Potlucks and holiday feasts seem less stressful once 51 Thanksgiving side ideas are ready to go. No one wants to spend the whole day in the kitchen, especially when cleanup follows the meal. Delicious sides that are easy to serve can really help keep the mood relaxed. Personally, I find that sharing new dishes can turn tradition into something memorable.
Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board
Holiday gatherings gain energy when trays come out packed with colorful snacks and turkey slices. Guests talk for ages around this Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board, setting up the perfect start for Thanksgiving. I always notice people linger longer with easy-to-grab bites in hand. Variety in flavor and texture adds instant celebration to any table.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy potatoes are the go-to comfort on chilly autumn evenings. Laughter and second helpings follow this Cheesy Funeral Potatoes whenever it shows up at a holiday spread. I put out extra because the dish never lasts long. Soft centers meet crispy edges for a side that calls everyone back for more.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Easy Cornbread Casserole
Cornbread gets an easy upgrade that brings out plenty of smiles through the cold months. Friends reach for this Easy Cornbread Casserole without hesitation at potlucks and feasts. I rely on it for a quick and warm addition to any Thanksgiving meal. Light sweetness mingles perfectly with savory dishes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Tossing cranberries and pecans together with chicken brings a special autumn touch to the table. People often ask for the recipe behind this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad after trying a spoonful. I find it works especially well for brunch or buffet-style sides. Tart fruit, crunchy nuts, and creamy chicken offer balance and holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Soft Dinner Rolls
Warm rolls fresh out of the oven draw guests of every age to the Thanksgiving table. A basket of this Soft Dinner Rolls vanishes before the meal is halfway over. I always bake extra so no one misses out. Fluffy layers and golden tops complement meat, soups, and casseroles perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Glazed carrots bring both a burst of color and sweet depth to holiday plates. There’s excitement anytime this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots make an appearance in my kitchen. I love setting them out for potlucks because they pair so well with everything. Tender bites and shiny finish brighten any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Sourdough Stuffing
Hearty stuffing made with tangy sourdough provides old-fashioned comfort at Thanksgiving. I notice guests seek out this Sourdough Stuffing for second helpings. I prepare more than I think I’ll need, just in case. Slight chew and rustic flavor make this dish stand out from other sides.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing
Colorful Antipasto Salad
Bright, varied salad bowls can wake up even the simplest holiday menu. Eager hands scoop up this Colorful Antipasto Salad as soon as platters are passed. I find it’s a hit when people want a lighter option. Juicy veggies and savory bits bring a unique pop of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad
Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Creamy ham and potatoes offer rich comfort when the air turns brisk. Silence fades as stories swap over this Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole at Thanksgiving. I bring out multiple pans for larger groups. Steaming layers give everyone that familiar holiday feeling.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Savory Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread gets a new twist when packed with savory flavors in a stuffing dish. The crowd slowly gathers round this Savory Cornbread Stuffing once it’s set on the table. I make it for cheerful holiday meals that want some Southern charm. Soft and rich, with a hint of crumbly goodness, it pairs well with turkey.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing
Rich Creamed Spinach
Spinach baked in creamy sauce puts a special spin on the seasonal side lineup. There’s always plenty of buzz about this Rich Creamed Spinach during holiday gatherings. I serve it for events needing an option with a velvety texture. Deep green and mild flavor match cozy traditions.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach
Creamy Pumpkin Soup
Bowls filled with warm soup signal the start of a comforting Thanksgiving spread. Guests light up over this Creamy Pumpkin Soup as it’s ladled into cups. I serve extra so there’s enough for seconds. Silky texture and subtle spice blend into a memorable starter for cold nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup
Creamy Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad with a gentle, creamy touch fits well alongside heavier Thanksgiving favorites. Salads like this Creamy Macaroni Salad get plenty of attention on crowded buffet tables. I keep a batch chilled for picky eaters. Soft pasta and tangy dressing create a sense of balance with familiar flavors.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Macaroni Salad
Hearty Stuffed Cabbage
Rolling cabbage with savory fillings brings excitement to tradition-loving guests. This Hearty Stuffed Cabbage always gets lively comments from those who enjoy something different. I put it out for holiday dinners needing a bold but comforting dish. Steamed leaves and rich insides keep appetites happy.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Cabbage
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Crowd-pleasing hashbrowns with gooey cheese earn rave reviews as soon as the pan is out. Hungry guests rush for this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole at family gatherings. I make double for extra mouths. Soft bites and creamy edges bring instant warmth to busy tables.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Potatoes loaded with extra fixings make for a festive and filling Thanksgiving side. Smiles grow whenever this Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes arrives at holiday potlucks. I’ve found it’s perfect for welcoming hungry guests. Crisp shells stuffed with fluff and savory notes create a big hit.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Rich French Onion Soup
Bowls of onion soup with melted top offer true comfort as the autumn wind picks up. Cheering voices greet this Rich French Onion Soup during holiday gatherings. I love serving it for a cozy first course. The mix of sweet, savory, and creamy layers draws people in for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Rich French Onion Soup
Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Gathering around a table filled with comforting dishes brings people close during Thanksgiving. There’s curiosity for this Hearty Cabbage Casserole from guests new to veggie-based sides. I cook extra for anyone wanting a wholesome option. Tender cabbage and filling flavors help round out a perfect meal.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Slices of roasted cauliflower deliver a sturdy texture for meatless eaters at festive meals. Eyes widen for this Tender Cauliflower Steaks when a new side dish hits the table. I find it pairs well with rich entrees and classic casseroles. Savory, nutty flavor makes this a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Potatoes crisped at the edges bring both crunch and comfort to the Thanksgiving table. Guests reach for this Crispy Smashed Potatoes as soon as the platter arrives. I always make extra for leftovers. Bumpy texture and salty finish create a perfect bite every time.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Cheesy Potato Casserole
Cheesy potato casseroles take center stage when plates fill up for holiday dinner. People offer applause for this Cheesy Potato Casserole after the first scoop. I bake double batches for brunch as well as dinner. Creamy and golden, this classic feels like pure comfort as cold weather rolls in.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole
Savory Bread Stuffing
Traditional stuffing with hearty bread is hard to top on Thanksgiving. Each bite of this Savory Bread Stuffing gets nods from those wanting a classic side. I count on it for groups who love old-school flavors. Toasty and soft, with subtle herbs carrying the meal.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing
Fresh Beet Salad
Colorful beets sliced onto salad plates add brightness to even the busiest holiday table. Conversations start around this Fresh Beet Salad at every gathering. I prepare it for those looking for something light among the heavier sides. Crisp texture and vivid hues catch plenty of attention.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes mashed to fluffy perfection deliver both nutrition and flavor. Cheers greet this Mashed Sweet Potatoes especially at family dinners. I spoon out extra for balance alongside savory entrees. Smooth, orange cloud pairs just right with autumn’s best recipes.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Chicken and stuffing baked together makes holiday meals feel immediately comforting. Comments come quickly over this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole at bustling Thanksgiving feasts. I prep enough for last-second guests. Rich layers of familiar flavor invite everyone back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Easy, quick macaroni and cheese offers comfort for busy Thanksgiving kitchens. There’s never a shortage of good moods with this Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese on the table. I set it out for larger crowds. Silky texture and cheesy depth appeal to all ages.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Pillowy gnocchi made from sweet potatoes wins fans among diners seeking a twist on tradition. Happy discussions follow plates of this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi at autumn gatherings. I roll out extra servings to bring variety. Soft dumplings and smooth texture bring something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Tender Roasted Broccoli
Roasted vegetables stand out when done right for holiday sides. People grab extra of this Tender Roasted Broccoli whenever the platter passes. I always offer it as a lighter choice during heavy feasts. Slightly crisp florets pack a gentle bite.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Crispy Stuffing Balls
Bite-sized stuffing balls add fun to Thanksgiving plates and make sharing easy. Laughter surrounds trays of these Crispy Stuffing Balls at larger parties. I shape them for kids and adults alike. Crunchy exterior meets savory heart, creating a playful way to enjoy classic flavors.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls
Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes
Steak paired with honey chipotle sauce and potatoes brings robust flavor to the side table. Guests swarm for this Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes during autumn feasts. I serve plenty for those who like a hint of smoky sweetness. Tender bites offer big impact for the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes
Cheesy Eggplant Casserole
Eggplant with cheese baked to bubbling perfection gets even veggie skeptics reaching for seconds. Conversations begin when this Cheesy Eggplant Casserole appears at the buffet. I offer it for mixed company, knowing it changes minds. Creamy layers and golden edges tempt all who pass by.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole
Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
Applesauce with a cinnamon kick adds warmth and nostalgia to any Thanksgiving plate. This Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce finds its way onto dishes big and small throughout the meal. I ladle it up for younger guests as well as adults. Soft texture and spiced sweetness help balance heavier sides.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Fries always crowd plates fast at the end of a busy holiday meal. Wide grins appear whenever this Crispy Sweet Potato Fries arrives piping hot. I line trays for easy sharing at snack time. Toasty edges and tender centers add crunch and vibrant flavor.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Root veggies roasted to golden perfection combine autumn colors and earthy flavors in one pan. Excited chatter greets this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables as soon as it leaves the oven. I prep it for potlucks needing a healthy side. Sweet and savory elements mingle together for a bold finish.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Fluffy Egg Casserole
Baked eggs in a casserole provide a gentle, protein-rich start for Thanksgiving brunch. Guests always ask for more of this Fluffy Egg Casserole at holiday breakfasts. I serve it for busy mornings packed with activity. Soft texture and hearty notes get everyone ready for a day of feasting.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Casserole
Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Wedges of sweet potato with crisp exteriors find their way onto Thanksgiving buffets every year. Quickly grab these Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges before anything else. I roast extra because these go fast. Bright flavor and golden color bring variety to the plate.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Salad with a creamy sauce brings a fresh snap to dinner tables covered in casseroles. Comments come quickly over this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing during crowded meals. I keep bowls cold for guests who want lighter sides. Crisp veggies and tangy dressing keep things lively.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Mushroom Gravy
Gravy rich with mushrooms transforms mashed potatoes and meats into something special. Chatter grows for this Mushroom Gravy as soon as the serving spoon is picked up. I make enough for leftovers because it works on everything. Thick texture and earthy notes round out the meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy
Buttermilk Biscuits
Fluffy biscuits hot from the oven add instant comfort to Thanksgiving spreads. Guests scoop up these Buttermilk Biscuits no matter what time dinner’s served. I slide a basket onto every table. Soft crumb and gentle tang go with savory and sweet dishes alike.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits
Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Fresh apples in salad bring crunch and tart sweetness to the holiday lineup. Anticipation builds for this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad at busy brunches. I toss it up to cleanse the palate after heavier sides. Juicy apples and crisp greens refresh every guest.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Tender Sautéed Kale
Kale sautéed until perfectly tender provides a healthy touch to Thanksgiving dinner. People praise this Tender Sautéed Kale for its gentle texture and mellow flavor. I set out a pan for those skipping richer options. Soft greens stand up well amid hearty entrees.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale
Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Green bean always remains a staple at every holiday gathering. Guests rally around this Creamy Green Bean Casserole as plates are filled. I always double my batch for larger crowds. Smooth sauce and gentle crunch make this classic worth repeating.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Colorful 7 Layer Salad
Salad adds plenty of colors and flavors to busy holiday tables. Buzz continues around this Colorful 7 Layer Salad wherever it’s served. I prepare tall bowls so each scoop packs plenty of variety. Crunchy, creamy, and fresh, it keeps everyone coming back.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad
Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Cauliflower roasted just right delivers a dramatic presentation at Thanksgiving. Eyes light up for this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower on buffet tables. I set it out for guests who love striking dishes with subtle flavor. Crispy edges surround a tender center, making each slice memorable.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Crusty Focaccia Bread
Rustic focaccia brings out the best in soups and salads at the holiday table. People gather close to this Crusty Focaccia Bread once they spot its dimpled top and golden edges. I bake a few pans for sharing. Crisp bites and soft insides please every crowd.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread
Fresh Greek Salad
Salad loaded with veggies brings a Mediterranean twist to Thanksgiving dinner. Everyone can find something in this Fresh Greek Salad to build their plate. I mix it for guests who lighten up heavier entrees. Tangy, bright flavors spark appetite anew.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek Salad
Loaded Million Dollar Casserole
Rich casseroles stacked with flavor create buzz at the busiest holiday buffets. Plates fill up with this Loaded Million Dollar Casserole in minutes at my gatherings. I make a lot because seconds are a guarantee. Creamy layers and savory toppings keep spirits high.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Casserole
Comforting Turkey Soup
Soup made from Thanksgiving turkey lets guests return for comfort after the main event. Smiles greet this Comforting Turkey Soup at relaxed holiday lunches. I freeze leftovers to serve throughout Thanksgiving weekend. Hearty broth and tender meat remind everyone of autumn celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Soup
Creamy Mac and Cheese
This brings creaminess to every seat at the Thanksgiving table. Hands reach eagerly for this Creamy Mac and Cheese while stories and laughter flow. I serve extra for late-night snacks. Velvety texture and sharp cheddar deliver a beloved finish to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mac and Cheese
Layered Seven Layer Salad
Vibrant layers in salad bowls call attention to the lighter side of holiday feasts. Color buzz follows this Layered Seven Layer Salad into any gathering. I scoop it into tall jars for simple serving. Fresh crunch, creamy bites, and pops of flavor get conversations started.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad
Mashed Potato Casserole
Creamy mashed potatoes baked with crispy topping make any Thanksgiving plate more festive. Stories of past holidays surface with each serving of this Mashed Potato Casserole. I spread it thick for big crowds. Soft inside, golden top, this dish blends nostalgia with indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole
