearty, satisfying, and pairs well with turkey or ham. Easy to prepare ahead, scalloped potatoes are a comforting addition to the holiday meal.
11. Harvest Salad
Harvest salad is fresh, colorful, and light. Made with mixed greens, apples, cranberries, nuts, and cheese, it balances heavier dishes on the table. Drizzled with a simple vinaigrette, it’s refreshing and full of seasonal flavor.
This side dish is quick to assemble and adds brightness to Thanksgiving dinner. A perfect way to include something crisp and healthy in the feast.
12. Glazed Pearl Onions
Glazed pearl onions are sweet, buttery, and tender. Cooked slowly in a caramelized glaze, they bring a delicate flavor to the Thanksgiving table. These little onions are elegant yet simple to prepare, making them a great choice for holiday meals.
They add variety to the spread, offering a side that feels classic and slightly fancy. Perfect alongside turkey and stuffing.
13. Corn Pudding
Corn pudding is creamy, slightly sweet, and full of flavor. Made with corn, eggs, milk, and butter, it bakes into a soft, custard-like dish. It’s warm, comforting, and a true Southern classic for Thanksgiving.
Corn pudding pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy, adding a unique twist to the table. Easy to prepare and loved by many, it’s a holiday favorite.
14. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Garlic mashed cauliflower is a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes. Steamed cauliflower is blended with butter, garlic, and cream until smooth and creamy. It’s flavorful, healthy, and perfect for guests who prefer a low-carb option.
This side dish looks and tastes similar to mashed potatoes but with a lighter texture. A great way to add variety to Thanksgiving dinner.
15. Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash is colorful, sweet, and savory. Cubes of squash are tossed with olive oil, salt, and herbs before roasting. The caramelized edges bring out its natural sweetness, while spices add depth.
This dish is simple to prepare and brings fall flavors to the table. It’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, and all holiday favorites.
16. Baked Mac and Cheese Bites
Mac and cheese bites are fun, cheesy, and bite-sized. Scoops of macaroni and cheese are baked in mini muffin tins until golden and crispy on the outside.
They’re easy to grab and perfect for kids and adults alike. This side dish is both playful and comforting, making it a great choice for Thanksgiving gatherings. A creative twist on a classic.
17. Southern Collard Greens
Collard greens are slow-cooked until tender with onions, garlic, and smoked meats. This Southern side dish is flavorful, hearty, and comforting. It balances well with other rich Thanksgiving foods, adding a unique taste to the table.
Collard greens are simple to prepare in large batches, making them great for family gatherings. A traditional favorite that brings depth and history to the meal.
18. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Parmesan roasted broccoli is crisp, cheesy, and full of flavor. Fresh broccoli is roasted with olive oil, then sprinkled with parmesan for a savory finish. It’s quick to prepare and adds a healthy touch to the table.
This side dish is simple but tasty, offering a crunchy alternative to heavier foods. A colorful addition that pairs well with turkey and gravy.
19. Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf is nutty, hearty, and flavorful. Cooked with vegetables, herbs, and broth, it makes a delicious and filling side dish. The chewy texture of wild rice pairs well with turkey and stuffing.
This dish is colorful, nutritious, and easy to prepare ahead. A great way to add something wholesome and earthy to the Thanksgiving table while keeping it festive.
20. Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Maple glazed sweet potatoes are soft, caramelized, and sweet. Tossed with maple syrup, butter, and spices, they bake into a delicious side dish. The glaze makes them rich and flavorful without being too heavy.
This recipe is simple but feels special, making it perfect for Thanksgiving. A seasonal favorite that brings warmth and sweetness to your holiday spread.
21. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is rich, smooth, and flavorful. Fresh spinach is cooked with cream, butter, and garlic to create a comforting dish. It’s creamy and indulgent, offering a nice contrast to roasted meats and potatoes.
This side dish is quick to make and feels special for the holiday. A simple, green option that balances out the heavier foods on the table.
22. Roasted Garlic Green Beans
Roasted green beans with garlic are crisp, savory, and flavorful. Tossed with olive oil and roasted until tender, they make a healthy side dish that still feels festive.
The garlic adds depth, while roasting brings out sweetness. This dish is easy to prepare and goes with nearly everything on the table. A colorful, tasty addition to Thanksgiving dinner.
23. Jalapeño Cornbread
Jalapeño cornbread is moist, spicy, and slightly sweet. Cornmeal batter is baked with diced jalapeños for a flavorful twist on traditional cornbread.
It’s hearty and pairs perfectly with Thanksgiving dishes like chili, turkey, or ham. This side dish is simple to prepare but adds bold flavor to the table. A fun way to spice up the holiday meal.
24. Roasted Cauliflower with Herbs
Roasted cauliflower with herbs is light, crisp, and delicious. Tossed with olive oil, rosemary, and thyme, the florets roast until golden and caramelized. It’s a healthy and colorful side dish that pairs well with turkey and stuffing.
Quick to prepare and easy to serve, this dish adds variety and balance to the Thanksgiving table while still tasting comforting and festive.
25. Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Broccoli cheese casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Broccoli is baked with a rich cheese sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s hearty, indulgent, and perfect for Thanksgiving.
This casserole balances vegetables with comfort food flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare ahead, it’s a side dish that both kids and adults will enjoy on the holiday.
26. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are earthy, colorful, and hearty. A mix of carrots, parsnips, and potatoes is roasted with herbs and olive oil until tender and caramelized.
This dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor. It adds nutrition and variety to Thanksgiving dinner, while its vibrant colors make the table look festive and inviting for the holiday.
27. Cauliflower Gratin
Cauliflower gratin is creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Cauliflower florets are baked in a creamy sauce with cheese until golden and bubbling. It’s a lighter alternative to potato dishes but still feels indulgent.
This side dish is simple to make and adds elegance to the table. A delicious option for Thanksgiving that balances health with comfort food flavor.
28. Classic Stuffing
Classic stuffing is savory, hearty, and full of herbs. Bread cubes are mixed with onions, celery, and spices, then baked until golden.
It’s the side dish everyone expects at Thanksgiving, and it pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy. Simple to make and full of tradition, stuffing is always a favorite on the holiday table and a must-have for the meal.
29. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Tossed with garlic, olive oil, and parmesan, they’re flavorful and satisfying. This side dish is simple to make but feels special enough for Thanksgiving.
Serve them alongside turkey and vegetables for a complete plate. Roasted potatoes are a reliable choice that always pleases guests and adds comfort to the table.
30. Buttery Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is sweet, juicy, and buttery. Served hot with melted butter and a sprinkle of salt, it’s a side dish that feels simple yet festive. It’s quick to prepare and adds bright yellow color to your Thanksgiving spread.
Kids and adults both love this classic. A fresh, flavorful option that works beautifully with all your holiday favorites.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving side dishes make the holiday meal complete. From creamy potatoes to roasted vegetables and cheesy casseroles, they bring comfort, color, and flavor to the table. Mixing traditional favorites with a few fresh ideas keeps the spread exciting for everyone. These 31 side dishes are simple, festive, and satisfying—perfect for making your Thanksgiving dinner memorable and delicious.
