Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s time to plan the perfect menu. While the turkey is the star, the best thanksgiving side dishes make the meal special.
Our list of thanksgiving side dishes includes classic comfort foods and new twists. Whether you want traditional recipes or something new, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Explore a variety of delicious thanksgiving side dishes to enhance your holiday menu.
- Discover classic and innovative recipes to suit every taste.
- Find the perfect side dishes to complement your Thanksgiving turkey.
- Get inspired by our extensive list of the best thanksgiving side dishes.
- Elevate your Thanksgiving dining experience with our curated selection.
The Essential Role of Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Thanksgiving side dishes are more than just sides. They add variety, flavor, and tradition to the feast. This makes the Thanksgiving meal truly special.
Why Side Dishes Often Steal the Show
Side dishes often steal the show at Thanksgiving. They let people show off their creativity and personal touches. From classic green bean casserole to homestyle mashed potatoes, these dishes carry family traditions and personal favorites.
Planning the Perfect Side Dish Menu
To plan the perfect side dish menu, balance flavors, textures, and colors. Mix creamy mashed potatoes, crunchy green beans, and sweet cranberry sauce. Also, think about the number of guests and any dietary restrictions.
Some tips for planning include making a list of your favorite side dishes. Consider the cooking time for each. Prepare some dishes ahead of time to reduce stress on the big day.
Traditional Thanksgiving Side Dishes Everyone Loves
Traditional Thanksgiving side dishes are the unsung heroes of the holiday. They offer flavors and memories that last a lifetime. These classic dishes have been passed down through generations. Their enduring popularity shows their timeless appeal.
Classic Green Bean Casserole
The classic green bean casserole is a staple on Thanksgiving tables across America. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make a classic green bean casserole, you’ll need green beans, cream of mushroom soup, french-fried onions, and a few other simple ingredients. The preparation involves sautéing the green beans, mixing them with the soup and other ingredients, and topping it all with a layer of crispy onions.
Modern Twists on the Classic
For a modern twist, consider adding some crushed potato chips or grilled bacon to give the dish an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Homestyle Mashed Potatoes
No Thanksgiving is complete without a generous helping of homestyle mashed potatoes. These comforting spuds are a versatile side dish that pairs well with just about any main course.
Old-Fashioned Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a tangy and sweet addition to the Thanksgiving table. Made with fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water, this old-fashioned recipe is easy to prepare and always a hit.
These traditional Thanksgiving side dishes are sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering. Whether you’re a fan of classic green bean casserole, homestyle mashed potatoes, or old-fashioned cranberry sauce, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Quick and Easy Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Thanksgiving prep can be overwhelming, but these easy sides make it easier. You need recipes that are quick and tasty. Here are some easy Thanksgiving sides that save time and taste great.
5-Ingredient Corn Casserole
This corn casserole is loved by all and needs just five ingredients. It’s a quick and tasty side dish that impresses everyone. It’s a great example of an easy thanksgiving side that’s full of flavor.
30-Minute Roasted Vegetables
Roasting veggies brings out their best flavors. This recipe is ready in 30 minutes, perfect for a quick side. Just toss your favorite veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and you’re ready.
No-Fuss Dinner Rolls
Homemade dinner rolls can seem daunting, but this recipe is easy. You can have fresh rolls without the fuss. Try upgrading store-bought rolls with simple additions.
Store-Bought Upgrades
Using store-bought items can save time. Add herbs or cheese to your store-bought dinner rolls or sides. This gives them a homemade feel.
Best Potato and Sweet Potato Side Dishes
The best Thanksgiving side dishes often feature potatoes and sweet potatoes. They are prepared in ways that delight the palate. These versatile ingredients can be transformed into a variety of dishes that complement the traditional Thanksgiving feast.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes. This creamy, cheesy dish is infused with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan. It’s a crowd-pleaser. As Julia Child once said, “The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.” In this case, the “steak” is these indulgent mashed potatoes.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole is a Thanksgiving staple. Adding a pecan topping takes it to the next level. The crunch and nutty flavor of pecans perfectly complement the sweet, creamy sweet potatoes.
Marshmallow vs. Pecan Topping Debate
The debate between marshmallow and pecan topping for sweet potato casserole is a longstanding one. While marshmallows add a sweet, fluffy texture, pecans provide a satisfying crunch. As one food blogger noted, “Pecans bring a depth of flavor and texture that marshmallows simply can’t match.” The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Scalloped Potatoes with Herbs and Cream
For a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, consider Scalloped Potatoes with Herbs and Cream. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered in a baking dish with fresh herbs and a rich cream sauce. This results in a dish that’s sure to impress.
These potato and sweet potato side dishes offer a range of flavors and textures. They are sure to enhance your Thanksgiving spread. Whether you’re a fan of classic mashed potatoes or more adventurous dishes like scalloped potatoes with herbs and cream, there’s something here for everyone.
Delicious Vegetable Side Dishes for Your Spread
As we gather around the Thanksgiving table, it’s the perfect time to add healthy vegetable side dishes. These dishes can make your meal more nutritious and flavorful.
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Honey glazed carrots are a sweet and savory addition to any Thanksgiving menu. By glazing carrots with honey and thyme, you create a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing. Simply cook the carrots until tender, then toss with honey, thyme, and a pinch of salt.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
For a side dish that’s both healthy and indulgent, try roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon. The smoky flavor of bacon complements the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts, making for a delicious combination. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in the sprouts, balancing out the savory bacon.
Creamed Spinach with Nutmeg
Creamed spinach is a comforting side dish that pairs well with the richness of Thanksgiving dinner. Adding a sprinkle of nutmeg enhances the flavor, providing a warm, aromatic spice that complements the creamy spinach.
Buttered Green Beans with Almonds
For a simple yet elegant side dish, consider buttered green beans with almonds. Quickly sautéing green beans with butter and sliced almonds creates a crunchy, flavorful accompaniment to your Thanksgiving meal.
These vegetable side dishes offer a range of flavors and textures, ensuring that your Thanksgiving spread is both healthy and delicious. By incorporating these dishes, you’ll be able to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal for your guests.
Stuffing and Dressing Variations
The world of Thanksgiving stuffing and dressing is vast and exciting. It’s a key part of the Thanksgiving meal. It offers a canvas for a wide range of flavors and ingredients.
Classic Bread Stuffing with Herbs
Classic bread stuffing is a traditional favorite. It’s made with cubed bread, sautéed onions, celery, and herbs like sage and thyme. It pairs perfectly with roasted turkey.
Southern Cornbread Dressing with Sausage
For a Southern twist, try cornbread dressing with crumbled cornbread, cooked sausage, and jalapeño. It adds a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
Wild Rice and Mushroom Stuffing
Wild rice and mushroom stuffing offers a modern take. It has a hearty, earthy flavor. The nuttiness of wild rice pairs well with sautéed mushrooms.
Cooking Inside vs. Outside the Turkey
There’s a debate on whether to cook stuffing inside the turkey or outside. Cooking inside infuses it with the bird’s juices. But, it needs careful attention to ensure it’s safe.
Cooking outside allows for more control. It can result in a crispy top layer. The choice depends on personal preference and safety.
Vegetarian Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Creating a memorable Thanksgiving spread involves delicious vegetarian side dishes. These options cater to vegetarians and add variety and flavor to the menu.
Butternut Squash and Apple Bake
This dish combines butternut squash and apples with a hint of spice. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving and easy to prepare. You can make it ahead of time.
Mushroom and Leek Bread Pudding
A savory bread pudding filled with mushrooms and leeks adds a rich flavor. It’s a great way to use stale bread and can be prepared in advance.
Roasted Vegetable Tart with Goat Cheese
This tart is visually appealing and packed with flavor. Roasted vegetables and creamy goat cheese on a flaky crust make it an impressive side dish.
Lentil and Vegetable Wellington
A lentil and vegetable Wellington is a show-stopping dish for the holidays. It’s a vegetarian take on Beef Wellington, using lentils and vegetables instead.
Here’s a comparison of these vegetarian side dishes based on preparation time and complexity:
| Dish | Preparation Time | Complexity |
|---|---|---|
| Butternut Squash and Apple Bake | 30 minutes | Easy |
| Mushroom and Leek Bread Pudding | 45 minutes | Moderate |
| Roasted Vegetable Tart with Goat Cheese | 60 minutes | Challenging |
| Lentil and Vegetable Wellington | 90 minutes | Challenging |
These vegetarian Thanksgiving side dishes offer a range of flavors and textures. They’re sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for something simple or more complex, there’s an option here for everyone.
Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Thanksgiving is coming, and the pressure to cook a perfect meal is high. But, with the right make-ahead side dishes, you can relax. Planning your menu early is key. We’ve got some great recipes that can be made ahead of time.
Overnight Mashed Potato Casserole
Begin your day with an overnight mashed potato casserole that’s both creamy and loved by all. Make it the night before, chill it, and bake in the morning. It’s a true make-ahead winner.
Prep-Ahead Green Bean Casserole
The classic green bean casserole gets a prep-ahead twist. Make it up to a day before, except for the crispy fried onions. Add them just before baking for a crunchy top and a stress-free Thanksgiving.
Make-Ahead Cranberry Relish
A tangy and sweet cranberry relish can be made days in advance. It lets the flavors mix perfectly. Just keep it in the fridge until serving time.
Storage and Reheating Tips
For storage, use airtight containers to keep your dishes fresh. For reheating, cover with foil to avoid drying. Some dishes, like casseroles, can be reheated straight from the fridge.
Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes
As we gather for Thanksgiving, let’s try something new. Healthy side dishes can be just as tasty as the old favorites. They help make our holiday meal more balanced.
Healthy side dishes often feature vegetables and whole grains. For example, Cauliflower Mash with Roasted Garlic is a tasty, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. Just steam cauliflower, blend it with roasted garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Cauliflower Mash with Roasted Garlic
This dish is not only healthy but also full of flavor. The roasted garlic adds a rich, nutty taste that goes well with cauliflower.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze is another great choice. Roasting brings out Brussels sprouts’ natural sweetness. The tangy balsamic glaze balances it out, making it a simple yet elegant side dish.
Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash is a hearty side. It’s not only beautiful but also full of protein and fiber. It’s a nutritious addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries
A Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries offers a refreshing twist. The crunch of Brussels sprouts and the sweetness of cranberries make a delightful mix.
These healthy side dishes show you can have flavor without sacrificing nutrition. By adding vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, you can make a satisfying Thanksgiving meal for everyone.
- Cauliflower Mash with Roasted Garlic
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
- Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
- Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries
Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Side Dishes
It’s easy to make a gluten-free Thanksgiving spread. There are many tasty side dishes that fit the bill. These dishes are perfect for those who need or prefer gluten-free options.
Cornbread Stuffing without the Gluten
Make gluten-free cornbread stuffing by using gluten-free cornbread. Crumble it, mix with herbs and spices, and add sautéed veggies for flavor.
Wild Rice Pilaf with Dried Fruits and Nuts
Wild rice pilaf is a hearty, gluten-free side dish. Add dried fruits and nuts for texture and sweetness. It’s great with Thanksgiving turkey.
Gluten-Free Gravy Techniques
Creating gluten-free gravy is easy. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener. Make sure your broth is gluten-free for a rich, savory gravy.
Roasted Root Vegetables with Herbs
Roasting root veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts with herbs is a hit. It’s gluten-free and vegan-friendly. It adds sweetness and depth to your Thanksgiving meal.
| Gluten-Free Side Dish | Main Ingredients | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Cornbread Stuffing | Cornbread, herbs, vegetables | 30 minutes |
| Wild Rice Pilaf | Wild rice, dried fruits, nuts | 45 minutes |
| Roasted Root Vegetables | Root vegetables, herbs, olive oil | 40 minutes |
Unique and Creative Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Discover unique and creative Thanksgiving side dishes that will spice up your holiday meal. These recipes add new flavors and textures to your traditional feast.
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
Make classic macaroni and cheese even better with pumpkin puree. This pumpkin mac and cheese is creamy and comforting. It’s a great easy thanksgiving side with a seasonal twist.
Cranberry Jalapeño Relish
Give your Thanksgiving table a spicy touch with cranberry jalapeño relish. It’s a mix of sweet cranberries and spicy jalapeños. It’s perfect for your holiday meal.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Turn Brussels sprouts into a rich side dish with crispy bacon and maple syrup. This sweet and savory mix will be a favorite at your Thanksgiving.
Savory Sweet Potato Soufflé
Wow your guests with a savory sweet potato soufflé. It’s both elegant and delicious. This dish is a highlight among your best thanksgiving side dishes.
Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Thanksgiving Menu
Now you have a wide range of Thanksgiving side dishes to choose from. You can make a menu that will wow your guests. Whether you like traditional dishes like green bean casserole or something new like pumpkin mac and cheese, there’s plenty to pick from.
Feel free to mix and match recipes to fit your taste and dietary needs. Think about what your family likes and the vibe of your Thanksgiving. You can find gluten-free, vegetarian, or dishes you can make ahead of time. The right mix will make your holiday meal unforgettable.
Adding a few of these side dishes to your menu will surely impress your guests. It’s time to get cooking and enjoy a mix of flavors and traditions that make Thanksgiving special.
FAQ
What are some popular traditional Thanksgiving side dishes?
Classic favorites include green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. They’re always a hit at Thanksgiving.
How can I make Thanksgiving side dishes ahead of time?
You can prep dishes like cranberry relish, green bean casserole, and mashed potato casserole early. This makes Thanksgiving day less stressful.
What are some healthy Thanksgiving side dish options?
For a healthier twist, try cauliflower mash, roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, or quinoa stuffed acorn squash. Shaved Brussels sprout salad with cranberries is also a great choice.
Can I make gluten-free Thanksgiving side dishes?
Yes, you can make gluten-free dishes like cornbread stuffing, wild rice pilaf, and roasted root vegetables. They’re all delicious and gluten-free.
What are some easy and quick Thanksgiving side dishes?
For quick and easy options, try 5-ingredient corn casserole, 30-minute roasted vegetables, or no-fuss dinner rolls. They’re perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving.
How can I add a creative twist to traditional Thanksgiving side dishes?
Try unique recipes like pumpkin mac and cheese, cranberry jalapeño relish, or maple bacon Brussels sprouts. They’ll add a creative flair to your menu.
What are some vegetarian Thanksgiving side dish options?
Vegetarian options include butternut squash and apple bake, mushroom and leek bread pudding, roasted vegetable tart, or lentil and vegetable Wellington. They’re all delicious.
Can I make Thanksgiving side dishes without potatoes?
Absolutely, you can. Consider cauliflower mash, roasted vegetables, or quinoa stuffed acorn squash for a potato-free Thanksgiving.
How do I store and reheat make-ahead Thanksgiving side dishes?
To store and reheat safely, refrigerate or freeze dishes. Then, reheat them in the oven or microwave. This ensures food safety and quality.