25 Easy Thanksgiving Side Dishes You’ll Actually Enjoy Making This Year

Thanksgiving Side Dishes Dilemma

Thanksgiving has this funny way of sneaking up on us, doesn’t it? One moment you’re carving pumpkins and sipping apple cider, and the next you’re staring at your kitchen, wondering how on earth you’re going to pull off a feast for ten people (including that one relative who doesn’t eat anything green). The truth is, Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey — it’s about the side dishes. Those humble, glorious plates that make the whole meal feel complete.

But here’s the good news: pulling together an unforgettable spread doesn’t have to feel like running a marathon in the kitchen. This guide to 22 easy side dishes for Thanksgiving is your survival kit for the holiday rush. Every recipe here is simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to earn you the title of “Kitchen Hero” for the night. No fancy gadgets. No complicated prep. Just real food that tastes amazing and makes people smile.

Think of this as your mix-and-match Thanksgiving menu. From crispy roasted potatoes to buttery biscuits and bright, crunchy salads that balance the feast, there’s something for everyone — even the picky eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or hosting a cozy dinner for two, these sides are proof that delicious doesn’t have to mean difficult.

So, take a deep breath, tie that apron, and maybe pour yourself a pre-dinner glass of something nice. Let’s make this Thanksgiving the one where you actually get to sit down, laugh, and enjoy the meal — without a single kitchen meltdown. Ready? Let’s dig in!

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Classic Comforts That Always Belong on the Table

There’s something sacred about the classics. No matter how creative Thanksgiving menus get — quinoa stuffing, vegan gravy, kale everything — there are a few dishes that will always have a permanent spot on the table. These recipes are simple, satisfying, and built on nostalgia. They’re the familiar flavors that make your kitchen smell like home and have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds — no judgment here).

Garlic Roast Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside — the kind of potatoes that make you abandon your fork and grab a few straight from the tray. A quick toss in olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, then roasted until golden perfection. Garnish with parsley, and you’ve got a side dish that works with everything from turkey to green beans.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potatoes in olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through until crisp and golden.
5. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

No Thanksgiving plate is complete without a mountain of creamy mashed potatoes. Soft, buttery, and smooth, they’re the ultimate comfort food. The trick? Warm cream and butter — never cold — to keep that velvety texture. Top with fresh chives and a touch of salt, and you’ve just made magic in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender.
2. Drain and mash until smooth.
3. Stir in warm cream and butter for a rich, silky texture.
4. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with chopped chives before serving.

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Ditch the can opener. This tangy, jewel-toned sauce takes all of 15 minutes and tastes like a holiday hug. Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and a splash of water until they burst and thicken. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Cook for 10–15 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
4. Allow to cool; it will continue to thicken as it rests.

Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese

Creamy, golden, and covered in a crunchy breadcrumb topping — this mac and cheese earns its spot next to the turkey every year. It’s comfort food with a little swagger. Perfect for kids, adored by adults, and dangerously addictive. Make extra, because leftovers don’t stand a chance.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup butter
• ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter, then stir in cream and cheeses until smooth.
4. Combine with cooked macaroni, then transfer to a baking dish.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Veggie Sides That Steal the Spotlight

Sure, turkey gets all the attention, but let’s be honest — the real magic of Thanksgiving lives in the sides. Especially the veggies. These aren’t your average boiled or bland vegetables. Nope. These are the kind of dishes that make people whisper, “Who made this?” while sneaking an extra spoonful when they think no one’s watching.

Glazed Carrots

Soft, buttery, and kissed with just enough sweetness, these carrots shimmer like tiny gems on your plate. The combination of honey and brown sugar brings out their natural flavor without tipping into candy territory. They’re quick, colorful, and a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil carrots for 5–7 minutes until just tender; drain.
2. Melt butter in a skillet, then stir in honey and brown sugar.
3. Add carrots and toss in the glaze until glossy and caramelized, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper and serve warm.

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

If you’ve ever sworn you didn’t like Brussels sprouts, this dish will change your mind. Roasted until crispy and tossed with smoky bacon, these little green powerhouses are savory perfection. The caramelized edges and salty crunch make them practically impossible to resist.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and scatter bacon pieces over top.
4. Roast for 25–30 minutes, tossing halfway, until caramelized and crisp.

Creamed Spinach

Rich, silky, and indulgent — yet so simple. This creamed spinach balances garlic, butter, and Parmesan for a flavor that feels like a warm hug. It’s the perfect counterpoint to roasted meats and hearty casseroles, adding a touch of old-school elegance to your spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg for warmth

Instructions:

1. Cook the spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, wilt the spinach for 2–3 minutes. Drain and squeeze out excess water. Set aside.
2. Make the creamy base: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the spinach: Stir in the cooked spinach, then sprinkle with Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
4. Simmer and thicken: Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the spinach.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot — perfect alongside turkey, chicken, or roast beef.

Classic Southern Green Bean Casserole

(Full recipe available on Yum in Minutes)

Few dishes bring as much comfort to a Thanksgiving table as a Classic Southern Green Bean Casserole. With its creamy mushroom sauce, crispy onion topping, and touch of southern charm, this casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s nostalgic, indulgent, and effortlessly brings that homemade warmth to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups green beans (fresh, trimmed, or canned and drained)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup milk
• 1½ cups crispy fried onions
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Dash of garlic or onion powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soup, milk, and seasonings until smooth.
3. Fold in green beans until evenly coated.
4. Pour half into the dish, layer with half the onions, then add the rest of the beans and remaining onions.
5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle during the last 5 minutes to melt perfectly.

Baked Parmesan Zucchini

Light, crisp, and ridiculously easy to make. These zucchini sticks are coated in olive oil, garlic powder, and a dusting of Parmesan, then roasted to golden perfection. They’re a healthier side that doesn’t compromise on flavor — a little crunch, a little cheese, a lot of satisfaction.

Ingredients:

• 4 zucchini, quartered lengthwise
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange on a baking tray, cut side up, and sprinkle evenly with Parmesan.
4. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and tender.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Cheesy, comforting, and just a little bit nostalgic. This casserole takes simple steamed broccoli and transforms it into a bubbling masterpiece under a breadcrumb crust. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and a total crowd-pleaser — the kind of dish that disappears before the turkey.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions:

Fresh & Light Options to Balance the Feast

After a parade of rich, buttery dishes, your taste buds deserve a little breather. That’s where these light and refreshing sides come in. They’re crisp, colorful, and full of flavor — the perfect contrast to all the creamy casseroles and savory meats. Think of them as the balancing act that makes your Thanksgiving plate feel complete.

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw

Crunchy cabbage, tart apples, and sweet dried cranberries come together in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. It’s bright, crisp, and adds just the right zing to cut through the heaviness of the main meal. The kind of dish that makes you go back for “just one more bite.”

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 apple, julienned
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, apple, and cranberries.
2. Whisk vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper together to make dressing.
3. Pour dressing over the slaw and toss well to coat.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.

Brussels Sprout Salad with Cranberries and Parmesan

Forget everything you thought you knew about Brussels sprouts. This salad is fresh, raw, and vibrant — shredded sprouts tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, shaved Parmesan, and a handful of cranberries. It’s earthy, tangy, and just a little fancy without trying too hard.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and shredded
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup shaved Parmesan
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss shredded Brussels sprouts with cranberries and Parmesan.
2. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper together and pour over the salad.
3. Toss until evenly coated and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Herbed Couscous

A side dish that’s as elegant as it is easy. Fluffy couscous tossed with parsley, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon. It’s light yet flavorful, and ready in minutes. The perfect palate cleanser amid a table full of rich comfort foods.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 ¼ cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring broth and olive oil to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Fluff with a fork, then stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve warm as a light, aromatic side.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Nutty wild rice mingles with sautéed onion, carrot, and celery for a side that feels both hearty and wholesome. A touch of fresh parsley ties it all together. Bonus: it’s naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wild rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook wild rice in vegetable broth following package directions.
2. In a skillet, sauté onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil until soft.
3. Combine cooked rice with sautéed vegetables.
4. Toss gently with parsley before serving warm.

Unique Twists and Show-Stopping Additions

Every Thanksgiving table needs a few surprises — dishes that make people stop mid-bite and ask for the recipe. These are those sides. A little unexpected, a little elegant, and all absolutely delicious. Whether you’re out to impress your in-laws or just want something different this year, these unique twists are your secret weapon.

Caramelized Onion Tart

Buttery puff pastry topped with sweet, golden onions and melty Gruyère cheese — this tart is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. It looks fancy but couldn’t be simpler to make. Slice it up as a starter or serve it alongside turkey for a touch of French flair.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions with sugar over low heat for 15–20 minutes until golden and soft.
3. Roll puff pastry onto a baking sheet.
4. Spread caramelized onions over pastry, top with cheese and thyme.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes until pastry is puffed and golden.

Creamy Pumpkin Risotto

A cozy twist on a classic Italian dish, this pumpkin risotto brings the taste of fall right to your plate. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of warm, comforting flavors. A little white wine and Parmesan transform simple ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, warm chicken broth over low heat.
2. In another pan, melt butter and toast rice for 1–2 minutes.
3. Add white wine and cook until mostly absorbed.
4. Gradually add warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring often.
5. When rice is tender, stir in pumpkin puree, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve creamy and hot.

Homemade Garlic Butter Breadsticks

(Full recipe available on Yum in Minutes)

These Homemade Garlic Butter Breadsticks are soft, chewy, and brushed with irresistible garlic butter. Perfect for dipping in sauces or serving alongside hearty Thanksgiving dishes, they add that fresh bakery touch to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 2¼ tsp instant yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and softened butter. Mix and knead until smooth (about 8 minutes).
3. Cover and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
4. Roll dough into a rectangle and cut into strips. Twist or shape into sticks.
5. Place on a baking sheet, cover, and rise another 20 minutes.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden.
7. Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Brush over warm breadsticks before serving.

Leek Gratin

Leeks often play second fiddle, but not here. Baked with cream, butter, and Gruyère until bubbling and golden, this gratin turns a humble vegetable into something decadent. It’s rich without being heavy — perfect for anyone who loves a touch of sophistication with their comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 4 leeks, trimmed and sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil leeks for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
3. Arrange in a buttered baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour over cream and sprinkle with Gruyère.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and golden.

Creamy Polenta with Mushrooms

Creamy, buttery polenta topped with earthy sautéed mushrooms — this dish feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but shines even brighter next to roasted meats. A sprinkle of Parmesan takes it from simple to sublime.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal (polenta)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 lb mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the polenta: Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal to avoid lumps.
2. Simmer until creamy: Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
3. Add richness: Stir in the butter, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Cover and keep warm while preparing the topping.
4. Sauté the mushrooms: In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter (or olive oil) over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Assemble and serve: Spoon the creamy polenta into bowls, top with sautéed mushrooms, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve immediately while warm and velvety.

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

For something with a little kick, these roasted chickpeas are crispy, smoky, and lightly spicy. They add crunch, color, and a pop of personality to your Thanksgiving spread. Perfect for snacking before dinner or sprinkling over salads for extra texture.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Dry the chickpeas: Pat the chickpeas thoroughly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture — this ensures crispiness.
3. Season: In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
4. Roast until crisp: Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on the tray. Roast for 25–30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through to promote even cooking.
5. Cool slightly: Allow them to cool for 5–10 minutes — they’ll continue to crisp up. Perfect for snacking or as a crunchy salad topper.

Breads, Biscuits & Warm Finishes

No Thanksgiving table is complete without something warm and comforting to soak up all that gravy. Bread isn’t just a side — it’s the glue that holds the feast together. These two recipes bring a little extra heart to your meal, filling your home with the irresistible scent of fresh baking and adding the perfect finishing touch to your holiday spread.

Pumpkin Biscuits

Soft, fluffy, and infused with a hint of cinnamon and pumpkin, these biscuits are like a cozy sweater in food form. They’re subtly sweet but still pair perfectly with savory dishes — whether you’re piling on cranberry sauce or a smear of butter. Bake them fresh before dinner, and they’ll disappear before the plates are cleared.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
• ½ cup canned pumpkin
• ¼ cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add pumpkin and milk, stirring until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough, cut into rounds, and bake for 12–15 minutes.

Cheddar Biscuits

Golden and flaky with pockets of melted cheese, these cheddar biscuits are pure comfort. The rich, buttery layers make them perfect for soaking up gravy or pairing with that last bite of turkey. Simple to make, but they feel like a special treat — especially when served warm from the oven.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¾ cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in butter until crumbly, then stir in cheese.
4. Add milk and mix until dough forms.
5. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes until golden.

Pro Tips to Save Time & Reduce Stress

Let’s be real — Thanksgiving can be a little chaotic. Between juggling multiple dishes, guests arriving early, and the oven somehow always being too full, it’s easy to lose your cool. But with a few smart tricks, you can make the day run smoother (and actually enjoy it). Here are some tried-and-true tips that will help you pull off your feast without breaking a sweat.

Plan Your Prep Like a Pro

Start with a timeline — even a simple one scribbled on a sticky note. Chop vegetables, mix sauces, and measure dry ingredients the night before. Label containers and store them in the fridge so everything’s ready to go when you start cooking. That little bit of planning saves hours of stress on the big day.

Make-Ahead Dishes Are Your Best Friend

Many sides like mashed potatoes, casseroles, and cranberry sauce taste even better the next day. Cook them a day ahead, cover tightly, and reheat before dinner. Bonus: your kitchen will smell amazing while you’re just warming things up.

Master the Reheat Game

Keep your oven on low (around 200°F) to keep dishes warm without drying them out. Slow cookers and insulated trays are perfect for holding sides like stuffing or veggies until serving time. A little temperature control goes a long way in keeping everything just-right.

Delegate and Simplify

You don’t have to do it all. Ask guests to bring a dish or beverage. Focus your energy on two or three standout recipes and keep the rest simple. No one will care if the rolls aren’t homemade when the rest of the meal tastes incredible.

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Make This Thanksgiving Yours

At the end of the day, Thanksgiving isn’t about perfection — it’s about moments. It’s about laughing over a dish that didn’t go exactly as planned, sneaking bites from the kitchen before dinner’s ready, and watching your table fill with food and faces you love. These easy side dishes are more than recipes — they’re invitations to slow down, savor, and share something from the heart.

Whether you go all-in with rich classics, mix it up with lighter salads, or surprise everyone with something new, your Thanksgiving table should feel like you. These dishes are meant to take the pressure off and bring the joy back into cooking — because when you’re not stressed, the food just tastes better.

So as the kitchen fills with the smell of garlic, butter, and roasted goodness, take a minute to soak it all in. The laughter, the clinking glasses, the small, messy, perfect chaos of it all. That’s the real feast. Happy Thanksgiving — now go make some memories (and maybe another plate).