Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without a spread of delicious side dishes to complement your perfectly roasted turkey. While the main event gets all the attention, these supporting stars are what truly make the meal shine. From comforting classics like creamy mashed potatoes and green bean casserole, to sweet and savory options like roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and maple glazed butternut squash, there’s something for everyone on this list of 20 delectable Thanksgiving side recipes.
Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up this year, we’ve got you covered. From easy-to-make staples like buttery herb roasted carrots and cheesy scalloped potatoes, to more adventurous options like wild rice pilaf with mushrooms and herbs and caramelized onion and Gruyère gratin, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember with these scrumptious side dishes.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of butter and sour cream with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or whole milk, garlic, and any additional seasonings.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions: A Thanksgiving staple gets a crispy twist!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion slices in butter until caramelized and crispy, stirring occasionally. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
5. Add the blanched green beans to the soup mixture and stir to coat.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Arrange green bean mixture in the dish.
7. Top with crispy onions and shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Recipe
This sweet and savory casserole is a perfect blend of roasted sweet potatoes, crunchy pecans, and gooey marshmallows. It’s a delicious twist on traditional sweet potato casseroles.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup marshmallows
– Pecan Streusel Topping (see below)
Pecan Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until well combined.
3. Add heavy cream and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with marshmallows.
6. Prepare Pecan Streusel Topping by mixing together chopped pecans, sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon.
7. Sprinkle topping evenly over marshmallows.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Classic Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Bring a touch of warmth and flavor to your holiday gatherings with this simple and delicious homemade cranberry sauce recipe. Perfect for topping turkey, yogurt parfaits, or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and orange juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a delicious side dish by roasting them to perfection with crispy bacon. This simple recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with cooked bacon, garlic, and any remaining pan drippings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Herb Roasted Carrots
Bring out the natural sweetness of carrots with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines buttery goodness with fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these roasted carrots are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine carrots, butter, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and thyme. Toss until carrots are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread carrot mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
This hearty stuffing combines the warmth of cornbread with the comforting flavors of sausage and apples, perfect for a fall or winter gathering. A twist on traditional bread-based stuffing, this recipe adds a delightful texture and flavor to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled sausage, apples, and cornbread to the skillet; stir until combined.
4. Mix in butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash
Elevate your fall gatherings with this sweet and savory roasted butternut squash recipe, perfectly glazed with pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the butternut squash, then halve it lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the squash and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Roast in the oven for 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and brush with maple syrup.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines tender potatoes, melted cheese, and a crispy topping. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, softened butter, salt, and pepper. Toss until potatoes are well coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Create layers of potato mixture, followed by grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Repeat for 3-4 layers.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and a sprinkle of paprika.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying baked macaroni and cheese dish, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture that adds a delightful textural contrast.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, then stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumb mixture (see below).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Breadcrumb Topping:
1. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl.
2. Sprinkle over macaroni mixture before baking.
Honey Butter Dinner Rolls
Warm up your dinner table with these sweet and tender honey butter rolls. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, these soft and fluffy rolls are infused with the sweetness of honey and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup pure honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into long ropes.
7. Cut into 1-inch pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
8. Place balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or added to pasta, salads, or wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves, stem, and core. Cut into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the cauliflower.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Optional: sprinkle dried oregano before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Herbs
This hearty pilaf combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the earthy taste of mushrooms and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect as a main dish or as a side for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse wild rice and soak in water or broth for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add garlic, thyme, and parsley. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add wild rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with mushroom mixture.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of acorn squash with a hint of brown sugar and warmth from the oven. Perfect as a side dish or a sweet treat, this roasted squash is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Brush the cut side of the squash with olive oil, then sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over both halves.
5. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic Creamed Spinach
This rich and creamy spinach dish is a timeless classic that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: nutmeg or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings (such as nutmeg or red pepper flakes).
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Crispy bacon and tender asparagus come together in harmony to create a flavorful and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the asparagus into 3-inch bundles, tying each bundle with kitchen twine.
3. Wrap a slice of bacon around each asparagus bundle, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
5. Sprinkle with garlic (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Spray or drizzle with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until bacon is crispy and asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Risotto
A creamy and aromatic rice dish infused with the warmth of pumpkin and sage, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin puree
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to be fully absorbed before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the roasted pumpkin puree and chopped sage.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Get ready to elevate your mashed potato game with these loaded sweet potatoes! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh scallions
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, butter, heavy cream, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
4. Stir in the chopped scallions and crumbled bacon.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Roasted Root Vegetables
Elevate your root vegetables with a flavorful roast infused with fresh herbs and a hint of citrus. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the carrots, sweet potato, and parsnip.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and squeeze with orange juice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Gratin
This rich and creamy gratin is a perfect side dish for any occasion. Sweet caramelized onions, sharp Gruyère cheese, and flaky puff pastry come together in a harmonious union.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until caramelized.
3. Roll out the puff pastry to fit the top of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spread the caramelized onions evenly across the bottom of the dish.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
6. Place the puff pastry on top, trimming any excess.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving side dishes with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic comfort foods like creamy garlic mashed potatoes and cheesy scalloped potatoes, to innovative twists like roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and maple glazed roasted butternut squash, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up, these mouthwatering sides are sure to impress your guests and complement any main course. So go ahead, get creative, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
