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Home » Sides

34 Thanksgiving Sides So Good, They’ll Steal the Show from the Turkey

Published: Oct 27, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving sides so good, they might just outshine the turkey—these recipes are the perfect way to bring everyone around the table with big flavors and a focus on fall ingredients. From classic comfort dishes to fresh takes on seasonal favorites, each recipe is crafted to fit right into the Thanksgiving vibe while adding something extra special to the meal. Whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true side or something a little different, these picks have the variety and taste to keep everyone coming back for seconds.

A close up image of falafels on a bowl of hummus.
Hummus and Falafel. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Tater Tot Casserole

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

Tater tot casserole shines as a comforting side for Thanksgiving, offering a hassle-free dish with just 10 minutes of prep time. Creamy veggies and crispy tots create a crowd-pleasing addition to the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Casserole

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 featuring garlic and a honey walnut topping gives a refreshing spin on the classic. This option complements Thanksgiving meals while bringing cozy flavors that everyone will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Skins

A horizontal image of baked sweet potato skins.
Sweet Potato Skins. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Loaded sweet potato skins combine creamy, cheesy, and savory elements, topped with fresh parsley. These are ready in just one hour, making them an excellent choice for a Thanksgiving side that appeals to various tastes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Skins

Hummus and Falafel

A close up image of falafels on a bowl of hummus.
Hummus and Falafel. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamy hummus served with golden brown falafels creates a restaurant-quality vegan dish. With only 45 minutes of prep, this protein-rich bowl makes for an appealing side during the Thanksgiving celebration.
Get the Recipe: Hummus and Falafel

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 present a crunchy, plant-based alternative for Thanksgiving, offering a healthy side that is simple to prepare. Their great flavor and texture make them a fitting option for meat-free meal choices at the holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Drumsticks

Stewed Tomatoes

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

Stewed tomatoes provide a quick and simple side that enhances your Thanksgiving feast. Ready in just 15 minutes, this flavorful dish pairs well with many main courses, adding versatility to the holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Stewed Tomatoes

Cottage Fries

An overhead image of cottage fries arranged on a plate.
Cottage Fries. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cottage fries are a quick and easy side, ready in 30 minutes with just six ingredients. Their crispy texture makes them a pleasing option for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Fries

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 notes to your Thanksgiving table with little effort. Their golden, crispy texture and vibrant flavors complement roasted meats and other main dishes seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

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 create a hearty, fall-inspired side, perfect for Thanksgiving. This dish's comforting flavors and rich texture make it an appealing addition to the holiday menu, particularly for rice enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

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, roasted Hatch chiles, and cheese offers an easy yet flavorful side for Thanksgiving. Ready in under 40 minutes, it adds a comforting touch to your holiday table with minimal preparation.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

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 stands out among Thanksgiving sides. The savory combination of ingredients captures autumn flavors that perfectly accompany turkey and other holiday mains.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

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 mixed with toasted pecans, dried cranberries, blue cheese, and balsamic vinegar form a roasted winter root vegetable salad. This side enhances the Thanksgiving meal by balancing earthy and sweet flavors.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Winter Root Vegetable Salad

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.

Crispy air fryer golden samosas provide a healthier, simpler version of this classic Indian snack. They work wonderfully as an appetizer or party food during the Thanksgiving festivities.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Samosas

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 traditional Thanksgiving appetizer. These are easy to prepare and make a special addition to your holiday spread without requiring much extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Salmon Deviled Eggs

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

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

Vegan roasted potatoes tossed with a lemon-thyme dressing achieve crispy, golden perfection. Their straightforward preparation and bold flavors create a versatile Thanksgiving side that complements heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Roasted Potatoes

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 salad with arugula and feta introduces a refreshing element for Thanksgiving. The peppery arugula pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the roasted squash, enhancing the holiday meal's vibrancy.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad

Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

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

Chicken and broccoli casserole featuring creamy sauce, rice, and bubbly cheese serves as a comforting side for Thanksgiving. It’s easy to make and offers rich flavors without much hassle, fitting well into busy holiday cooking schedules.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

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, infused with garlic, rosemary, and parsley, make for a straightforward yet flavorful side dish. Their natural sweetness combined with a crispy parmesan topping appeals to all ages at your Thanksgiving gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

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 introduces bold flavors to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of crispy cheese and an Asian-inspired sauce creates a distinct side that pairs well with many holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad

Stuffed Baked Potatoes

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

Stuffed baked potatoes filled with mushrooms, spinach, and melted cheddar can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Their savory filling and fluffy texture offer a nice counterbalance to richer main courses during Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked 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 creamy dressing delivers a crunchy and flavorful side dish for Thanksgiving. Its blend of textures and sweetness enhances your holiday spread and is simple to prepare for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

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

Kale salad featuring prunes, pomegranate, and feta, drizzled with a tangy homemade vinaigrette, introduces bold flavors and texture to your Thanksgiving table. This fresh and hearty side pairs wonderfully with the rich, savory dishes typical of the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad

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, with its creamy consistency and boiled eggs, serves as an excellent side for Thanksgiving. This dish can be made in advance and improves in flavor the next day, making it a convenient option for busy holiday preparations.
Get the Recipe: Classic American Potato 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 presents a rich and cheesy side that complements Thanksgiving meals. This dish pairs nicely with turkey and other holiday favorites, offering a cozy option that the whole family will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

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.

Healthy Indian samosas, whether baked or made in an air fryer, utilize just six simple pantry ingredients. This recipe is a great way to add a flavorful touch to your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Baked Samosas

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 makes for a festive appetizer that enhances your Thanksgiving table. Its easy preparation and vibrant presentation invite sharing among guests.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

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 dressed with a light vinaigrette serves as a versatile dish for fall and Thanksgiving. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, it bursts with seasonal flavors, providing a fresh contrast to the heavier holiday sides.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegetable Salad

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

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

Homemade sweet potato gnocchi in roasted garlic sauce adds comforting flavors and textures to your Thanksgiving menu. Whether enjoyed as a main or side, the rich sauce pairs beautifully with the gnocchi, making this dish impressive for your guests.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi

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 offer crispy, spicy bites that are perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game nights or parties. These can be easily prepared in an oven or air fryer, making them a fun addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

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.
Couscous Salad With Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan couscous salad featuring tofu and a lemon juice dressing creates a light and refreshing side for Thanksgiving. Its fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation provide a nice contrast to the richer dishes on the holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Couscous Salad With Tofu

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 its crispy skin and fluffy interior, stands out as an easy and crowd-pleasing side for Thanksgiving. Quick to prepare and customizable, it allows guests to add their favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

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 makes a great addition to any holiday meal, especially Thanksgiving. Crafted with wholesome ingredients, it is packed with flavor and simple to prepare, ensuring it complements a variety of other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

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 serve as a quick and appealing side for Thanksgiving. Topped with a crunchy layer and accompanied by a tangy sour cream topping, they balance sweet and savory flavors with ease.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

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. This rich and creamy dish makes a satisfying side for any Thanksgiving gathering.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes)

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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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