Thanksgiving is more than just turkey—it’s a celebration of gratitude, family, and, of course, food. The roasted turkey side dishes that truly bring the meal together. From creamy mashed potatoes to vibrant cranberry sauce, Thanksgiving side dishes can elevate your dinner and satisfy everyone at the table.
In this guide, we’ll explore classic, modern, and even healthy side dishes, complete with recipes, tips, and a helpful table for planning your holiday meal.
Why Side Dishes Matter at Thanksgiving
Side dishes are the heart of any Thanksgiving spread. They offer texture, color, and flavor that enhance the main course. A well-balanced selection of sides ensures that everyone—from traditionalists to vegetarians—leaves the table full and happy.
Whether you love buttery carbs, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads, the right side dish can transform your holiday meal.
Classic Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Traditional dishes are staples for a reason—they’re comforting, familiar, and crowd-pleasers. Here are some timeless favorites:
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate Thanksgiving comfort food. Made with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt, they pair perfectly with gravy and turkey.
Pro Tip: Add roasted garlic or cream cheese for extra richness.
Cranberry Sauce
This tart and sweet condiment cuts through the richness of the other dishes. Homemade versions with orange zest or cinnamon offer a fresher alternative to canned varieties.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Topped with marshmallows or pecans, this dish walks the line between savory and dessert. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the turkey beautifully.
Modern Thanksgiving Side Dish Ideas
If you’re looking to refresh your table with something new, consider these creative updates:
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Crispy and caramelized, roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic reduction add a tangy twist to your meal.
Butternut Squash Risotto
Creamy risotto made with roasted butternut squash and parmesan cheese is a luxurious, vegetarian-friendly side.
Cauliflower Gratin
This low-carb alternative to macaroni and cheese uses tender cauliflower baked in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with breadcrumbs.
Farro Salad with Cranberries and Feta
Nutty farro grains, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta tossed in a lemon vinaigrette bring brightness and texture to your feast.
Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes
For guests who are health-conscious, gluten-free, or plant-based, include some lighter options that don’t sacrifice flavor.
Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash
Halved and roasted acorn squash filled with quinoa, cranberries, and kale offers a festive and nourishing presentation.
Steamed Green Beans with Almonds
A simple yet elegant dish featuring crisp-tender green beans topped with toasted almonds and a touch of olive oil.
Roasted Carrot and Beet Salad
Colorful and earthy, this salad is topped with arugula and a citrus vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the roasted veggies.
Thanksgiving Side Dish Planning Table
Use this table to plan a variety of textures, colors, and flavors for your Thanksgiving meal.
| Dish Name | Type | Key Ingredients | Prep Time | Dietary Tags |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Classic/Comfort | Potatoes, butter, milk | 30 mins | Vegetarian, Gluten-Free |
| Green Bean Casserole | Classic | Green beans, mushroom soup, fried onions | 40 mins | Vegetarian |
| Stuffing | Classic | Bread, celery, herbs, broth | 45 mins | Can be Vegetarian |
| Cranberry Sauce | Classic | Cranberries, sugar, orange zest | 15 mins | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Modern | Brussels sprouts, balsamic vinegar | 30 mins | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Cauliflower Gratin | Modern/Comfort | Cauliflower, cheese, breadcrumbs | 45 mins | Vegetarian |
| Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash | Healthy/Modern | Acorn squash, quinoa, cranberries | 1 hr | Vegan, Gluten-Free |
| Farro Salad with Feta | Modern/Salad | Farro, feta, dried fruit, vinaigrette | 35 mins | Vegetarian |
Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Balance Flavors and Textures
A great Thanksgiving spread includes creamy, crispy, tangy, sweet, and savory elements. Combine soft dishes like mashed potatoes with crisp salads or roasted veggies for contrast.
Plan for Dietary Needs
Make sure there’s something for everyone. Offer at least one vegan or gluten-free dish, and label clearly for guests with allergies.
Make-Ahead Options
Many side dishes can be prepared in advance:
- Cranberry sauce can be made 3 days ahead
- Stuffing can be assembled the day before and baked on the day
- Mashed potatoes reheat beautifully with a splash of cream
Use Seasonal Ingredients
Thanksgiving is a harvest celebration. Using seasonal produce like squash, apples, carrots, and root vegetables not only enhances flavor but also keeps your menu fresh and affordable.
Quick Recipes: Thanksgiving Side Dishes You Can Make Fast
Here are a few side dish ideas for cooks in a hurry:
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Ingredients: Green beans, garlic, butter, salt
Instructions: Boil green beans for 5 minutes, then sauté in garlic butter for another 5. Season and serve.
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients: Potatoes, milk, butter, salt
Instructions: Peel and cube potatoes, pressure cook for 10 minutes, then mash with butter and warm milk.
Maple-Glazed Carrots
Ingredients: Carrots, maple syrup, olive oil, thyme
Instructions: Roast sliced carrots at 400°F with syrup and oil for 25–30 minutes.
Vegetarian and Vegan Side Dish Ideas
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be all about the bird. Try some of these meat-free and plant-based favorites:
Lentil and Walnut Stuffing
Hearty lentils and crunchy walnuts replace sausage in this delicious vegan stuffing.
Vegan Mac and Cheese
Cashew cream and nutritional yeast make a creamy, dairy-free sauce that’s perfect for pasta.
Pumpkin and Sage Polenta
Creamy polenta flavored with roasted pumpkin and fresh sage is a warm and comforting vegan dish.
Make Your Thanksgiving Table Shine
In addition to flavor, presentation matters. Consider the following tips:
- Use white or neutral-colored serving dishes to let colorful food pop
- Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or thyme
- Label each dish, especially if it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free
Setting a beautiful and thoughtful table elevates the entire dining experience.
Conclusion: Celebrate with a Full Plate
While turkey may be the star, Thanksgiving side dishes are the soul of the feast. They bring variety, comfort, and creativity to the table. Whether you prefer traditional mashed potatoes or are trying quinoa-stuffed squash for the first time, the right sides can make your holiday meal unforgettable.
By planning a thoughtful spread that includes a mix of flavors and dietary options, you’ll create a warm, welcoming table that reflects the spirit of gratitude—and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Happy Thanksgiving!
