As the turkey takes center stage on Thanksgiving Day, it’s easy to overlook the supporting cast of delicious side dishes that bring balance and variety to the table. But don’t count out these essential courses – they’re what make a meal truly memorable! From classic comfort foods like green bean casserole and mashed potatoes to innovative twists like roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering side dish recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite Thanksgiving side dishes, each one a perfect blend of flavors and textures to complement your main event. Whether you’re looking for a classic take on a traditional dish or something new and exciting to try, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions: A timeless Thanksgiving side dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup french-fried onions, crushed
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans, onion, and garlic in butter until tender.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, black pepper, and salt. Pour mixture over green bean mixture; stir to combine.
4. Pour casserole mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle crushed French-fried onions on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with this flavorful recipe that combines creamy goodness with the savory punch of garlic and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or even as a base for other recipes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 minced garlic, softened butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and chopped parsley.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping Recipe
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fluffy texture of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream and beat until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is set.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle marshmallows evenly over the top.
8. Return to oven and bake an additional 5-10 minutes, or until marshmallows are toasted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe
Elevate the humble Brussels sprout to new heights by roasting them to perfection and finishing them off with a rich, sweet balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. While the sprouts are roasting, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
5. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the balsamic glaze.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this simple yet flavorful homemade cranberry sauce infused with the brightness of orange zest. This recipe makes a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, cheeses, and crackers.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids, if desired.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
This hearty stuffing combines the warmth of cornbread with the savory flavors of sausage and sweet apples, perfect for a Thanksgiving or fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium apples, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add apples, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until apples are tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, sausage mixture, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer stuffing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Thyme
This classic recipe gets a boost of flavor from the addition of thyme, creating a rich and savory potato dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and softened butter. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato mixture in an overlapping layer.
4. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese and chopped thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Repeat layers: add remaining potatoes, cheese, and thyme.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple Syrup
Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple Syrup: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, highlighting the natural sweetness of butternut squash. The addition of maple syrup adds a rich and velvety texture to this roasted delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the butternut squash and cut it in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop out the seeds and pulp, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh on the shell.
4. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Roast for 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of carrots with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together chopped carrots, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
This beloved comfort food recipe is a twist on the classic, featuring a crunchy breadcrumb topping that adds texture and flavor to the creamy pasta dish.
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 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Dot with butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey Gravy
Herb-Roasted Turkey Gravy Recipe
Summary: Elevate your holiday feast with this savory herb-roasted turkey gravy recipe, perfectly pairing the rich flavors of roasted herbs with a perfectly browned turkey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from roasting the turkey)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together flour, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
3. Gradually whisk in turkey drippings, ensuring smooth consistency.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until thickened to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Corn Pudding with Cheddar Cheese
Savory Corn Pudding with Cheddar Cheese: A creamy and comforting side dish that’s perfect for your next gathering or holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn kernels, cheddar cheese, and melted butter.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) square baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pudding is set and lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Pecans
Elevate your mealtime with this savory and nutty wild rice pilaf, featuring earthy mushrooms and crunchy pecans. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked wild rice, chopped pecans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Butter
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of acorn squash, elevated by a rich brown sugar and butter mixture. Perfect as a side dish or main course for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up.
4. In a small bowl, mix together butter and brown sugar until well combined.
5. Divide the butter-brown sugar mixture evenly between the two squash halves.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Beans Almondine with Lemon Zest
Elevate your side dish game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of green beans, the crunch of almonds, and the brightness of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the almonds and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Remove the green beans from the boiling water with a slotted spoon. Add them to the skillet with the almond mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Risotto with Parmesan
Warm up with this comforting fall-inspired risotto dish, infused with the flavors of roasted pumpkin and fragrant sage.
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 (canned or homemade)
– 2 teaspoons dried sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in roasted pumpkin puree and dried sage leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges with Chipotle Aioli
Sweet potatoes meet spicy heat in this addictive snack. Crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and smothered in a chipotle aioli that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut sweet potatoes into wedges and toss with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange sweet potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender and crispy.
5. Meanwhile, combine minced chipotle peppers and adobo sauce with mayonnaise and lime juice to make the aioli.
6. Serve warm sweet potato wedges with chipotle aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower with Turmeric and Cumin
A flavorful and healthy side dish that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the warm, earthy spices of turmeric and cumin. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a colorful addition to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple and Pecan Stuffed Acorn Squash
Perfect for a chilly fall evening, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the crunch of pecans and the tenderness of apples. A delicious and nutritious side dish or main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or other sweet variety)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cinnamon, nutmeg, or maple syrup for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, melted butter, chopped pecans, and diced apples.
4. Divide the mixture evenly between the two squash halves, filling them as full as possible.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
6. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic Thanksgiving Dinner Rolls with Honey Butter
Classic Thanksgiving Dinner Rolls with Honey Butter: A sweet and savory addition to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 105°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Honey Butter ingredients: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons pure honey
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into 8-10 dinner rolls.
7. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. While rolls are still warm, prepare Honey Butter by mixing softened butter and honey until smooth.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Turkey Day spread with these 20 mouthwatering side dishes! From classic green bean casserole to creamy mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole with marshmallow topping, and more. Discover delicious recipes like roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest, cornbread stuffing with sausage and apples, and many others. Whether you’re looking for comfort food classics or innovative twists, these Thanksgiving side dishes are sure to impress your guests.
