49 Easy Thanksgiving Sides You’ll Make Again Next Year

Cheese pulls, warm pans, and endless comfort—Thanksgiving gets a little brighter with 49 irresistible sides in the mix. I’ve gathered every way I know to keep both traditions and surprises on the table, so holiday guests leave talking about more than just turkey.

Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

People at Thanksgiving always lean toward those extra-indulgent bites, and that’s where Loaded Million Dollar Casserole steals attention. There’s a rich, layered element that keeps everyone coming back for another helping during cool fall evenings. By the time leftovers roll around, no one forgets how satisfying it was to scoop up by the forkful.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

Comforting Turkey Soup

There’s something so grounding about a bowl that warms you up as autumn settles in, which is why Comforting Turkey Soup belongs on this list. That gentle aroma seems to wrap around guests, signaling the celebration is more than food alone. I find this one is the kind of recipe people request again during chilly weeknights after Thanksgiving, too.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Soup

Tender Sautéed Kale

For those moments you need something green to break up all the starch, Tender Sautéed Kale comes to the rescue. Each forkful brings a subtle earthiness, with just enough freshness to lighten up any heavy spread. I serve this and listen as people comment on its gentle texture compared to every other side on the table.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Hardly anyone can resist the wow factor when Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes appear at Thanksgiving dinner. That golden, bubbly top pulls people in, while the extra layers underneath make every bite last longer than expected. I notice guests gather around, waiting for their turn to taste the filling, especially when everything else is just as tempting.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Autumn air feels even richer with dishes like Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze on the table. As the sweet aroma starts to fill the kitchen, people gravitate toward this side, wanting to see what makes it different from typical Brussels recipes. I always notice empty plates quickest when this is part of the spread.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Creamy Macaroni Salad

When cool weather doesn’t stop guests from craving summer staples, Creamy Macaroni Salad bridges the gap. Each bowl stands out against the heavier mains, making the table feel balanced and complete during Thanksgiving gatherings. I bring extras because people tend to go back for a second scoop after trying something warm and slow-cooked.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Macaroni Salad

Rich Turkey Gravy

Pouring Rich Turkey Gravy over everything brings together flavors and people in a way only Thanksgiving can. The smooth, warm sauce turns even plain sides into something guests won’t stop talking about, creating memories with each serving. Every season, I hear requests for just a little more of this after the turkey has disappeared.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

Savory French Onion Casserole

When a classic soup becomes a star side, you get Savory French Onion Casserole in the spotlight. The golden crust catches the light as it’s served, and guests can’t help but remark on the inviting scent wafting through the room. It’s a dish no one skips, even when the lineup is full of options.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

The pillowy texture of Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi changes up all pumpkin and potato expectations at Thanksgiving. Each morsel just feels a little more special, so people linger and compare bites, asking what makes it different in the fall lineup. After one year, this side’s now expected at my own celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Crusty Focaccia Bread

Autumn meals ask for bread with plenty to offer, which is why I add Crusty Focaccia Bread whenever I can. The crackling exterior and soft inside pair beautifully with every other side, quickly filling up baskets at Thanksgiving. Large gatherings feel warmer with this never-ending supply on the table.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Easy Cornbread Casserole

Busy holidays mean you need simplicity, so Easy Cornbread Casserole deserves its spot among Thanksgiving favorites. Each bite tastes like a celebration—light, sweet, and perfect for layering with gravy or sauces. When I serve it, people always ask how to make it, hoping it’ll become one of their own fall traditions.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Everyone knows Thanksgiving isn’t complete without the ruby sparkle of Homemade Cranberry Sauce next to the turkey. I watch as the sweet-tart flavor balances bite after bite, drawing guests in for second servings even when more sides appear. People often request my recipe for holiday gatherings after they try this.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

Cooler weather calls for indulgence, and Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto delivers with every spoonful. That earthy aroma floats across the room, creating anticipation even before anyone takes a forkful. I hear people murmur about the creamy texture and deep flavor, always eager to make this their new holiday staple.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Not every Thanksgiving side has to be classic, which is why Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad brings freshness to the table. The balance of sweet and heat sparks lively chatter as everyone tries it between heavier dishes. Bright color is a bonus; it always stands out, encouraging guests to sample something different during the autumn feast.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Serving Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes means watching guests return to the dish again and again, drawn in by its hearty look. The distinct texture and depth of flavor turn even ordinary moments into a celebration, perfect for fall nights with friends and family. Once people try it, they tend to remember exactly how it felt to spoon that extra-rich side onto their plate.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Thanksgiving can get hectic, but Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese makes quick comfort possible. That silky sauce coats each noodle, turning family-style bowls into instant crowd-pleasers. Over the years, I’ve learned people don’t care that it’s easy—they care about how perfectly warm and satisfying it feels with every scoop.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole

Guests start talking about breakfast-for-dinner the moment Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole appears at Thanksgiving supper. Savory layers and gentle aromas bring a feeling of nostalgia to anyone at the table. The crowd is always fascinated by how a morning staple can fit so naturally into holiday evenings, creating all kinds of requests for extra servings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole

Layered Seven Layer Salad

Layer after layer of colorful veggies makes Layered Seven Layer Salad one of the most impressive-looking sides for Thanksgiving. People ask about the structure before they even grab a fork, curious how those vibrant layers hold their shape. Conversations start easily because of the visual pop, especially during autumn celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Rich Creamed Spinach

Creamed sides are a tradition in fall, and I find Rich Creamed Spinach stands out for its smooth, comforting consistency. The glossy look signals everyone to take a bite, and most come back for another once they taste just how gentle the flavor really is. When it makes the lineup, people know a warm bowl awaits them.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Soft and golden, the aroma from Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto stands out as soon as guests walk in for Thanksgiving. There’s a warmth and richness to this side that feels particularly right for celebrating cooler autumn nights. For many, that creamy texture becomes one of the most memorable parts of the holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Mushroom Gravy

Bowls of smooth, warm sauce turn ordinary sides into something extraordinary, and that’s why I offer Mushroom Gravy each Thanksgiving. Guests mention the deep, earthy notes the moment they drizzle it onto their plates, sparking satisfied smiles all around. Each year, someone asks how this makes everything taste just a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Autumn dinners feel more complete when the table has something unexpected—like Tender Cauliflower Steaks—among all the classic sides. Each slice brings savory flavor and gentle texture, adding both color and variety to traditional Thanksgiving fare. It never lasts long once people see how inviting it looks.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

The vibrant colors of Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables draw guests in every holiday season. Warm, caramel notes linger as each root vegetable gets its moment on the platter, and people frequently ask how such simple sides become so festive. By the end of dinner, I realize it’s often among the first bowls to empty.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Thanksgiving brings together all the best pumpkin flavors, and Creamy Pumpkin Soup delivers in a silky, inviting bowl. Each year, guests comment on how comforting it feels to start a meal with warmth and subtle sweetness. Even people who skip soup elsewhere ask for a taste when this shows up on the holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Mixing things up keeps Thanksgiving interesting, and Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes does exactly that for the dinner table. The scent is enough to spark excitement before guests even sit down, bringing a little spice and sweetness into the lineup. Requests for repeat appearances come up fast once everyone experiences the flavor combination.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Golden orange color and crisp edges make Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges impossible to overlook at Thanksgiving. I watch guests pause, catching the rich aroma and crunch as they reach for one right off the platter. For autumn meals, it’s hard to beat the instant crowd appeal of this easy side.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges

Fresh Greek Salad

When the table is heavy with hearty fare, a little lightness helps, and Fresh Greek Salad is always my answer for Thanksgiving. The refreshing bites offer crunch and tang, creating relief between creamy, rich dishes that dominate the feast. The colors draw eyes, making it a natural centerpiece amid all the autumn classics.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek Salad

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Every oven dish holds a story, and Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole quickly becomes the favorite chapter at Thanksgiving gatherings. Once people taste that dreamy texture, they always mention how comforting it feels against the backdrop of fall traditions. The memory of this side sticks around long after the plates are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Tender Roasted Broccoli

Deeper flavor and gentle crispness set Tender Roasted Broccoli apart at any autumn celebration. Comments about the color and aroma show that guests notice something special every time they try this side. I appreciate how quickly it disappears—a signal that even simple vegetables can create lasting moments on busy Thanksgiving evenings.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Colorful Antipasto Salad

Bringing a burst of energy to the table, Colorful Antipasto Salad transforms Thanksgiving gatherings with every scoop. Bright flavors combine and stand out among the usual sides, and guests tend to ask whether it’ll make an appearance the next year. One year’s experience is enough for people to look forward to this one again.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Soft Garlic Knots

Warm baskets of bread play a key role in holiday comfort, and Soft Garlic Knots always find a space at my Thanksgiving table. People reach for the scent first, anticipating the pillowy texture with each bite. I make extra because everyone tries grabbing more than they did the time before.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Hearty Breakfast Casserole

Some sides break the rules, and Hearty Breakfast Casserole is loved as much for dinner as for Thanksgiving morning. Guests send compliments about the filling, savory layers after they’ve tasted how it works alongside both classic and new dishes. Requests for leftovers fill my messages the day after Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Breakfast Casserole

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Forks hit the platter quickly when Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes are added to the side selection during Thanksgiving. Crunch gives every bite an inviting start, and the golden exterior makes people comment on the festive look right away. It’s become an annual conversation starter about crispy sides.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Soft Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm bread is the heart of every autumn celebration, with Soft Dinner Rolls making that comfort come alive for guests. I see hands reach across the table to pass baskets, and conversations bloom about homemade traditions and favorite recipes. The tender, pillowy texture lingers in memories long after dinner, as leftovers lead to more requests.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls

Fluffy Egg Casserole

Light and airy textures balance heavier Thanksgiving fare, which is where Fluffy Egg Casserole shines. The gentle lift in every bite makes guests talk about how it supports the meal without stealing the spotlight. I serve this when I need an option for people who want something easy and gentle after turkey and potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Casserole

Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Apples take on new life in autumn, and Crisp Honeycrisp Salad becomes an instant favorite during Thanksgiving. Vibrant crunch brings color and energy to the table, encouraging guests to try something unexpected amid the classics. I see people recommending it to others as soon as the meal ends.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Rich, savory filling adds a touch of comfort to fall meals, and Hearty Stuffed Cabbage always draws interest from Thanksgiving guests. Each roll feels substantial and warming, perfect for a night when everyone’s looking for a little more substance. By the time leftovers are packed, requests for recipes have already come in.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

When people ask for casual sides during Thanksgiving, I introduce Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole as a crowd-pleaser that breaks tradition in the best way. The crunchy exterior and creamy interior turn heads, and guests laugh about how childhood favorites get a grown-up twist for autumn celebrations. This dish always has a fan club by the end of dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Traditional flavors with a modern spin make Crispy Stuffing Balls the surprise hit of Thanksgiving parties. Crunchy outside and savory inside combine just right for those who want something extra special on the table. Each plate holds more conversation than usual as everyone asks for the secret behind their crackling texture.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Seasonal color bursts into the room with Colorful 7 Layer Salad, perfect for those wanting a visual highlight at their Thanksgiving spread. Guests never fail to ask about the layers before diving in, and the fresh taste gives relief from heavier dishes. This one always gets requests for repeat appearances next fall.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad

Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Many believe stuffing must be bread alone, but Savory Cornbread Stuffing offers a change for those looking to celebrate autumn in new ways. The gentle texture and hint of richness inspire comments about how it sets off turkey and gravy perfectly. Warm fall nights feel even more inviting when this casserole comes out of the oven.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Stuffing

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

No Thanksgiving meal feels complete without a smooth serving of Buttery Mashed Potatoes, always the first to vanish. The creamy texture offers a comforting backdrop for every other side, and plates come back scraped clean by the end of the night. That classic taste sticks with people, building new memories every year.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole

Mixing all the favorites together brings a sense of celebration, and that’s exactly what Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole delivers. Spice, crunch, and warmth spread across the table as guests try bites from every section, comparing what they love most about this autumn centerpiece. Most years, a quick showdown starts over who gets the last serving.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole

Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Looking for showpiece-style variety? The vibrant Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board brings excitement and fun to holiday tables. Colors and flavors pop, giving guests something to talk about before and after the meal during autumn get-togethers. I find it lets everyone try something new, and the interactive style brings people close, sharing snacks and stories.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Every Thanksgiving, casual comfort is what most people really crave, so Cheesy Funeral Potatoes never disappoint. I catch comments about the soft inside and golden, bubbly top as soon as it’s served. This side has a loyal following—guests trade stories about eating it during holiday events in previous years.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Textures and tradition blend nicely with Creamy Green Bean Casserole, a side that brings warmth to autumn gatherings. That familiar aroma cues everyone to head for a serving, and the gentle richness gets mentioned again and again at the holiday table. When dinner ends, guests remember how comforting this dish felt.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Savory Bread Stuffing

Classic flavors always win the holiday, and Savory Bread Stuffing comes out ahead for cozy Thanksgiving dinners. I notice people gravitate toward its aroma the moment pans come out of the oven, eager to taste a tradition they can never skip. Conversation centers on how the texture supports all the other side dishes, making plates feel full and festive.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Crunchy Celery Salad

Crispy freshness cuts through all the richness, so I use Crunchy Celery Salad whenever Thanksgiving feels heavy. Each bite wakes up taste buds and brings a gentle snap to the dinner table. Guests chat about the relief this side brings compared to more decadent dishes, and it often gets more compliments than expected.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Cheesy Potato Casserole

Total comfort and endless requests keep Cheesy Potato Casserole front and center at Thanksgiving gatherings. Whenever plates fill up, the warmth and cheesy pull put smiles on faces, starting friendly debates about whose recipe is best. I notice that even after everyone’s had their fill, leftovers get swept up fast—no one wants this staple to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole