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Home » Sides

39 Thanksgiving sides that steal the spotlight every single time

Published: Nov 4, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving sides have a way of stealing the spotlight every single time, especially when you bring together dishes that make the whole table pause to take a second look. These Thanksgiving sides celebrate bold flavor, comforting textures, and seasonal brightness, giving every plate something memorable beyond the main event. Each one brings its own charm to the holiday, ensuring the supporting cast shines just as brightly as the star of the feast.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Orange-Glazed-Sweet-Potatoes.jpg

Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

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.

A smooth sweet potato mixture enhanced with garlic gains extra richness from a honeyed walnut topping. It brings cozy depth to any holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

A top-down view of stir-fried green beans with coconut on a white plate, accompanied by a white napkin and fork.
Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Green beans tossed with coconut and warm spices create a colorful, aromatic side. The quick stir-fry method keeps everything vibrant and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

Sweet Potato Skins

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

Crisp potato shells filled with a creamy, cheesy center get a lift from bright herbs. They make a memorable, indulgent bite for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Skins

Bacon Wrapped Green Beans with Brown Sugar

Bacon Wrapped Green Beans with Brown Sugar next to each other.
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans with Brown Sugar. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Bundled green beans wrapped in smoky bacon take on a caramelized sweetness as they bake. The simple ingredient list makes them perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Green Beans with Brown Sugar

Garlic Green Beans

Garlic Green Beans on a white plate.
Garlic Green Beans. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Green beans sautéed with plenty of garlic stay crisp and bright in flavor. They come together quickly for an easy everyday side.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Green Beans

Easy Air Fryer Green Beans

Air Fryer Green Beans with sesame seeds.
Easy Air Fryer Green Beans. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Air-fried green beans turn beautifully crisp on the outside while remaining tender within. They’re a fast way to highlight natural vegetable flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Green Beans

Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes

An image of Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes.
Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Sweet potatoes roasted with a citrus glaze offer a balance of tangy and sweet notes. The simple preparation lets the fresh flavors shine.
Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes

Grilled Green Beans

Grilled Green Beans close-up.
Grilled Green Beans. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Charred green beans coated in a savory garlic-soy mixture deliver bold, fast-cooking flavor. They pair effortlessly with almost any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Green Beans

Almond, Cranberry and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole

A dish of granola with cranberries and sprigs of rosemary.
Almond, Cranberry and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

A hearty blend of almonds, cranberries, and sweet potatoes adds sweet-savory contrast to a classic stuffing style. The mixture brings varied textures to a holiday plate.
Get the Recipe: Almond, Cranberry and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

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

Kale tossed with prunes, pomegranate, and feta creates a salad full of brightness and tang. It adds refreshing balance to richer meals.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Green beans simmered slowly with smoky meats develop deep, homey richness. The long cooking time transforms them into a comforting centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Southern Green Beans

Smoky Purple Sweet Potato Fries

Top view of Smoky Purple Sweet Potato Fries with a dip in the middle.
Smoky Purple Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Purple sweet potatoes cut into fries bake up crispy and colorful. They offer an earthy twist on a familiar favorite.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Purple Sweet Potato Fries

Curry Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes (Air Fryer)

Sweet Potato Cubes top view.
Curry Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes (Air Fryer). Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Sweet potato cubes roasted with curry spices become crisp on the outside and warm and fragrant inside. They’re a quick way to add bold flavor to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Curry Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes (Air Fryer)

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.

Green beans and potatoes cooked together in under half an hour create a hearty, reliable side. Their simple seasoning keeps the dish familiar and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Potatoes

Rosemary Hasselback Sweet Potatoes

Hasselback Sweet Potatoes garnished.
Rosemary Hasselback Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet potatoes sliced Hasselback-style turn crisp on the edges and tender inside. A rosemary-mustard drizzle adds a punchy contrast.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Hasselback Sweet Potatoes

Sausage and Green Bean Casserole

Overhead image of sausage potato green bean casserole in a white plate.
Sausage and Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

A baked blend of sausage, potatoes, and green beans offers a comforting mix of savory flavors. Everything cooks in one dish for easy prep and cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Green Bean Casserole

Oven Baked Sweet Potato Slices

Sweet Potato Slices top view.
Oven Baked Sweet Potato Slices. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Thin slices of sweet potato roasted until caramelized develop a subtle honeyed flavor. The golden edges make them an instant crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Sweet Potato Slices

Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Overhead view of green beans placed on a paper towel on a platter.
Din Tai Fung Green Beans. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A garlic-forward preparation transforms green beans into a bold and aromatic side. With only a handful of ingredients, it’s fast and full of character.
Get the Recipe: Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes

Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Purple sweet potatoes smashed and brushed with herb butter bake up crisp and beautifully golden. Their vibrant color makes them a natural showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Sweet potato wedges crisp up quickly in the air fryer, keeping soft centers and crunchy edges. They’re a simple, flavorful choice for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries

A spoonful of sweet potato slices with apples and cranberries in a white dish.
Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Layers of sweet potatoes, apples, and cranberries bake into a sweet-tart, seasonal side. The dish requires minimal effort but delivers big comfort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries

Green Bean Tomato Salad

Green beans and tomatoes on a white plate.
Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green beans paired with juicy tomatoes create a refreshing, light option for warm-weather meals. The minimal prep makes it ideal for quick dinners.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad with Tahini Sauce

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad with Tahini Sauce. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sweet potatoes roasted alongside chickpeas gain hearty texture and earthy depth. A creamy dressing ties everything together with ease.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad with Tahini Sauce

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A velvety pasta-style dish uses sweet potato puree for extra creaminess and subtle sweetness. It’s a cozy way to enjoy fall flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet potato wedges baked until crisp bring bold seasoning and fun crunch. They complement a wide range of mains and appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

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 paired with cranberries, bacon, and soft cheese deliver a festive balance of savory and sweet. The combination makes them feel instantly holiday-ready.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese

Sweet Potato Hummus

Overhead of sweet potato hummus.
Sweet Potato Hummus. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Smooth sweet potato hummus brings natural sweetness and creamy texture to any snack spread. It’s a colorful addition that’s easy to share.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hummus

Sweet and Salty Green Bean Cherry Salad

Sweet and Salty Green Bean Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A mixture of green beans, cherries, caramelized onions, ham, and feta creates a vibrant medley of flavors. Every bite offers a new combination of sweet, salty, and savory.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Salty Green Bean Cherry Salad

Crispy Roasted White Sweet Potatoes

Crispy Roasted White Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted white sweet potatoes seasoned simply turn crisp at the edges and stay tender inside. Their subtle flavor works well with many mains.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Roasted White Sweet Potatoes

Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole

Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Individual sweet potato portions topped with crunchy pecans offer a cozy, nostalgic feel. They’re perfect for serving at gatherings or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Green beans tossed with garlic and crisp fried onions make a flavorful, elevated alternative to a classic casserole. The texture combination keeps every bite interesting.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Thin stacks of sweet potato slices crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Their layered look makes them feel special with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Parmesan Herb Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Parmesan Herb Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet potatoes coated in Parmesan and air-fried turn delightfully crisp while staying soft within. They add quick, savory richness to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Herb Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Air Fryer Sausage, Gnocchi, and Green Beans

Air Fryer Sausage, Gnocchi, and Green Beans. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

A fast-cooking mix of sausage, gnocchi, and green beans delivers hearty flavor in one easy step. Everything cooks together for maximum convenience.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sausage, Gnocchi, and Green Beans

Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Green beans with bacon and almonds on a red plate.
Green Beans Almondine with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Green beans sautéed with butter, almonds, and lemon offer a classic balance of richness and brightness. The dish remains timeless and versatile.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Purple sweet potatoes mashed with fresh herbs create a buttery, colorful comfort side. The bold hue adds instant appeal to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

A smooth sweet potato and pepper soup cooks in a single pot and delivers cozy, warming flavor. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A dairy-free sweet potato bake topped with crunchy nuts brings comforting texture and warmth. It’s a crowd-friendly option for holiday menus.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Microwave Sweet Potato

An overhead image of microwaved sweet potatoes on a plate.
Microwave Sweet Potato. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A quick microwave method turns sweet potatoes fluffy and tender in minutes. It’s an easy, mess-free solution for busy cooks.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Sweet Potato

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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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