Top 25 Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Introduction

A memorable Thanksgiving feast is never just about the turkey — it’s the side dishes that truly make the meal shine. The best sides bring together comforting flavors, vibrant colors, and a tasty variety that delights everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for modern twists or time-honored classics, these Top 25 Thanksgiving Side Dishes are sure to round out your holiday menu for a meal that everyone will rave about.

Why These Side Dishes Will Make Your Thanksgiving Unforgettable

Great side dishes create the perfect balance of flavors: savory, sweet, tangy, and crunchy. These recipes help you turn your Thanksgiving table into a crowd-pleasing buffet, offering something delicious for every palate. From creamy casseroles to bright vegetable sides and soulful stuffings, you’ll find easy options that are sure to become new holiday favorites.

The Perfect Thanksgiving Side Dish Selection

What sets these Top 25 Thanksgiving Side Dishes apart is their combination of impressive taste, approachable ingredients, and adaptability. Mix and match according to your guests’ preferences and any dietary needs — there are gluten-free, vegetarian, and make-ahead options included!

Essential Ingredients for 25 Classic Thanksgiving Sides

While each side dish has its own unique list, here’s a consolidated overview of the basics you’ll want on your shopping list for the most traditional and beloved options:

💡Meal Planning Tip: Save these recipes to automatically generate a categorized shopping list, making Thanksgiving grocery runs efficient and stress-free. Perfect for planners and busy hosts!

Instructions

Below are the 25 must-try Thanksgiving side dishes. For each, prep and assembly are straightforward, with many having options to make them ahead of time.

1. Classic Herb Stuffing: Sauté onion, celery, and herbs in butter. Toss with bread cubes and broth, then bake until golden.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Boil potatoes until fork-tender. Mash with butter, cream, and a touch of cream cheese.
3. Sweet Potato Casserole: Mash roasted sweet potatoes with maple syrup and pecans, top with marshmallows or a brown sugar crumble, and bake.
4. Green Bean Almondine: Blanch green beans, then sauté with lemon juice, almonds, and garlic.
5. Cranberry Orange Relish: Pulse fresh cranberries, orange, and sugar in a food processor for a bright, fresh sauce.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roast sprouts till crisp, then drizzle with balsamic reduction.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Whip up a quick cornbread batter, portion into muffin tins, and bake. Add jalapenos or cheddar for a twist.
8. Scalloped Potatoes: Layer thin-sliced potatoes with cream and cheese, then bake until bubbly.
9. Glazed Carrots: Simmer carrot slices in butter and brown sugar for a glossy, sweet side.
10. Buttery Garlic Rolls: Prepare or buy dough, brush with garlic butter, and bake until golden brown.
11. Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower: Toss florets in olive oil, parmesan, and herbs, then roast.
12. Savory Bread Pudding: Cube bread, blend with eggs, cheese, herbs, and bake until set.
13. Mac and Cheese: Stir cooked pasta into a luscious cheese sauce, bake with a crunchy topping.
14. Maple Roasted Acorn Squash: Slice squash into rings, drizzle with maple syrup, and roast.
15. Wild Rice Pilaf: Simmer wild rice with broth, mix with sautéed onions, celery, and toasted nuts.
16. Caramelized Onion Gravy: Slow-cook onions, then prepare a smooth gravy as a turkey topper.
17. Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pecans: Toss shaved sprouts with pecans, cranberries, and a mustard dressing.
18. Harvest Vegetable Medley: Roast a tray of squash, carrots, and parsnips with olive oil and herbs.
19. Homemade Cranberry Sauce: Simmer fresh cranberries, orange zest, and sugar until saucy.
20. Sautéed Mushrooms with Thyme: Brown cremini mushrooms and finish with fresh thyme and garlic.
21. Cheesy Broccoli Gratin: Layer broccoli florets with cheese, top with breadcrumbs, and bake.
22. Ratatouille: Layer eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes, bake with olive oil and herbs.
23. Spinach Gratin: Wilt spinach with garlic, blend with cream and cheese, bake until bubbling.
24. Roasted Beet Salad: Toss roasted beets with goat cheese, walnuts, and orange vinaigrette.
25. Apple Walnut Salad: Crisp apples, mixed greens, walnuts, and a tart vinaigrette round out the plate.

Weekly Meal Planning

Thanksgiving prep is simpler when you plan ahead. Save and schedule these side dish recipes to prepare your shopping list in advance, select prep days, and avoid last-minute grocery store runs.

Meal Planning Perks:

• Auto-generates and consolidates ingredient amounts from multiple side dishes and your main course
• Sorts everything by grocery section for speedy shopping
• Prevents duplicate ingredient purchases
• Helps you prep and schedule make-ahead recipes to ease holiday day-of stress

Pro Tip: When prepping a variety of sides, use CookifyAI’s meal planner to see which ingredients overlap—like fresh herbs or onions—so you buy just the right amount, avoid food waste, and enjoy a smoothly run holiday kitchen.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes to 1 hour (side dish dependent)
Cook Time: 20 minutes to 1 hour (side dish dependent)
Total Time: Varies per dish; allot 2–3 hours for a coordinated, stress-free Thanksgiving side spread.

Recap: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Collection

With these Top 25 Thanksgiving Side Dishes, your holiday table is guaranteed to be abundant, flavorful, and festive. Each dish is chosen for its crowd appeal, easy preparation, and classic holiday taste. Savor the season, and happy meal planning!