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Home » Recipe Collections

35 Crowd-Pleasing Thanksgiving Sides You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner

Published: Nov 13, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving sides are the heart and soul of the holiday meal, and these recipes are ones you’ll want to keep in your rotation year after year. From easy prep to big flavors, these dishes will have your guests coming back for more. Perfect for any holiday spread, each one adds something special without all the extra effort. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the Thanksgiving table, these sides will make your meal unforgettable.

An image of green beans in a serving bowl with a spoon resting on it.
Green Beans and Potatoes. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Lemon Greek Potatoes

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

Lemon Greek Potatoes are crispy, tender wedges seasoned with olive oil, oregano, and garlic. These flavorful potatoes bake up in just an hour, making them a quick and tasty addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

Carrot Casserole

An overhead image of baked carrot casserole.
Carrot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This carrot casserole combines a creamy cheese sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a comforting and simple side dish that can be prepped quickly, making it a great addition to your Thanksgiving meal and adding variety to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Casserole

Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of a cooked gouda mac and cheese in a baking pan.
Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked gouda mac and cheese is a creamy, rich dish that will bring comfort to your Thanksgiving table. With an easy preparation that’s ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a great side for any holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

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 quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes to make. They’re an ideal appetizer or snack for a Thanksgiving gathering, offering a savory bite for everyone to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Egg Rolls

Green Beans and Potatoes

An image of green beans in a serving bowl with a spoon resting on it.
Green Beans and Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tender green beans and potatoes are seasoned and cooked to perfection in just 25 minutes. This quick side dish is a great way to add some freshness and flavor to your Thanksgiving dinner.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Potatoes

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.

This savory sweet potato casserole offers a fresh twist on the traditional dish. With garlic and a honey walnut topping, it's a flavorful side that complements any Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

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. This quick and flavorful side is perfect for busy nights or as a hearty addition to your Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole

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

Tater tot casserole is a quick and easy meal packed with veggies and creamy sauce, topped with crispy tots. It’s a simple, no-fuss dish that works perfectly for busy nights or as a side at your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

An overhead image of slow cooker green bean casserole on a plate.
Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This slow cooker green bean casserole is both creamy and comforting, with only 10 minutes of prep. Once it's in the slow cooker, you can focus on other dishes, making it an easy choice for a Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

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

Homemade sweet potato gnocchi with roasted garlic sauce offers a comforting, rich dish perfect for Thanksgiving. Whether served as a side or main dish, this tender gnocchi is sure to impress guests at your holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

A  Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese topped with a golden-brown crust and garnished with sliced green onions.
Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This classic green bean casserole with cream cheese is a fast and easy dish that comes together quickly. With the option to use fresh or canned green beans, it’s a reliable side for your Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

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.

These vegan drumsticks offer a plant-based alternative to traditional chicken drumsticks. They are simple to make, crunchy, and tasty, making them an excellent addition to any Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Drumsticks

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Butternut squash, wild rice, walnuts, and pomegranate seeds combine to create a vibrant, festive dish. Whether as a side or main, it brings bold flavors and seasonal flair to your Thanksgiving potluck.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Vegan Stuffing

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

Vegan stuffing is made with wholesome ingredients that bring delicious flavors to your holiday feast. It’s a great choice for Thanksgiving, offering a hearty, flavorful alternative to traditional stuffing.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Easy Air Fryer Samosas

An image of air fryer samosas on a plate that's ready to be served.
Easy Air Fryer Samosas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These crispy, air fryer golden samosas are a healthier twist on the classic Indian snack. They are quick to prepare, making them a perfect choice as an appetizer or party food for your Thanksgiving celebration.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Samosas

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.

Gouda and cream cheese corn casserole is creamy and cheesy, with a texture that pairs wonderfully with turkey and other holiday favorites. It’s a comforting side that’s easy to make and perfect for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Air fryer vegan buffalo cauliflower bites in a bowl with dip nearby, placed under a wooden board.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan buffalo cauliflower wings are crispy and spicy, offering a delicious bite-sized treat. Whether made in the oven or air fryer, they’re a great choice for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that fits right into any Thanksgiving gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Baked Cauliflower with Cheese

An overhead image of baked cauliflower with cheese with a serving missing at the bottom.
Baked Cauliflower with Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked cauliflower cheese, with its crispy topping and creamy Mornay sauce, makes a great alternative to traditional mac and cheese. It’s a comforting, cheesy dish ready in just an hour, ideal for your Thanksgiving dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cauliflower with Cheese

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.

Fried halloumi salad with arugula, cabbage, and mushrooms brings bold, savory flavors to your Thanksgiving table. The crispy cheese and Asian-inspired sauce create a distinct and flavorful side that enhances the holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad

Baked Samosas

Top view image of healthy samosas on a black plate with additional samosas on a cooling rack.
Baked Samosas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These healthy baked or air-fried samosas are made with just six simple ingredients and are full of savory flavor. They’re a perfect appetizer for Thanksgiving, offering a tasty bite alongside other holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: Baked Samosas

Squash Casserole with Stuffing

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

Squash casserole with stuffing combines roasted yellow squash, hatch chiles, and condensed mushroom soup into a hearty, flavorful dish. It’s an excellent choice to bring variety to your Thanksgiving table and will please the whole crowd.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

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.

Roasted root vegetable salad features spiralized beets, parsnips, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, blue cheese, and balsamic. The earthy, sweet, and savory flavors make this a standout side for any Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Winter Root Vegetable Salad

Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

A close up view of a cooked asparagus casserole in a baking dish.
Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Asparagus casserole combines tender asparagus with a crunchy breadcrumb topping and creamy cheddar cheese. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a simple yet flavorful side that will quickly become a family favorite at Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

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 is packed with vibrant flavors and dressed with a light vinaigrette. Whether served hot or cold, it’s a versatile side that works perfectly for Thanksgiving or even as leftovers for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegetable Salad

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 creamy dressing provides a delightful mix of crunch, sweetness, and savory elements. This quick and easy side helps balance out heavier Thanksgiving dishes with its fresh texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Green Rice Casserole

An overhead image of green rice casserole in a white baking dish.
Green Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Green rice casserole is a quick, easy-to-make dish that’s loaded with flavor. It’s a great side for busy weeknights or for Thanksgiving, where it complements other holiday dishes in under 35 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Green Rice Casserole

Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing

Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chestnut stuffing made with cornbread cubes, sausage, mushrooms, fennel, and winter herbs delivers a hearty, flavorful side. Its mix of savory and sweet flavors, along with the texture of chestnuts and cornbread, makes it a standout dish for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Chestnut 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.

Classic American potato salad is creamy and made with boiled eggs. This dish can be prepped ahead of time and tastes even better the next day, making it a great side for your Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Classic American Potato Salad

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 and easy, with a garlicky, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with any holiday meal. Ready in no time, it’s a standout dish for Thanksgiving dinner or any special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Crispy Vegan Roasted Potatoes

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

Crispy vegan roasted potatoes with lemon-thyme dressing offer bright, bold flavors. These simple-to-make potatoes are a great addition to your Thanksgiving meal, balancing out heavier, richer dishes.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Roasted Potatoes

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 bake in just 35 minutes. They make a quick and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for rounding out your Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes)

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole

An image of vegetarian enchilada casserole in a clear baking dish.
Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetarian enchilada casserole is a cheesy, veggie-packed dish with homemade enchilada sauce. It’s a comforting and hearty side that’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a busy Thanksgiving meal or any festive holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Enchilada 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, dressed with a tangy homemade vinaigrette, adds bold flavors and texture to your Thanksgiving spread. This fresh and hearty side is a great complement to richer holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad

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, topped with balsamic reduction, feta, and pomegranate arils, create a delightful balance of tangy and sweet. This crispy, easy-to-prepare side will add elegance and flavor to your Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic

3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This quick 3-ingredient broccoli cheese casserole is easy to prepare and ready in 30 minutes. A simple yet flavorful side, it’s a great addition to your Thanksgiving spread and a favorite for busy days.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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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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