15 Thanksgiving Side Dishes You’ll Make Every Year
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Thanksgiving wouldn’t feel complete without the sides—they’re the real stars of the table. While the turkey may take center stage, it’s the thanksgiving side dishes that bring color, flavor, and comfort to every plate. From creamy potatoes to roasted veggies and cheesy casseroles, these recipes are worth repeating.
Classic Mashed Potatoes
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Nothing says comfort like fluffy mashed potatoes, one of the most essential thanksgiving side dishes. Whipped with butter, cream, and seasoning, they’re smooth and full of flavor. Pair them with gravy, and you’ve got pure holiday magic in every bite.
Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a holiday staple that tops the list of classic thanksgiving side dishes. Fresh green beans baked in creamy sauce and topped with crispy onions are irresistible. It’s simple, nostalgic, and guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Get recipe here: Easy Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is one of those thanksgiving side dishes that doubles as dessert. Creamy sweet potatoes topped with toasted marshmallows or crunchy pecans are heavenly. It’s rich, colorful, and brings festive sweetness to the spread.
Get recipe here: Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce may be small, but it’s one of the most impactful thanksgiving side dishes. Tart, tangy cranberries balance out the richness of turkey and other savory foods. Whether canned or homemade, it adds a burst of bright flavor to every plate.
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Stuffing
Stuffing is a legendary part of thanksgiving side dishes that no table should be without. Made with bread, herbs, and savory flavors, it’s hearty and satisfying. It’s the kind of side that makes guests go back for seconds every time.
Get recipe here: Best Vegan Mushroom Stuffing
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts prove that vegetables can shine among thanksgiving side dishes. Crispy, caramelized, and slightly nutty, they’re flavorful and full of texture. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate them even more.
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Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese brings cheesy indulgence to the world of thanksgiving side dishes. Creamy sauce and golden baked topping make it rich and irresistible. It’s comfort food that both kids and adults look forward to every holiday season.
Get recipe here: Instant Pot Vegan Mac and Cheese
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Gravy
Gravy may be a topping, but it’s also a must-have in thanksgiving side dishes. Smooth, savory, and rich, it ties together turkey, potatoes, and stuffing perfectly. A good gravy is the glue that makes the entire holiday plate come alive.
Get recipe here: Easy Nutritional Yeast Gravy
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Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots are colorful thanksgiving side dishes that bring natural sweetness to the table. When caramelized in the oven with herbs or honey, they taste warm and comforting. They add balance and freshness to all the heavier holiday dishes.
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Cornbread
Cornbread is a cozy, buttery addition to thanksgiving side dishes that everyone loves. Slightly sweet and golden, it pairs beautifully with savory flavors on the plate. Serve it warm, and it will feel like the ultimate holiday comfort.
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Glazed Ham
While turkey takes the spotlight, glazed ham is often included in thanksgiving side dishes. Sweet, smoky, and tender, it adds variety and boldness to the spread. It’s a versatile option that makes leftovers taste just as good the next day.
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Garlic Knots
Garlic knots are playful thanksgiving side dishes that bring fresh-baked goodness to the table. Soft, fluffy bread brushed with garlic butter and herbs is hard to resist. They’re the kind of side guests who grab before you can even pass the basket.
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Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash offers seasonal flavor that feels right at home among thanksgiving side dishes. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory spices and herbs. It’s colorful, healthy, and a delicious way to celebrate fall flavors.
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Salad With Fall Flavors
A fresh salad can balance rich thanksgiving side dishes and keep the plate light. Add apples, pecans, cranberries, and goat cheese for seasonal flair. It’s crisp, refreshing, and the perfect complement to heartier dishes.
Get recipe here: Chicken Caeser Salad
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Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls are the unsung heroes of thanksgiving side dishes that complete the meal. Soft, buttery, and warm, they’re perfect for sopping up gravy or sauce. No holiday table feels complete without a basket of fresh-baked rolls.
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Thanksgiving is about gathering, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. These thanksgiving side dishes bring comfort, tradition, and flavor that make the holiday truly memorable. From creamy classics to colorful veggies, every dish adds something special to the table.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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