When you think of Thanksgiving, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For most, it’s the turkey. But let’s be honest—the turkey is just the star of the show. The true heroes, the ones who bring all the flavor, comfort, and variety to the table, are the side dishes. They’re the reason we go back for a second (and third) plate. They are what make the Thanksgiving feast a truly memorable experience. This year, why not elevate your holiday table with some new and exciting side dishes? We’ve put together a list of 15 must-try recipes from our kitchen that will have everyone talking.
Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food with a twist, or something fresh and new, this list has you covered. We’ve got everything from savory casseroles and cheesy macaroni to hearty vegetable dishes and warm, buttery breads. These aren’t just recipes; they’re invitations to create new traditions and unforgettable flavors. So, preheat your oven, get out your mixing bowls, and get ready to make this your most delicious Thanksgiving yet.
The Savory & The Spectacular
These dishes are all about rich, savory flavors and textures that pair perfectly with the main course. They are the kinds of dishes that warm you from the inside out and make you feel right at home.
1. Zucchini Tomato Casserole
This vibrant and fresh casserole is a delightful way to bring a little bit of garden-fresh flavor to your Thanksgiving table. It’s a lighter option that’s bursting with the bright taste of summer, offering a nice contrast to the heavier holiday fare. The combination of tender zucchini and juicy tomatoes, baked until bubbly and golden, is a simple yet elegant side that will impress your guests. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a vegetable-forward dish that feels both comforting and clean.
2. Sausage and Cabbage Recipe
Who says Thanksgiving sides can’t be bold and hearty? This savory sausage and cabbage dish is a rustic and flavorful option that’s a true crowd-pleaser. The smoky, salty sausage pairs beautifully with the tender, sweet cabbage, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and unique. It’s a fantastic way to add a bit of a European-inspired flair to your feast and is sure to stand out among the usual suspects. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time for enjoying the company.
3. French Onion Macaroni and Cheese
This isn’t your average mac and cheese. It’s a decadent, grown-up version of a childhood favorite that combines two of the most comforting dishes in the world: French onion soup and mac and cheese. Imagine rich, caramelized onions folded into a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to perfection with a crispy, golden top. This dish is pure indulgence and will undoubtedly become a new tradition at your Thanksgiving table. It’s the ultimate comfort food and a fantastic way to elevate a classic side.
4. Easy Homemade Chicken Dressing
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a delicious dressing. This homemade chicken dressing recipe is the real deal—flavorful, moist, and packed with all the classic flavors you crave. Made with tender chicken and a perfect blend of herbs and spices, it’s a dish that tastes like it came straight from your grandmother’s kitchen. It’s the kind of stuffing that everyone rushes to get a scoop of, and it pairs perfectly with both turkey and gravy.
5. Cornbread Breakfast Casserole
While this might be called a “breakfast” casserole, it makes a fantastic addition to the Thanksgiving feast. This savory, hearty casserole is built on a base of tender cornbread, loaded with savory ingredients that make it a perfect side dish for any time of day. Its soft interior and golden-brown crust make it a wonderful textural element on the plate, and its rich flavors will complement all the other dishes.
The Classic Starches
From potatoes to breads, these dishes are the foundation of any great Thanksgiving plate. They are the perfect vessels for gravy and the hearty counterbalance to the main courses.
6. Melting Sweet Potatoes
Say goodbye to mushy sweet potato casserole. These “melting” sweet potatoes are a revelation. Sliced thick, and roasted in a sweet and savory glaze, they become incredibly tender on the inside with a beautifully caramelized exterior. The name “melting” is no exaggeration—they truly melt in your mouth, leaving you with a delicate, buttery sweetness that’s simply irresistible. This is an elegant and delicious way to serve a Thanksgiving staple.
7. Purple Sweet Potato Recipe
For a stunning and vibrant twist on the classic sweet potato, try using purple sweet potatoes. Not only do they have a beautiful, deep color that will add a pop of visual excitement to your table, but they also have a slightly different, more earthy flavor. This recipe highlights their natural sweetness and unique texture, proving that a simple change can make a huge impact. It’s a healthy and beautiful side that will surely be a conversation starter.
8. Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
While mashed potatoes are a given, these baked potato wedges offer a satisfyingly crispy alternative. Tossed in a flavorful mix of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, they are baked until golden and perfectly tender on the inside. They are incredibly easy to make and are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. This side dish is hearty, flavorful, and so much fun to eat.
9. Potato and Tomato
This rustic and simple dish proves that sometimes, less is more. This recipe features tender potatoes and juicy tomatoes, roasted together with minimal seasoning to let their natural flavors shine. It’s a light and healthy side dish that’s a beautiful complement to the richness of a Thanksgiving feast. The flavors are clean and vibrant, offering a fresh take on a traditional potato side.
10. Sourdough Rolls Recipe
What’s a Thanksgiving meal without warm, fresh bread? These homemade sourdough rolls are soft, fluffy, and have a beautiful, tangy flavor that will make them an instant favorite. Serving freshly baked bread at your holiday meal adds a special touch that can’t be replicated. They’re perfect for sopping up gravy or simply enjoying with a pat of butter.
The Green & The Unexpected
These sides bring a fresh, crisp, and sometimes surprising element to the Thanksgiving table, offering a break from the rich and heavy dishes.
11. Green Beans Recipe
A classic for a reason. Our green beans recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare this Thanksgiving staple. It’s all about letting the natural sweetness and crispness of the beans shine through. This recipe can be made in a variety of ways, from a simple saute with garlic to a more decadent green bean casserole. No matter how you prepare them, green beans are a must-have for a well-rounded meal.
12. Broccoli and Brussels Sprouts Salad
This isn’t your average sad salad. This is a vibrant, flavorful, and crunchy salad that features two of the most popular Thanksgiving vegetables: broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Tossed with a light dressing and other delicious ingredients, this salad is a welcome burst of freshness and texture. It’s the perfect side to cut through the richness of the rest of the meal and will please even the pickiest of eaters.
13. Seeded Miso Sweet Potato Bread
This bread is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory. The sweet potato adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, while the miso provides a deep, umami-rich flavor that is both unique and addictive. Toasted seeds on top add a wonderful crunch. This is a beautiful and flavorful bread that’s perfect for tearing and sharing at the holiday table.
14. Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe
Add a little bit of heat and flavor to your Thanksgiving table with this Jiffy Mexican cornbread. This is a fun and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for a more casual or modern Thanksgiving. The cornbread is moist and tender, and the addition of Mexican-inspired ingredients gives it a delicious kick. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a simple recipe with a lot of flavor.
15. Rosemary Garlic Focaccia Muffins
Move over, dinner rolls! These savory focaccia muffins are a game-changer. They’re soft, airy, and packed with the wonderful aroma of rosemary and garlic. The “muffin” shape makes them easy to serve, and they have that classic focaccia texture that everyone loves. They are the perfect vehicle for gravy or just enjoyed on their own with a little butter. These muffins are a special and delicious alternative to traditional bread.
This Thanksgiving, let your side dishes shine. Each of these recipes offers something special and unique, ensuring your holiday meal is a culinary triumph. Happy cooking!
