18 Thanksgiving Side Dishes That Complete Your Holiday Feast

Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and of course, enjoying an unforgettable meal. While turkey often takes center stage, the real magic of the holiday lies in the side dishes. They bring color, comfort, and tradition to the table, balancing the richness of the main course with flavors that range from savory to sweet.

Think of creamy mashed potatoes, buttery dinner rolls, and a bubbling green bean casserole straight out of the oven. These are the recipes that make Thanksgiving truly feel like Thanksgiving. They’ve been passed down through generations, yet they remain timeless favorites year after year.

If you’re planning your holiday menu and want to stick with tradition, this guide has you covered. Here are 18 classic Thanksgiving side dishes that will make your feast memorable, satisfying, and filled with the flavors everyone craves.

No.1. Classic Mashed Potatoes

No Thanksgiving table feels complete without a big bowl of creamy mashed potatoes. This side dish is beloved for its rich, buttery flavor and smooth, fluffy texture that perfectly complements turkey and gravy. Mashed potatoes serve as a blank canvas for soaking up the savory juices on your plate, making them one of the most versatile sides you can serve.

The beauty of mashed potatoes lies in their simplicity. With just potatoes, butter, cream, and a touch of seasoning, you get a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet familiar. Many families add their own little twist—perhaps roasted garlic for depth, sour cream for tang, or extra butter for that melt-in-your-mouth richness.

When paired with a hearty turkey gravy, mashed potatoes elevate every bite of your Thanksgiving dinner. They’re also the dish that most guests look forward to, often piling their plates high with a generous scoop.

No.2. Traditional Bread Stuffing

Stuffing is one of the most nostalgic Thanksgiving side dishes, filled with savory flavors and warm spices. This dish often brings back childhood memories of family kitchens filled with the aroma of herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary. Traditional bread stuffing combines cubes of bread, onions, celery, broth, and herbs to create a dish that’s both hearty and comforting.

Every family has their own special way of preparing stuffing. Some use cornbread, others prefer sourdough, and some even mix in sausage, chestnuts, or cranberries. Whether it’s cooked inside the turkey or baked separately in a casserole dish, stuffing is always a centerpiece of the holiday meal.

The textures are what make stuffing so satisfying—crispy on the top, yet soft and flavorful underneath. It’s the kind of dish that pairs beautifully with every other item on the table.

No.3. Green Bean Casserole

This beloved casserole has been gracing Thanksgiving tables since the 1950s, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. With tender green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a topping of crispy fried onions, it’s a dish that offers comfort in every bite.

Green bean casserole is loved for its balance of textures—crunchy on top, soft and savory inside. The earthy mushrooms and beans combine with a creamy base, creating a perfect side to cut through the richness of turkey and potatoes.

What makes it even better is its simplicity. With a handful of ingredients, you can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven before serving. That convenience has made it a go-to holiday staple for generations.

Vegetables like green beans are packed with vitamins and fiber, making them an important addition to your holiday table.

To explore how everyday vegetables provide incredible health benefits, check out The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.

No.4. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Few Thanksgiving sides spark as much nostalgia as sweet potato casserole topped with golden, toasted marshmallows. The combination of naturally sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and butter creates a silky base that’s both comforting and indulgent. Add the marshmallow topping, and suddenly this side feels like dessert on your dinner plate.

Sweet potato casserole balances the savory dishes on the table with a welcome sweetness. Many families add pecans for crunch or a streusel topping for extra flavor. No matter how you prepare it, it’s a dish that brings joy and a bit of whimsy to the holiday.

The bright orange flesh of sweet potatoes isn’t just beautiful—it’s packed with vitamins like beta-carotene and fiber that support overall health. It’s proof that comfort food can also be nourishing.

No.5. Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is the tart, jewel-toned side that cuts through the richness of Thanksgiving dinner. Its vibrant color and refreshing tang make it the perfect partner for turkey and stuffing. Unlike canned versions, homemade cranberry sauce has a brightness and freshness that transforms the meal.

Made with just a few ingredients—fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange zest—this sauce is a simple yet powerful side dish. The cranberries burst while cooking, creating a sweet-tart mixture that’s both bold and refreshing.

Many people love experimenting with flavors, adding spices like cinnamon or cloves, or even a splash of port wine for depth. Served chilled or at room temperature, cranberry sauce brings balance to the table.

No.6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Brussels sprouts have made a big comeback in recent years, and for good reason. When roasted, they transform into golden, caramelized bites with a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with a tangy balsamic glaze. Once overlooked, these little green gems have now become a favorite Thanksgiving side dish.

Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while the balsamic glaze adds just the right touch of acidity. The result is a side that’s both savory and slightly sweet, with irresistible crispy edges.

They add a splash of vibrant green to your holiday table, balancing the heavier sides with freshness and crunch. Even guests who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts often change their minds after trying them roasted.

Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To learn more about cruciferous vegetables and their role in wellness, you’ll enjoy exploring The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.

No.7. Cornbread Stuffing

Cornbread stuffing brings a Southern twist to the Thanksgiving feast. With its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture, cornbread adds richness and depth to the classic stuffing recipe. Mixed with onions, celery, herbs, and broth, this version is hearty and satisfying.

The soft yet flavorful cornbread absorbs all the savory juices, creating a side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey and gravy. Many families enhance the recipe with sausage, bacon, or even jalapeños for a little kick.

Cornbread stuffing is a wonderful alternative to traditional bread stuffing, offering a different texture and taste that guests love. It’s rustic, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser.

No.8. Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are all about layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce until golden and bubbly. Rich, cheesy, and utterly indulgent, they’re a side dish that often disappears quickly.

The cream and cheese meld with the potatoes, creating a silky texture and decadent flavor. The golden crust on top adds just the right touch of crispiness. Scalloped potatoes are comforting, elegant, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

This dish pairs well with turkey but is just as delicious on its own. It’s also a great make-ahead recipe, freeing up oven space for the big day.

Potatoes, dairy, and cheese all have unique nutritional benefits.

No.9. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Honey-glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your Thanksgiving spread. Tender carrots coated in butter and honey develop a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes. The natural sweetness of carrots pairs beautifully with savory dishes, making them a versatile and welcome side.

This dish is all about balance—sweet, savory, and slightly caramelized. Many cooks add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a subtle earthy note. The bright orange color also adds cheer to the holiday table, reminding everyone of autumn’s bounty.

They’re quick to prepare, making them an easy last-minute addition if you need one more dish. Plus, they’re kid-friendly, often one of the first sides little ones scoop up.

Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which supports healthy vision and immune function.

If you’d like to explore how simple vegetables provide big health benefits, turn to The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.

No.10. Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a rich, velvety side dish that adds a touch of elegance to Thanksgiving. Tender spinach leaves are simmered in cream, butter, and a hint of nutmeg, creating a luscious texture and comforting flavor.

Its creamy consistency contrasts beautifully with roasted turkey and starchy sides like stuffing and potatoes. While simple, it feels indulgent, turning a humble vegetable into something truly special.

Many families prepare it ahead of time and reheat just before dinner, making it a practical dish for a busy holiday schedule. It’s also a great way to add a leafy green to the table in a form everyone will enjoy.

Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins.

No.11. Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash is a simple yet flavorful addition to any Thanksgiving table. Its natural sweetness intensifies in the oven, while the edges caramelize into golden perfection. Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, it delivers a dish that’s both rustic and comforting.

This side dish adds a splash of bright orange color to the holiday spread, complementing the earthy tones of stuffing and turkey. Some cooks like to enhance the flavor with maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon, while others add savory touches like sage or rosemary.

The creamy texture and sweet-savory balance make roasted butternut squash a hit with all ages. It’s easy to prepare and can be roasted alongside other vegetables, saving time and effort.

Butternut squash is high in vitamins A and C, making it as nourishing as it is delicious.

No.12. Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Dinner rolls may seem simple, but they’re one of the most essential sides at Thanksgiving. Soft, pillowy, and brushed with garlic butter, they’re perfect for sopping up gravy, cranberry sauce, and every last bit of deliciousness on your plate.

Freshly baked rolls add warmth and comfort to the table, filling the house with the irresistible aroma of yeast and butter. Whether homemade or bought from a bakery, they bring a touch of tradition that guests look forward to.

Garlic butter elevates them, adding flavor without overpowering the rest of the meal. A basket of warm rolls passed around the table is the kind of small tradition that makes Thanksgiving feel complete.

Grains like wheat have long been staples of human diets.

If you’re interested in how simple ingredients shape our health, The Encyclopedia of Power Foods has fascinating insights.

No.13. Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese may not have been on the very first Thanksgiving table, but it has become a staple in many homes. Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a side dish that both kids and adults adore. Rich and indulgent, it provides a wonderful contrast to roasted meats and vegetables.

Baked versions with a golden breadcrumb topping bring extra crunch and flavor. Families often personalize their mac and cheese with different cheese blends, from sharp cheddar to Gruyère, for depth and creaminess.

It’s hearty, comforting, and endlessly satisfying—a dish you’ll likely see scooped onto plates multiple times throughout dinner.

Cheese and pasta offer unique nutritional profiles, and learning about their place in a balanced diet can be enlightening.

No.14. Glazed Pearl Onions

Glazed pearl onions are a timeless side dish that often surprises guests with how delicious they are. These tiny onions are simmered until tender, then coated in a glossy glaze made with butter and sugar, sometimes with a splash of vinegar for balance.

Their sweet, mild flavor complements savory dishes like turkey and stuffing beautifully. They also add visual appeal to the holiday table, their glossy sheen catching the candlelight and standing out among the spread.

Though often overlooked, pearl onions bring a touch of old-fashioned elegance to Thanksgiving. They’re a dish that reminds us of traditions worth keeping.

Onions are rich in antioxidants and compounds that support overall health.

No.15. Corn Pudding

Corn pudding is a creamy, custard-like dish that blends corn kernels with eggs, milk, and butter for a side that’s sweet, savory, and utterly comforting. It has a soft texture that melts in your mouth, making it one of the coziest additions to the Thanksgiving table.

Its golden color and naturally sweet flavor make it a hit with guests of all ages. Corn pudding pairs perfectly with both turkey and ham, balancing the savory flavors with its subtle sweetness.

Some families add cheese, jalapeños, or even bacon to put their own twist on this classic dish. However you make it, it always feels special and festive.

Corn is a nutrient-rich grain that has fueled civilizations for centuries.

Discover more about its fascinating role in nutrition in The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.

No.16. Turkey Gravy

Gravy isn’t just a side dish—it’s the glue that ties the entire Thanksgiving plate together. Made from the drippings of the roasted turkey, it’s rich, savory, and deeply flavorful. Pour it over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or turkey slices, and suddenly everything tastes even better.

A good gravy has just the right consistency—not too thick, not too thin—and carries the roasted flavors of the bird. Many families consider making gravy an art, with secret techniques passed down for generations.

It’s the finishing touch every Thanksgiving dinner needs, elevating every bite with its luscious texture and flavor. Without it, the table simply feels incomplete.

No.17. Waldorf Salad

While many Thanksgiving sides are warm and hearty, Waldorf salad brings a refreshing balance. Made with crisp apples, celery, walnuts, and grapes tossed in a creamy dressing, it offers crunch and sweetness in every bite.

The combination of textures—crisp fruit, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing—makes it stand out among the heavier dishes on the table. Its bright, fresh flavors cleanse the palate and add variety to the feast.

This salad has a history dating back to the late 1800s, yet it continues to find its way to holiday tables because it complements the richness of a traditional Thanksgiving spread so well.

Apples, grapes, and walnuts are all nutrient-packed ingredients worth celebrating.

No.18. Pumpkin Pie

Though technically a dessert, pumpkin pie deserves a mention because Thanksgiving wouldn’t feel right without it. With its smooth, spiced filling and flaky crust, it’s the dish that signals the perfect end to a holiday meal.

Pumpkin pie brings warmth and comfort with every bite, flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Served with whipped cream or ice cream, it’s the treat everyone saves room for, no matter how full they are.

Pumpkin itself is rich in vitamins and fiber, proving that indulgence and nutrition can go hand in hand. Its deep orange color and creamy texture are as inviting as the flavors themselves.

To uncover more about pumpkin’s nutritional value and cultural history, flip through The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, family, and the flavors we cherish most. These 18 classic Thanksgiving side dishes bring comfort, nostalgia, and warmth to your holiday table, ensuring that every bite feels special. From creamy mashed potatoes to tangy cranberry sauce, each recipe has a way of connecting generations and creating memories that last well beyond the dinner itself.

As you prepare your feast, remember that it doesn’t have to be complicated. With a handful of timeless recipes and a heart full of gratitude, you’ll create a meal that everyone will remember. Thanksgiving is about togetherness, and these classic side dishes are the perfect way to bring people closer around the table.