Thanksgiving dinner is about more than just the turkey. While a beautifully roasted turkey may be the centerpiece of the holiday table, the side dishes are often what everyone looks forward to the most. From creamy mashed potatoes and homemade stuffing to sweet potato casserole and buttery dinner rolls, Thanksgiving side dishes bring comfort, tradition, and unforgettable flavors to the celebration.

Whether you are preparing a traditional Southern Thanksgiving dinner, hosting a large family gathering, or planning a smaller holiday meal, choosing the right side dishes can make all the difference.

Some families love sticking with classic recipes that have been passed down for generations. Others enjoy introducing new flavors, creative casseroles, and healthier vegetable dishes to their Thanksgiving menu.

The good news is that there are plenty of delicious options to satisfy everyone.

In this guide, you will discover 50 of the best Thanksgiving side dishes everyone will love, including traditional favorites, Southern comfort foods, easy make-ahead recipes, and crowd-pleasing holiday classics.

Classic Thanksgiving Potato Side Dishes

Potatoes are among the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes because they are affordable, filling, and incredibly versatile. Whether mashed, roasted, baked, or turned into a cheesy casserole, potatoes deserve a place on almost every Thanksgiving table.

1. Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like a big bowl of homemade mashed potatoes.

Made with Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper, this traditional side dish pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy.

For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use heavy cream and mash the potatoes while they are still hot.

Best served with: Homemade turkey gravy.

2. Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

Give traditional mashed potatoes an upgrade with roasted garlic and melted butter.

The roasted garlic adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor without overpowering the potatoes.

Finish with chopped parsley or chives for a beautiful holiday presentation.

Make-ahead tip: Prepare the potatoes a day early and reheat gently with additional cream.

3. Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

This hearty Thanksgiving casserole combines mashed potatoes with cheddar cheese, sour cream, crispy bacon, and green onions.

Bake until the cheese melts and the top becomes golden.

It is an excellent choice for families who love rich, cheesy comfort food.

4. Southern Scalloped Potatoes

Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce create an irresistible Thanksgiving side dish.

Layer the potatoes with butter, cream, garlic, and seasonings before baking until tender.

For a cheesy variation, add shredded cheddar between the layers.

5. Cheesy Potato Gratin

Potato gratin is an elegant alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

Thin potato slices are layered with cream, garlic, Gruyère cheese, and Parmesan.

The result is a rich casserole with a golden, bubbly crust.

6. Crispy Oven-Roasted Potatoes

If you want something less creamy, roasted potatoes are a wonderful option.

Toss baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Roast at 425°F until crispy outside and tender inside, usually 30–40 minutes.

7. Twice-Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes are perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings because they can be prepared ahead of time.

Bake russet potatoes, scoop out the centers, and mix the potato flesh with butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and seasonings.

Return the filling to the potato skins and bake until golden.

8. Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole

This easy Thanksgiving side dish is especially popular at Southern family gatherings.

Combine thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup or a vegetarian alternative, shredded cheddar, and melted butter.

Top with crushed buttery crackers for a crispy finish.

Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing and Dressing Recipes

Stuffing and dressing are Thanksgiving essentials. Whether your family prefers classic bread stuffing or Southern cornbread dressing, these comforting dishes help make the holiday meal memorable.

9. Classic Homemade Bread Stuffing

Traditional bread stuffing features toasted bread cubes mixed with onions, celery, butter, sage, thyme, and chicken or vegetable broth.

Bake in a casserole dish until the top is golden and the center is moist.

For food safety, stuffing should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

10. Southern Cornbread Dressing

Southern cornbread dressing is a Thanksgiving tradition in many households.

Crumbled cornbread is combined with sautéed onions, celery, broth, eggs, and poultry seasoning.

Bake until the dressing is set and lightly browned.

Serve with homemade giblet gravy or turkey gravy.

11. Sausage and Herb Stuffing

Adding browned breakfast sausage to traditional stuffing creates a savory, flavorful side dish.

Combine the sausage with bread cubes, celery, onions, sage, rosemary, and broth.

This hearty recipe is especially delicious alongside roasted turkey.

12. Apple and Cranberry Stuffing

Sweet apples and tart cranberries bring a festive twist to traditional Thanksgiving stuffing.

Combine diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted bread, onions, celery, and herbs.

The combination of sweet and savory flavors pairs beautifully with turkey.

13. Wild Rice and Mushroom Dressing

For a delicious alternative to bread stuffing, try wild rice dressing.

Cook wild rice with sautéed mushrooms, onions, celery, garlic, and herbs.

Add toasted pecans for extra texture and flavor.

This recipe can easily be made vegetarian.

14. Oyster Dressing

Oyster dressing is a traditional holiday favorite in many Southern and coastal households.

Fresh oysters are mixed with bread or cornbread, butter, celery, onions, and seasonings.

The oysters add a distinctive savory flavor that makes this dish a special Thanksgiving tradition.

Best Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Side Dishes

Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and beautiful color to the holiday table. They can be prepared as a savory side dish or transformed into a rich Thanksgiving casserole.

15. Classic Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

This beloved Thanksgiving side dish features mashed sweet potatoes mixed with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.

Top with miniature marshmallows and bake until golden.

It is especially popular with children and anyone who enjoys sweeter holiday dishes.

16. Southern Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Topping

For a more traditional Southern version, replace marshmallows with a buttery pecan crumble.

Combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter.

Sprinkle over sweet potatoes and bake until crisp.

17. Brown Sugar Glazed Sweet Potatoes

Slice peeled sweet potatoes and bake them with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a little orange juice.

As they cook, the glaze becomes rich and syrupy.

This simple recipe delivers classic holiday flavor without requiring a casserole topping.

18. Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes are a delicious option for anyone who prefers a less traditional preparation.

Toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt.

Roast until caramelized and tender.

19. Whipped Sweet Potatoes With Cinnamon Butter

For a smooth and fluffy side dish, whip cooked sweet potatoes with butter, cream, cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup.

Serve in a warm bowl with additional cinnamon butter on top.

This is a wonderful alternative to sweet potato casserole.

20. Southern Candied Yams

Southern candied yams are a classic holiday comfort food, commonly prepared using orange-fleshed sweet potatoes.

Slice the sweet potatoes and bake with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.

The result is tender sweet potatoes coated in a rich, buttery glaze.

Best Thanksgiving Green Bean and Vegetable Side Dishes

Vegetable side dishes help balance the richness of Thanksgiving dinner. From creamy casseroles to roasted seasonal vegetables, these recipes add freshness, color, and flavor to the table.

21. Classic Green Bean Casserole

Few Thanksgiving side dishes are as recognizable as green bean casserole.

Combine green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings.

Top with crispy fried onions and bake until bubbly.

It is simple, nostalgic, and always popular.

22. Southern Green Beans With Bacon

Slow-cooked Southern green beans are packed with smoky flavor.

Simmer fresh or frozen green beans with bacon, onions, garlic, broth, and black pepper until tender.

For an authentic Southern-style preparation, cook them longer than you would crisp green beans.

23. Garlic Butter Green Beans

For a lighter Thanksgiving side dish, sauté fresh green beans in butter with minced garlic.

Finish with lemon juice and cracked black pepper.

This quick recipe adds a fresh contrast to rich casseroles.

24. Honey Glazed Carrots

Tender carrots coated in honey and butter make a colorful holiday side dish.

Cook sliced carrots until just tender, then toss with honey, melted butter, and a pinch of salt.

Add fresh parsley before serving.

25. Maple Roasted Carrots

Roast whole or sliced carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, and thyme.

The high oven heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating deliciously sweet edges.

These carrots look beautiful on a Thanksgiving serving platter.

26. Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Brussels sprouts become crispy and flavorful when roasted at high heat.

Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, bacon pieces, salt, and pepper.

Roast until browned and tender.

For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

27. Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a rich, comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey.

Cook spinach in a creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese.

It is a delicious way to include leafy greens in your Thanksgiving meal.

28. Southern Collard Greens

Slow-simmered collard greens are a favorite at many Southern holiday dinners.

Cook chopped collard greens with smoked turkey, onions, garlic, broth, and seasonings.

A splash of apple cider vinegar adds brightness.

29. Roasted Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a perfect seasonal Thanksgiving vegetable.

Cut the squash into cubes and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary.

Roast until tender and lightly caramelized.

Add maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter version.

30. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Roasted broccoli is an easy side dish that requires very little preparation.

Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Roast until the edges become crispy, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Southern Thanksgiving Casseroles and Comfort Foods

Southern-style Thanksgiving side dishes are known for their comforting flavors and generous portions. These casseroles and traditional favorites are ideal for feeding a crowd.

31. Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Homemade baked macaroni and cheese is a Thanksgiving favorite.

Combine cooked elbow macaroni with a rich cheese sauce made from cheddar, milk, butter, and seasonings.

Bake until golden and bubbling.

For an extra creamy version, use a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack.

32. Southern Corn Casserole

Corn casserole is sweet, buttery, and incredibly easy to prepare.

Combine corn kernels, creamed corn, cornbread mix, sour cream, and melted butter.

Bake until golden and set.

This recipe is perfect for busy holiday cooks.

33. Creamed Corn

Southern creamed corn is a comforting Thanksgiving side dish made with sweet corn, butter, cream, and seasonings.

For a thicker texture, blend a small portion of the corn before mixing it back into the pan.

Serve hot with freshly ground black pepper.

34. Southern Squash Casserole

Yellow squash casserole is a classic Southern holiday recipe.

Cook sliced yellow squash with onions, then combine with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and seasonings.

Top with crushed buttery crackers and bake until golden.

35. Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

This family-friendly Thanksgiving casserole combines tender broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce.

Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.

It is especially popular with families who enjoy cheesy vegetable dishes.

36. Southern Fried Okra

Fried okra adds a crunchy Southern favorite to the Thanksgiving table.

Slice fresh okra, coat it in seasoned cornmeal, and fry until golden brown.

Serve immediately for the best texture.

37. Southern Baked Beans

Although baked beans are often associated with summer cookouts, they also make a delicious holiday side dish.

Combine beans with brown sugar, molasses, mustard, onions, and bacon.

Bake slowly until thick and flavorful.

38. Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Broccoli rice casserole is an affordable Thanksgiving side dish that feeds a large family.

Combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, a creamy sauce, and seasonings.

Bake until heated through and lightly browned.

Thanksgiving Breads, Biscuits, and Rolls

No Thanksgiving dinner feels complete without warm bread for soaking up gravy and enjoying with butter.

39. Homemade Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are always welcome at Thanksgiving.

Made with flour, yeast, milk, butter, sugar, and salt, homemade rolls add a special touch to the meal.

Brush the tops with melted butter immediately after baking.

40. Southern Buttermilk Biscuits

Flaky Southern buttermilk biscuits are perfect for Thanksgiving.

Use cold butter, flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk to create tender layers.

Serve warm with butter, honey, or gravy.

41. Honey Butter Cornbread

Southern cornbread gets a holiday upgrade with sweet honey butter.

Bake cornbread in a cast-iron skillet for crispy edges.

Brush with honey butter while warm.

This bread pairs especially well with collard greens and turkey.

42. Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread

Pull-apart bread is a fun Thanksgiving side dish that everyone can share.

Coat pieces of bread dough with garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.

Bake until golden and serve warm.

Thanksgiving Cranberry, Salad, and Fresh Side Dishes

Thanksgiving meals can be rich and filling, so adding a few refreshing side dishes helps create a balanced menu.

43. Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Fresh cranberry sauce is one of the easiest Thanksgiving side dishes to make.

Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar, water, and orange zest until the berries burst and the sauce thickens.

Prepare it several days ahead and refrigerate until serving.

44. Cranberry Orange Relish

For a brighter alternative to cooked cranberry sauce, try cranberry orange relish.

Finely chop fresh cranberries and oranges, then mix with sugar to taste.

Chill before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

45. Classic Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad combines crisp apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts in a creamy dressing.

It adds freshness and crunch to the Thanksgiving table.

Use Greek yogurt instead of some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter variation.

46. Southern Seven-Layer Salad

Seven-layer salad is a colorful make-ahead side dish.

Layer lettuce, peas, tomatoes, onions, hard-boiled eggs, cheese, and bacon in a large glass bowl.

Top with a creamy dressing and refrigerate until ready to serve.

47. Apple Pecan Harvest Salad

A fall-inspired salad is perfect for Thanksgiving.

Combine mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese.

Toss with a maple Dijon vinaigrette just before serving.

Unique Thanksgiving Side Dishes Worth Trying

If you want to introduce something new to your holiday menu, these recipes offer delicious alternatives to the traditional Thanksgiving favorites.

48. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus makes an elegant Thanksgiving side dish.

Wrap small bundles of asparagus with bacon and roast until the bacon is cooked and the asparagus is tender.

Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice.

49. Roasted Cauliflower With Garlic and Parmesan

Roasted cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful addition to Thanksgiving dinner.

Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Roast until golden, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

50. Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Casserole

This comforting Thanksgiving casserole combines earthy mushrooms, wild rice, onions, garlic, herbs, and a creamy sauce.

Bake until heated through and lightly browned.

It is a delicious side dish for guests who enjoy savory, hearty holiday flavors.

How to Choose the Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes

With so many delicious options, planning a Thanksgiving menu can feel overwhelming.

The secret is choosing a combination of dishes that offer different flavors, textures, and colors.

A well-balanced Thanksgiving menu might include:

• One potato dish: Classic mashed potatoes or cheesy potato gratin.

• One stuffing or dressing: Traditional bread stuffing or Southern cornbread dressing.

• One sweet side dish: Sweet potato casserole or candied yams.

• Two vegetable dishes: Green bean casserole and roasted carrots.

• One bread: Homemade dinner rolls or Southern biscuits.

• One refreshing side: Cranberry sauce or apple pecan salad.

• One family favorite: Baked macaroni and cheese or corn casserole.

You do not need to prepare every traditional Thanksgiving dish. Focus on the recipes your family enjoys most.

Best Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Preparing side dishes ahead of time can make Thanksgiving Day much easier.

Refrigerate perishable prepared dishes promptly at 40°F or below, and reheat leftovers and previously cooked casseroles to 165°F.

Planning ahead allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday with loved ones.

How Many Thanksgiving Side Dishes Do You Need?

The number of Thanksgiving side dishes depends on how many guests you are serving and how much variety you want.

These are general planning guidelines, not strict rules. If you are serving several large casseroles, you may need fewer dishes.

For large Thanksgiving gatherings, consider asking family members to bring their favorite side dish.

A potluck-style Thanksgiving dinner can reduce preparation time while allowing everyone to contribute something special.

Tips for Making Thanksgiving Side Dishes Everyone Will Love

A successful Thanksgiving dinner does not require complicated recipes or expensive ingredients.

Instead, focus on preparation, flavor, and variety.

Plan your menu early. Decide which dishes you want to prepare at least a week before Thanksgiving.

Choose a mixture of traditional and new recipes. Keep the family favorites while introducing one or two new dishes.

Use seasonal ingredients. Sweet potatoes, cranberries, squash, apples, and Brussels sprouts are excellent choices for fall.

Avoid making everything rich and creamy. Balance casseroles with roasted vegetables and fresh salads.

Prepare ingredients ahead of time. Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and make sauces before Thanksgiving Day.

Keep serving temperatures in mind. Use appropriate hot and cold holding methods, and avoid leaving perishable foods at room temperature for more than two hours.

Do not forget dietary preferences. Include a few vegetarian, gluten-free, or lower-carbohydrate options when needed, and check individual ingredients.

Most importantly, remember that Thanksgiving is about enjoying a meaningful meal together, not preparing a perfect-looking table.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Side Dishes

What are the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes?

Some of the most recognizable Thanksgiving side dishes include mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, macaroni and cheese, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls.

What are the best Southern Thanksgiving side dishes?

Southern Thanksgiving favorites include cornbread dressing, baked macaroni and cheese, collard greens, candied yams, squash casserole, Southern green beans, and buttermilk biscuits.

What Thanksgiving side dishes can be made the day before?

Sweet potato casserole, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and many vegetable casseroles can be prepared ahead of time. Store them properly in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

What are some inexpensive Thanksgiving side dishes?

Budget-friendly options include mashed potatoes, cornbread, roasted carrots, green beans, rice casserole, homemade rolls, and corn casserole.

What are good Thanksgiving side dishes for picky eaters?

Mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, buttery dinner rolls, honey glazed carrots, and cheesy potato casserole are approachable choices for many picky eaters.

What are the best healthy Thanksgiving side dishes?

Roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic green beans, roasted butternut squash, maple roasted carrots, harvest salad, and roasted cauliflower can provide lighter alternatives to traditional creamy casseroles.

Final Thoughts: Making Thanksgiving Dinner Memorable

The best Thanksgiving side dishes are not necessarily the most complicated or expensive recipes. They are the dishes that bring comfort, create memories, and make everyone excited to gather around the table.

Whether your family loves traditional mashed potatoes, Southern cornbread dressing, homemade macaroni and cheese, or sweet potato casserole, there is something special about sharing familiar holiday foods with the people who matter most.

These 50 Thanksgiving side dishes offer plenty of inspiration for creating a delicious holiday menu, whether you are cooking for two people or hosting a large family gathering.

Mix traditional favorites with a few new recipes, prepare what you can ahead of time, and remember that the most meaningful part of Thanksgiving is not how much food is on the table, but the moments shared around it.

What is the one Thanksgiving side dish your family absolutely cannot celebrate without?