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Home » Sides » Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Profile photo of chef Jessica Randhawa of The Forked Spoon Jessica Randhawa
November 18, 2020


Last Updated November 18, 2020 | 0 Comments

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

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must have thanksgiving side dishes pinterest pin collage
must have thanksgiving side dishes pinterest pin collage
Thanksgiving side dishes

When it comes to a perfect Thanksgiving feast it’s all about the side dishes. From traditional and comforting to light and healthy, here you’ll find a collection of the BEST Thanksgiving Side Dishes, appetizers, cocktails, and desserts, plus tips and tricks to guarantee an amazing Thanksgiving feast this year…and years to come. 

If you grew up celebrating Thanksgiving, chances are, a handful of beloved side dishes always showed up at your holiday table.

You know, the “reliables”. The classics.

For my family, this consisted of mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, buttered corn, stuffing, and dinner rolls. The mashed potatoes were more butter and sour cream than actual potatoes, the green bean casserole and corn came from a can, stuffing from a box, and the dinner rolls came in a package of twelve.

Delicious, predictable, and classic, as a small child I had assumed that this was what all families ate for Thanksgiving.

Fortunately, I later learned that this wasn’t the case. 

After discovering this whole new world of delicious holiday side dishes, I decided it was time to cook (and try) them all – not exaggerating at all here (wink wink).

Here is my collection of classic side dishes, healthier alternatives, personal creations, and everything in between.

Crispy Herb and Butter Roasted Potatoes

What is Considered a Side Dish?

A side dish is sometimes referred to as a side order, or simply a side. It is a food or recipe that accompanies the main course or entreé.

In the case of Thanksgiving, the main course is typically a big fat turkey. Christmas, on the other hand, you’ll see a greater variety of entreés including ham, prime rib or roast beef tenderloin, salmon, and, of course, the traditional turkey dinner.

In any case, side dishes complement the flavors of your main course while also providing variety in flavor and texture to the meal as a whole. Because let’s be honest, who would get super excited about a few slices of plain turkey on their plate?

How Many Sides Should I Really Make?

Make extra is the best answer I have for this question.

The reason is that side dishes are the overwhelming favorite and allows guests to have a variety of different options to choose from.

As a general guideline aim for the following,

  • Veggie Dishes (pick 2)
  • Stuffing
  • Mashed Potatoes
  • Salad
  • Rolls
  • Other – gravy and cranberry sauce

If you’re preparing Thanksgiving dinner for a large group of more than 8-10 people, I recommend doubling the salad and stuffing and adding an extra veggie dish. 

Baking sheet covered with parchment paper and perfectly charred and roasted Brussels sprouts.

Most Popular Thanksgiving Side Dishes

The most popular Thanksgiving side dishes vary greatly based on where you live and from one family to another. However, there is one side dish that makes its way onto most Thanksgiving tables and that is mashed potatoes. Potatoes are inexpensive, loved by all ages, and easy to prepare (and transport!) 

Top 8 Thanksgiving sides:

  1. Mashed Potatoes
  2. Stuffing (aka dressing)
  3. Macaroni and Cheese (easily make this in your Instant Pot to save space in your oven)
  4. Rolls
  5. Cranberry Sauce
  6. Green Bean Casserole
  7. Sweet Potato Casserole
  8. Brussels Sprouts

Tips + Tricks to Keep Side Dishes Warm and Fresh

There’s no doubt that keeping everything warm and fresh may be the most challenging part of the whole Thanksgiving feast. Try these simple steps to keep things moving in the kitchen and the food warm:

  1. If you have one available, cook one dish in your Instant Pot and one dish in your Slow Cooker. These awesome kitchen gadgets are useful all the time but are awesome when you need to feed a lot of people. If you don’t own your own Instant Pot or Slow Cooker, ask a friend or relative if you could borrow one of theirs.
  2. Transfer gravy and sauces to a thermos. The thermos, not large enough to hold a big pot of soup, is the perfect size to store additional gravy that doesn’t fit in your gravy boat.
  3. Keep hot food stored in the microwave or cooler (minus the ice). 
  4. Utilize your toaster oven. They may be smaller than a larger oven, but just as mighty and perfect for storing mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.
  5. Finally, whip out those electric blankets and crank up the heat. Simply cover each casserole dish with foil and nestle in your folded blankets.

Roasted acorn squash rings topped with a quinoa, apple, spinach, and dried cranberry stuffing, topped with pomegranates, and drizzled with tahini dressing.

Helpful Kitchen Tools and equipment

When it comes to cooking, there are a handful of tools and cooking equipment that are actually really quite helpful. Do you need everything listed below? No. But, they come highly recommended.

  • Microplane grater – This handy little kitchen tool is used for two primary jobs in my kitchen, but they’re tedious jobs that I would probably otherwise skip – citrus zesting and grating ginger. You guys, these tasks are tiresome, I know. Bit the Microplane makes it SO easy.
  • Garlic press – I mean, does anyone actually enjoy mincing garlic…by hand? I don’t. The garlic press does it for you.
  • Instant Pot – Helpful for busy weeknights and weekends and to cook tough meats, beans, and lentils that would otherwise take forever. The Instant Pot isn’t something I use daily, but it is something I use often. It is also amazing for the holidays since it takes up so little space on the countertop and won’t take up valuable real estate in the oven or on the stovetop.
  • Slow Cooker – Similar to the Instant Pot in space-saving we have the slow cooker. For holiday meal planning the slow cooker does require a bit more planning ahead, but it’s fantastic for dump, and walk away type recipes.
  • Mandoline Slicer – You know all those thinly sliced potatoes in scalloped potatoes? Unless you’re super good with a knife and have no fear of losing a finger, use a mandoline slicer. Speaking of losing a finger, though, DO NOT skip the handguard. Trust me, I learned from experience.
  • Dutch Oven – I love love love my Lodge 7.5 quart Dutch Oven. Great for soups, stews, roasting chicken, cooking mashed potatoes, etc.
  • Digital Meat Thermometer – Although I don’t have a turkey recipe on this site, I’m leaving this kitchen must-have here anyway because it really is a must-have. 
  • Serving Spoons – I know, this seems like a total no-brainer, but if I’m being entirely honest, I wouldn’t have enough serving spoons to host a full Thanksgiving dinner at my house with more than 12 people. Come to think of it, I wouldn’t have enough serving plates either…

Start with Appetizers

I know, this is a post for Thanksgiving side dishes, BUT everyone loves a good appetizer…or two.

Appetizers range from light, simple, or pre-made to full-blown cheese and charcuterie spreads that span entire tables. Grapes, cheese, crackers, and dip are my go-to whenever I’m hosting and I need to get something out with as little effort as possible.

See below for a few of my other favorite appetizers and snacks.

Beautiful Autumn Cheese Board (Vegetarian)

Baked Brie Recipe
4.88 from 24 votes
Baked Brie with honey and candied walnuts is ready in under 15 minutes! So good and so easy to make, enjoy this delicious, warm, and gooey baked brie recipe with maple candied walnuts for an irresistible combination of sweet and savory at your next holiday party or gathering.
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Gooey baked brie with maple candied walnuts on a small wood serving board with grapes and sliced bread.
Cranberry Meatballs (Crock-Pot)
4.84 from 86 votes
Cranberry Meatballs are made by slow-cooking frozen meatballs in a sweet and tangy homemade cranberry bbq sauce. So easy to make, these delicious little meatballs are the perfect holiday or party appetizer!
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Sweet and Tangy Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs
Soppressata and Radish Provolone Cones
5 from 4 votes
Soppressata and Radish Provolone Cones. A fun and delicious holiday snack or appetizer made with provolone cheese, soppressata, thinly sliced radish, pepperoncini, and pine nuts. Easily customizable and ready in under 15 minutes, everyone will love these delicious little provolone cones.
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Soppressata and Radish Provolone Cones
Hot Crab Artichoke Dip
4.86 from 14 votes
Hot Crab Artichoke Dip in Mini Bread Bowls are an easy and delicious snack perfect for all your holiday or entertaining needs. Filled with artichoke, spinach, lump crab meat, and cheese, guests will love the fun and delicious cheesy flavor of this crab artichoke dip.
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A close up of bread bowl sitting on top of a wooden cutting board, filled with Hot Crab Artichoke Dip
Beautiful Autumn Cheese Board (Vegetarian)
4.86 from 14 votes
Keep entertaining easy with a beautiful Autumn Cheese Board filled with a variety of fresh fruit, crackers, dips, and cheese. Ready in just minutes, pair a selection of cheeses with a few of your favorite wines and get the party started!
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Beautiful Autumn Cheese Board (Vegetarian)
Sweet Potato Appetizer
4.82 from 11 votes
Sweet Potato Appetizers are loaded with delicious flavors from a medley of ricotta, goat cheese, walnuts, cranberries, honey, and fresh herbs.
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Sweet Potato Rounds with Ricotta, Walnuts, Cranberries and Fresh Herbs
Honey, Walnut and Goat Cheese Crostini
4.89 from 17 votes
Honey Goat Cheese Crostini made with crunchy toasted bread and spread with creamy goat cheese, sticky honey, toasted walnuts, and sweet ruby red pomegranate arils. A perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy, everyone loves this easy 15-minute appetizer!
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honey walnut goat cheese crostini on wood

Thanksgiving Salads and Slaws

I didn’t grow up with a salad on my Thanksgiving table. Far too healthy for my mid-western born and raised parents. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have one on your table (only if you want one, of course).

Aside from the stuffing, salads are typically my favorite part of the entire meal. Fresh and crunchy, they are a welcome alternative in flavor and texture to all the other, much heavier, Thanksgiving sides.

The only problem with salads is that leftovers can be somewhat tricky – especially if your green of choice is baby spinach.

Shredded Brussels sprouts, kale, and cabbage, unlike other more delicate greens (like spinach), hold up much better against heavy dressing. To combat this, always wait to add dressing or vinaigrette until just before serving.

Even better, if you’re preparing a large salad, only toss half of the salad with half of the dressing or vinaigrette. If guests eat up the first half, toss together the second half. If not, you’ll have fresh leftovers for the next days.

A bowl of shredded brussels sprouts salad

Spinach, Pear, and Feta Salad
4.79 from 127 votes
Spinach, Pear, and Feta Salad with Walnuts and Pomegranate Arils. Ready in just 5 minutes, this salad is easy, delicious, and perfectly suited for any holiday or occasion. Sprinkled with sweet pomegranate arils and earthy walnuts, this salad is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy.
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Balsamic vinegar salad dressing being poured into a white bowl filled with spinach, pear and feta salad.
Easy Beet Salad Recipe
5 from 9 votes
Easy and delicious, this Roasted Beet Salad Recipe is filled with tender sweet beets, cherry tomatoes, hazelnuts, and drizzled with a smooth and creamy homemade Miso Dressing.
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A bowl of beet salad
Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad
4.80 from 58 votes
Beet and Kohlrabi Slaw is the perfect combination of sweet beets, spicy kohlrabi, and tart apples. Fresh, crisp, and crunchy, enjoy this vibrant and delicious slaw mixed with fresh citrus juice, creamy feta, and sunflower seeds as a healthy side dish, light lunch, or added to your favorite tacos.
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Glass bowl filled with raw beets, shredded kohlrabi, apples, green onion, feta, and sunflower seeds all mixed together.
Shredded Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe with Lemon Vinaigrette
4.85 from 19 votes
The BEST Brussels Sprout Salad Recipe. Made with shredded Brussels sprouts, chopped kale, grated carrot, pomegranate arils, candied pecans, and creamy avocado all tossed in a light Lemon Shallot Vinaigrette. This easy salad is the ultimate fall and winter essential perfect for lunch, dinner, and holiday meals. 
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A close up of a bowl of shredded Brussels sprouts salad
Crunchy Apple Coleslaw Recipe
4.83 from 56 votes
This Apple Coleslaw Recipe is made with sweet apples, shredded cabbage, green onions, and a light dijon vinaigrette. Healthy, crunchy, and super easy to make, enjoy this apple slaw with all your favorite lunch and dinner recipes.
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Tossed together crunchy apple coleslaw dressed with a light dijon vinaigrette.
Autumn Apple Pasta Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
4.91 from 11 votes
Easy Autumn Apple Pasta Salad Recipe made with fresh baby spinach, sweet apples, crisp celery, dried cherries, mandarin oranges, and buttery pecans, all tossed with a homemade Poppyseed Dressing. Enjoy this fresh, delicious, and festive apple pasta salad as a light lunch or holiday appetizer.
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Autumn Apple Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
Shredded Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
5 from 3 votes
Homemade Caesar dressing mixes with fresh and crunchy shredded Brussels Sprouts and homemade croutons for an easy and delicious Shredded Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad.
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Shredded Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
Quinoa Beet Salad
4.86 from 27 votes
This Quinoa Beet Salad is so simple to whip together, but it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and sweet, savory flavor. The homemade honey Dijon vinaigrette is delicious, and the chopped veggies have such a nice crunch–it’s one of those deliciously easy recipes that’ll make a great addition to your lunch rotation!
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Beet, Avocado + Quinoa Salad with Herb Vinaigrette
Easy Spinach Salad Recipe
4.73 from 11 votes
This Easy Spinach Salad Recipe is made with fresh baby spinach, crisp sweet apples, red onions, pistachios, dried cranberries, and creamy avocado, all tossed with a light homemade red wine vinaigrette.
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Salad bowl filled with baby spinach, sliced apples, avocado, sliced red onion, dried cranberries, pistachios, and feta cheese all tossed with a light red wine vinaigrette.

Delicious Thanksgiving Soup Recipes

Just like salad, we never had soup on our Thanksgiving or Christmas table. I mean, soup? Who wants soup on Thanksgiving?

You guys, I want soup!

And depending on where you live, maybe you want soup, too.

Why is soup such a fantastic Thanksgiving side dish? 

  1. You can easily make it ahead of time, refrigerate, and reheat. Instead of making it the day of Thanksgiving, make it the day before and reheat.
  2. Soup is great for guests with dietary restrictions. We all have at least one or more family members that are vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, keto, or all of the above. Good soup will make everyone happy.
  3. Leftovers are always good. You know, just in case.

Shallow speckled bowl filled with creamy butternut squash soup topped with homemade croutons fresh thyme, and everything but the bagel seasoning.

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
4.83 from 23 votes
This Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup Recipe is super easy to make right in your pressure cooker. Made with simple, healthy ingredients like onions, carrots, butternut squash, fresh ginger, and garlic, the whole family will love this smooth and comforting fall soup recipe. Vegan and gluten-free. 
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Instant Pot filled with creamy blended butternut squash soup
Carrot Ginger Soup Recipe
4.83 from 29 votes
This Creamy Carrot Ginger Soup is made with fresh ingredients like carrots, onion, potatoes, and ginger. One of my favorite soups to serve when I'm feeling under the weather, this quick and easy recipe cooks in one pot and is loved by both kids and adults alike.
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Two white soup bowls filled with ginger carrot soup and garnished with coconut cream, cilantro, and black sesame seeds.
Curried Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
4.88 from 8 votes
This Curried Butternut Squash Soup is made with classic autumn flavors such as fresh ginger, garlic, butternut squash, and hints of ground cinnamon. Just as creamy and delicious as my popular butternut squash soup recipe.
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Small black ramekin filled with roasted butternut squash soup and garnished with coconut milk, pumpkin seeds, and ground cinnamon.
Acorn Squash Soup
4.84 from 84 votes
Acorn Squash Soup is irresistibly smooth, creamy, and delicious. Made with healthy veggies like oven-roasted acorn squash, carrots, celery, and cauliflower and then blended with fresh garlic, ginger, and a touch of ground cinnamon, grab a bowl and get cozy with a bowl of this easy acorn squash soup. Vegetarian & Gluten-Free.
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Large pot filled with blended Acorn Squash Soup.
Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
4.84 from 50 votes
This Butternut Squash Soup Recipe is perfectly creamy, nourishing, and so easy to make! Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this naturally vegetarian and gluten-free butternut squash soup is cozy and delicious and everyone's favorite fall comfort food! Stovetop and slow cooker instructions included.
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Shallow speckled bowl filled with creamy butternut squash soup topped with homemade croutons fresh thyme, and everything but the bagel seasoning.
Cauliflower Leek and Potato Soup (Dairy-Free)
4.74 from 46 votes
Leek and Potato Soup, made with healthy vegetables and creamy potatoes, is rich and comforting without the need for heavy creams or butter.
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A bowl of soup made with cauliflower leeks and potatoes

Thanksgiving Potato Recipes

I grew up eating my dad’s classic, buttery, homemade mashed potatoes loaded with milk, sour cream, and tons of salt. They were (and still are) amazing. And, until I started making my own, the only mashed potatoes I really, truly liked. 

Here are some helpful tips before making your own beautiful potato creations:

  • Best potatoes for mashing – Choose a higher starch potato such as Russet, Red Potatoes, and Yukon Gold. These potatoes result in the fluffiest, smoothest, and overall best-tasting mashed potatoes. Russet potatoes have thicker, tougher skin compared to Yukon gold. I always peel my potatoes when I’m making mashed potatoes, but especially so if I’m using Russet potatoes.
  • Best potatoes for roasting – The best potatoes for roasting, boiling, gratins, and casseroles are waxy potatoes. This includes Yukon Gold, Baby Potatoes (aka New Potatoes), Red Bliss, and fingerlings.
  • Best all-purpose potato – Yukon Gold potatoes, directly in the middle of the starch-to-waxy spectrum, are the ideal multi-purpose potato perfect for mashing, frying, and definitely roasting.

More helpful information about potatoes:

Potato Types: A Guide to Popular Types of Potatoes

Waxy vs. Starchy Potatoes: Which One to Use?

A close up of Sweet potato side with herbs

Sweet potatoes on the other hand, well, I didn’t even have my first taste of these sweet spuds until I was in my twenties. An instant favorite, I have never struggled to enjoy sweet potatoes.

Did you know sweet potatoes aren’t actually part of the potato family? They’re actually considered a root vegetable. I know. CRAZY.

Sweet potatoes are incredibly healthy. One cup provides half of your daily vitamin C and 400% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. They’re also high in fiber which is never a bad thing.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes
4.80 from 77 votes
With their perfectly crisp edges and creamy, tender centers, everyone loves these easy Garlic Roasted Potatoes. A versatile and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with just about any meal.
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A plate of roasted potatoes
Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe
4.78 from 45 votes
My favorite Cheesy Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe! Delicious layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in homemade cream sauce, shredded cheese, and baked until soft, golden, and bubbly.
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Golden cheesy potatoes au gratin in a white casserole dish.
Perfect Baked Sweet Potato
4.78 from 62 votes
Perfectly Baked Sweet Potatoes have a soft, sweet, and fluffy inside with a crispy flavorful outside. One of my favorite easy side dish recipes, they’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Perfect for meal prep and delicious serve with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt.
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Baked Sweet Potato
Mashed Potatoes Recipes (How to Make Mashed Potatoes)
4.85 from 13 votes
My all-time favorite Mashed Potatoes Recipe. Flavored with rich and flavorful milk, butter, and sour cream, learn How to Make Mashed Potatoes and enjoy this creamy classic side dish with all your favorite family recipes.
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White shallow bowl filled with fluffy mashed potatoes, topped with two pats of butter, and garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar
4.95 from 19 votes
Easy Herb and Brown Sugar Roasted Sweet Potatoes made with a handful of simple ingredients such as butter, brown sugar, fresh herbs, and sweet potatoes are guaranteed to become your new favorite sweet potato side this holiday season.
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Roasted sweet potatoes on a large baking sheet covered with melted butter, brown sugar, and fresh herbs.
Crispy Hasselback Potato Casserole with Garlic and Herbs
4.95 from 20 votes
These Crispy Hasselback Potato Casserole with Garlic and Herbs are the absolute best potatoes you will ever make! Thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes are layered and coated with fresh herbs, garlic, butter, and shredded asiago cheese then baked until tender and creamy on the inside and crispy on the outside. A must-have side dish for any special occasion. 
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Baking pan filled with thinly sliced potatoes layered with garlic, herbs, butter, and cheese and baked until tender and crispy.
Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
4.84 from 25 votes
Scalloped Potatoes are an easy potato side dish made with thinly sliced potatoes and onions layered in a homemade cream sauce and baked until golden and bubbly.
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Overhead image of baked scalloped potatoes.
Garlic Butter Boiled Potatoes (How to Boil Potatoes)
4.78 from 124 votes
Creamy, perfectly boiled potatoes smothered in garlic and butter. Ready and on the table in just 30 minutes.
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Round serving bowl filled with small yellow boiled potatoes.
Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Marshmallows
4.80 from 15 votes
This Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is made with smooth and creamy mashed sweet potatoes and topped with brown sugar, pecans, and gooey mini marshmallows.
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Large white casserole dish filled with sweet sweet potato casserole.
Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes
4.86 from 21 votes
These delicious Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are ready in approximately 30 minutes for a creamy, flavorful, perfect side dish. As written, this recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian.
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Mashed sweet potatoes cooked in an Instant Pot served in a round, shallow bowl and topped with extra butter.

Veggie Side Dishes

Even the pickiest of eaters will gobble up these delicious vegetable side dishes. Ranging from super healthy to creamy, gooey and cheesy, all vegetables are good vegetables.

  • TIP – If you’re hosting Thanksgiving for a large crowd with mixed tastes, I recommend making at least one veggie side dish that isn’t covered in cheese and cream. Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, and asparagus are crowd favorites, each easy and delicious to prepare in bulk.

Small white dishes filled with roasted brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes drizzled with homemade tahini sauce.

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Lemon, Garlic, and Red Chili Flakes
4.67 from 24 votes
Sautéed Brussels Sprouts are not just for Thanksgiving. Enjoy these easy and delicious Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Lemon, Garlic, and Red Chili Flakes all year thanks to this easy to follow recipe.
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Sauteed Brussel Sprouts with Lemon, Garlic and Red Chili Flakes
Easy 5 Ingredient Herb Roasted Butternut Squash with Pine Nuts
4.84 from 12 votes
This easy 5 Ingredient Herb Roasted Butternut Squash with Pine Nuts is an easy fall dish perfect for busy weeknights or added to your holiday menu. Save time in the kitchen and use pre-peeled and chopped butternut squash and already toasted pine nuts.
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Easy 5 Ingredient Herb Roasted Butternut Squash with Pine Nuts
Honey Glazed Carrots
4.91 from 40 votes
Honey Glazed Carrots are the perfect holiday and dinnertime side dish. Super easy to make and incredibly delicious, they're a perfect combination of sweet and savory and made with a handful of simple ingredients.
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A plate of honey glazed carrots
Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
4.78 from 9 votes
Made with just four simple ingredients, this super easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe is shockingly addictive and bursting with delicious flavor in every single tender bite. Completely customizable, Learn How to Roast Cauliflower right at home with this step-by-step guide and tutorial. 
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Roasted cauliflower on a large baking sheet.
Roasted Asparagus Recipe
4.92 from 23 votes
Delicious Roasted Asparagus Recipe made with fresh seasonal asparagus spears, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice.
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Roasted asparagus.
Oven Roasted Green Beans Recipe with Garlic and Parmesan
4.88 from 8 votes
Oven Roasted Green Beans made with fresh green beans, garlic, parmesan cheese, and candied almonds. A perfect combination of savory and sweet, this easy roasted green beans recipe is ready in less than 30 minutes and perfect for any holiday or occasion.
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Small serving plate with oven roasted green beans tossed in shredded parmesan cheese and candied slivered almonds.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
4.84 from 6 votes
Tender on the inside and perfectly golden and caramelized around the edges, learn how to make the very Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe with just five simple ingredients including olive oil, fresh garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Baking sheet covered with parchment paper and perfectly charred and roasted Brussels sprouts.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes
4.86 from 28 votes
Delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes cooked until perfectly crispy and caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside. Easy to prepare and ready in just over 30 minutes.
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Small white plates filled with individual servings of oven-roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potato cubes drizzled with tahini and chopped parsley.
Peas and Pancetta
4.80 from 30 votes
Peas and Pancetta- a delicious and easy holiday side dish made with peas, shallots, pancetta, and fresh mint. You can easily prepare the shallots and pancetta ahead of time, reheat with the peas, and turn this already easy holiday side into one even easier.
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Large skillet filled with sauteed pancetta and shallots with cooked sweet peas and garnished with mint.
How to Roast Butternut Squash
4.82 from 755 votes
Learning How to Roast Butternut Squash is quick and easy. Delicious served as a side or tossed in and among all your favorite fall recipes, Butternut Squash is a fall must-have and an easy substitute for pumpkin.
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A close up halved roasted butternut squash that has been roasted in a white dish
Roasted Acorn Squash
4.95 from 76 votes
Learn How to Cook Acorn Squash in the oven with this easy-to-follow guide and recipe. Delicious, tender, and made with just two simple ingredients, the whole family will love this healthy and nutrient-dense, winter side dish recipe.
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Four roasted acorn squash halves.
Cheesy Baked Asparagus Gratin
4.83 from 75 votes
Made with a handful of simple ingredients like fresh garlic, cream, and two kinds of cheese, this Cheesy Baked Asparagus Gratin is rich, creamy, and super easy to prepare. 
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A bowl Asparagus Gratin
Oven Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe
4.79 from 23 votes
This Delicata Squash Recipe is roasted with sweet maple syrup, butter, and sprinkled with ground cinnamon for a flavorful and delicious autumn side dish everyone will love. Gluten-free + vegetarian.
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White platter filled with roasted delicata squash rings roasted in maple syrup, cinnamon, and sprinkled with pepitas.

Grains and Pasta

Rice dishes and mac and cheese may not have been on my Thanksgiving table growing up, but they’ve started finding their way there over the years more and more. I know, many of these dishes are far from the classic Thanksgiving sides we’re familiar with (except for maybe the mac and cheese), but just for fun, give them a try.

The stuffed acorn squash, butternut squash risotto, and butternut squash lasagna are my personal favorites.

Two white bowls filled with macaroni and cheese made in the Instant Pot

Cranberry Wild Rice Pilaf with Sweet Potatoes
4.68 from 25 votes
Simmered in savory herb broth and sweet apple juice, this delicious Wild Rice Pilaf is light, fluffy, and extra delicious when mixed and mingled with sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, tart apples, and crunchy pecans. 
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A close up of a wild rice pilaf
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
4.94 from 15 votes
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese- creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe is cooked entirely in the Instant Pot and couldn't be easier to make. Enjoy this delicious space-saving side dish for the holidays, as a last-minute dinner, or whenever you feel like channeling your inner-child with a big bowl of cheese-covered noodles.
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Two white bowls filled with macaroni and cheese made in the Instant Pot
Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa
4.88 from 8 votes
These Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash are filled with cooked apples, dried cranberries, spinach, quinoa and drizzled with a creamy tahini garlic dressing. Colorful, festive, and easy to prepare, enjoy this delicious stuffed acorn squash recipe for the holidays or as a light and healthy dinner.
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Roasted acorn squash rings topped with a quinoa, apple, spinach, and dried cranberry stuffing, topped with pomegranates, and drizzled with tahini dressing.
Brussels Sprouts and Potato Gratin
4.54 from 15 votes
This ultra-creamy Brussels Sprout and Potato Gratin Recipe with Crispy Fried Onions is the perfect holiday side dish for even the pickiest of veggie eaters. Made with real ingredients (no canned soup), Brussels sprouts, potatoes, and gooey melted gruyere and cheddar cheese, this beautiful gratin is guaranteed to be a new holiday favorite!
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Brussels Sprouts and Potato Gratin
Creamed Corn Recipe
4.82 from 27 votes
Creamed Corn is made from simple ingredients including frozen or canned sweet corn, milk, butter, and cream cheese. An easy side dish perfect for the holidays and family dinners, learn how to make this delicious homemade recipe on the stovetop or directly in your slow cooker.
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A close up of corn, with Cream
Wheat Berry Salad with Orange Shallot Vinaigrette
5 from 6 votes
This Wheat Berry Salad with Orange Shallot Vinaigrette is fresh, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Filled with roasted butternut squash and cauliflower, sweet dried cranberries, fresh green onion, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, this Wheat Berry Salad can be enjoyed for dinner, lunch, or as a delicious holiday side.
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A bowl of wheat berry salad
Mushroom Rice Pilaf
4.82 from 16 votes
Mushroom Rice Pilaf is an easy and flavorful one-pot recipe made with wild mushrooms, garlic, herbs, and sprinkled with buttery, crunchy slivered almonds.
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A bowl of Mushroom Rice Pilaf
Easy Instant Pot Risotto with Butternut Squash
4.84 from 214 votes
This delicious Butternut Squash Risotto is flavorful, delicious, and cooks entirely in your pressure cooker. Click here to learn more about arborio rice.
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Shallow ceramic bowl filled with creamy butternut squash risotto.
Butternut Squash Lasagna Recipe
4.82 from 90 votes
See the top of this post to watch a VIDEO showing how to make this butternut squash lasagna recipe.
Made with layers of creamy butternut squash, zucchini noodles, no-bake noodles, cheese, and spinach, this Butternut Squash Lasagna is the most delicious of all autumn comfort foods.
Tip- Double the recipe and freeze one for later.
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Serving a lasagna made with butternut squash, zucchini, spinach and cheeses in a large casserole dish

Healthier Alternatives to Classic Favorites

A few of your favorite Thanksgiving side dishes made health(ier). Don’t worry, flavor abounds in these phenomenal sides- you’ll never miss the canned soup filled classics.

Lighten up your favorite dishes with these easy tips:

  • If a recipe calls for whipping cream use half&half (or fat-free half&half), whole milk, or 2% instead.
  • Swap sour cream for fat-free Greek yogurt.
  • Do you really need the marshmallows on those sweet potatoes?
  • Put back the canned cream of mushroom or canned cream of chicken soup. There is nothing good for you in those jiggly chemical creations.

Cast Iron Skillet filled with homemade Healthy Green Bean Casserole Recipe made with homemade cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.

Mashed Cauliflower Recipe
4.95 from 20 votes
This Creamy Mashed Cauliflower Recipe may be lower in carbs and calories but they are just as mouthwatering as regular mashed potatoes. Made with sour cream, parmesan cheese, garlic, and butter, these creamy Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes are full of delicious buttery flavor and make the perfect, keto-approved side dish!
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White serving bowl filled with creamy mashed cauliflower drizzled with brown butter and garlic.
Herbed Apple and Pumpernickel Stuffing
4.72 from 21 votes
Easy Herbed Apple and Pumpernickel Stuffing Recipe - Pumpernickel and Sourdough bread come together in this hearty, healthy and completely vegetarian version of everyone's favorite Thanksgiving side dish, stuffing!
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Herbed Apple and Pumpernickel Stuffing
Healthier Green Bean Casserole Recipe
4.91 from 11 votes
Healthy Green Bean Casserole Recipe. No one will miss the canned soup or fried onions thanks to this healthy alternative. Made entirely from scratch, this Green Bean Casserole is rich, creamy, and super easy to prepare.
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Cast Iron Skillet filled with homemade Healthy Green Bean Casserole Recipe made with homemade cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.
Scalloped Root Vegetable Skillet
4.89 from 35 votes
Red and yellow beets, turnips, and sweet potatoes thinly sliced and baked together with fresh herbs, butter, and freshly grated parmesan cheese in this fresh and delicious Scalloped Root Vegetable Skillet.
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Scalloped Root Vegetable Skillet. Skillet baked with thinly sliced red and yellow beets, sweet potatoes, and parsnips topped with rosemary, butter and parmesan cheese.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
4.80 from 15 votes
Enjoy the best of fall flavors with this Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. A delicious and healthy alternative to traditional baked mac and cheese, even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. 
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Butternut Squash and Cauliflower Mac n Cheese
Lightened-Up Sweet Potato Casserole
5 from 4 votes
This Lightened-Up Sweet Potato Casserole has all the taste of Sweet Potato Casserole without the guilt!
Lightened-Up Sweet Potato Casserole
Healthy Mashed Sweet Potatoes
4.93 from 14 votes
Super creamy Healthy Mashed Sweet Potatoes are the perfect complement to any lunch or dinner recipe and an easy vegetarian and gluten-free holiday side dish.
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A bowl of mashed sweet potatos

Cocktails and Desserts

I know, I know, definitely not your classic Thanksgiving side dish, BUT I do know that each of these things are always on my Thanksgiving table. As such, I couldn’t finish this round-up without sharing a few of my favorite cocktail and dessert recipes with you. Thanksgiving is a celebration, after all…right? 

See more DRINK and DESSERT recipes.

A close up of apple-pear Sangria

Sangria Recipe
4.81 from 21 votes
Delicious and refreshing, this is hands down, the Best Sangria Recipe. Made with a handful of simple, easily customizable, and perfectly balanced ingredients, learn How to Make Sangria right at home with this easy-to-follow Sangria Recipe!
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Three glasses of sangria made with red wine, oranges, lemon, apples, and cinnamon stick.
Fall Sangria Recipe
4.83 from 435 votes
Pear and Apple Fall Sangria Recipe- filled with fall's most iconic flavors, this delicious and refreshing white wine fall sangria is filled with sweet apples, pears, oranges, and cinnamon.
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A glass of Apple and Pear sangria
Cranberry Apple Cider Moscow Mule
5 from 6 votes
Delicious any time of year, this Cranberry Apple Cider Moscow Mule is light, crisp and refreshing; perfect for a night in with friends or a large family gathering.
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Cranberry Apple Cider Moscow Mule
Blackberry Cranberry Moscow Mule
4.84 from 6 votes
This Blackberry Cranberry Moscow Mule is made with fresh cranberries, blackberries, vodka, honey, and bubbly ginger beer. Almost too pretty to drink, enjoy this fun twist on the classic Moscow Mule at your next dinner party or holiday celebration!