Anyone can host a big meal, but only those who have mastered 51 Thanksgiving side dishes manage to keep both the food critics and the picky cousins quiet. It’s the kind of success that turns “Who made this?” into a humble nod moment across the table. The dishes balance homey comfort with that mysterious flair that makes people assume there’s a secret ingredient involved.
Amish Breakfast Casserole
Starting the holiday with a hearty casserole sets the stage for a smoother meal. Amish Breakfast Casserole brings layers of melted texture and a chewy bite that pairs nicely with turkey or ham. It’s easy to serve in squares so no one waits too long. Guests love grabbing seconds, especially for breakfast leftovers. Every plate comes back clean.
Get the Recipe: Amish Breakfast Casserole
Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
If you want color and variety, roasted veggies always stun on the table. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables have crisp edges and soft centers that match every main dish. They balance out heavier recipes easily. Kids even find their favorites among the mix. The pan empties out much quicker than expected.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Baked Potato
Simple favorites never go out of style, especially served hot. Baked Potato can be sliced and topped so everyone gets their own style. Add-ins at the table make this a crowd-pleaser. The outside stays firm while the inside turns light and fluffy. Folks always return for another helping.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato
Cinnamon Applesauce
Fruit sides break up any big meal, especially with a hint of sweetness. Cinnamon Applesauce gives each spoonful a familiar comfort that goes nicely alongside turkey. It works for both adults and kids. The bowl gets passed around more than once. People ask for the recipe when they taste this at celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Applesauce
Smashed Potatoes
Crunch meets creamy when these show up on the spread. Smashed Potatoes are easy to share and quick to top with anything you like. Their texture brings smiles to the table. They pair well with main plates or stand as a snack on their own. Don’t be surprised when they’re gone first.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes
Thanksgiving Casserole
One pan means more flavor and less work for the host. Thanksgiving Casserole packs lots into every serving so guests feel satisfied without needing too many sides. Family favorites get tucked inside. It’s a staple for big crowds looking to dig in. Seconds start moving quickly after the first bites.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Casserole
Creamed Spinach
Smooth, green sides add a bit of balance to heavier plates. Creamed Spinach works great paired with meats and adds color to the table. It’s creamy but never too strong. Kids and adults find comfort in spooning up extra helpings. You’ll often see requests for more during big gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach
Turkey Gravy
Pouring rich sauce over sides makes every recipe pop. Turkey Gravy blends perfectly with mashed potatoes, casseroles, and breads. People lean in expecting all their favorites to get an extra boost. It’s simple to serve and hard to mess up. Busy meals always count on extra gravy for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Gravy
7 Layer Salad
Serving up layers means more color and crunch per plate. 7 Layer Salad lets everyone customize their forkful, mixing creamy and crisp bites. It makes a great contrast to hot mains. The bowl never lasts long once the meal begins. It comes out at the start but sticks around until the end.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Bread Stuffing
Classic stuffing brings comfort and nostalgia every single year. Bread Stuffing absorbs rich flavors so each bite feels hearty. It’s easy to scoop and serve next to turkey. Young ones even come back for seconds. The pan always tells the whole story, empty fast.
Get the Recipe: Bread Stuffing
Celery Salad
If lighter sides are needed, a crisp salad helps things move along. Celery Salad offers a crunchy bite and a clean finish to big plates. It’s a quick favorite for those avoiding heavy options. The colors catch eyes on a crowded table. Pairs well with simple chicken or beef.
Get the Recipe: Celery Salad
Breakfast Casserole
Group meals run smoother when casseroles show up early. Breakfast Casserole gives everyone a warm, hearty beginning to the big feast. It’s easy to slice and hand out. Leftovers turn into lunch for the next day. Lots of diners remember this one from family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Casserole
Cranberry Sauce
Fruit sauces always add a sharp burst to meats and starchy sides. Cranberry Sauce plays nice with turkey and sandwiches, putting a sweet touch on heavy recipes. It’s bright enough to stand out on any serving platter. Many homes keep it as a must-have. No one leaves without a spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Sauce
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Combining two classics in one pan makes serving a breeze. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole keeps the festive spirit going throughout dinner. Each scoop is packed with a familiar flavor. Families appreciate the efficiency and comfort. This gets requested again the next year.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Antipasto Salad
A side packed with cheese, veggies, and meats fits both casual and special occasions. Antipasto Salad caters to those wanting smaller bites of many things. Guests build their own plates easily. Younger eaters grab the cheese and crackers first. Everyone enjoys the variety.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Easy Cornbread Casserole
Soft, golden bites add something extra next to holiday mains. Easy Cornbread Casserole draws attention with its color and light texture. Scoop of this work for breakfast or dinner. Last servings often get packed up for snacks. It’s a regular side at bigger meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Sweet and spicy, this salad offers a change from heavy sides. Hot Honey Chicken Salad brings a balance that works next to warm mains or fresh breads. Quick to throw together, this side feeds a crowd well. The flavors stay light but keep people interested. You’ll spot empty bowls by clean-up.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Quick-cooked pasta makes dinner move faster without losing flavor. Instant Pot Mac and Cheese delivers creamy bites right when people want them. Kids love seeing it arrive at the table. Leftovers reheat for simple next-day meals. A steady favorite for any group.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Stuffed Cabbage
Rolls packed with filling make plates look impressive without a lot of work. Stuffed Cabbage serves up a soft bite with enough crunch to keep things interesting. It stands alone or lines up with heavier dishes. Kids enjoy peeling apart each leaf. Most meals end with an empty tray.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Cabbage
Focaccia Bread
Pull-apart pieces of Focaccia Bread make any dinner feel festive. Baked bread works for dipping or building small sandwiches. Kids pick their favorite toppings for more flavor. Fresh focaccia leaves little for next day lunches. Bowls of soup pair especially well with this bread.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread
Mashed Potatoes
Comfort leads on every plate with big scoops of Mashed Potatoes served warm. Soft potatoes work with gravy, butter, or any sauce nearby. Kids fill up fast and ask for extra. Mashed potatoes never get skipped during holiday meals. No one goes home hungry when this side is available.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
French Onion Casserole
Rich flavors make this casserole a star on any spread. French Onion Casserole layers cheese and onions for a hearty addition to dinner. It hits the right spot as a filling but not-too-heavy side. Adults appreciate the deep bites, while kids dip in for more. Expect compliments on this one.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole
Stuffing Balls
Finger-friendly bites get passed around quickly. Stuffing Balls wrap up classic flavors in small, easy-to-eat servings. Crisp on the outside and soft within, these stand out among traditional choices. The plate empties within minutes of arriving. Kids especially reach for these first.
Get the Recipe: Stuffing Balls
French Onion Soup
Ladling out soup gives a warm welcome before the main meal. French Onion Soup is known for bubbling cheese and sweet onions that draw out happy sighs. It’s an easy starter for large groups. Pairs well with crusty breads or light casseroles. People gather around for seconds.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup
Million Dollar Casserole
Big occasions call for extra creamy and filling sides. Million Dollar Casserole serves up golden layers and rich flavors, pleasing even picky eaters. It disappears quickly without having to remind folks to grab some. The top comes out bubbly and ready for scooping. Only crumbs remain by the end.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole
Funeral Potatoes
Cheesy, crispy sides make any meal a little brighter. Funeral Potatoes combine a soft middle with a crunchy topping that goes with everything. The dish gets passed around several times before it’s gone. Even kids want extra on their plate. This is a holiday favorite for many families.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Green Bean Casserole
Classic sides lead to repeat requests with pans of Green Bean Casserole on the table. Crunchy toppings and creamy filling bring people together. Kids dig in even if they skip other veggies. This casserole works as an everyday favorite. Leftovers rarely make it out of the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole
Honeycrisp Salad
A fresh crunch adds a contrast to any substantial meal with a burst of sweetness. Honeycrisp Salad features crisp bites and a light dressing for a perfect balance. It’s a quick way to brighten up your plates with vibrant colors. Guests often come back for seconds, especially when paired with heavier side dishes. Bright salads like this one can truly lighten up the entire spread.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
Mac and Cheese
Every holiday table gains some charm once Mac and Cheese is set out hot. Bowls empty quickly with kids searching for their favorite corner piece. Creamy pasta matches any entree or spread. Mac and cheese fits for small meals or large gatherings. Any leftovers make the next day brighter.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Roasted Broccoli
Green veggies always add a bold pop to a big spread. Roasted Broccoli turns soft with crisp tips and goes with nearly any main dish. Even those who say they don’t care for veggies ask for a scoop. It’s simple, quick, and makes plates look complete. Kids tend to ask for extra sometimes.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Broccoli
Ham and Potato Casserole
Combining protein with starch keeps everyone full longer. Ham and Potato Casserole bakes up tender and golden, perfect with turkey or beef. It’s both a side and a surprise main. People tell stories about loving it for years. Serving more always makes guests happy.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Casserole
Sautéed Kale
Leafy sides bring color and a crisp bite to festive plates. Sautéed Kale keeps flavors bright and pairs easily with anything roasted or baked. Even non-veggie fans try something new here. Each bowl empties out faster than expected. People often feel refreshed with this green plate.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Kale
Garlic Knots
Twisty breads provide a delightful alternative to traditional rolls. Garlic Knots, with their enticing aroma and soft texture, come straight from the oven. You can dip them, split them, or enjoy them plain—either way, they disappear quickly. Kids often gather around the basket asking for more. They are a reliable choice for holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Hashbrown Casserole
A pan packed with crispy bites is always a crowd-pleaser. Hashbrown Casserole has a golden top and soft inside that hits the spot with roasts and poultry. The flavor lasts till the last bite is gone. Younger guests love it best. Each year calls for a bigger batch.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole
Dinner Rolls
Big spreads need warm bread, especially for mopping plates. Dinner Rolls arrive soft and fluffy, easy to tear apart and share. They work with any main course. Butter or jam makes leftovers extra special. Kids and grown-ups always smile when they see a bread basket arrive.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Twice Baked Potatoes
Someone always wants the crispiest side. Twice Baked Potatoes come out golden and packed with creamy filling, ready to top any plate. Larger groups find these perfect for sharing. Extra cheese or toppings fit right in. Only empty skins remain by the end.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes
Greek Salad
Bright, fresh sides make any big meal better. Greek Salad matches color with crunch in each scoop. It’s light yet rich enough to stand next to warm casseroles. Guests mix their own and make each plate unique. It gets gone fast once the forks get moving.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad
Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes
Mixing sweet and spicy turns simple sides into something special. Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes pile up flavor without much fuss, perfect next to classic mains. The plate stands out among milder choices. Each scoop adds excitement to the table. Everyone comes back for a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes
Beet Salad
Colorful salads stand out in busy spreads. Beet Salad offers earthy, sweet bites that pair well with cold-weather roasts and sides. The look starts a conversation across the table. Light, simple flavors help balance heavier foods. This stays popular year after year.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Creamy spuds topped with crunch are hard to beat. Mississippi Mud Potatoes serve up layers that match any main dish, plus leftovers warm up easily. Larger portions seem like a must. Kids like scraping the crisp off the top first. Make extra to keep up with demand.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Macaroni Salad
Cold bites on hot plates go down easily with Macaroni Salad for guests. Creamy dressing brings out new flavors in every scoop. Kids fill their bowls with extra bits and toppings. Macaroni salad keeps the party going after mains run low. It fits into every menu, formal or casual.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Chewy bites with a hint of sweetness offer something fresh. Sweet Potato Gnocchi stacks up well on plates and stands out among classic sides. Add sauce or eat alone for a filling scoop. Friends enjoy these as both sides and snack. Bigger trays disappear quick.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Mushroom Risotto
Creamy, warm rice makes each spoonful special. Mushroom Risotto presents rich, earthy flavors and a soft finish that pairs with almost every holiday meat. Guests scoop up more and more with each pass. Leftover risotto works great for next-day meals. It’s often the highlight for many diners.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto
Potato Casserole
Warm, soft layers are a comfort on busy holiday evenings. Potato Casserole fills plates quickly and matches all meats and veggies on the table. The top browns nicely, inviting everyone to scoop up more. Leftovers rarely survive the week. Make enough for late-night snacks.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole
Seven Layer Salad
Tall bowls of salad catch everyone’s eye. Seven Layer Salad invites guests to dig through creamy, crunchy, and crisp parts at once. It mixes well with both heavy and light recipes. Colorful toppings add fun to big gatherings. There’s none left by clean-up time.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad
Pumpkin Soup
Smooth soup fills bowls early and never disappoints. Pumpkin Soup comes out mild, creamy, and a bit sweet, making it easy to pair with breads or roasted sides. It’s warm and familiar for all ages. First tastes become new traditions. Friends like to request this again next time.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup
Sweet Potato Wedges
Slices showcase vibrant colors and a satisfying crunch, complementing both meat and vegetable main dishes. Sweet Potato Wedges offer a mild sweetness, providing a healthier option for your meals. You can enjoy them plain or with a dip for a quick and easy snack. Kids find these wedges hard to resist, and serving them often leads to empty plates in no time.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges
Southern Cornbread
Golden bread fits perfectly with classic spreads. Southern Cornbread has a soft bite and crumb, easy to pair with gravy, soup, or meat. Parties keep a spare pan on hand. Tear off a square for dipping or snacking. This basket never stays full for long.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread
Turkey Soup
After the feast, hearty soup helps use up leftovers in a comforting way. Turkey Soup blends tender bites and mild broth for a second round. Fresh bread or rolls match up well on the side. Bowls fill up fast with people looking for warm comfort. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing finish for busy holidays.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Soup
Sweet Potato Fries
Fries take on a sweet twist during holiday dinners with Sweet Potato Fries, making them a fun side dish for both kids and adults. Pairing these fries with various sauces adds to the excitement. Crispy strips often disappear before the second round is served, so making big batches is the best approach.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries
Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Baking this veggie whole is a simple way to wow guests. Roasted Whole Cauliflower turns up with golden edges and a soft bite, easy to slice and serve. The look brings out nice comments. People grab extra helpings for leftovers. It’s a good choice for any big meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Whole Cauliflower
