25 Easy Thanksgiving Side Dishes That Will Steal the Show (You Won’t Believe #16!)
As you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, the focus isn’t just on the turkey!
It’s the side dishes that can truly elevate your feast and leave everyone raving about their favorites.
From savory stuffing to vibrant salads, these 25 easy Thanksgiving side dishes promise to bring flavor and joy to your holiday gathering.
Let’s get cooking and create a spread that will steal the show!
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without creamy mashed potatoes.
Infused with roasted garlic, these potatoes are rich and velvety, making them the perfect comfort food.
The key is to use Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery texture and to whip in some heavy cream and butter for that indulgent finish.
Serve them alongside turkey and gravy for a match made in heaven!
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
These roasted Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also add a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread.
Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, they are roasted until caramelized, then drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze.
This dish provides a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it an instant favorite at any gathering.
Plus, they’re easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time!
3. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
This classic dish transforms humble sweet potatoes into a decadent casserole.
Mashed sweet potatoes are combined with brown sugar, vanilla, and spices, then topped with fluffy marshmallows that caramelize beautifully when baked.
It’s sweet, creamy, and utterly delightful, making it a must-have on your Thanksgiving table.
You can even prepare it ahead and bake it just in time for dinner!
4. Green Bean Almondine
Green beans almondine is a refreshing side that adds a crunch to your Thanksgiving meal.
Sautéed with butter and topped with toasted almonds, this dish is light yet full of flavor.
It’s quick to prepare and provides a lovely contrast to heavier dishes on the table.
Plus, the green color adds a vibrant touch, making your plate visually appealing!
5. Harvest Quinoa Salad
This colorful quinoa salad is packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a healthy addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
Loaded with roasted butternut squash, cranberries, and feta cheese, it’s a dish that celebrates the harvest.
The texture of the quinoa combined with the sweetness of the squash and tartness of the cranberries creates a delightful harmony.
It’s also gluten-free and can be made ahead, perfect for busy holiday prep!
6. Savory Stuffing with Sage and Sausage
Stuffing is a Thanksgiving staple, and this savory version with sage and sausage will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Using crusty bread, sautéed onions, celery, and hearty sausage, this stuffing is bursting with flavor.
Herbs like sage and thyme add an aromatic touch that fills your kitchen with delightful scents.
Bake it until golden and crispy on top for the perfect texture contrast!
7. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Forget the can—homemade cranberry sauce is a game-changer!
This version is infused with fresh orange zest and juice, adding a bright citrus flavor that complements the tartness of cranberries.
It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing contrast to the savory dishes.
8. Honey Glazed Carrots
These honey-glazed carrots are a sweet and colorful addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Sautéed in butter and drizzled with honey, they become tender and caramelized, offering a delightful side dish that balances out richer flavors.
The natural sweetness of the carrots shines through, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
Plus, they’re incredibly simple to prepare!
9. Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate
This Brussels sprouts salad is a fresh take on traditional Thanksgiving sides.
Shredded Brussels sprouts are tossed with pomegranate seeds, candied pecans, and a light vinaigrette, creating a crisp and crunchy dish.
The burst of pomegranate adds a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness of other dishes.
It’s a beautiful salad that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate!
10. Macaroni and Cheese with Truffle Oil
Elevate your classic macaroni and cheese with a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
Creamy, cheesy pasta baked to perfection is always a crowd-pleaser.
Adding truffle oil imparts an earthy richness that transforms this comfort food into a sophisticated side.
Serve it in individual ramekins for a touch of elegance at your Thanksgiving table!
11. Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a luxurious side dish that everyone will adore.
Layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce with cheese create a rich and decadent flavor.
The top is golden and bubbly, offering a perfect contrast to the tender potatoes underneath.
It’s a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with turkey and gravy!
12. Cornbread with Honey Butter
Cornbread is a Southern classic that adds a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving table.
Moist and fluffy, it pairs perfectly with honey butter for a delightful flavor combination.
This dish is easy to make and can be served warm, making it a comforting addition to your meal.
Plus, it’s a great way to soak up those delicious turkey drippings!
13. Glazed Beets with Goat Cheese
For a gourmet touch, serve glazed beets with creamy goat cheese.
The sweetness of the beets complements the tanginess of the goat cheese, creating a delightful balance.
This dish is not only visually stunning with its vibrant colors but also packed with flavor.
It’s a sophisticated side that’s sure to impress your guests!
14. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are a simple yet stunning side dish that showcases the flavors of fall.
Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are tossed with olive oil and herbs, then roasted until caramelized and tender.
This dish not only tastes amazing but also adds beautiful colors to your table.
It’s a healthy option that complements any Thanksgiving meal perfectly!
15. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy spinach and artichoke dip can double as a side dish or appetizer.
Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with crunchy bread or fresh veggies.
With layers of cream cheese, spinach, and artichokes, it’s rich and satisfying.
Serve it warm for a comforting addition to your holiday spread!
16. Butternut Squash Risotto (You Won’t Believe!)
This butternut squash risotto is the hidden gem of Thanksgiving side dishes!
Creamy, comforting, and infused with the sweetness of roasted squash, it’s a dish that will wow your guests.
The process of stirring the rice slowly allows it to absorb all the flavors, creating a rich and velvety texture.
Topped with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of sage, this risotto will steal the show!
17. Cauliflower Gratin
Cauliflower gratin is a delightful twist on traditional cheesy dishes.
Tender cauliflower florets are smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly.
This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies.
Serve it as a comforting side that pairs beautifully with turkey and stuffing!
18. Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf is a hearty side dish that adds texture to your Thanksgiving table.
Packed with nuts, cranberries, and aromatic herbs, it’s a flavorful alternative to traditional rice dishes.
The nutty, chewy wild rice pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory ingredients.
It’s a dish that celebrates fall flavors and is sure to impress your guests!
19. Apple and Walnut Salad
This fresh apple and walnut salad is a crisp, refreshing side that balances the heavier Thanksgiving dishes.
With slices of tart apples, crunchy walnuts, and a light vinaigrette, it’s a delightful contrast to rich flavors.
The colors are vibrant, making it a visually appealing addition to your table.
It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience!
20. Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Parmesan roasted potatoes are an easy and flavorful side that everyone will love.
Toss baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, then roast until golden and crispy.
They’re a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving feast, providing a satisfying crunch.
Serve them hot for a delicious complement to your main dishes!
21. Pumpkin Soup
Warm up your guests with a comforting bowl of pumpkin soup.
This creamy soup is made with fresh pumpkin, spices, and a touch of cream, creating a rich and velvety texture.
Serve it in small bowls or mugs for a cozy presentation, garnished with roasted pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of cream.
It’s the perfect starter or side dish to kick off your Thanksgiving meal!
Conclusion
With these 25 easy Thanksgiving side dishes, you’re sure to impress your family and friends this holiday season.
From classic favorites to unique twists, each dish brings something special to the table.
Get ready to create a memorable feast that will have everyone talking long after the last bite!
