What Are The Thanksgiving Side Dishes?

Thanksgiving side dishes are the perfect complement to the turkey. These sides bring variety, flavor, and texture to the table. From creamy mashed potatoes to tangy cranberry sauce, side dishes make the Thanksgiving meal more enjoyable. The right combination of sides can elevate the holiday experience, making it memorable for everyone involved.

A classic favourite of thanksgiving side dishes

Mashed potatoes are a timeless among the thanksgiving side dishes. Their creamy texture and mild flavor make them a crowd-pleaser. Adding butter, cream, or even garlic can enhance the richness of mashed potatoes. Some people like to top them with gravy for an extra layer of flavor. Whether smooth or chunky, mashed potatoes are always a staple.

Stuffing: The perfect comfort dish

Stuffing brings a savory and herb-filled element to the table. It combines bread, vegetables, and seasonings to create a warm, comforting side dish. Many variations of stuffing exist, from sausage and apple to traditional onion and sage. The richness of stuffing makes it a satisfying dish that pairs well with the turkey.

Cranberry sauce

Cranberry sauce offers a burst of color and tartness to your Thanksgiving spread. It balances out the heaviness of other dishes with its refreshing flavor. Homemade cranberry sauce made with orange zest and sugar can elevate the dish. You can also make it chunky or smooth, depending on personal preference. This sweet-tart side dish is an absolute must-have.

Roasted vegetables

Roasted vegetables add a burst of flavor and color to the Thanksgiving feast. Root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes work well for roasting. The caramelization that occurs when roasting brings out their natural sweetness. Tossing them with olive oil, rosemary, and garlic creates an aromatic experience. Roasted vegetables provide a healthy contrast to heavier dishes.

Green bean almondine

Green bean almondine is a light, yet elegant side dish. The crispness of green beans paired with the crunch of almonds makes a satisfying combination. Adding a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of butter creates a simple, yet flavorful dish. This side adds both texture and freshness to your Thanksgiving meal.

Sweet potato casserole

Sweet potato casserole offers a comforting, slightly sweet side dish. Topped with marshmallows or a crunchy pecan topping, it’s a favorite at Thanksgiving dinners. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the richness of the topping. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is sure to delight all guests.

Macaroni and cheese

Macaroni and cheese is another side dish that never fails to impress. The creamy, cheesy sauce coats the pasta, making every bite indulgent. You can prepare it with various cheeses for different flavors, such as cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina. For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top before baking to create a crispy crust.

Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a nutritious and flavorful side dish for Thanksgiving. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. You can enhance the taste by adding bacon, balsamic vinegar, or honey. Brussels sprouts are a perfect side for balancing out the richness of the main dishes.

Cornbread

Cornbread is a beloved side dish with a slightly sweet and savory flavor. Its crumbly texture pairs well with turkey and gravy. Some variations include adding jalapeños or cheese to spice things up. Cornbread complements many other sides, adding a comforting, rustic element to the table.

Gravy

Gravy is the perfect finishing touch to many Thanksgiving side dishes. Whether you make it from turkey drippings or a vegetable base, it enhances the flavor of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more. Its rich, savory flavor ties the entire meal together. A good gravy can transform even the simplest dishes into something extraordinary.

Roasted butternut squash

Roasted butternut squash is a sweet and savory side dish that adds variety to your Thanksgiving spread. Roasting butternut squash with olive oil, garlic, and thyme enhances its natural sweetness. The soft texture and earthy flavors complement many of the other traditional sides. This side dish adds both colour and flavour to the table.

Glazed carrots

Glazed carrots are both simple and elegant, making them a perfect side for Thanksgiving. The sweetness of the glaze, made from butter, brown sugar, and a dash of cinnamon, enhances the carrots’ natural flavor. The vibrant orange colour adds a visual appeal, while the soft texture makes them enjoyable for all guests.

Cauliflower gratin

Cauliflower gratin is a rich and creamy side dish that provides a comforting element. The tender cauliflower is baked in a cheesy sauce and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. This side dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, making it a great addition to the Thanksgiving table.

Baked apples

Baked apples bring a natural sweetness and warmth to your Thanksgiving dinner. The apples are stuffed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of brown sugar. When baked, the apples soften and release their juices, creating a delicious and fragrant dessert-like side dish. Baked apples are a lighter alternative to heavier desserts.

Creamed spinach

Creamed spinach offers a velvety and rich side dish that pairs well with any Thanksgiving spread. The creamy sauce made with butter, cream, and parmesan cheese coats the spinach perfectly. Adding garlic or nutmeg can enhance the flavor, giving it a delightful depth. Creamed spinach complements heavier dishes, providing a rich yet light flavor.

Potato salad

Potato salad is a versatile side dish that works well at any Thanksgiving meal. It can be served warm or cold, making it easy to prepare in advance. A classic potato salad includes boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and hard-boiled eggs. Adding herbs such as dill or parsley can elevate the flavour and freshness of the dish.

Pickled vegetables

Pickled vegetables offer a tangy contrast to the rich and savory flavors of other Thanksgiving dishes. Pickles, onions, and carrots add a burst of acidity that helps cleanse the palate. These vegetables bring brightness and crunch to the table, balancing out the heavier sides like mashed potatoes and stuffing.

Corn pudding

Corn pudding is a rich and creamy side dish with a natural sweetness. Made from corn kernels, eggs, cream, and butter, it has a custard-like texture. This dish is simple to prepare yet always feels indulgent. Corn pudding adds variety and comfort to your Thanksgiving meal, making it a popular choice among guests.

Gluten-free side dishes

For guests with dietary restrictions, gluten-free side dishes are a must. Many traditional sides, such as mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, are naturally gluten-free. However, when preparing gluten-free stuffing, it’s essential to use gluten-free bread. By being mindful of ingredients, you can ensure all guests enjoy a delicious and inclusive meal.

Vegan thanksgiving side dishes

Vegan side dishes can easily be incorporated into a Thanksgiving feast. Dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce are all naturally vegan. For a creamy alternative, use coconut milk or plant-based butter. Vegan stuffing made with vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients ensures that everyone can partake in the celebration.

Seasonal side dishes

Seasonal vegetables make for delicious Thanksgiving side dishes. Root vegetables like carrots, turnips, and parsnips are abundant during this time of year. Squash varieties such as acorn or delicata bring both flavor and color to the table. Incorporating seasonal produce into your meal adds freshness and showcases the best flavours of the harvest.

Dressing versus Stuffing

While the terms dressing and stuffing are often used interchangeably, they have subtle differences. Stuffing is traditionally cooked inside the turkey, while dressing is prepared separately. Both dishes are similar in ingredients, typically made from bread, herbs, and vegetables. Regardless of the name, both are delicious and widely loved at Thanksgiving dinners.

Side dishes for a small gathering

If you are hosting a small Thanksgiving gathering, focus on a few key side dishes. Select a couple of classic favorites like mashed potatoes and stuffing. Add a green vegetable, such as roasted Brussels sprouts or green bean almondine. With a smaller gathering, it is easier to provide a diverse yet manageable selection of sides that will please everyone.

Festive and flavourful side dishes for large gatherings

For larger Thanksgiving gatherings, offer a wide variety of sides. Prepare multiple vegetable options, such as glazed carrots, roasted sweet potatoes, and creamed spinach. Include a mix of both savory and sweet dishes to satisfy all tastes. A variety of sides ensures everyone can enjoy their favourites while trying something new.

Magic of thanksgiving side dishes

Thanksgiving side dishes are the heart of the celebration. They add variety, comfort, and flavor to the meal. Whether traditional or modern, these sides bring people together around the table. From mashed potatoes to cranberry sauce, each dish contributes to a unique and memorable holiday experience. As you gather with friends and family, let these side dishes be the stars that make your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable.