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Home » Sides

35 Thanksgiving Side Dishes So Delicious, You’ll Forget About the Turkey

Published: Oct 9, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving side dishes are really where the magic happens. These are the dishes that bring everyone back for seconds and have people talking long after dinner is over. We all love a good turkey, but let's be honest — it's the sides that steal the show. Whether you want something simple or bold, there's a great option here that’s going to hit the spot and make your meal feel complete. Forget the bird for a second — these sides are what you'll really remember.

An image of vegan drumsticks on a plate garnished with fresh green herbs and a lemon wedge.
Vegan Drumsticks. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Squash Casserole with Stuffing

An image of Squash Casserole in a baking dish.
Squash Casserole with Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This squash casserole with stuffing, roasted Hatch chiles, and cheese is an easy yet flavorful side dish for Thanksgiving. Ready in under 40 minutes, it provides a comforting, satisfying addition to your holiday table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

Easy Egg Rolls

An image of vegan egg rolls arranged on a serving dish with sweet chili sauce on the side.
Easy Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan egg rolls are crispy, flavorful, and perfect as a Thanksgiving appetizer or snack. Ready in just 20 minutes, they offer a quick option that adds a crunchy, plant-based element to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Easy Egg Rolls

Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

An angled shot of savory sweet potato casserole served in a baking dish.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sweet potato casserole with garlic and a honey walnut topping offers a refreshing take on the traditional recipe. This healthier option fits right into a Thanksgiving meal while delivering the cozy, comforting flavors you expect.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes)

A close up image of cheesy potatoes in a casserole, garnished with parsley.
Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cheesy potatoes with a chive-infused sauce and crispy cornflake topping are baked to perfection in just 35 minutes. The creamy potatoes and crunchy topping create a rich, satisfying side dish for any Thanksgiving gathering.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes)

Roasted Vegetable Salad

An overhead image of roasted vegetable salad on a serving dish. with the dressing on the side.
Roasted Vegetable Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted vegetable salad with a light vinaigrette is a versatile dish that’s perfect for Fall and Thanksgiving. Whether served hot or cold, it’s loaded with seasonal flavors and is a fresh option amid heartier holiday sides.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegetable Salad

Stewed Tomatoes

An image of stewed tomatoes.
Stewed Tomatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stewed tomatoes are a quick and simple side that feels much more complex than it is. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful dish that pairs well with many Thanksgiving mains, offering versatility in your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Stewed Tomatoes

Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes with a slice of butter and a golden spoon.
Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Instant Pot mashed potato recipe is quick, garlicky, and creamy, making it a fantastic choice for Thanksgiving. With no need to drain the potatoes, you'll have a smooth, flavorful side dish ready in no time, simplifying your holiday cooking.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Tater Tot Casserole

An image of a vegetarian tater tot casserole.
Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tater tot casserole may be known as a breakfast dish, but it's also perfect for an easy, comforting Thanksgiving side. With just 10 minutes of prep, creamy veggies, and crispy tots come together in a simple, no-hassle dish that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole

Vegan Drumsticks

An image of vegan drumsticks on a plate garnished with fresh green herbs and a lemon wedge.
Vegan Drumsticks. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan drumsticks are a crunchy, plant-based alternative for Thanksgiving, offering a flavorful, healthy side dish that’s easy to make. Their texture and taste make them a great choice for those looking for meat-free options during the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Drumsticks

Stuffed Baked Potatoes

A close-up image of stuffed baked potatoes.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed baked potatoes with mushrooms, spinach, and melted cheddar are ready in just 30 minutes, making them a quick and easy side for Thanksgiving. Their savory filling and fluffy interior provide a nice balance to richer main courses.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Vegan Stuffing

An overhead view of skillet with stuffing and a fork and spoon in it.
Vegan Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan stuffing is a great addition to any holiday meal, especially Thanksgiving. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare, ensuring that it complements various other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Classic American Potato Salad

An overhead image of the classic American potato salad in a white serving dish.
Classic American Potato Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This classic American potato salad, with its creamy texture and boiled eggs, makes an excellent side for Thanksgiving. You can make it ahead of time, and it only gets better the next day, making it a great option for busy holiday preparations.
Get the Recipe: Classic American Potato Salad

Lemon Greek Potatoes

Close-up image of lemon greek potatoes in a dish.
Lemon Greek Potatoes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Lemon Greek potatoes bring bright, tangy flavors to your Thanksgiving table with minimal effort. Their golden, crispy texture and vibrant seasoning make them an excellent side to accompany roasted meats and other holiday mains.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries

Top view of Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries combine sweet, savory, and crunchy elements. With only six ingredients, this nutrient-packed dish is quick to prepare, making it a great addition to your Thanksgiving menu.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

A fresh, colorful, and wholesome bowl of vegan couscous salad with tofu and a drizzle of dressing to finish it off.
Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan couscous salad with tofu and a lemon juice dressing is a light, refreshing side for Thanksgiving. Its fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a nice contrast to the richer dishes on your holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Close-up image ofsheet pan garlic parmesan roasted carrots on a plate.
Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Sheet pan parmesan roasted carrots, enhanced with garlic, rosemary, and parsley, make a simple yet flavorful side dish. Their natural sweetness paired with the crispy parmesan topping will appeal to all ages at your Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A classic baked potato with crispy skin and a fluffy center is an easy and crowd-pleasing side for Thanksgiving. It’s quick to prepare and customizable, allowing everyone to add their favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Close-up image of sweet potato gnocchi.
Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Homemade sweet potato gnocchi with roasted garlic sauce brings comforting flavors and textures to your Thanksgiving menu. Whether served as a main or side, the rich sauce complements the gnocchi, making this a dish that will impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Crispy Vegan Roasted Potatoes

Close-up image of cripsy vegan roasted potatoes.
Crispy Vegan Roasted Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan roasted potatoes, tossed with a lemon-thyme dressing, offer crispy, golden perfection. Their simplicity and bold flavors make them a versatile Thanksgiving side, perfect for balancing out heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Roasted Potatoes

The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Overhead image of best broccoli salad with creamy dressin on a bowl.
The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Broccoli salad with bacon, cranberries, and a creamy dressing is a flavorful, crunchy side dish that’s great for Thanksgiving. It brings a nice balance of textures and sweetness to your holiday spread and is easy to prepare for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

A bowl of Thanksgiving fruit salad.
Thanksgiving Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This Thanksgiving fruit salad combines the crispness of apples, the tang of cranberries, and the burst of pomegranate seeds for a fresh, seasonal side dish. It's a simple way to add some lightness to your Thanksgiving table without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Roasted Winter Root Vegetable Salad

Overhead image of roasted winter root vegetable salad on a plate.
Roasted Winter Root Vegetable Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spiralized beets and parsnips, combined with toasted pecans, dried cranberries, blue cheese, and balsamic vinegar, create a roasted winter root vegetable salad full of seasonal flair. This side adds depth to your Thanksgiving meal, blending earthy and sweet flavors.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Winter Root Vegetable Salad

One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

One pot gouda cand cream cheese corn in a bowl.
One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

One-pot gouda and cream cheese corn casserole is a rich and cheesy side that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. It pairs well with turkey and other holiday dishes, offering a cozy, indulgent option for the whole family to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Overhhead image of chicken and broccoli casserole.
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken and broccoli casserole with creamy sauce, rice, and bubbly cheese make for a comforting, flavorful side for Thanksgiving. It’s easy to prepare, delivering rich taste without a lot of effort, perfect for busy holiday cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Close-up image of sweet potato kale salad in a bowl.
Sweet Potato Kale Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Kale salad with prunes, pomegranate, and feta, topped with a tangy homemade vinaigrette, adds texture and bold flavor to your Thanksgiving table. It’s a fresh and hearty side that pairs well with the rich, savory dishes of the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

A plate of Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus.
Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Butternut squash hummus, topped with cranberries, pomegranates, and rosemary, is a festive appetizer that adds color and flavor to your Thanksgiving table. Its simple preparation and eye-catching presentation make it an easy dish to share with guests.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Side view of wild rice pilaf with pomegranate and butternut squash.
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Butternut squash and wild rice pilaf is a hearty, fall-inspired side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. With its comforting flavors and rich texture, it’s a great choice for rice lovers looking for a festive addition to their meal.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon, and Goat cheese

Close-up of green beans with cranberries, bacon, and goat cheese in a black plate.
Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon, and Goat cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Green beans with cranberries, bacon, and goat cheese make a flavorful and healthy Thanksgiving side. The combination of sweet cranberries, savory bacon, and creamy goat cheese adds a balance of textures that stands out on any holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese

Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

A plate of Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole.
Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Roasted Brussels sprouts, pancetta, and feta casserole is a standout dish for any Thanksgiving spread. The savory combination of ingredients brings rich, autumn flavors that complement turkey and other holiday mains perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad

Close-up image of copycat aroma espresso bar fried halloumi salad.
Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This fried halloumi salad, with arugula, cabbage, and mushrooms, brings bold flavors to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of crispy cheese and an Asian-inspired sauce makes it a unique, flavorful side that complements many holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad

Loaded Salmon Deviled Eggs

Overhead image of loaded salmon deviled eggs in a dish.
Loaded Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Deviled eggs with smoked salmon and crispy leeks add a flavorful twist to a classic Thanksgiving appetizer. Easy to make and full of flavor, they’re a great way to add something special to your holiday spread without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Salmon Deviled Eggs

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks on a plate.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer sweet potato casserole stacks are a quick and delicious side for Thanksgiving. Topped with a crunchy layer and served with a tangy sour cream topping, they balance sweet and savory flavors with ease.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Close-up image of copycat texas roadhouse rattesnake bites in a bowl.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites, filled with jalapeños and Pepper Jack cheese, bring a spicy kick to your Thanksgiving appetizers. These crispy, fried bites are a crowd-pleaser, adding a little heat and excitement to your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic

A bowl of Super Crispy Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts With Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic.
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Air fryer Brussels sprouts, drizzled with balsamic reduction and topped with feta and pomegranate arils, make a crispy, flavorful side for Thanksgiving. They’re easy to prepare and offer a perfect balance of flavors for a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic

Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad

A bowl of Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad.
Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Roasted butternut squash or pumpkin, paired with arugula and feta, creates a refreshing salad perfect for Thanksgiving. The peppery arugula contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the roasted squash, adding a vibrant touch to your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad

More Thanksgiving Recipes

Side view of wild rice pilaf with pomegranate and butternut squash.
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

These Thanksgiving recipes are so delicious, they’ll outshine the turkey and steal the spotlight at your holiday table!
Read it Here: 15 Thanksgiving Recipes That Will Steal the Show

Low-Key Thanksgiving Desserts

Blueberry galette topped with whipped cream.
Blackberry Galette. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These low-key Thanksgiving desserts are easy to make and stress-free, giving you more time to enjoy the holiday with loved ones!
Read it Here: 18 Low-Key Desserts for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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