Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey. Let’s be honest, the sides steal the show! Whether you’re hosting a feast or bringing a dish to share, these 11 Thanksgiving side dishes will complement your meal and leave guests asking for seconds.
1. Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Mash potatoes are a great side because they’re easy to make. They only require a few ingredients like potatoes, water or milk, and butter. If you want to add a little more flare to it, add a little sour cream or ranch packet. Either way, smooth, buttery mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving side dish everyone loves.
2. Savory Cornbread Stuffing
I am not a fan of stuffing. However, I hear the cornbread stuffing is the best out there. If you’re going to make it, all you need to do is combine cornbread, herbs, and spices for a dish packed with flavor and texture. Most people say you have to make it yourself because the premade store option isn’t as tasty.
3. Green Bean Casserole with a Twist
Green bean casserole is another traditional Thanksgiving side dish. If you want to level it up, you can give it a little twist by using fresh green beans and homemade fried onion toppings. Some people even add a little cream of mushroom to give it a creamy consistency. You cook it how you like it!
4. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Now, I love sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving because they are so versatile. Not only can you make a good yam, or a sweet potato, but a good sweet potato casserole. One with marshmallows in it is a hit! It is sweet and savory and pleases both kids and adults alike.
5. Cranberry Sauce: Fresh vs. Canned
Cranberry sauce is a Thanksgiving staple, even though not everyone enjoys it (myself included). Many people prefer the canned variety, insisting on the visible can lines. However, there are delicious homemade and fresh alternatives. For instance, Publix offers an outstanding cranberry orange sauce. Whether you prefer homemade, store-bought, or canned with the iconic lines, cranberry sauce adds a tangy touch to the holiday meal.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
One thing that I don’t normally have on my Thanksgiving dinner table is Brussels sprouts. However, I found a yummy shredded Brussels sprout salad, so they may just make an appearance. This year Another great way to have them is roasted with bacon. Not even just on Thanksgiving, but on a normal day, it is a crowd-pleaser.
7. Gravy That Steals the Show
Another must-have, whether you eat it or not, is gravy. The brown gravy only. I don’t want to see any of that white gravy on my dinner table although it may be ok on yours. Either way, it needs to be perfectly seasoned as it is the secret to pulling the entire meal together.
8. Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits
What’s Thanksgiving without the bread? Now everybody has their preferred bread, but I love a good biscuit. Warm, homemade biscuits will melt in your mouth and elevate your feast every time.
9. Honey-Glazed Carrots
Now we all love a good veggie at the dinner table. Not only green veggies should make an appearance. Carrots roasted with honey and thyme add a touch of sweetness to the table. After you bring it to the table, you’ll find that it becomes a staple that you will enjoy for years to come.
10. Traditional Mac and Cheese
Another side I can’t live without is my mac and cheese! Creamy, cheesy pasta is a dish no Thanksgiving table should be without.
11. Pumpkin Pie for Dessert
Pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving favorite for many dessert lovers, although some prefer sweet potato pie. While both pies have a similar flavor profile, pumpkin pie’s seasonal appeal makes it a popular choice. While a store-bought pie heated in the microwave and topped with whipped cream is a convenient option, making a pumpkin pie from scratch is surprisingly simple and yields a delicious result.
Honoring the Real Star of the Show: Sides
Thanksgiving side dishes bring variety and personality to your table. Try these recipes to create a feast worth celebrating. Which ones will grace your table this year?