Thanksgiving is the perfect time to elevate your feast with some delightful side dishes that everyone will love. From classic favorites to unique twists, these 43+ recipes will add flavor and variety to your holiday table, ensuring your meal is unforgettable. Get ready to impress your guests and fill their plates with delicious options!
Maple Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Maple glazed carrots with thyme are a delightful side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant orange color of the carrots makes them visually appealing, while the glaze gives them a shiny, inviting look. Fresh thyme sprigs add a hint of earthiness, balancing the sweetness of the maple syrup.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh carrots, maple syrup, butter, and thyme. Start by peeling and trimming the carrots to ensure they cook evenly. In a pan, melt butter and add the maple syrup, stirring until combined. Toss in the carrots and cook until they are tender and coated in the glaze. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for that aromatic touch.
This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it perfect for any holiday gathering. Serve these carrots warm, and watch them disappear from the table!
Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage
Cornbread stuffing with sausage is a delightful side dish that adds warmth to any Thanksgiving table. The image shows a bowl filled with golden cornbread cubes mixed with slices of savory sausage. The colors are inviting, with hints of green herbs sprinkled on top, making it look both appetizing and festive.
This dish combines the sweetness of cornbread with the rich flavors of sausage, creating a perfect balance. It’s a hearty option that complements turkey and other traditional dishes. The texture is a mix of soft and crunchy, making each bite satisfying.
To make this stuffing, you’ll need ingredients like cornbread, sausage, onions, celery, and herbs. Start by cooking the sausage and sautéing the vegetables. Then, mix everything together with crumbled cornbread and bake until golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen and have everyone eager to dig in!
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a must-have side dish for Thanksgiving. They bring a comforting, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy. The smooth texture and garlic aroma make them irresistible.
To make these mashed potatoes, start with fresh potatoes. Peel and chop them into even pieces for consistent cooking. Boil them until tender, then drain and mash. Add butter, cream, and minced garlic for that creamy goodness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped chives on top.
These mashed potatoes not only taste great but also look appealing on the table. The creamy white color contrasts nicely with the rich brown gravy. They are sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
This sweet potato casserole is a classic side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any Thanksgiving table. The image shows a beautifully baked casserole topped with golden, toasted marshmallows. The contrast between the soft, creamy sweet potatoes and the sweet, fluffy marshmallows creates a delightful treat.
To make this dish, you’ll need sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and, of course, marshmallows. Start by boiling the sweet potatoes until they’re tender, then mash them with butter and sugar. Spread the mixture in a baking dish and top it generously with marshmallows.
After baking, the marshmallows puff up and turn a lovely golden brown. This dish is not just about taste; it also adds a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread. Everyone will want a scoop of this sweet delight!
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a staple at many Thanksgiving dinners. It combines tender green beans with a creamy sauce and crispy fried onions on top. This dish is not only easy to make but also brings a comforting flavor to the table.
The image shows a delicious green bean casserole, with vibrant green beans mixed with crunchy fried onion rings. The golden brown onions add a nice texture and flavor contrast. It’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes!
To make this classic recipe, you’ll need fresh or canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and crispy fried onions. Start by mixing the green beans with the soup, milk, and soy sauce in a baking dish. Top it off with fried onions and bake until bubbly and golden.
This casserole is perfect for sharing and is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering. It’s a simple yet satisfying side that everyone will love!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving. They bring a lovely crunch and a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the holiday meal.
The image shows beautifully roasted Brussels sprouts, glistening with a balsamic glaze. The caramelized edges add a nice touch, making them visually appealing and inviting.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts, olive oil, salt, and balsamic vinegar. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cut the sprouts in half, toss them with olive oil and salt, and roast for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown.
Once they are done, drizzle with balsamic glaze for that extra flavor kick. This simple yet delicious recipe will surely impress your guests and add a vibrant touch to your Thanksgiving table.
Honey Roasted Root Vegetables
Honey roasted root vegetables are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. The vibrant colors of carrots, parsnips, and potatoes create a warm and inviting dish. Each piece is perfectly caramelized, bringing out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
To make this dish, you’ll need some fresh root vegetables, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables into even pieces. Toss them in a bowl with honey and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast until they’re golden and tender.
This side dish pairs wonderfully with turkey and stuffing, adding a touch of sweetness to the savory flavors of your meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy holiday cooks.
Savory Herb Stuffing with Cranberries
This savory herb stuffing with cranberries is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. The image showcases a warm bowl of stuffing, filled with golden-brown bread cubes, vibrant cranberries, and fresh herbs. The colors are inviting, making it hard to resist.
The combination of herbs and cranberries adds a unique twist to the classic stuffing. You can use ingredients like rosemary, thyme, and parsley to enhance the flavor. The cranberries provide a sweet contrast, making each bite a perfect balance.
To make this stuffing, start by toasting your bread cubes until they’re crispy. Sauté onions and celery in butter, then mix in the herbs and cranberries. Combine everything in a bowl, add broth, and bake until golden. It’s simple and delicious!
Traditional Potato Salad with Eggs
This classic potato salad is a staple at many Thanksgiving gatherings. The image shows a bowl filled with diced potatoes, mixed with creamy dressing and sprinkled with fresh herbs. The bright colors of the potatoes and herbs make it visually appealing.
To make this dish, you’ll need simple ingredients like potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs for added richness.
Combine everything in a large bowl, adding mayonnaise and mustard to taste. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley. This potato salad pairs perfectly with turkey and other Thanksgiving dishes, making it a must-have side.
Zesty Cranberry Orange Relish
This zesty cranberry orange relish is a vibrant addition to your Thanksgiving table. The bright red cranberries and juicy orange pieces create a beautiful contrast, making it visually appealing.
The relish is not just pretty; it’s packed with flavor. The tartness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the oranges. A hint of mint on top adds a refreshing touch.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh cranberries, oranges, sugar, and a bit of mint for garnish. Simply chop the ingredients, mix them together, and let the flavors meld. Serve it chilled for a refreshing side that complements turkey and stuffing.
This relish is a great way to add a burst of color and taste to your meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy the holiday.
Savory Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect complement to turkey and other traditional dishes. The image showcases a bowl of risotto, with tender grains and slices of mushrooms, topped with cheese and herbs.
To make this dish, you’ll need Arborio rice, fresh mushrooms, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of white wine. Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add the rice and toast it slightly. Gradually stir in warm broth, letting the rice absorb the liquid before adding more.
Once the rice is creamy and al dente, fold in sautéed mushrooms and Parmesan cheese. Finish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. This risotto not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on the table, making it a standout dish for your Thanksgiving feast.
Spiced Apple and Walnut Salad
This Spiced Apple and Walnut Salad is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing and appetizing.
The salad features crisp apple slices, adding a sweet and tangy flavor. The walnuts bring a satisfying crunch, while the greens provide a fresh base. Together, these ingredients create a balanced dish that complements heavier Thanksgiving fare.
To make this salad, start by slicing your favorite apples. Toss them with walnuts and a handful of fresh greens like spinach or arugula. For added flavor, consider a light dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of cinnamon. This simple preparation highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s a refreshing option that will brighten up your Thanksgiving spread. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy holiday cooks.
Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes
Garlic butter roasted potatoes are a perfect side dish for Thanksgiving. They are golden, crispy, and packed with flavor. The image shows a generous pile of these delicious potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces and tossed with fresh herbs.
To make these tasty potatoes, you’ll need small potatoes, garlic, butter, olive oil, and some herbs like rosemary or thyme. Start by preheating your oven and cutting the potatoes into halves or quarters. Toss them in melted butter and olive oil, then add minced garlic and herbs. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast until they are crispy and golden.
These potatoes are not just easy to prepare; they also complement any main dish beautifully. Their buttery flavor and crispy texture make them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Serve them hot, and watch them disappear!
Butternut Squash and Kale Salad
This vibrant salad is a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving table. The bright orange cubes of butternut squash contrast beautifully with the deep green kale, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
The salad combines roasted butternut squash, fresh kale, and crunchy nuts for texture. You can also add some cheese for a creamy element. The flavors blend together perfectly, making it a delightful side dish.
To make this salad, start by roasting the butternut squash until it’s tender and caramelized. While it cools, wash and chop the kale. Toss everything together with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Top it off with nuts for that extra crunch.
This salad not only tastes great but also brings a healthy option to your holiday spread. It’s a great way to balance out heavier dishes and add some freshness to your meal.
Creamed Spinach with Parmesan
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that brings a touch of comfort to any Thanksgiving table. This dish features tender spinach enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The vibrant green color of the spinach contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, making it visually appealing.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh spinach, heavy cream, butter, garlic, and, of course, Parmesan cheese. Start by sautéing garlic in butter until fragrant, then add the spinach until wilted. Pour in the cream and let it simmer until thickened. Finally, mix in the Parmesan for that cheesy goodness.
This creamed spinach pairs wonderfully with turkey and other traditional sides. It’s a simple yet satisfying addition that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens during the holiday feast!
