Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. While the turkey may be the star of the show, the side dishes are just as crucial in creating a memorable holiday meal. Whether you’re looking to stick with traditional recipes or add some creative twists to the menu, we’ve got you covered with a variety of flavorful Thanksgiving side dishes.
Key Takeaways:
- Thanksgiving is a time to gather and share a feast with loved ones.
- Side dishes are just as important as the main course.
- Explore traditional and unique recipes to add variety to your Thanksgiving table.
- Roasting vegetables brings out their natural flavors.
- Indulge in sweet Thanksgiving dessert after a satisfying feast.
Mashed Potato Recipes for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is incomplete without creamy and buttery mashed potatoes. Below are some irresistible mashed potato recipes that will leave your guests asking for more.
Traditional Mashed Potatoes
This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with any Thanksgiving dish. With its rich, buttery texture and hints of cream, every mouthful offers a comforting embrace. Optional variations like garlic infusion or a cheesy twist make it adaptable to personal tastes, ensuring that it remains a staple at family gatherings. Whether served alongside roasted turkey or a hearty stew, these homemade mashed potatoes promise a delightful, creamy accompaniment that elevates the entire meal.
Loaded Mashed Potatoes
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 4 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped | Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, sour cream, chopped bacon, cheddar cheese, and salt to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions. |
This recipe takes mashed potatoes up a notch by adding bacon and cheese. It’s a perfect indulgence for a holiday feast.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes combine the earthy richness of roasted garlic with the comforting, velvety texture of classic mashed potatoes. This dish is made by boiling russet potatoes until tender, then mashing them together with butter and roasted garlic cloves. A splash of heavy cream or milk is added for creaminess, while salt and pepper bring out the flavors. The result is a side dish that’s both luxurious and familiar, perfect for elevating any meal or holiday feast. Optional garnishes like chives or parsley add a hint of color and freshness.
Cranberry Sauce and Relish Ideas
Thanksgiving is not complete without cranberry sauce, a tangy and sweet accompaniment to your turkey that will tantalize your taste buds. Here are some creative ideas to add a colorful and flavorful touch to your Thanksgiving meal.
Cranberry Orange Relish
For a twist on the classic cranberry sauce, mix fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, then chill in the refrigerator. The zesty orange flavor pairs well with turkey and adds a burst of freshness to your Thanksgiving feast.
Cranberry Salsa
For a unique and spicy twist, try making a cranberry salsa. Combine chopped fresh cranberries, diced jalapeno, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for your turkey.
Cranberry Chutney
Mix cranberries, chopped apples, raisins, chopped onion, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices like cinnamon and cloves in a saucepan. Cook until the mixture thickens, then chill. The chutney can be served hot or cold and is a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving meal.
Cranberry Mustard Sauce
For a savory and tangy sauce, mix whole cranberry sauce with Dijon mustard. Heat in a saucepan and serve warm with your turkey.
With these creative ideas, cranberry sauce will no longer be just an afterthought on your Thanksgiving table. Impress your guests with these delicious and unique cranberry accompaniments.
Roasted Vegetables for Thanksgiving
Roasting vegetables for Thanksgiving is a perfect way to add natural flavors to your table. Whether you’re looking for a classic recipe or want to try something new, these roasted vegetables will be a hit with your guests.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a perfect vegetable to roast for your Thanksgiving meal. They become tender and caramelized, making them a delicious side dish. Here’s a simple recipe to make roasted Brussels sprouts:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 pound Brussels sprouts | Preheat the oven to 400°F. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and browned. |
Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots are a colorful and flavorful way to add a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving meal. Here’s a simple recipe to make roasted carrots:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 pound carrots | Preheat the oven to 400°F. Peel and slice the carrots and toss with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized. |
Roasted Green Beans
Roasted green beans are a tasty variation from the classic green bean casserole. They become crispy and flavorful when roasted. Here’s a simple recipe to make roasted green beans:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 pound green beans | Preheat the oven to 400°F. Trim the green beans and toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until crispy and browned. |
These roasted vegetables are a perfect way to add some warmth and color to your Thanksgiving table. Try out these recipes or experiment with your own variations to find your perfect roasted vegetable dish.
Corn-y Dishes
Corn, in its many delightful forms, has been deeply intertwined with the history of Thanksgiving since the inaugural feast shared between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe. As one of the native crops cultivated by indigenous people in North America, corn symbolizes the generosity of the land and the spirit of collaboration between the early settlers and Native Americans. Whether savored as sweet corn on the cob, baked into a hearty corn casserole, transformed into velvety creamed corn, or infused into the rustic charm of cornbread, this versatile grain captures the essence of the harvest season. Its rich, golden hues and varied preparations evoke warmth, abundance, and gratitude, making corn a cherished staple on the Thanksgiving table.
Corn Casserole
Indulge in this delectable corn casserole, a perfect blend of sweet and savory corn combined with creamy textures and a cheesy crust. Ready in just an hour, this comforting dish serves as an irresistible side that complements any meal, offering variations like spicy jalapeños or smoky bacon to cater to every palate. Perfect for family gatherings, it’s a must-try for all corn lovers.
Stuffing and Dressing Recipes
If you’re looking to add some traditional Thanksgiving side dishes to your table, stuffing and dressing are the way to go. These recipes are a staple at every Thanksgiving feast. Whether you prefer classic stuffing or want to try something new, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Stuffing Recipe
This Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving Dressing boasts a delightful blend of day-old white bread soaked in rich broth, enhanced with sautéed celery and onion, and seasoned with a medley of classic herbs. With the comforting aroma of sage and thyme, and the flexibility to incorporate variations like dried fruits, nuts, or even sautéed sausage, this dressing promises to be a moist and flavorful complement to your Thanksgiving table. Whether baked to a golden crisp or prepared with additional broth for a softer touch, it’s a versatile and cherished side dish that evokes warm holiday memories.
If you want to mix things up, try these creative twists on the classic stuffing recipe:
- Cornbread stuffing
- Sausage stuffing
- Vegetarian stuffing with mushrooms and herbs
Dressing Recipe with Cranberries and Apples
If you want to add some sweetness to your stuffing, try this delicious recipe with cranberries and apples.
These recipes are just a few examples of the many stuffing and dressing options you can choose from to impress your guests this Thanksgiving. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with flavors to find your perfect side dish.
Squash and Sweet Potato Delights
Thanksgiving is all about warm, comforting flavors, and squash and sweet potatoes are the perfect addition to your holiday feast. Not only are they delicious, but they also provide an array of health benefits, including vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.
Savory Butternut Squash Gratin
Take your butternut squash game to the next level with this savory gratin. Layer sliced butternut squash with a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Bake until golden brown and bubbling for a decadent side dish that everyone will love.
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 large butternut squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds | Preheat oven to 375°F. Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish. |
| 1 cup heavy cream | In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. |
| 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese | Add the Parmesan cheese to the cream and stir until melted. |
| 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme | Add the chopped thyme to the cream mixture and stir to combine. |
| 1/2 teaspoon salt | Season the cream mixture with salt and pepper to taste. |
| 1/4 teaspoon black pepper | Layer the butternut squash slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly. |
| Pour the cream mixture over the squash, making sure to cover each slice. | |
| Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the squash is fork-tender. |
Maple-Roasted Acorn Squash
This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors for a mouthwatering side dish. Halved acorn squash is roasted with a mixture of maple syrup, butter, and cinnamon until tender and caramelized.
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 2 acorn squash, halved and seeded | Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. |
| 1/4 cup maple syrup | In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the maple syrup and cinnamon and stir to combine. |
| 2 tablespoons unsalted butter | Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash with the maple syrup mixture. |
| 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon | Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. |
| 1/4 teaspoon salt | Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized. |
| 1/4 teaspoon black pepper | Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. |
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole is a delectable fusion of creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with butter, milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then generously topped with a crunchy brown sugar and pecan crumble. Ideal for festive gatherings, this comforting dish can be served as a rich side or a dessert, with options to customize with marshmallows, warm spices, or dairy-free alternatives. Perfect for bringing a touch of warmth and sweetness to any table!
Bring warmth and comfort to your Thanksgiving table with these squash and sweet potato delights. Your guests will be asking for seconds!
Green Bean Creations
Green beans are a staple side dish at any Thanksgiving celebration. Whether you prefer them sautéed, roasted, or smothered in creamy mushroom sauce, we’ve got you covered with these delicious green bean recipes.
Green Bean Casserole
A classic green bean casserole is always a crowd-pleaser. Our recipe features crispy fried onions on top of a creamy mushroom sauce, giving it that perfect crunch and creamy texture. To make this dish even more special, swap out the canned green beans for fresh ones.
Green Beans with Garlic
Fresh green beans are sautéed in olive oil and garlic, creating a simple and flavorful side dish that pairs well with any Thanksgiving entrée. Add some toasted almonds for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Green Beans
This unique recipe combines two fall vegetables in one dish. The shaved Brussels sprouts and green beans are sautéed together in butter and garlic, creating a delicious and healthy side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.
Green Bean, Mushroom, and Bacon Skillet
If you love bacon, then this green bean recipe is for you. Fresh green beans and mushrooms are sautéed with crispy bacon, creating a savory and smoky side dish that will complement any Thanksgiving meal.
Lemon Garlic Green Beans
If you’re looking for a lighter green bean dish, try these lemon garlic green beans. The fresh lemon juice and garlic add a tangy and zesty flavor to the bright green beans, making them a refreshing addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
- Pro Tip: To save time on Thanksgiving day, you can blanch the green beans ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them.
Decadent Macaroni and Cheese Variations
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is always a hit on Thanksgiving. Why not switch things up this year and try one of these delicious variations?
Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
Sometimes, simple is best. This classic baked mac and cheese recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Just mix cooked elbow macaroni with a creamy cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a blend of shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese. Bake it in the oven until golden brown and bubbling, and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness.
Cheesy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Looking for a way to sneak some veggies into your Thanksgiving meal? Try this creamy and cheesy cauliflower mac and cheese recipe. Instead of using traditional elbow macaroni, swap it out for cauliflower florets. Add a blend of cheddar and gouda cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist.
Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon Topping
Everything is better with bacon, right? This mac and cheese recipe takes it to the next level with a crispy bacon topping. Cook bacon until crispy, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and sprinkle it over the top of your classic or cauliflower mac and cheese before baking. The result? A smoky and savory dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
Get into the Thanksgiving spirit with this pumpkin mac and cheese recipe. Add a can of pumpkin puree to your cheese sauce, along with some sage and nutmeg, to create a rich and creamy sauce with a hint of fall flavor. Toss in some cooked macaroni and bake it until bubbly and golden brown. Your guests will love this unique twist on a classic dish.
Truffle Mac and Cheese
For a decadent and indulgent mac and cheese, try this truffle mac and cheese recipe. Add truffle oil to your cheese sauce and mix it with cooked macaroni. Top it with breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese, and bake until golden brown and crispy. The earthy and luxurious truffle flavor takes this dish to the next level.
“Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and these variations are perfect for Thanksgiving. Whether you stick with the classic or try something new, your guests are sure to love these indulgent and cheesy dishes.” – Chef John Smith
Savory Gravy and Sauces
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without savory gravy and sauces to complement the delicious dishes on your table. Whether you prefer traditional turkey gravy or want to experiment with new flavors, these recipes will take your Thanksgiving feast to the next level.
Turkey Gravy
“Gravy is the simplest, tastiest, most memory-laden dish I know how to make: a little flour, salt and pepper, crispy bits of whatever meat anchored the meal, a couple of cups of water or milk and slow stirring to break up lumps.”
– Toni Armenta Andrukaitis
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Turkey drippings (from roasted turkey) | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Thyme leaves | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Steps:
- After roasting your turkey, pour the drippings into a measuring cup and let it sit for a few minutes so the fat rises to the top.
- Skim off the fat and discard, leaving only the drippings in the cup.
- Measure 1 cup of the drippings and pour it into a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the saucepan and whisk continuously until the mixture turns a light brown color.
- Add 2 cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Add 1 teaspoon of thyme leaves and salt and pepper to taste. Continue whisking until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Mushroom Gravy
“I have always loved gravy. It’s the ultimate comfort food.”
– Trisha Yearwood
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Button mushrooms, sliced | 16 oz |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Thyme leaves | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Steps:
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 1 chopped onion to the saucepan and sauté until it becomes translucent (around 5 minutes).
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add 16 ounces of sliced button mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid (around 10 minutes).
- Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the saucepan and whisk continuously until the mixture turns a light brown color.
- Add 2 cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Add 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of thyme leaves and salt and pepper to taste. Continue whisking until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Cream Sauce
“Sauce is to cooking as literature is to discourse.”
– Grimod de La Reynière
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Steps:
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the saucepan and whisk until the mixture turns a light brown color.
- Add 2 cups of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, whisking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Irresistible Biscuits and Dinner Rolls
Thanksgiving dinner is not complete without a basket of warm, freshly baked biscuits or dinner rolls. These fluffy and buttery delights are the perfect accompaniment to any Thanksgiving feast. Here are some of our favorite recipes that will surely impress your guests.
| Biscuits | Dinner Rolls |
|---|---|
| – Classic Buttermilk Biscuits | – Homemade Yeast Rolls |
| – Cheddar Cheese Biscuits | – Sweet Potato Rolls |
| – Garlic Butter Biscuits | – Honey Wheat Rolls |
To make classic buttermilk biscuits, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cold butter. Slowly add buttermilk and knead until the dough comes together. Cut the dough into circles and bake until golden brown. For a unique twist, try adding shredded cheddar cheese or garlic butter to the dough.
Homemade yeast rolls require a bit more time, but the result is worth it. Mix together yeast, warm milk, sugar, and salt. Add flour and knead until the dough is smooth. Let it rise for an hour, then shape the dough into rolls and let it rise again. Bake until golden brown, then brush with melted butter for extra flavor.
For a sweet touch, try making honey wheat rolls or sweet potato rolls. Honey wheat rolls are made with a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour, honey, and butter. Sweet potato rolls add a bit of sweetness and earthiness to the dinner table. Mix together mashed sweet potato, sugar, milk, butter, and flour, and shape the dough into rolls.
In conclusion, biscuits and dinner rolls offer endless possibilities for a tasty Thanksgiving meal. Experiment with flavors and textures, and find the perfect recipe that will complete your holiday feast. Your guests will surely be grateful for these delectable delights.
Sweet Endings – Thanksgiving Desserts
No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without something sweet to end the meal. These Thanksgiving dessert ideas will satisfy any sweet tooth and make your holiday feast unforgettable.
Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is an iconic Thanksgiving dessert that never goes out of style. Made with pumpkin puree and a warm blend of spices, it’s the perfect ending to a hearty Thanksgiving meal. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Apple Crisp
If you prefer something a little less traditional, apple crisp is a delicious option. Made with fresh apples, brown sugar, and a crispy oat topping, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Pecan Pie
For a decadent dessert option, try a classic pecan pie. Made with a buttery pastry crust and a rich filling of pecans and sweet syrup, this dessert is perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
Sweet Potato Pie
If you’re a fan of sweet potatoes, you’ll love this dessert. Sweet potato pie is a southern classic made with mashed sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a buttery crust. It’s a delicious alternative to pumpkin pie that will surely impress your guests.
Chocolate Cake
For the chocolate lovers, a rich and moist chocolate cake is a must-have dessert. Top it with chocolate ganache or creamy frosting for an extra touch of indulgence.
These Thanksgiving desserts are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and make your holiday feast even more memorable. Choose your favorite, or try them all!
Wrapping up Thanksgiving Recipes and Sides
Thanksgiving is a time to come together and appreciate the blessings in our lives, surrounded by the warmth of delicious food and loving company. These side dish recipes will help you elevate your holiday feast and create lasting memories with family and friends.
From classic mashed potatoes to unique variations like garlic mashed potatoes, there is something for everyone in these Thanksgiving side dishes. Add a burst of tangy sweetness to your meal with cranberry sauce and relish ideas, or bring out the natural flavors of vegetables with roasted brussels sprouts or carrots.
Explore traditional stuffing recipes or modern twists like cornbread and sausage stuffing options. Embrace the flavors of fall with delightful squash and sweet potato dishes, or add a burst of color and flavor to your table with green bean creations.
Elevate your mac and cheese game with decadent variations, and complete your meal with savory gravy and sauces or flaky biscuits and dinner rolls. Indulge in sweet endings with Thanksgiving desserts like pumpkin pie or apple crisp.
Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, share laughter and love, and create memories that will last a lifetime. With these flavorful side dishes, your holiday feast will be full of joy and gratitude. Happy feasting!
FAQ on Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes
What are some classic Thanksgiving side dishes?
Classic Thanksgiving side dishes include mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables.
What are some creative twists on Thanksgiving side dishes?
Some creative twists on Thanksgiving side dishes include loaded mashed potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing, and maple-roasted acorn squash.
How do I make the perfect gravy for Thanksgiving?
To make the perfect gravy for Thanksgiving, start with a roux made from butter and flour, gradually whisk in turkey drippings and stock, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
Are there any vegetarian options for Thanksgiving side dishes?
Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options for Thanksgiving side dishes. Some ideas include vegetarian stuffing, roasted vegetables, sweet potato casserole, and cranberry orange relish.
Can I make these side dishes ahead of time?
Many of these side dishes can be made ahead of time and reheated on Thanksgiving day. Just be sure to follow proper storage and reheating instructions for each dish.
Are there any gluten-free options for Thanksgiving side dishes?
Yes, many of these recipes can be easily adapted to be gluten-free. For example, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs in stuffing and gluten-free flour for gravy thickening.
Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
How can I make sure my mashed potatoes are creamy and smooth?
To ensure creamy and smooth mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon gold, boil them until fork-tender, and thoroughly mash them with butter and warm milk or cream.
What are some easy side dishes for Thanksgiving?
Some easy side dishes for Thanksgiving include roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, dinner rolls, and simple green salads.
Can I make a vegetarian gravy for Thanksgiving?
Yes, you can make a delicious vegetarian gravy using vegetable broth, mushrooms, onions, and herbs. There are plenty of recipes available online.
