51 Thanksgiving Side Dishes I Can’t Stop Making
Holiday meals get easier when side dishes steal the spotlight. This set of 51 options solves the “not enough space on the table” situation fast. Each one brings something different, which keeps the meal interesting and stops anyone from asking where the takeout menu is. There is no stress here, just solid sides that always get cleared first.

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Starting with something cozy, Hearty Cabbage Casserole is a simple dish that feels homey. This baked casserole is hearty yet light, balancing textures perfectly. Whether shared at a table or prepped for leftovers, it’s a must-have. It always hits the spot during the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

These Easy Honey Glazed Carrots are a great side dish that ties meals together effortlessly. Perfect for pairing with almost anything, their natural sweetness shines. They’re quick, fuss-free, and made to complement the main course. You’ll want these again before the holiday season ends.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Fresh Beet Salad

If you’re after something bright and refreshing, try the Fresh Beet Salad. This colorful dish is cool, light, and cleanses your palate nicely. It works great as a contrast to heavier meals on the table. People always go back for seconds with this one.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad
Crusty Focaccia Bread

For bread lovers, Crusty Focaccia Bread is bound to be a favorite at the table. It’s got the perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft center. Pair it up with soups or casseroles for a complete meal. Everyone usually snags a slice before anything else.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread
Savory French Onion Casserole

Savory French Onion Casserole gives you all those classic soup flavors in a creamy, layered dish. The golden topping is always the first thing to catch your eye. Call it comfort food or not; it’s great on its own or as a side dish. Don’t be surprised when people ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole
Fresh Greek Salad

A refreshing option is Fresh Greek Salad, perfect for cutting through rich or heavier dishes. It’s simple but stands out with its fresh crunch and light taste. Bring it to the table, and it’ll be gone before you know it. It’s just a feel-good addition to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek Salad
Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole

Starting the day right means Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole for many. This all-in-one breakfast dish keeps everyone happy and full. Layers of satisfying ingredients make it special and filling. It’s ideal for kicking off busy holiday mornings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole
Comforting Turkey Soup

Comforting Turkey Soup is perfect for winding down or warming up after a big meal. Packed with simple, rich elements, it’s the ultimate next-day option. It’s warming, hearty, and always worth keeping in the post-holiday rotation. You won’t mind having this again as leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Soup
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

For something that feels homemade and cozy, Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is the answer. It’s layers of comfort baked to perfection and ready to please. This one’s a reliable pick for family dinners. Everyone will be talking about how good it was after it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Quick and perfect for crowd-pleasing, Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is easy to whip up. It’s rich, cheesy, and just the right kind of creamy for a side dish. Families seem to love it, whether kids or adults. You’ll definitely add it to your holiday rotation.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

For a veggie dish with a twist, try Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Sweet and tender, they bring something different to the table. They pair surprisingly well with all your Thanksgiving staples. These are often the surprise hit at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Rich French Onion Soup

When you want something warm and filling, Rich French Onion Soup never disappoints. It’s simple but hearty and pairs perfectly with that loaf of bread you have on hand. The flavors really shine together with that cheesy topping. Save some room, it’s worth it.
Get the Recipe: Rich French Onion Soup
Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Sometimes, a dish can sneak up on you and become a favorite. Hearty Stuffed Cabbage is one of those, offering a balanced mix of flavors in every bite. It feels so comforting and pairs well with nearly any main dish. This one will always find a spot on your table.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Cabbage
Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce

Applesauce doesn’t have to feel plain, and Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce proves it. It’s an easy side that friends and family tend to scoop generously. The hint of spice makes it stand out without feeling overpowering. This dish is a simple way to add something fun to the mix.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Cinnamon Applesauce
Crispy Stuffing Balls

For something different, try Crispy Stuffing Balls. They are a bit unexpected but incredibly easy to serve and eat. You’ll love how they complement the other sides without taking up too much table space. They’re pretty much guaranteed to be gone fast.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls
Easy Cornbread Casserole

Need a classic corn side with a twist? Easy Cornbread Casserole handles that perfectly and works for even picky eaters. It’s simple, cozy, and always dependable for holiday dinners. It’s one of those dishes you might find yourself making all year.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Colorful Antipasto Salad

It’s always nice to have a fresh side, and Colorful Antipasto Salad fits that vibe. Made to give the table some variety, this salad perfectly balances the heavier dishes. It adds texture, brightness, and plenty of deliciousness without being too overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad
Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

If you’re looking for a side with a rich element, Cheesy Eggplant Casserole makes a great choice. It’s got a feel-good heartiness that works with all the main Thanksgiving staples. This one’s a crowd-pleaser for anyone who’s not shy about cheese. Super easy to share too.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole
Creamy Pumpkin Soup

There’s something special about Creamy Pumpkin Soup as part of a holiday menu. It works great as an opener, warming everyone up before the main dishes. The texture is smooth, and it’s well-suited for bowl-and-spoon moments. Try this for a change of pace wherever you are.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup
Classic Southern Cornbread

Cornbread feels like home in every bite, and Classic Southern Cornbread truly gives that vibe. It has that simple, memorable taste that makes it a favorite. Great alongside gravy, cornbread holds its own even without any extra toppings. This dish is always a staple we go to.
Get the Recipe: Classic Southern Cornbread
Savory Bread Stuffing

With Thanksgiving meals, you can’t skip something like Savory Bread Stuffing. It has that classic familiarity that just fits the season so well. A perfect side for your turkey, it also works on its own as a little comfort dish. It’s a must no matter how small your gathering is.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing
Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

If you want something creamy and just a bit unexpected, Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto is a neat pick. It brings something different to traditional holiday sides while still blending well on the plate. Smooth and easy to share, it’s always worth making room for.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Tender Roasted Broccoli

Something green on the table is always nice, and Tender Roasted Broccoli does the job perfectly. It’s roasted just right to give that balance of soft and crisp. Easy to serve in a bowl or platter, this is one of those sides you can count on. Everyone likes broccoli done well.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Sometimes a casserole can really steal the show, and Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole gets close. It’s hearty, simple, and fits in nicely with Thanksgiving vibes. Always reliable for both big dinners or casual get-togethers. This one’s hard not to reach for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Everyone always loves a mix of layers in one dish. Colorful 7 Layer Salad packs a variety of textures all in one bowl. It’s great for serving a crowd at Thanksgiving and looks stunning on the table. This is a classic that never seems to get old or boring.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad
Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

People can’t get enough of rich sides this time of year. Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes are creamy and fulfilling in every bite. This dish delivers that hearty goodness everyone craves. It’s bound to be a hit at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Creamy Macaroni Salad

It’s hard to go wrong with cold salads during the holidays. Creamy Macaroni Salad is always a crowd favorite. The mix of pasta and creamy dressing just hits right at big gatherings. Simple and easy, this dish is perfect when you want something quick but popular.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Macaroni Salad
Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Sometimes you need something cheesy to enjoy on Thanksgiving. Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole fits the bill with its crispy and cheesy vibes. It’s the kind of dish that everyone always grabs seconds of. Plus, it’s great for feeding a big group without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy sides are always a win, and this one is no exception. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries work for both kids and adults. These are the kind of fries that disappear quickly because they pair well with so many dishes. They’re a reliable addition to almost any spread.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

Few dishes scream comfort like this casserole option. Loaded Million Dollar Casserole packs a punch of hearty ingredients that keep people coming back for more. It has everything a great holiday side needs to make people happy. Expect it to be one of the first empty dishes at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Casserole
Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

A fresh salad always balances out rich sides perfectly. Crisp Honeycrisp Salad is the perfect addition when you need a lighter option at the table. Its fresh crunch is refreshing without being boring. It’s a go-to salad when trying to keep things simple yet delicious.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Green beans are always a hit at Thanksgiving. Creamy Green Bean Casserole is a timeless favorite that makes a lot of smiles happen. This dish gives you that nice mix of creamy with a bit of crunch. It works well among those heavier main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Broccoli shines in this classic salad option. Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing strikes the right balance between creamy and crisp textures. It’s perfect when you need a veggie side that everyone enjoys. Plus, it looks great next to just about any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

Casseroles know how to bring that comforting vibe to the holidays. Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole really hits the spot when it’s chilly outside. This warm dish with ham and potatoes always keeps people asking for seconds. It’s easy to make and suits holidays perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Some sides are made to feed a big group effortlessly. Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables bring out the earthy richness of simple ingredients. It’s an easy way to add variety to your holiday menu without overthinking it. Perfect for soaking up any gravy or sauce!
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potatoes are always a hit during Thanksgiving. Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges offer the perfect crunch and are mildly sweet, making them hard to resist. They pair well with just about anything on the table. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole

When you want a dish packed with comfort, this fits the bill. Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole combines layers of hearty flavors into one dish. It’s a showstopper that feels like a whole meal by itself. It’s one of those sides that guests always request every year.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole
Crunchy Celery Salad

Sometimes it’s the simple dishes that make a big impact. Crunchy Celery Salad brings a perfect balance of fresh texture alongside the richer sides. This dish is light, crisp, and refreshing, which makes it a great addition to the table. It’s a nice change that keeps everything balanced.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad
Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Potatoes are a staple for big meals, but these take it up a notch. Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes are bursting with flavor and packed with hearty ingredients. They’re a crowd pleaser and an easy way to add variety to your spread. Just make more than you think you’ll need, they’re always gone fast.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Fluffy Egg Casserole

There’s something comforting about eggs baked to perfection. Fluffy Egg Casserole has the perfect texture that makes it feel light yet comforting. It works as a breakfast dish or a light side for dinner, fitting right in with the holiday feast. An easy crowd-pleaser for family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Casserole
Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Take sweet potatoes in a whole new direction this year. Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi brings something special to the table with a soft, pillowy texture. It’s a great twist on tradition and works well as a unique side or part of a larger meal. This unexpected option has a way of leaving an impression.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Mushroom Gravy

Every good meal can use a sauce that brings everything together. Mushroom Gravy is rich and smooth, making every bite feel complete. It’s perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, turkey, or stuffing. Once it’s on the table, people will be reaching for it all night.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy
Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

You can never go wrong with crispy potatoes, and these are impossible to ignore. Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes look great, taste amazing, and are fun to eat. They’re crunchy and packed with flavors, making them an instant classic. It’s one option that always disappears before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Rich Creamed Spinach

Spinach might not usually be the standout dish at Thanksgiving, but that changes here. Rich Creamed Spinach is creamy and hearty, offering a delicious way to add greens to the table. It’s so smooth and fulfilling that it pairs with just about anything. One scoop will definitely have folks coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach
Hearty Breakfast Casserole

Getting the morning started off with something hearty never hurts. Hearty Breakfast Casserole combines savory ingredients in one dish that’s perfect for sharing. It’s filling, warm, and sets the tone for a great holiday ahead. Serve it fresh and hot, it’s an easy win for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Breakfast Casserole
Rich Turkey Gravy

Gravy can make or break a Thanksgiving feast, and this one hits the spot. Rich Turkey Gravy has a smooth quality that adds depth to everything it touches. Whether it’s mashed potatoes or turkey, it pulls the whole plate together. Keep extra on hand because it always goes fast!
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy
Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Cranberries don’t have to be boring or one-note. Homemade Cranberry Sauce adds the perfect balance of tangy and sweet to your table. It works great as a sidekick to the turkey or even on its own. A simple addition that rounds out your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Chicken salad can be so much better than the basic kinds you’re used to. Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad is a mix of fresh, bold flavors for a perfect combo. It’s got just the right amount of sweet and warmth to keep things interesting. Great for an easy side that feels like something extra.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Tender Sautéed Kale

Greens have never been as easy to serve as with Tender Sautéed Kale. This dish works alongside just about everything else on the table. Simple and tasty, it’s a veggie that’s filling and goes beyond the usual green sides. Perfect for keeping things balanced in your meal spread.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale
Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

When you want a hearty and bold plate, look to Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. It’s a balanced mix of proteins and carbs that goes all in on flavor. The sweet and smoky duo makes this dish stand out at the table. It’s great for those who love something a little more rich and savory in their lineup.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes
Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Mix up your table spread with something new like Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board. It’s loaded with a fun variety that brings a fresh take to the holiday meal. Perfect for snacking or as a cool centerpiece for the dinner setup. It brings everyone together with an easy, shareable option.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board
