The turkey may get all the attention, but the sides are what people keep going back for. From old-fashioned favorites to unexpected dishes that deserve a spot beside the classics, these Thanksgiving sides can make the whole meal feel a little more special. Some might even steal the spotlight before anyone reaches for another slice of turkey.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole with garlic and a honey walnut topping puts a fresh spin on tradition. The harmonious flavors balance the richness of Thanksgiving dishes, making it a memorable addition to the table.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
Vegan Drumsticks
Vegan drumsticks offer a crunchy, plant-based side for Thanksgiving, with simple preparation. Their satisfying texture and taste make them a great meat-free option to share during the Thanksgiving holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Drumsticks
Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole
Tater tot casserole is a practical Thanksgiving side with only 10 minutes of prep. It features creamy vegetables and crispy tots, making it a popular choice to round out the holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole
Sweet Potato Skins
Loaded sweet potato skins combine savory and creamy elements, finished with fresh parsley. They’re ready in one hour and cater to a variety of palates, making them a welcome Thanksgiving side.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Skins
Cottage Fries
Cottage fries, prepared in 30 minutes with only six ingredients, bring a satisfying crunch to the Thanksgiving feast. They’re a simple, crowd-friendly option that fits into busy holiday cooking.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Fries
Stewed Tomatoes
Stewed tomatoes are a straightforward, flavorful side that comes together in just 15 minutes. They pair well with numerous main courses, adding versatility to the Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Stewed Tomatoes
Hummus and Falafel
Creamy hummus paired with crispy falafels delivers a restaurant-style vegan side. With just 45 minutes of prep, this protein-rich dish brings a flavorful option to the Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Hummus and Falafel
Lemon Greek Potatoes
Lemon Greek potatoes add vibrant, tangy flavors with minimal effort. Their golden, crispy texture complements roasted meats and enriches the Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes
Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole
Roasted Brussels sprouts with pancetta and feta bring a savory touch to Thanksgiving. The combination of ingredients showcases Thanksgiving fall flavors, pairing well with classic holiday mains.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole
Squash Casserole with Stuffing
Squash casserole with stuffing, roasted Hatch chiles, and cheese comes together in under 40 minutes. This flavorful side is an effortless way to add a savory, cheesy element to the Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries blend sweet, savory, and crunchy elements. With only six ingredients, this nutrient-rich side comes together quickly, enhancing your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries
Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu
Vegan couscous salad with tofu and a lemon dressing creates a refreshing side for Thanksgiving. The bright flavors and simple ingredients provide a nice balance to the richer Thanksgiving dishes, adding variety to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu
Baked Samosas
Healthy Indian samosas, baked or air-fried, use six simple pantry ingredients. These bring a flavorful and crispy addition to the Thanksgiving table, offering a fun and unique side option.
Get the Recipe: Baked Samosas
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf
Butternut squash and wild rice pilaf is a hearty side, perfect for the Thanksgiving season. The dish’s rich, autumn-inspired flavors offer a comforting component to the holiday menu, especially for rice lovers.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf
Classic American Potato Salad
Classic American potato salad, featuring a creamy base and boiled eggs, fits perfectly into a Thanksgiving menu. It can be prepared ahead of time and develops even more flavor the next day, making it a practical holiday side.
Get the Recipe: Classic American Potato Salad
Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad
Roasted butternut squash or pumpkin salad with arugula and feta introduces a refreshing element to the meal. The peppery arugula and sweet roasted squash add a vibrant touch to the Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad
Baked Potato
A classic baked potato with crispy skin and fluffy interior is a versatile Thanksgiving side. Quick and customizable, it allows guests to personalize with their favorite toppings, making it a crowd-friendly option.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato
Crispy Vegan Roasted Potatoes
Vegan roasted potatoes with lemon-thyme dressing reach crispy perfection. They are simple yet flavorful, complementing heavier Thanksgiving dishes with ease.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Roasted Potatoes
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic
Air fryer Brussels sprouts, with balsamic reduction, feta, and pomegranate, make a crisp, flavorful Thanksgiving side. Easy to prepare, they provide a mix of sweet and tangy accents for the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic
Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Homemade sweet potato gnocchi in roasted garlic sauce delivers comforting flavors perfect for the Thanksgiving menu. Whether served as a main or side, the rich sauce pairs seamlessly with the gnocchi, impressing your guests.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Vegan buffalo cauliflower wings offer crispy, spicy bites that double as a popular Thanksgiving appetizer. Easily prepared in the oven or air fryer, they add a playful and flavorful element to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad
Fried halloumi salad with arugula, cabbage, and mushrooms brings bold flavors to the holiday table. The crispy halloumi, paired with an Asian-inspired sauce, makes a distinct side that complements a variety of Thanksgiving dishes.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad
Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Instant Pot mashed potatoes, infused with garlic, are a quick, creamy addition to Thanksgiving. With no need to drain, they simplify Thanksgiving prep and deliver smooth, flavorful potatoes in minimal time.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn
One-pot gouda and cream cheese corn casserole delivers a rich, cheesy complement to your Thanksgiving feast. The comforting, creamy dish pairs well with turkey and other holiday favorites, making it a family-friendly choice.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn
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