45+ Delicious Side Dishes for the Perfect Thanksgiving Dinner
Thanksgiving dinner isn’t just about the turkey; it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase a variety of mouthwatering side dishes that will wow your guests. From traditional favorites to modern twists, we’ve rounded up over 45+ delicious options that will complement your feast and cater to every palate. Get ready to fill your table with these tasty treats!
Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving dinner. Their vibrant orange color adds a pop to your table, and the sweet glaze makes them irresistible.
To make these tasty treats, you’ll need fresh carrots, honey, butter, and a sprinkle of salt. Start by peeling and cutting the carrots into even pieces. Then, melt butter in a pan, add the honey, and toss in the carrots. Cook until they are tender and coated in the sweet glaze.
These carrots not only taste great but also bring a lovely sweetness that balances the savory dishes on your table. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a stress-free side dish.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving. The golden-brown florets look inviting and are packed with flavor. This dish is simple to prepare and adds a nice touch to your holiday table.
To make this dish, start with fresh cauliflower. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper for that extra kick. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast until tender and crispy.
The aroma of garlic fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist. This side dish pairs well with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving foods. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic
Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for Thanksgiving. They bring comfort and warmth to the table. The image shows a bowl of mashed potatoes, rich and smooth, topped with a drizzle of melted butter and a sprinkle of fresh chives. The garlic adds a lovely aroma and flavor that elevates this dish.
To make these mashed potatoes, you’ll need simple ingredients: potatoes, garlic, butter, cream, salt, and pepper. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender. While they cook, sauté minced garlic in butter for a fragrant touch. Once the potatoes are ready, mash them and mix in the garlic butter along with cream for that creamy texture. Season to taste, and you’re set!
This dish pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy, making it a must-have for your Thanksgiving spread. Everyone will appreciate the creamy goodness and the hint of garlic that makes these mashed potatoes unforgettable.
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Cranberry sauce is a classic side dish for Thanksgiving dinner, and adding orange zest gives it a refreshing twist. The vibrant red of the cranberries combined with the bright citrus aroma makes this dish visually appealing and tasty.
To make this delightful sauce, you’ll need fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and the zest of an orange. Start by rinsing the cranberries and then simmering them with sugar and water until they burst and thicken. Finally, stir in the orange zest for that extra zing.
This cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with turkey, balancing the savory flavors with its sweet and tart profile. It’s a simple yet impressive addition to your holiday table.
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a staple at many Thanksgiving dinners. This dish combines tender green beans with a creamy sauce and crispy fried onions on top. The contrast of textures makes it a favorite among guests.
The image shows a delicious serving of green bean casserole. The bright green beans are mixed with a savory sauce, and the crispy onions add a delightful crunch. This dish not only looks appealing but also brings a comforting flavor that pairs well with turkey and stuffing.
To make this classic dish, you’ll need fresh or canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and crispy fried onions. Start by mixing the green beans with the soup and milk, then top with the fried onions before baking. It’s simple and quick!
Serving this casserole at your Thanksgiving table will surely bring smiles. It’s a dish that many people look forward to every year, making it a must-have for your holiday spread.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon make a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving. The combination of crispy, caramelized sprouts and savory bacon creates a delightful flavor that everyone will enjoy.
To prepare this dish, start with fresh Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and cut them in half. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, add chopped bacon for that extra crunch and flavor. Spread everything on a baking sheet and roast until golden brown.
This dish not only looks appealing but also adds a nice contrast to the traditional Thanksgiving fare. The vibrant green of the sprouts and the rich color of the bacon make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Serve these roasted Brussels sprouts alongside turkey and stuffing for a well-rounded meal. They are sure to become a favorite at your Thanksgiving table!
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet potato casserole is a classic Thanksgiving dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. The image shows a beautifully baked casserole topped with golden, toasted marshmallows. The vibrant orange sweet potatoes peek through, creating a delightful contrast.
This dish is not just about looks; it’s packed with flavor. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the gooey marshmallows, making it a favorite among guests. It’s a side that can easily steal the spotlight on your Thanksgiving spread.
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 tender, then mash them with the other ingredients. Spread the mixture in a baking dish, top with marshmallows, and bake until golden brown.
Serving sweet potato casserole is a great way to add a touch of sweetness to your meal. It complements savory dishes like turkey and stuffing beautifully. Plus, it’s a fun dish that everyone loves to dig into!
Savory Herb Stuffing
Savory herb stuffing is a classic side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any Thanksgiving table. The image shows a vibrant bowl filled with a delightful mix of ingredients. You can see chunks of bread, colorful vegetables, and fresh herbs, all coming together to create a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
This stuffing is not just about taste; it’s about texture too. The crispy edges of the bread contrast beautifully with the softness of the vegetables. The herbs add a fresh note, making every bite a little celebration of flavors.
To make this stuffing, you’ll need some basic ingredients. Start with bread cubes, which can be toasted for extra crunch. Add sautéed onions, celery, and bell peppers for a savory base. Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and sage will elevate the dish. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
Mix everything together with vegetable or chicken broth to moisten it. Bake until golden brown on top. This dish pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy, making it a must-have for your Thanksgiving feast.
Buttery Corn on the Cob
Buttery corn on the cob is a classic side dish that brings a burst of flavor to any Thanksgiving dinner. The image shows fresh, golden corn, glistening with melted butter and sprinkled with a touch of seasoning. This dish is simple yet satisfying, making it a favorite among guests.
To prepare this delightful side, start with fresh corn. Boil or grill the ears until they are tender. Once cooked, slather them with butter and sprinkle with salt or your favorite spices. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the richness of the butter, creating a comforting bite.
Serve the corn on a platter, and watch as it disappears quickly from the table. It’s a great addition to your Thanksgiving spread, offering a touch of warmth and nostalgia. Plus, it’s easy to make, allowing you to focus on other dishes while still impressing your guests.
Herbed Quinoa Salad
Herbed quinoa salad is a refreshing and colorful addition to your Thanksgiving table. This dish combines fluffy quinoa with fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice that everyone can enjoy.
The salad features vibrant cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, which add a nice crunch and burst of flavor. The herbs, like parsley or cilantro, bring a fresh taste that complements the grains perfectly.
To make this salad, start by cooking quinoa according to package instructions. Once it’s fluffy, let it cool. Then, chop your veggies and mix them in a bowl with the quinoa. Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This salad not only looks beautiful but also offers a light option among heavier holiday dishes. It’s a great way to balance out the meal and keep things vibrant!
Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Spicy roasted sweet potatoes are a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving dinner. Their vibrant orange color makes them visually appealing, and the spices add a delightful kick. These sweet potatoes are not just tasty; they also bring a warm, comforting vibe to your holiday table.
To make this dish, start with fresh sweet potatoes. Cut them into bite-sized cubes for even roasting. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of spices like paprika or cayenne for that spicy touch. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast until they are golden and tender.
Once they’re out of the oven, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs well with turkey and other traditional sides, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
Classic Potato Salad
Classic potato salad is a staple side dish for Thanksgiving dinner. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a favorite among many. The image shows a bowl filled with perfectly cubed potatoes, mixed with a light dressing and garnished with fresh herbs. The vibrant colors of the ingredients pop against the warm wooden background, inviting you to dig in.
This dish is simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste. You can add ingredients like chopped onions, celery, or even a hint of mustard for an extra kick. The key is to balance the creaminess with a touch of acidity, often achieved with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
To prepare classic potato salad, start by boiling your potatoes until tender. Once cooled, chop them into bite-sized pieces. Mix them with your choice of dressing—mayonnaise is a popular option—along with any additional ingredients you love. Chill it in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors meld together. Serve it cold, and watch it disappear from the table!
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic side dish for your Thanksgiving dinner. This dish combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of maple syrup and the savory crunch of bacon. The result is a delightful blend that will impress your guests.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, maple syrup, and some chopped pecans for added texture. Start by roasting the Brussels sprouts until they are tender and slightly caramelized. While they roast, cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into bits.
Once the sprouts are done, toss them with the bacon, drizzle with maple syrup, and sprinkle with pecans. This dish not only looks beautiful on the table but also offers a wonderful mix of flavors that everyone will love.
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Stuffed acorn squash is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. Its vibrant orange color and unique shape make it visually appealing. The squash is filled with a tasty mixture that often includes grains, nuts, and dried fruits.
This dish is not only beautiful but also packed with flavor. The sweetness of the acorn squash pairs perfectly with the savory filling. You can use ingredients like quinoa, wild rice, cranberries, and pine nuts to create a delicious stuffing.
Making stuffed acorn squash is simple. First, cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Roast it until tender, then fill it with your prepared stuffing. Bake it again to let the flavors meld together.
Serve it warm, and watch as your guests enjoy this hearty, healthy side dish. Stuffed acorn squash is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving dinner!
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a colorful and nutritious addition to your Thanksgiving dinner. The vibrant mix of chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and feta cheese creates a delightful dish that everyone will love.
The salad features chickpeas as the star ingredient. They are not only tasty but also packed with protein and fiber. Toss in some diced red bell peppers, red onions, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint for a refreshing crunch. The creamy feta adds a nice tang to the overall flavor.
To make this salad, start by rinsing and draining your chickpeas. Chop your vegetables and herbs, then combine everything in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for that zesty kick. Mix well and let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to blend.
This dish is perfect for those looking for a lighter side option during the holiday feast. It pairs well with roasted turkey and can be made ahead of time, making your Thanksgiving prep a breeze.
