Ambitious Foodie - Easy Family Recipes

menu icon
go to homepage
  • All Recipes
  • Chicken Recipes
  • Videos
  • About Me
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • All Recipes
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Videos
    • About Me
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Ambitious Foodie » All Recipes

    52 Thanksgiving Side Dishes

    Modified: Nov 4, 2026 · Published: Nov 4, 2026 · . Help us out! Review HERE. · Written by: Imsen · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Share or save this post for later!

    Planning the perfect holiday meal starts with knowing your Thanksgiving side dishes inside and out, and I have gathered 52 of my absolute favorites right here for you.

    Whether you are feeding a crowd or keeping things cozy with just your closest people, this list has something for every table and every taste. From creamy mashed potatoes to fresh holiday salads, I hope you find a few new family favorites.

    Jump to:
    • Potatoes
    • Sweet Potatoes
    • Stuffing
    • Vegetables
    • Breads
    • Salads

    Potatoes

    Potatoes are the ultimate Thanksgiving companion because they soak up all those savory turkey juices and gravy like nothing else can.

    1. The Best Mashed Potatoes1

      The Best Mashed Potatoes

      These mashed potatoes are fluffy, creamy, and buttery in all the right ways. They are the kind of reliable classic that earns a permanent spot on your Thanksgiving table.

      Make this recipe:

      The Best Mashed Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Spend With Pennies

    2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic2

      Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic

      Whole garlic is roasted low and slow before being folded into these buttery, whole-milk mashed potatoes. The result is deep, mellow flavor that takes a simple side to new heights.

      Make this recipe:

      Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic >

      Photo and recipe: The Modern Proper

    3. Twice Baked Potatoes3

      Twice Baked Potatoes

      These twice baked potatoes are stuffed with fluffy, seasoned mashed potatoes and finished with melted cheese on top. They bring serious comfort to the Thanksgiving table and can be prepped ahead to save you stress on the big day.

      Make this recipe:

      Twice Baked Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Tastes Better From Scratch

    4. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with Sour Cream4

      Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with Sour Cream

      Sour cream and cheese make these mashed potatoes extra rich and satisfying. You can serve them as a classic side or bake them into a cheesy casserole for something a little more special.

      Make this recipe:

      Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with Sour Cream >

      Photo and recipe: Peel with Zeal

    5. Creamy Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes5

      Creamy Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes

      Mascarpone and roasted garlic come together to create the silkiest, lump-free mashed potatoes you have ever tasted. This is the dish that earns compliments every single time.

      Make this recipe:

      Creamy Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Josie + Nina

    6. Duchess Potatoes6

      Duchess Potatoes

      These elegant piped potato rosettes are baked to golden perfection, with crispy bottoms and lightly browned edges that make them almost too pretty to eat. They bring a little wow factor to your Thanksgiving table without a lot of fuss.

      Make this recipe:

      Duchess Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Saving Room for Dessert

    7. PERFECT Au Gratin Potatoes7

      PERFECT Au Gratin Potatoes

      These au gratin potatoes are layered with creamy, cheesy goodness and baked until perfectly golden. Rich and indulgent, they are a true crowd-pleaser at any holiday meal.

      Make this recipe:

      PERFECT Au Gratin Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: The Daring Gourmet

    8. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes8

      Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

      Every layer of these scalloped potatoes is smothered in ooey, gooey melted cheese. If you love a seriously cheesy potato dish, this one is absolutely for you.

      Make this recipe:

      Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: i am baker

    9. Hasselback Potatoes9

      Hasselback Potatoes

      Thin, fan-cut potato slices are roasted until crispy on the edges and tender in the center, finished with herbs and garlic butter. They look as impressive as they taste.

      Make this recipe:

      Hasselback Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Love and Lemons

    10. Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes10

      Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

      A golden, crispy Parmesan crust gives way to a soft and creamy center in these roasted potatoes. They are simple to make and add great texture to any holiday plate.

      Make this recipe:

      Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Kevin Is Cooking

    Sweet Potatoes

    Sweet potatoes bring a natural warmth and sweetness to the table that balances the richness of the rest of the meal beautifully.

    1. Southern Candied Yams11

      Southern Candied Yams

      These Southern candied yams are tender and perfectly spiced with warm flavors that feel made for Thanksgiving. Sweet without being over the top, they are pure comfort on a plate.

      Make this recipe:

      Southern Candied Yams >

      Photo and recipe: There's Food at Home

    2. Sweet Potato Casserole12

      Sweet Potato Casserole

      Mashed sweet potatoes are topped with a pecan and marshmallow topping and flavored with brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. This classic casserole is a tradition our family looks forward to every year.

      Make this recipe:

      Sweet Potato Casserole >

      Photo and recipe: Spend With Pennies

    3. Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes13

      Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes

      Smoky chipotle and naturally sweet potatoes make an unexpected but delicious pairing in this easy mashed side dish. It is a great way to add a little heat to your Thanksgiving spread.

      Make this recipe:

      Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Casual Foodist

    4. Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes14

      Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes

      Honey roasted sweet potatoes are melt-in-your-mouth tender and wonderfully simple to pull together. They bring natural sweetness and warm color to any holiday table.

      Make this recipe:

      Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Cheerful Cook

    5. Candied Coconut Sweet Potatoes15

      Candied Coconut Sweet Potatoes

      Creamy sweet potatoes are crowned with a caramelized coconut topping for a side dish that feels a little unexpected and totally wonderful. It is guaranteed to disappear fast.

      Make this recipe:

      Candied Coconut Sweet Potatoes >

      Photo and recipe: Our Best Bites

    6. Sweet Potato Gratin16

      Sweet Potato Gratin

      Sweet potatoes are layered with Gruyere, cheddar, garlicky cream, and fresh thyme in this stunning gratin. It is a sophisticated twist on a classic casserole that works beautifully for Thanksgiving.

      Make this recipe:

      Sweet Potato Gratin >

      Photo and recipe: Fork Knife Swoon

    7. Garlic and Herb Sweet Potato Fries17

      Garlic and Herb Sweet Potato Fries

      These garlic and herb sweet potato fries are crispy, slightly sweet, and full of savory flavor. They are a fun and crowd-pleasing alternative to the usual sweet potato casserole.

      Make this recipe:

      Garlic and Herb Sweet Potato Fries >

      Photo and recipe: A Kitchen Addiction

    8. Sweet Potato Biscuits18

      Sweet Potato Biscuits

      These buttery sweet potato biscuits are fluffy with just a gentle hint of sweetness. They are an instant hit and pair wonderfully with everything else on the holiday table.

      Make this recipe:

      Sweet Potato Biscuits >

      Photo and recipe: Once Upon a Chef

    Stuffing

    A great stuffing ties the whole Thanksgiving spread together, adding hearty, herby flavor that feels like the heart of the holiday.

    1. Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing19

      Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing

      This buttery herb stuffing is loaded with toasted bread and savory flavors that make it truly irresistible. It is the kind of dish everyone goes back for seconds of.

      Make this recipe:

      Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing >

      Photo and recipe: How Sweet Eats

    2. Cornbread Dressing20

      Cornbread Dressing

      This classic Southern cornbread dressing is moist, flavorful, and absolutely packed with holiday character. It is a showstopper that earns its place at the center of the Thanksgiving spread.

      Make this recipe:

      Cornbread Dressing >

      Photo and recipe: Maple Jubilee

    3. Herb Sourdough Stuffing with Wild Mushrooms21

      Herb Sourdough Stuffing with Wild Mushrooms

      Sourdough bread is baked with fresh herbs, wild mushrooms, and fennel for a stuffing that is vegetarian and full of earthy, savory depth. Best of all, you can make it ahead.

      Make this recipe:

      Herb Sourdough Stuffing with Wild Mushrooms >

      Photo and recipe: Abra's Kitchen

    4. Simple Herb Sourdough Dressing22

      Simple Herb Sourdough Dressing

      Sauteed onions, celery, and fresh herbs are tossed with torn sourdough bread for a simple yet deeply flavorful dressing. It is the kind of recipe that lets great ingredients shine.

      Make this recipe:

      Simple Herb Sourdough Dressing >

      Photo and recipe: Simply Scratch

    5. Apple Cranberry Walnut Stuffing23

      Apple Cranberry Walnut Stuffing

      Apples, cranberries, and walnuts bring the best fall flavors into a stuffing that is both festive and delicious. It is an easy upgrade that makes your holiday table feel extra special.

      Make this recipe:

      Apple Cranberry Walnut Stuffing >

      Photo and recipe: Delicious Little Bites

    6. Chestnut Stuffing24

      Chestnut Stuffing

      Cooked chestnuts, fresh herbs, and a medley of vegetables come together in this rustic, flavorful stuffing. It is a classic that works just as well at Christmas as it does at Thanksgiving.

      Make this recipe:

      Chestnut Stuffing >

      Photo and recipe: Foolproof Living

    Vegetables

    Vegetables add color, freshness, and balance to a plate that can easily get heavy, making them an essential part of any Thanksgiving spread.

    1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts25

      Roasted Brussels Sprouts

      Roasted Brussels sprouts come out bright, tender, and full of savory flavor with this simple method. They are a fresh, easy vegetable side that pairs naturally with roasted turkey.

      Make this recipe:

      Roasted Brussels Sprouts >

      Photo and recipe: Love and Lemons

    2. Easy Green Beans Almondine26

      Easy Green Beans Almondine

      Buttery green beans are tossed with shallots, toasted sliced almonds, and lemon for an elegant side that feels effortless. It is light, bright, and balances heavier dishes perfectly.

      Make this recipe:

      Easy Green Beans Almondine >

      Photo and recipe: Delish Knowledge

    3. French's Green Bean Casserole27

      French's Green Bean Casserole

      This classic French's Green Bean Casserole brings creamy, comforting goodness to your holiday table, topped with crispy fried onions for the perfect crunch. It's simple to put together and always a crowd favorite at Thanksgiving.

      Make this recipe:

      French's Green Bean Casserole >

      Photo and recipe: Kevin Is Cooking

    4. Garlic Green Beans28

      Garlic Green Beans

      These green beans are cooked in a hot pan until the edges blister and crisp up, then tossed with golden garlic and a squeeze of lemon. It's a quick, flavorful vegetable side that earns a spot on any Thanksgiving table.

      Make this recipe:

      Garlic Green Beans >

      Photo and recipe: Gimme Some Oven

    5. Roasted Butternut Squash29

      Roasted Butternut Squash

      Sweet maple syrup, warm cinnamon, and fragrant rosemary turn simple butternut squash cubes into a gorgeous caramelized side dish. It is exactly the kind of easy, crowd-pleasing vegetable your Thanksgiving table needs.

      Make this recipe:

      Roasted Butternut Squash >

      Photo and recipe: Well Plated by Erin Clarke

    6. Perfect Roasted Acorn Squash30

      Perfect Roasted Acorn Squash

      Roasted acorn squash is simple to prepare and becomes wonderfully tender and naturally sweet in the oven. Its warm fall flavor makes it a beautiful and fitting Thanksgiving side.

      Make this recipe:

      Perfect Roasted Acorn Squash >

      Photo and recipe: Cookie and Kate

    7. Oven Roasted Root Vegetables31

      Oven Roasted Root Vegetables

      A vibrant, herb-flecked medley of root vegetables roasted with garlic and olive oil until perfectly tender and caramelized. This healthy, colorful dish is as easy to make as it is beautiful on your Thanksgiving table.

      Make this recipe:

      Oven Roasted Root Vegetables >

      Photo and recipe: Tori Avey

    8. Harissa Roasted Carrots with Yogurt, Pine Nuts and Fresh Herbs32

      Harissa Roasted Carrots with Yogurt, Pine Nuts and Fresh Herbs

      Carrots are roasted with harissa and honey until caramelized, then served with yogurt, pine nuts, and fresh herbs. Bold, earthy flavors make this one of the most exciting vegetable sides on the table.

      Make this recipe:

      Harissa Roasted Carrots with Yogurt, Pine Nuts and Fresh Herbs >

      Photo and recipe: Eden Eats

    9. Rosemary Glazed Carrots33

      Rosemary Glazed Carrots

      Brown sugar and fresh rosemary create a simple glaze that makes these roasted carrots feel genuinely special. Sweet and savory, they are an easy win on any holiday table.

      Make this recipe:

      Rosemary Glazed Carrots >

      Photo and recipe: Kylee Cooks

    10. Parmesan Crusted Baked Cauliflower34

      Parmesan Crusted Baked Cauliflower

      A golden Parmesan crust turns baked cauliflower into something truly craveable. It is a simple, satisfying vegetable side that even cauliflower skeptics tend to enjoy.

      Make this recipe:

      Parmesan Crusted Baked Cauliflower >

      Photo and recipe: emptynesteats.com

    11. The Best Creamed Spinach35

      The Best Creamed Spinach

      Fresh or frozen spinach is transformed into a rich, creamy side dish that comes together in just 25 minutes. It is restaurant-quality comfort food that fits right in at Thanksgiving.

      Make this recipe:

      The Best Creamed Spinach >

      Photo and recipe: Salt & Lavender

    12. Creamed Corn36

      Creamed Corn

      Sweet corn is simmered with cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese for a creamed corn that is smooth, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. It is the kind of side you sneak spoonfuls of while cooking.

      Make this recipe:

      Creamed Corn >

      Photo and recipe: Grandbaby Cakes

    13. Cream Cheese Corn Casserole37

      Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

      Sweet corn is mixed with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and optional diced jalapenos for a decadent, comforting casserole. Rich and crowd-pleasing, it is a side that earns repeat requests.

      Make this recipe:

      Cream Cheese Corn Casserole >

      Photo and recipe: Five Heart Home

    14. Southern Collard Greens38

      Southern Collard Greens

      These Southern collard greens are full of deep, savory flavor and are surprisingly easy to make. They bring a soulful, traditional element to the Thanksgiving table that I truly love.

      Make this recipe:

      Southern Collard Greens >

      Photo and recipe: Divas Can Cook

    15. Sautéed Brussels Sprouts in Cream Sauce39

      Sautéed Brussels Sprouts in Cream Sauce

      Brussels sprouts are cooked quickly in one skillet with a creamy sauce for a fast and flavorful side. It is a great way to get a seasonal vegetable on the table with minimal effort.

      Make this recipe:

      Sautéed Brussels Sprouts in Cream Sauce >

      Photo and recipe: Bite On The Side

    16. Garlic Butter Mushrooms40

      Garlic Butter Mushrooms

      Rich, savory garlic butter mushrooms come together in just 15 minutes and bring a wonderful umami depth to your Thanksgiving spread. They pair beautifully with almost everything else on the table.

      Make this recipe:

      Garlic Butter Mushrooms >

      Photo and recipe: Skinnytaste

    17. Homemade Cranberry Sauce41

      Homemade Cranberry Sauce

      Fresh cranberries and just a handful of ingredients make a homemade cranberry sauce that beats anything from a can. Bright and simple, it ties the whole Thanksgiving plate together.

      Make this recipe:

      Homemade Cranberry Sauce >

      Photo and recipe: Sugar Spun Run

    Breads

    Warm, fresh-baked breads and rolls are the perfect way to scoop up gravy, cranberry sauce, and every last bite on the plate.

    1. Parker House Rolls42

      Parker House Rolls

      Soft, buttery, and perfectly pull-apart, these classic Parker House Rolls come together more easily than you'd expect and bake up fluffy with just a thin golden crust, exactly what every Thanksgiving bread basket needs.

      Make this recipe:

      Parker House Rolls >

      Photo and recipe: Eat The Love

    2. Cheddar Bay Biscuits43

      Cheddar Bay Biscuits

      These Cheddar Bay-style biscuits are easy to make and packed with cheesy, savory flavor that my family cannot get enough of. Quick to prepare and always a hit at the dinner table.

      Make this recipe:

      Cheddar Bay Biscuits >

      Photo and recipe: Simple Joy

    3. Flaky and Tender Cheddar Chive Biscuits44

      Flaky and Tender Cheddar Chive Biscuits

      Tender, flaky, and loaded with cheddar and chives, these scratch-made biscuits are best served hot with plenty of butter. They are an elevated take on a buttermilk classic.

      Make this recipe:

      Flaky and Tender Cheddar Chive Biscuits >

      Photo and recipe: Fueling a Southern Soul

    4. Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls45

      Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls

      Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are brushed with a garlic and fresh herb mixture straight out of the oven. They are completely irresistible and absolutely perfect for soaking up every last drop of gravy.

      Make this recipe:

      Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls >

      Photo and recipe: Fork in the Kitchen

    5. Sweet Honey Cornbread46

      Sweet Honey Cornbread

      This golden cornbread bakes up soft and tender with real honey stirred right in for natural sweetness. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an effortless addition to your Thanksgiving table.

      Make this recipe:

      Sweet Honey Cornbread >

      Photo and recipe: Eating on a Dime

    6. Honey Butter Rolls47

      Honey Butter Rolls

      These extra soft and flaky rolls need just seven ingredients and reward you with the most pillowy, honey-buttery result. They are impossible to stop at just one.

      Make this recipe:

      Honey Butter Rolls >

      Photo and recipe: Sally's Baking

    Salads

    A crisp, fresh salad is a welcome contrast to all the rich, warm dishes on the Thanksgiving table and helps keep the meal feeling balanced.

    1. Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad48

      Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

      Shaved Brussels sprouts are tossed into a fresh, crisp salad that works beautifully as a Thanksgiving or Christmas side. It is light and bright, a lovely contrast to all the warm, rich dishes.

      Make this recipe:

      Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad >

      Photo and recipe: Two Peas & Their Pod

    2. Autumn Apple and Kale Salad with Parmesan and Roasted Pumpkin Seeds49

      Autumn Apple and Kale Salad with Parmesan and Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

      Autumn apples, massaged kale, Parmesan, and roasted pumpkin seeds come together in a simple, seasonal salad. It is a fresh November-style dish that adds color and crunch to the holiday spread.

      Make this recipe:

      Autumn Apple and Kale Salad with Parmesan and Roasted Pumpkin Seeds >

      Photo and recipe: Simple Bites

    3. Maple-Roasted Squash & Kale Salad50

      Maple-Roasted Squash & Kale Salad

      Maple-roasted squash, seasoned toasted chickpeas, and kale are tossed with a maple cider vinaigrette for a hearty, beautiful salad. Fall produce has never looked or tasted better.

      Make this recipe:

      Maple-Roasted Squash & Kale Salad >

      Photo and recipe: Sally's Baking

    4. Pear Salad with Blue Cheese and Hazelnuts51

      Pear Salad with Blue Cheese and Hazelnuts

      Ripe pears, blue cheese, and hazelnuts make a stunning salad finished with an apricot dressing that ties it all together. It is elegant and fresh, a perfect starter or side for Thanksgiving.

      Make this recipe:

      Pear Salad with Blue Cheese and Hazelnuts >

      Photo and recipe: The Gourmet Gourmand

    5. Belgian Endive with Avocado Salad52

      Belgian Endive with Avocado Salad

      Crisp Belgian endive and creamy avocado come together in a salad that is refreshingly light and pleasantly bitter. It works wonderfully as a side dish that cuts through the richness of the main meal.

      Make this recipe:

      Belgian Endive with Avocado Salad >

      Photo and recipe: Giangi's Kitchen

    I hope this list makes your Thanksgiving planning a little easier and your holiday table the best one yet!

    More All Recipes

    • Maple Pumpkin Pie
      40+ Thanksgiving Pie Recipes
    • Cranberry, Goat Cheese, and Pecan Salad
      20 Best Thanksgiving Salad Recipes
    • Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
      What to Serve with Minestrone Soup: 15 Best Side Dishes
    • Easy Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry

    Share or save this post for later!

    Welcome I'm Imene, author of the Ambitious Foodie.

    My name is Imene, and i am the author, recipe developer, and photographer behind Ambitious Foodie. Welcome to my virtual kitchen! If you're wondering what's for dinner, you've come to the right place.

    Read More

    Comments

    No Comments

    Ask Me Anything Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Hi, This is Imene! I'm the author, recipe developer, and photographer behind Ambitious Foodie. Welcome to my virtual kitchen! If you're wondering what's for dinner, you've come to the right place.

    More about me →

    Featured In:

    top Recipes

    • The BEST Baked Chicken Breast (Juicy!)
    • Easy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets (CRISPY!)
    • Blackstone Chicken (Easy Recipe)
    • close-up homemade mayonnaise in a glass jar with en egg in background
      Quick Mayonnaise Recipe From Scratch! Only 4 Ingredients (2-min)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    INFO

    • Privacy Policy & Disclaimer
    • Contact
    • Recipe/Photo Policy
    • Photography Tips
    • GigaSpinner

    SUBSCRIBE

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Follow

    • Instagram
    • Facebook
    • Youtube
    • Pinterest

    Copyright © 2026 Ambitious Foodie, LLC - All Rights Reserved. Unless otherwise noted, all images and content here on Ambitious Foodie are original and copyright protected under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.