Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Impress your guests are easier to pull off than you might think!
Whether you’re hosting the big meal or bringing a dish to share, these side dish recipes are guaranteed to steal the spotlight from the turkey.
From unique takes on classic casseroles to flavor-packed veggie sides, this post is full of options that look fancy but don’t require expert-level effort.
You’ll find creative recipes that will have friends and family asking you for the recipe. If you’re ready to shake up the usual Thanksgiving spread, these side dishes will help you do just that.
Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes
- Brown Sugar Baked Carrots
- Thanksgiving Carrot Recipes
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts
- Crescent Rolls
- Buttermilk Biscuits
- Corn on the Cob
- Honey Butter Corn
- Oven Roasted Potatoes
- Cranberry Fluff
- Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
- Slow Cooker Vegetable Side Dishes
- Breaded Cauliflower
- Instant Pot Brown Rice
- No Cook Thanksgiving Sides
- Cold Thanksgiving Side Dishes
- Cornbread Muffins
Tips for Making Thanksgiving Side Dishes
- Plan Ahead: Choose 4–6 sides max and balance textures and flavors (creamy, crunchy, savory, sweet). Prep what you can 1–2 days before.
- Use the Oven Wisely: Many dishes can be made ahead and reheated. Consider side dishes made in slow cookers, air fryers, or toaster ovens to free up oven space.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped rosemary, sage, or thyme over sides just before serving for aroma and flavor.
- Keep It Warm: Use warming trays, insulated casserole carriers, or even a low oven (set to 200°F) to keep dishes hot while finishing up the rest of the meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly Sides: Cranberry sauce, casserole recipes, mashed potatoes, and sweet potato dishes can all be made in advance to save time.
- Swap in Broth: Use chicken or veggie broth instead of water when boiling potatoes or cooking rice.
- Upgrade Boxed Mixes: Add caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or cheese to boxed stuffing or mac & cheese for a semi-homemade twist.
Most sides can be made 1–2 days ahead. Casseroles, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce hold up well in the fridge.
Yes! Mashed potatoes, stuffing, and some casseroles freeze well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
For 6–8 people, aim for 4–6 sides: 1–2 starchy (like potatoes and stuffing), 1–2 veggie, 1–2 extras like salad or bread.
If you’re getting ready for the big day and want to make things easier (and more delicious), be sure to check out these great ideas too:
- Stay organized and stress-free with a printable Thanksgiving cooking schedule to help you prep, cook, and serve your holiday feast right on time.
- From Thanksgiving appetizers to festive fall desserts, you’ll find all the classic (and creative) Thanksgiving recipes you need to wow your guests.
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