101 Best Thanksgiving Sides for Your Table in 2025

The traditional Turkey will always be the centerpiece for Thanksgiving dinner, but what Thanksgiving sides are worthy of sharing the stage? No matter what type of Thanksgiving event it is, there is a perfect side dish recipe just waiting to be uncovered. We’ve gathered 101 of the best Thanksgiving sides for you to explore and be inspired by.

You may know about the traditional first Thanksgiving feast celebrated by the Pilgrims in 1621, but it turns out that it might not have been the first official Thanksgiving in the New World. In 1578, there was a service held in Newfoundland and it is possible that Spanish settlers celebrated Thanksgiving feasts in Florida even before that time.

According to the Smithsonian, in addition to these settlers’ celebrations, there is evidence that native peoples performed rituals and dances such as the "Green Corn Dance" of the Cherokees, in order to bring about a bountiful harvest.

Thanksgiving has a long history in American culture. While some families choose to celebrate at one of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving, it's traditionally celebrated at home with a large meal. There are many ways to make this holiday your own, and Thanksgiving sides can play a key role. Let’s dig into the 101 best options for your Thanksgiving table this year.

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• Traditional Thanksgiving Sides
• Easiest Thanksgiving Sides
• Best New Thanksgiving Sides
• Cold Thanksgiving Sides
• Best Thanksgiving Sides for a Crowd
• Vegetarian Thanksgiving Sides
• Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

Traditional Thanksgiving Sides

1. Stuffing

Any good list of Thanksgiving food ideas will include cornbread stuffing. This side dish, sometimes referred to as dressing, is a traditional Thanksgiving side that helps complete your turkey dinner. Generally made with cornbread, chopped celery, chicken broth and sage, you can find countless modern variations or look through old family recipes for a sentimental take on this side dish.

2. Mashed Potatoes

Another one of the top 10 Thanksgiving sides is mashed potatoes. We’ll discuss several ways to spice up your potato dishes in this guide, but you can’t go wrong with a smooth, classic mashed potato complete with butter, salt and pepper. On a table full of sides for Thanksgiving, this is the one even the pickiest cousin will happily pile high.

3. Green Bean Casserole

No matter what your feelings about casseroles might be throughout the year, at Thanksgiving, a good green bean casserole is a must. Follow a classic Campbell’s recipe with fresh green beans, cream of mushroom soup and crispy onion straws as a delicious and savory topping. This classic Thanksgiving side is perfect to add to your vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes list if you're looking for healthier food options.

4. Classic Macaroni and Cheese

A traditional macaroni and cheese can make a great addition to your Thanksgiving menu. In fact, for anyone wondering “What are the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes?” Mac and cheese might just top the list. Customize with whatever types of cheeses (Gruyère cheese is a decadent choice) and noodles you prefer for a creamy side dish that will be sure to fill you up. 

5. Turkey Gravy

Use the drippings from cooking your turkey to create a traditional gravy. Simply add flour, garlic and seasonings to thicken the gravy and use it to add flavor and texture to your turkey, dressing and more. It might not always get its own line on a list of Top 10 Thanksgiving sides, but everyone notices when it’s missing or poorly made.

6. Dinner Rolls

Dinner rolls are a Thanksgiving dinner side staple. The most traditional option is probably a classic yeasted roll. Whether you make your own from scratch or purchase frozen rolls, what’s better than a soft, warm dinner roll to soak up all the extra gravy on your plate? 

7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes bring color and natural sweetness to the table. This Thanksgiving side dish idea is also easy to pull together, letting you focus on the main event. All you need to do is season the cubed or sliced sweet potatoes and roast them until crispy on the edges.  

8. Salad

For one of the most traditional Thanksgiving sides, throw together an easy Thanksgiving salad using fresh greens and vegetables. There are plenty of ways to make your salad seem more seasonal, but you can’t go wrong with a simple mix or even a store-bought salad to save time. Among heavier side dishes for Thanksgiving, a bite of raw crunch keeps the meal from feeling monotonous.

9. Cranberry Sauce

Are you looking to add something traditional and sweet to your Thanksgiving table? Don’t forget the cranberry sauce. You can use pre-made options for this classic Thanksgiving side, or create your own using a basic combination of brown and white sugar, cranberries, water and orange juice. Ensure your homemade cranberry sauce has plenty of time to chill in the refrigerator before you serve it.

10. Brussels Sprouts

If you are looking for reliable Martha Stewart Thanksgiving side dishes that will be a hit at your family gathering, try this crispy Brussels sprouts recipe. Roast them in olive oil and top with garlic, salt, pepper and a little bit of parmesan cheese for an easy, traditional Thanksgiving side dish.

11. Cornbread

Perhaps you’d rather add another type of bread to the mix on Thanksgiving day than traditional dinner rolls. Instead, opt for a quick cornbread made in a round pan. Slice it up and serve with gravy or simply with butter for a warm addition to your Thanksgiving table.

12. Roasted Carrots

Roasted carrots are an easy Thanksgiving side idea that adds flavor and nutrition to a meal. Keep things simple by roasting carrots with some salt, pepper and garlic, or spice it up by adding a glaze to your carrots to make them a bit sweeter.

13. Collard Greens

Collard greens are a traditional Thanksgiving side dish that you will see on many different tables. Keep it simple by cooking with bacon for a great flavor, or substitute the bacon for a turkey leg for a truly seasonal take on this traditional dish.

14. Squash Casserole

Squash casserole is a southern staple on Thanksgiving. The cooked squash in the middle is buttery and moist, while the Ritz cracker topping browns up beautifully in the oven and adds a salty kick to the casserole. This is the kind of side dish for Thanksgiving dinner that guests remember later but can’t quite name — only that “the squash thing” was excellent.

15. Creamed Corn

Corn is one of the best Thanksgiving side dishes because there are so many different ways it can be served. If you are hosting a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, you can’t go wrong with creamed corn served warm. It will add a delicious texture to your turkey and other Thanksgiving dinner sides.

Easiest Thanksgiving Sides

16. Corn Casserole

Sometimes it can be difficult to think of simple potluck ideas to take to a Thanksgiving gathering. Corn casserole is an easy-to-make recipe that can be a staple in your Friendsgiving arsenal. You can make it with a boxed cornbread mix and canned corn to really cut down on prep time. This Thanksgiving side idea also keeps well if you need to make it a day or two before the celebration. 

17. Cinnamon Apples

Sweet treats don't have to be reserved for your fall dessert course with this delicious alternative Thanksgiving meal! This easy Thanksgiving side brings cinnamon-y deliciousness to your entrees.

Make it on the stovetop and your whole house will smell great as guests arrive. This comfort food dish can also be used as a sweet Thanksgiving breakfast idea to start the day off right. You can also use any leftovers as filling for another fall favorite, apple pie.

18. Stuffed Mushroom Casserole

Casseroles may be easy Thanksgiving sides to make, but they don’t have to be bland. This year, try making a stuffed mushroom casserole with button mushrooms, cheese, parsley and a crispy topping of panko breadcrumbs for a new take on stuffed mushrooms. It feels generous and a little luxurious, without the stress that usually accompanies fancier sides for Thanksgiving.

19. Green Beans With Onions and Almonds

This is one for guests who prefer lighter side dishes for Thanksgiving. Put a simple twist on traditional green beans by blanching them and then adding them to a hot skillet of caramelizing onions. The onions will give the beans a great flavor, and you can toss in a handful of almonds to add an extra, nutty crunch to this Thanksgiving side dish. 

20. Confetti Corn

Confetti corn is an easy crowd-pleaser that adds a bit of spice to your Thanksgiving menu. Using fresh corn or canned corn, combine with butter and finely chopped bell peppers. You can even add a jalapeño or two, as well as some red onion. The confetti-like appearance of the finely chopped vegetables mixed with the corn kernels is sure to brighten up any Thanksgiving plate. 

21. Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselback potatoes are a side dish that looks complicated but is actually quite simple to make. To prepare, slice your potatoes thinly, but be sure you don’t cut them all the way through. The bottoms should be intact so that the thin slices fan out on the top. Then, coat in your favorite toppings.

Try a mixture of butter, garlic and olive oil, or get creative and add bacon in between some of the slices for a delicious texture change. Bake like a normal baked potato and wow your guests! They bring a bit of drama to the table to feel special while still sitting comfortably alongside traditional Thanksgiving dinner sides.

22. Roasted Butternut Squash

For a simple fall dinner idea, cube butternut squash and toss it in olive oil. Season with your favorite assortment of herbs and spices and roast, being sure to turn the squash midway through. Your guests will love the warm fall flavor this dish adds to your Thanksgiving menu. For the hurried Thanksgiving chef, the simplicity of this side dish for Thanksgiving dinner makes it a food that relieves stress.

23. Scalloped Potatoes

To make this simple potato dish, thinly slice your potatoes and then cook them in a mixture of milk and heavy cream. You can customize these as much or as little as you like, but don’t forget to add cheese, garlic and shallots for a delicious and flavorful dish.

24. Oyster Dressing

Oyster dressing isn’t new, but it still feels like a discovery for guests who grew up on plain cornbread stuffing. In fact, many people swear that it's one of the best Thanksgiving sides. To make this simple dish, combine your chopped oysters, bread cubes, celery, onion and spices. Then add a heated mixture of milk, butter and oyster liquid. Place the warm mixture into a greased baking dish and bake until golden brown.

25. Glazed Carrots

Glazed carrots elevate a basic and traditional Thanksgiving side. Plus, adding a glaze of butter and brown sugar before roasting doesn’t take up too much time. It is an easy extra step that will add sweetness and richness to the flavor of the carrots. 

26. Slow Cooker Stuffing

For a truly easy Thanksgiving side that allows you to ‘set it and forget it,’ try making stuffing in the slow cooker. You can use the traditional stuffing ingredients (stock of your choice, bread crumbs, celery and onions) in the slow cooker and prepare it in advance so that there is one less thing for you to worry about on the big day.

27. Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are a simple side dish that allows your guests to customize their meal to their liking. Bake a big batch of potatoes and set up a baked potato bar with toppings like butter, cheese, sour cream, chives and bacon.

28. Parmesan Risotto

For a truly easy Thanksgiving side, cook up a large batch of Risotto with a basic cheese and cream sauce. Add some garlic and top with fresh parsley for a creamy side dish that will fill your guests up. It’s a smart way to introduce something a bit more refined into a lineup of easy Thanksgiving sides without overwhelming the rest of the menu.

29. Candied Pecans

Candied pecans are a seasonal hit that are easy to make. Whip up an easy glaze of eggs, sugar and cinnamon for your pecans, then bake them. This is another recipe that will get the whole house smelling like fall by the time your guests arrive. You can serve them on their own as a side dish or use them to top sweet potato dishes, salads and more. 

30. Jalapeño Corn Muffins

Make your guests’ mouths water with an easy corn muffin recipe. Add in jalapeños, cheddar cheese and whole kernels of corn to really spice up this Thanksgiving side. Remember, you can moderate the heat by removing the pepper seeds before slicing and adding them to your muffins.

31. Buffalo Chicken Dip

Dips don’t have to stay in the appetizer section of the menu. Serve a spicy buffalo chicken dip alongside your other Thanksgiving sides to add a new flavor profile to the mix. This game day appetizer will comfortably hold its own. It’s one of those side dishes for Thanksgiving that reliably gets scraped clean.

Best New Thanksgiving Sides

32. Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Stuffed sweet potatoes are a healthy Thanksgiving side that can be customized to fit your menu, from Tex-Mex versions featuring cheese and black beans to a Greek- or even curry-inspired stuffed sweet potato. Talk about flavorful non-traditional Thanksgiving recipes. For guests who skip meat, this side dish for Thanksgiving will escape token vegetable status.

33. Pimento Cheese Corn Muffins

Cornbread or corn muffins often rank in the top 10 Thanksgiving sides, but there are ways to customize the classic corn muffin to give it a new twist. Try stuffing your corn muffins with pimento cheese for a little bit of a kick. They’re a fun way to reimagine cornbread without losing the spirit of the classic Thanksgiving side dish.

34. Spicy Cranberry Sauce

Take your traditional cranberry sauce up a notch by adding jalapeño peppers to the mix. Your guests will love this sweet and spicy combination. Add as much heat as your guests can handle!

35. Gnocchi Stuffing

For an updated version of traditional cornbread dressing, try making a version with gnocchi, Italian sausage and spinach. It's Christmas in Italy meets traditional American Thanksgiving. This is a unique option that combines multiple flavors into one delicious side for Thanksgiving.

36. Pinot Cranberry Sauce

Another great take on cranberry sauce is a modern version made with pinot noir. Use the wine, your cranberries and a mixture of brown sugar, honey, orange juice and rosemary to make a warming, wine-infused sauce. Don’t forget the cinnamon stick and spices to give this Thanksgiving side all the fall vibes.

37. Roasted Beets

Beets are a super-easy side dish for Thanksgiving, plus they add a splash of color to your table. To cook your beets the easy way, wrap them in foil with olive oil, salt and pepper and roast in a hot oven until tender. Then slice and serve however you prefer. They’re especially useful on plates heavy with beige and brown Thanksgiving sides, giving the eye — and the palate — something bright to focus on.

38. Vidalia Onion and Potato Gratin

This updated take on potato au gratin includes Vidalia onions and sage to create a delicious, creamy potato dish. Can’t find Vidalia onions? You can substitute them with any sweet onion instead and still end up with a crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving side.

39. Creamed Brussels Sprouts

This Thanksgiving side dish is perfect for those in your family who might not love Brussels sprouts on their own. Instead of roasting them alone, turn them into a cheesy gratin with sharp cheese, heavy cream and milk. Add shallots and a bit of Marsala wine to the mixture to really bring out the flavors of the cheese. 

40. Sausage Stuffing

While this Thanksgiving side dish is not exactly new, sausage stuffing made using breakfast sausages in addition to celery, bread crumbs, onion and poultry seasoning can be a great switch if you usually make meatless dressing. The browned sausage seasons the bread and aromatics from within, giving the whole pan a deeper flavor.

41. Peas and Pancetta

Add some extra flavor and umami to a traditional dish of peas by pan-frying them with pancetta, white wine, thyme and a little bit of lemon. This is a light side dish that will have your guests going back for seconds. 

42. Kale Orzo

Make a light and fresh orzo side using kale, lemon and red pepper for a delicious and easy dish, or get creative and add things like cheese, cherry tomatoes or toasty breadcrumbs to take this menu item to the next level. 

43. Potato Gratin Stacks

Make mini potato gratin stacks in a muffin tin and create individual portions for your guests to enjoy. These crispy and cheesy potatoes are the perfect bite-sized Thanksgiving side.

44. Chipotle Sweet Potatoes

Spice up your sweet potato side dishes by adding a hint of heat. You can add chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to mashed sweet potatoes or use chipotle pepper to add spice to a sweet potato casserole. This is a great side for Thanksgiving if you need a little extra backbone in your menu to stand up to bold turkey rubs or smoked meats.

45. Pumpkin Risotto

Make a light and creamy side dish with all the flavors of fall by combining pumpkin and arborio rice with parmesan cheese and a fall blend of spices like pepper, nutmeg and garlic to create a warming fall side dish that will fill your guests. Finish with some extra parmesan and a touch of chopped sage to add a sophisticated touch to this Thanksgiving side idea.

Cold Thanksgiving Sides

46. Pear Salad

There is something festive about enjoying pears around Thanksgiving and Christmas, whether they are spiced or served in a salad.

For this side, mix fennel and greens with your pears to bring out the best of each. Finish this light and healthy Thanksgiving side dish with some crumbled pecans, walnuts or hazelnuts to add some crunchy textures into the salad. 

47. Fruit Salad

With all of the potatoes, rolls and pies being served at Thanksgiving dinner, sometimes you just need something a little bit lighter. Offer your guests a big bowl of fruit salad to eat during dinner or as a dessert choice for those trying to avoid sweets. 

48. Jellied Cranberry Sauce

It’s a classic for a reason! Jellied cranberry sauce is a cold side dish that has been on many movie-screen Thanksgiving dinners. You can purchase the canned version at the supermarket or make your own using fresh or frozen cranberries. In some households, it’s the cold Thanksgiving sides that spark the most specific childhood memories.

49. Deviled Eggs

If you are looking for a versatile party food and side dish, try deviled eggs, which can be customized in many different ways. These are a great option to make if you are looking for a side dish that can be made ahead and brought to the party. They’re also kind to the cook: made entirely ahead, they remove one stress point from the long list of Thanksgiving side ideas.

50. Cucumber Salad

We often associate tangy cucumber and onion salad with the summer months, but a light and fresh cucumber salad with dill and chives can also be a good addition to a late November meal. This Thanksgiving dinner side earns its keep by quietly keeping the whole meal feeling lighter and more balanced.

51. Pasta Salad

Another cold side dish that can be customized to your and your guests’ tastes is pasta salad. Whether you start from scratch with homemade dressing or opt for a kit, there are an endless number of ways to customize this Thanksgiving side.

52. Themed Charcuterie Board

Minimal cooking is required when you are putting together charcuterie board ideas for Thanksgiving. You can customize to include foods in fall colors or even shape the board like a Turkey for a truly festive option. If you're for some unique Thanksgiving table décor, you could make the charcuterie board into a table runner for family and guests to snack on.

53. Olive Tapenade

If you’d like a saltier option on your menu, try making a Mediterranean-inspired olive tapenade. Serve on bruschetta for an appetizer or bring it to the main table and enjoy it as a savory side. 

54. Pimento Cheese

Make a big batch of pimento cheese ahead of your Thanksgiving dinner and offer it to guests as a snack or appetizer. Then bring it to the table and let guests spread it on corn muffins or bruschetta as a quick and easy Thanksgiving side dish.

55. Jello Salad

You don’t have to save the jello salad for dessert. Make a batch with cream cheese, Cool Whip, Jell-O and a pretzel crust and add it to the buffet for your guests to enjoy along with their turkey. In some families, this classic Thanksgiving side takes pride of place next to the turkey or ham.

56. Egg Salad

Similarly, egg salad can also be prepped ahead of time and left in the refrigerator until dinner time. Use hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise and mustard to create that signature egg salad taste. This Thanksgiving side is perfect for anyone who wants a lighter protein, something satisfying that doesn’t compete with the main roast.

57. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that can be adjusted to your tastes and preferences. It can also be made the morning of and set in the refrigerator until it is time to eat, which means there is one less dish that has to be accounted for when making your oven schedule. 

58. Cranberry Fluff

Like jello salad, cranberry fluff is a dish that doubles as a side and dessert. To make this old-school favorite, use fresh cranberries, crushed pineapple, cream cheese and mini marshmallows to create a light, fluffy and sweet treat for your guests to enjoy.

59. Ambrosia

Ambrosia is unashamedly retro. This traditional southern side dish combines some unexpected ingredients: marshmallows and fruit. You can make your ambrosia with oranges, coconut and pineapple. Don’t forget to top with a generous helping of whipped cream!

60. Shaved Fennel Salad

Make a crisp salad for your guests to enjoy by using shaved fennel as the hero ingredient. Combine with honey, dijon mustard, pine nuts and parmesan for a light salad that is the perfect counterpart to turkey and carb-heavy side dishes. 

Best Thanksgiving Sides for a Crowd

61. Hash Brown Casserole

If you are serving food for a crowd or hunting for good Friendsgiving ideas, consider making a hash brown casserole. This recipe feeds a lot, and its cheesy, oniony goodness is warm and satisfying. Make with shredded or cubed hash browns, depending on your taste. 

62. Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

If you're hosting Thanksgiving for a crowd, then this meal is a good time-saving hack. Instead of baking a potato for every guest at your party, why not serve up an easy-loaded baked potato casserole? With cheese, sour cream, chives and bacon, your guests will get all of the toppings from the potato bar in one helping.

To spice things up, soak the potatoes in buffalo wing sauce to give them an extra kick before cooking.

63. Sweet Potato Casserole

Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like a sweet potato casserole covered in browned marshmallows. The cubed sweet potatoes, combined with butter, milk and sugar, make a delicious filling, while the marshmallows on top add even more sweetness. Just be sure to watch it in the oven, as the marshmallows will brown quickly!

64. Roasted Winter Vegetables

When cooking for a crowd, it’s best to look for large-batch recipes. Instead of serving a separate dish of carrots, squash, parsnips and sweet potatoes, why not combine them all in one large pan? Season with lemon and red pepper flakes for a delicious fall vegetable medley.

65. Garlic Herb Sweet Potato Fries

French fries don’t always appear on the Thanksgiving table, but put a seasonal spin on this American staple and you’ll be the toast of Friendsgiving! Once the fries are cooked (either in a deep-fat fryer or air fryer), toss them in butter and salt for a truly delicious Thanksgiving side dish idea. This Thanksgiving side idea will tempt people back for one more piece over and over.

66. Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Two crowd favorites at any party are spinach and artichoke dip and macaroni and cheese. For this amazing Thanksgiving side dish, combine the two! You can make this in one pot and bake it just before dinner. The only prep is to boil your pasta ahead of time. You could do this the day before and store the cold cooked pasta until it’s time to bake the casserole.

67. Herb Focaccia

Making focaccia is a labor of love, but it is a great way to show your friends you care. Plus, you can prepare the dough, let it rise and bake it ahead of time, leaving a little bit more room in your schedule on Thanksgiving morning. There's no better gift for bakers than a fluffy focaccia on the Thanksgiving table. 

68. Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Casseroles are the perfect Thanksgiving side when you have to stretch the food to feed all of your hungry guests. For this side dish, use a can of cream of mushroom soup to keep the broccoli moist while baking. Use onion and freshly grated cheese to finish off the dish. For hosts trying to sneak more greens into their sides for Thanksgiving, this pan usually comes back empty without a single prompt.

69. Candied Yams

Candied yams are a staple in the American South at Thanksgiving time. But don’t be confused by the name! Most often, yams sold in supermarkets are sweet potatoes. While there is a technical difference, you’ll want to use sweet potatoes for this dish. Start by parboiling the potatoes and then transfer them to a baking dish.

Once there, you’ll coat them in a delicious sauce made with cinnamon, spices, sugar and butter. Throw the whole dish in the oven and wait until the sauce has thickened and glazed over the sweet potatoes. If your guests are expecting an old-school, classic Thanksgiving side, this one fits the bill.

70. Apple Cranberry Sauce

Yet another way to add variety to the traditional cranberry sauce side is to mix in some sliced apples before cooking. Use an apple like the honeycrisp variety to incorporate all the fall flavors in your cranberry sauce.

71. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

It doesn’t have to be difficult to make macaroni and cheese from scratch if you’re serving a crowd. Make a one-pot pumpkin mac and cheese by using canned pumpkin and elbow noodles. Don’t forget a large dose of sharp cheddar and delicious Gouda cheese to add the finishing touch to the pasta and pumpkin.

72. Cheese Soufflé

Trying to make a soufflé before a big gathering might feel intimidating, but your guests will love the light, cheesy taste. Be sure to follow the recipe carefully, as it does take some technique to whip your egg whites into the light, pillowy mixture required for this classy Thanksgiving side.

73. Pull-Apart Garlic Bread

Making a delicious rosemary or cheesy pull-apart garlic bread allows your guests to help themselves to bread. You can make yours in a loaf shape by scoring the dough, or instead, slice the dough into cubes and bake them in a round bundt pan for a festive-shaped loaf. 

74. Ranch Potatoes

If you’re looking for an easy potato side dish that doesn’t involve too much mashing, double-baking or slicing of potatoes, make simple ranch potatoes by cutting baby potatoes into big chunks, coating with olive oil and ranch mix and roasting until tender. On a buffet packed with richer casseroles, this side dish for Thanksgiving dinner offers a straightforward, savory option that still feels special.

75. Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes

If you do want to make a large batch of mashed potatoes for your next gathering, try switching it up a bit by adding pepper jack cheese and seasoning with chili powder and cayenne pepper. These spicy mashed potatoes will be a crowd favorite!

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Sides

76. Vegetable Tray

If you need good finger food ideas for your Thanksgiving feast, a vegetable tray can be the perfect appetizer that transforms into a side dish when the meal is served. Carrots, broccoli, celery and sliced bell peppers make for a great snack before and a great, light side dish during dinner.

77. Baked Acorn Squash

Baked acorn squash makes a perfect vehicle for other Thanksgiving dishes, plus it is nutritious. The sweetness deepens as it roasts, especially if brushed with a bit of maple or butter and herbs. Offer your guests the hollowed out slices and let them fill with their other favorite side dishes.

78. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

This is a Thanksgiving side that you can make as indulgent or healthy as you’d like. You can use bacon, almond milk and vegan cheeses or you can go all in with bacon, cheddar cheese and parmesan to add smooth and creamy flavors to your baked cauliflower.

79. Lima Beans

For this southern staple, cook your lima beans (butter beans) in some vegetable stock, or you can spice it up by adding bell pepper, carrots and garlic to give your butter beans a more Spanish taste.

80. Stuffed Butternut Squash

While you can make stuffed butternut squash with sausage, you can also turn this side dish into a delicious vegetarian option by cutting the meat and stuffing the squash with wild rice, kale, cranberries, chickpeas or anything else your heart desires. This is the perfect Thanksgiving side dish on which to experiment with new flavors.

81. Creamed Kale

Eating your greens is easy with this creamy kale recipe. Use lacinato kale, butter, onion, garlic and heavy cream to create a warm side dish that also works great as a dip. To make it extra fall-inspired, add a pinch of nutmeg.

82. Roasted Squash With Apples

It might seem like an odd combination, but roasted squash with apples is a dish that has a long heritage in Lithuania and Poland. You can also add onions to give it an extra flavor. It's a warm fall dish that combines beautiful flavors. Season with your favorite savory herbs and spices to finish this easy side dish.

83. Beet Salad

Make a classic beet salad with other ingredients like fresh greens, walnuts and Granny Smith apples for a fruity bite. This salad pairs perfectly with goat cheese and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing, but you can skip the goat cheese if you are cooking for a vegan friend or family member.

84. Roasted Parsnips

Parsnips don’t often get the attention they deserve at Thanksgiving, but roasting them in long strips or in cubes can be a great way to add more nutrition to your meal. Their flavor sits somewhere between carrot and potato, with a slight nuttiness that works well with rosemary, thyme or a drizzle of honey. If you prefer this dependable Thanksgiving side with a softer texture, be sure to parboil the parsnips before you roast them. 

85. Melting Potatoes

It seems like there is no end to the different types of potato-based side dishes at Thanksgiving. Melting potatoes are a warm and hearty option made using Yukon gold potatoes.

Peel your potatoes and slice off the ends, then cut into slices about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. You’ll sear the potatoes in a mixture of butter and olive oil before adding garlic and other herbs. Once the potatoes are cooked golden brown on both ends, transfer the whole batch to the oven and cook for about thirty minutes.

86. Kale and Mushroom Bread Pudding

Bread pudding doesn’t always have to be a dessert option. Try adding it to your Thanksgiving sides menu. This dish is best made with crimini or shitake mushrooms, as well as a healthy dash of rosemary for some extra flavor. It doubles as both starch and vegetable, which makes it particularly helpful if you're trying to consolidate your Thanksgiving side ideas.

87. Roasted Pumpkin

If you are searching for really easy Martha Stewart Thanksgiving side dishes, try her recipe for simple roasted pumpkin. All you need is a pumpkin, some olive oil and black pepper. This simple ingredient list lets the pumpkin’s natural sweetness shine through. You can also cube the pumpkin and roast it just like you would squash, carrots or sweet potatoes.

88. Waldorf Salad

For a light and fruity salad dish at your Thanksgiving feast, try a traditional Waldorf salad, which has celery, green apples and toasted nuts, along with a mayonnaise dressing that adds even more richness and flavor to this vegetarian-friendly food.

89. Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash

Squash is one of the most quintessential fall veggies, so why not serve a healthy helping of squash stuffed with goat cheese, pumpkin seeds and hearty quinoa? This dish is great as a Thanksgiving side, but it also works well as a meal on its own.

90. Stuffed Artichokes

Make a stuffed artichoke recipe by using a delicious combination of breadcrumbs, garlic and parmesan cheese before roasting. You can even dress this dish up more by making a white wine and lemon-infused sauce to glaze the artichokes with before cooking.

Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

91. Roasted Cauliflower

Cauliflower is one of the healthiest vegetables. A simple sheet pan of it can be seasoned with smoked paprika, cumin or garlic, so the flavor profile is easy to match to the rest of the menu. You can even find recipes for cauliflower “steaks” that will take the place of meat on the plates of any vegetarians in the crowd.

92. Brussels Sprouts With Pomegranate Molasses

Taking a basic Brussels sprout recipe to the next level is always a good idea at the holidays. Instead of just roasting your sprouts, toss them in sweet pomegranate molasses to create the perfect flavor combination your guests will love. It’s a dish that earns compliments both for flavor and for how striking it looks alongside the other Thanksgiving dinner sides.

93. Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad

Brussels sprouts are truly a versatile vegetable. For your next Thanksgiving meal, create a salad using shredded sprouts as a base layer. Keep it simple with a basic dressing and parmesan, or add pine nuts and a nice Dijon mustard-based dressing to make it a bit fancier.

94. Persimmon and Pomegranate Salad

Make a light and bright salad using persimmon and pomegranate seeds. Then add a kick of fall flavor by topping it with candied walnuts for a truly autumn-inspired take on this recipe. On a chilly November day, this Thanksgiving side will light up the table.

95. Duchess Potatoes

Duchess potatoes are a unique take on mashed potatoes. Light and fluffy, they are put into piping bags and swirled into a pretty shape before being baked to a golden crisp. They keep all the appeal of a classic Thanksgiving side but add a bit of ceremony when they arrive at the table.

96. Butternut Squash Risotto

Use diced butternut squash as a flavor cornerstone in a simple risotto recipe. Combine with garlic, rosemary and a little bit of white wine for a comforting and creamy fall dish. The squash breaks down enough to flavor the entire pot while still leaving a few tender chunks for the lucky ones.

97. Mock Mashed Potatoes

For those watching their carb intake, mashed potatoes can be a dangerous food at Thanksgiving. Instead of mashing potatoes, create mock mashed potatoes out of cauliflower. They work well with a bit of butter and offer added health benefits for those watching what they eat.

98. Ranch Chopped Salad

For a chopped salad that brings a lift of ranch flavor to your table, try chopping up lettuce, bacon, cheddar cheese and tomatoes and tossing in a ranch dressing. This might not be the most traditional of Thanksgiving side dishes, but it will add another flavor profile to the mix.

99. Spinach Casserole

There are lots of different ways to make this Thanksgiving side, some of them not so healthy! Instead, substitute low-fat options for the cream of mushroom soup and cream cheese. You can also substitute the onion strings on top for a light dusting of Parmesan cheese to create a healthy spinach casserole everyone will love. 

100. Pumpkin Puree With Pecans

This Thanksgiving side dish doubles as a spread or even a dessert, thanks to the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. It’s also a snap to make! Combine pureed pumpkin (canned is perfectly fine) with some brown sugar, butter, cinnamon and nutmeg and puree until smooth.

101. Fall Orecchiette

Make a warming fall pasta dish to go with your Turkey by combining fall favorites like butternut squash, kale and turkey sausage with orecchiette pasta.

We hope this guide to the 101 best Thanksgiving sides for your table has given you plenty of inspiration for your next feast. A well-chosen mix also gives guests room to discover something new without losing the touch of their time-honored favorites.

For even more fun Thanksgiving ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!