As the holiday season approaches, many of us start to think about our favorite dishes to bring to the table. For a festive and delicious Thanksgiving feast, it’s not just about the turkey – it’s also about the sides! Whether you’re looking for classic comfort foods or new twists on old favorites, we’ve got you covered with these 20 mouthwatering side recipes.
From savory and sweet to crunchy and creamy, our collection of dishes is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Say goodbye to bland sides and hello to a spread that’s sure to impress your guests. And the best part? These recipes are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, so you can focus on enjoying the company of loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these delicious side dishes and provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to make them shine. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe
A comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add green beans to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and milk. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Pour green bean mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights, these creamy garlic mashed potatoes are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping: A classic Southern side dish perfect for holidays or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour the sweet potato mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with pecan halves, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the pecans are golden brown.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts with the smokiness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or lemon wedges for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the sprouts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. Meanwhile, cook bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
7. Remove from heat and set aside.
8. After Brussels sprouts have roasted for about 15 minutes, add the cooked bacon to the baking sheet and toss with the sprouts.
9. Return to oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweeten up your side dish game with this easy and delicious honey glazed carrot recipe. Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot slices in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Stuffing with Herbs
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful cornbread stuffing infused with fresh herbs. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the brightness of parsley and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add melted butter, cornbread, parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe
Brighten up your holiday dishes with this tangy and sweet relish, perfect for topping turkey, ham, or using as a condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh orange zest
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, marmalade, orange zest, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the relish has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the Dijon mustard and season with salt to taste.
6. Let the relish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups
Garlic Butter Roasted Mushrooms
Elevate your meal with this simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the best in earthy mushrooms and rich butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), cleaned and stemmed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Toss the mushrooms with salt, pepper, and the garlic butter mixture until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the mushroom mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Fall Classic
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the rich flavor of maple syrup, resulting in a deliciously caramelized side dish perfect for any season.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage or thyme for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Drizzle maple syrup over the squash, tossing gently to combine.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until squash is tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy, cheesy scalloped potato recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for holidays or everyday meals, these tender potatoes are smothered in a rich and velvety cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer.
3. Dot with butter, then sprinkle with 1/2 cup cheddar cheese.
4. Repeat the layers, starting with potatoes, then butter and remaining cheese.
5. Pour heavy cream over the top layer of cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, heavy cream or whole milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until smooth.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture, stirring until well coated.
- Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb Roasted Root Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of root vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sauteed Green Beans with Almonds
Elevate your green beans game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that adds crunch and nutty goodness from toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 3-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the green beans and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced almonds and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the garlic and green beans to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the green beans are coated with the almond mixture and heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Corn Pudding
A warm and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, this creamy corn pudding recipe is a twist on the classic cornbread. With its smooth texture and sweet corn flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or potluck.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
• Fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cream, milk, eggs, sugar, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
3. Add the melted butter, cornmeal, and corn kernels; stir until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 2-quart soufflé dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until set and lightly golden brown on top.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the smoky goodness of bacon. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the tartness of cranberries. This pilaf is perfect for the holidays or as a unique twist on a traditional grain bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: toasted nuts or dried herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice and soak it in water or broth for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the wild rice, then heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the soaked wild rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Add the cranberries and enough water or broth to cover the rice by about an inch.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that showcases the natural sweetness of cauliflower, paired with the nutty goodness of Parmesan. This side dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a healthy addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets.
4. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until well coated.
5. Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Dinner Rolls
Warm up your fall gatherings with these soft, fluffy Pumpkin Dinner Rolls infused with the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, pumpkin puree, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Roll out to 1-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes (e.g., dinner rolls or knots).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Apple Stuffing
This sweet and savory stuffing combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions and apples with a hint of spices, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish. A game-changing twist on traditional stuffing recipes!
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Add diced apple to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine bread, caramelized onion mixture, butter, chicken broth, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well until bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Spiced Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Add a warm and aromatic twist to roasted sweet potatoes with this simple recipe. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice creates a deliciously spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a festive feast with these delicious Thanksgiving side recipes! From classic dishes like Green Bean Casserole and Mashed Potatoes to sweet potato casserole with pecan topping and roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, there’s something for everyone. Other mouth-watering options include honey glazed carrots, cornbread stuffing with herbs, cranberry orange relish, and cheesy scalloped potatoes. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up, these recipes are sure to be a hit at your holiday table.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
