Planning a meal around a busy holiday usually means sorting through a lot of choices. In these 31 Thanksgiving sides, you’ll find ideas that work well for a variety of gatherings. For anyone organizing the day, having a range of possibilities helps keep things simple. By the time the meal comes together, there’s room for whatever fits the day.

A close-up of a spoon holding a portion of Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup, topped with melted cheese, over a baking dish filled with the same dish.
Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Corn Pudding Casserole

A Corn Pudding Casserole topped with chopped chives in a metal baking dish, with a portion being lifted out on a serving spatula.
Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

A warm, buttery Corn Pudding Casserole is always a crowd pleaser at Thanksgiving gatherings. The creamy texture paired with subtle sweetness makes it the perfect comfort food. People seem to always go back for seconds, so you might want to make extra. Whether it’s served alongside turkey or ham, this dish always feels like a cozy hug on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Corn Pudding Casserole

Easy White Bean Salad

A fresh White Bean Salad on a white plate featuring arugula, white beans, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, avocado, and cheese, placed on a wooden surface with two forks beside it.
Easy White Bean Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Looking for something light and refreshing to balance all those heavy Thanksgiving mains? This Easy White Bean Salad does the trick. It's bright, simple, and has a wholesome feeling that guests appreciate after indulging in rich foods. Plus, the texture is fulfilling without being overwhelming, making it a reliable addition to the holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Easy White Bean Salad

Honey Cornbread Muffins

A Honey Cornbread muffin on a white plate, topped with a pat of butter and drizzled with syrup.
Honey Cornbread Muffins. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Everyone loves a little sweetness on their plate, and this Honey Cornbread Muffins recipe knows how to deliver. These moist, golden muffins with just the right hint of honey complement any Thanksgiving dish beautifully. Watch people smile as they tear into these, they're guaranteed to be a hit and disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Honey Cornbread Muffins

Classic Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe

A black plate with bow-tie pasta salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, diced vegetables, herbs, and a creamy dressing.
Classic Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Mixing creamy, smoky, and savory notes, this Classic Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe is perfect for rounding out your Thanksgiving sides. It’s hearty enough to stand up to the turkey but still feels fresh and fulfilling. Friends and family often linger around this dish, plate after plate, until it’s completely gone. A must-have for a holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Classic Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe

Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon

A plate of roasted green beans garnished with sliced almonds, accompanied by lemon slices on a black serving board.
Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you're aiming to keep things fresh and vibrant, this Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon recipe is the way to go. The crisp beans paired with the crunch of almonds and a citrusy boost always brighten up the table. Guests tend to appreciate how this side dish feels light yet flavorful amidst the rich Thanksgiving staples.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A rectangular white plate with cooked red cabbage and bacon pieces, placed on a light surface next to a floral-patterned cloth.
Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

When you're craving bold and balanced flavors, this Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon recipe delivers. The smoky bacon and tangy cabbage create a combination that's both unique and comforting. Whether you’re serving this alongside stuffing or mashed potatoes, you’ll love how it brings a pop of color and tang to the holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Close-up Southern Style Pickled Shrimp with lemon slices and dill on a jar.
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Shake things up this Thanksgiving with a chilled, unexpected gem like Southern Style Pickled Shrimp. The tanginess and subtle spice make it something people love to talk about between bites. It’s a dish that feels fancy without being fussy and is sure to inspire compliments and recipe requests.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Easy Roasted Zucchini

Easy Roasted Zucchini. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Sometimes simple dishes make the biggest impact, and this Easy Roasted Zucchini does just that. The tender, caramelized pieces bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetable without overpowering the rest of the meal. Perfect for those who love a light and healthy option among the richer sides, this one's always appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Easy Roasted Zucchini

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

A Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts in a white bowl, accompanied by a fork.
Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a side that feels elegant and festive, this Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is an ideal choice. The earthy beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts create a blend of textures that sparks conversation. It’s a side that pairs beautifully with everything on the table, adding depth and visual appeal to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan

A baked Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan, garnished with chopped nuts and herbs, served on parchment paper, accompanied by a fork, knife, and a blue checkered cloth.
Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

This Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan takes the classic mash side dish in a luxurious, savory direction. The sweetness of the squash mixed with the nuttiness of Parmesan makes every bite feel warm and filling. It’s a holiday staple that draws smiles and compliments every time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A spoonful of Mississippi Mud Potatoes with herbs, held above a dish.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re rounding out your Thanksgiving table with a show-stopping potato dish, look no further than Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Creamy, rich, and indulgent, this recipe always earns praise at holiday gatherings. People love the layers of flavor, and it pairs beautifully with turkey, gravy, or really anything else on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Baked Spanish Rice

Baked Spanish Rice in two black baking dishes.
Baked Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There's always room for something bold on a Thanksgiving table, and this Baked Spanish Rice delivers just that. Its vibrant flavors make it a stand-out side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats and turkey. Guests are known to scoop seconds because of how well it complements traditional holiday fare. Try serving this warm and watch it add a fun twist to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Easy German Potato Salad

German Potato Salad with red onions, and bacon pieces, garnished with chopped parsley are served in a white dish with a spoon.
Easy German Potato Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Thanksgiving calls for hearty, crowd-pleasing dishes, and this Easy German Potato Salad doesn’t disappoint. Its tangy and savory notes bring a welcome change to the usual mashed side options. The rich flavors feel comforting without being heavy, making it a favorite among guests. Perfect warm or cold, it always earns compliments for its unique, bright taste.
Get the Recipe: Easy German Potato Salad

Baked Bean Casserole

A wooden spoon holds a serving of Baked Bean Casserole above a pot filled with more bean casserole.
Baked Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

This Baked Bean Casserole is savory, sweet, and smoky – exactly the kind of dish that rounds out a Thanksgiving table. It’s rich enough to feel indulgent but light enough to avoid overwhelming the meal. Whether you’re hosting a big crowd or a smaller gathering, it’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for complementing savory meats or vegetarian mains. You’ll appreciate how it brings smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Baked Bean Casserole

Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Amp up your Thanksgiving sides with these Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers – a smoky, spicy treat that surprises and delights. These little bites pack flavor that makes them perfect for guests who love something bold and memorable. Serve them for added variety on your table, and watch how they become a conversation starter. This dish balances heat, richness, and texture in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you're looking to balance the richness of Thanksgiving, this Shirazi Salad brings a burst of freshness that feels perfectly timed. Its crisp vegetables and tangy dressing make each bite memorable and light. Despite its simplicity, the flavors are layered and always a hit. Guests love how it contrasts with heavier dishes, often turning to this side for that extra refreshing note during the feast.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Squash Casserole

A serving of squash casserole with a crumb topping is plated on a white dish.
Squash Casserole. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Few dishes capture fall like this Squash Casserole, a side that feels warm and inviting with every bite. Its creamy texture paired with a golden crust makes it an irresistible addition to your Thanksgiving table. Guests often rave about how comforting and nostalgic it tastes, making it one of those dishes everyone remembers. Expect it to be a crowd favorite that you'll come to rely on again and again.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon.
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a little creativity to your Thanksgiving spread with this Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon, a dish packed with bold flavors. Tangy sauerkraut, smoky bacon, and subtle sweetness from apples all come together beautifully. Perfect with turkey or ham, it’s one of those sides that sparks conversation at the table. Don’t be surprised if this turns into a holiday tradition after just one serving.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone in a black dish.
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone is the perfect luxurious addition to a Thanksgiving table. Rich and creamy, it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances indulgence with sophistication. Though familiar, the mascarpone gives it a velvety smoothness that feels extra special for the holiday. Serve this side hot and watch how it brings elegance to even the most casual holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Fried Tomatillos

Fried Tomatillos in a black cast iron pan.
Fried Tomatillos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nostalgic and classic yet full of surprises, Fried Tomatillos are a crisp, tangy addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Their lightly tart flavor and irresistible crunch are a nice contrast to the richness of other holiday dishes. Guests won’t stop talking about their unique taste – and they’re just as good as appetizers as they are next to turkey. Get ready for requests to make these again.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Round black dish filled with seasoned roasted potato wedges, placed on a white wooden surface alongside a white and yellow striped cloth napkin.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bright citrus meets rich, savory goodness in this Greek Lemon Potatoes dish. Warm, tender, and deeply flavorful, it’s a fulfilling Thanksgiving side that breaks away from the typical staples. The bold flavors pair beautifully with turkey, and guests often remark how perfectly it balances the meal. A refreshing twist on a classic potato side, this dish never sticks around for long.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Bacon Fried Corn

Bacon Fried Corn in a serving bowl.
Bacon Fried Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Bacon Fried Corn is the perfect mix of smoky and sweet, bringing a rich, buttery twist to your Thanksgiving sides. It’s hard not to love the combination of crisp bacon and corn in every heavenly bite. Guests always notice how irresistible it smells even before hitting the table. If you’re looking for a side dish that wows without trying too hard, this one’s sure to deliver just that.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

A white rectangular plate with Potatoes & Cabbage garnished with parsley on a patterned surface.
Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!). Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who says cabbage and potatoes have to follow tradition? This Potatoes & Cabbage dish puts a fresh spin on these humble ingredients, delivering comforting flavors you never expected. Whether you serve it alongside turkey or as the star of your table, it's bound to surprise guests with its simplicity. If you’re ready to try something beyond the usual, this dish delivers.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

Mexican Black Beans

Mexican black beans in a white bowl with parsley and garlic.
Mexican Black Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add some bold flavor to your Thanksgiving spread with this Mexican Black Beans recipe. It's hearty, filling, and just perfect for balancing out all those rich casseroles and creamy sides. The dish brings a touch of spice that warms you up without overwhelming the palate. Guests will love the unexpected twist, and you’ll love how quickly they disappear from the table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans

Sweet Potato Cornbread

A piece of cornbread on a plate next to a few potatoes.
Sweet Potato Cornbread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Sweet Potato Cornbread is where sweet meets savory in all the right ways! The addition of sweet potatoes gives it a moist, dreamy texture that complements any Thanksgiving meal. Whether you’re pairing it with gravy or enjoying it solo, it’s got that perfect balance of soft and crumbly. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra because seconds are practically guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Several pieces of Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs, topped with grated cheese and chopped herbs, are arranged on a black slate serving board.
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slide these Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs onto your Thanksgiving table, and watch guests light up. The clever cut makes corn-on-the-cob even easier to enjoy, while parmesan and garlic take it to flavor-town. You won’t even need butter or salt, all the richness is baked right in. Bring this inventive dish to your holiday dinner and you’ll have everyone asking for the recipe by the end of the night.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

A slice of sweet potato casserole topped with pecan crumble on a white plate with a spoon, surrounded by pecans and sunflowers.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dessert or side? This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping is somewhere in between, and that’s why it always shines. The rich, creamy base topped with a crunchy, nutty streusel gives you the best of both worlds. Serve it once, and you’ll never have an empty serving dish again. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at this year’s holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a white bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring some restaurant-worthy brightness to your Thanksgiving feast with these Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. They’re tender, subtly sweet, and glazed to perfection, no one can resist. Whether you’re recreating a family favorite or introducing something new, this recipe hits that perfect nostalgic note. Every guest will love getting this treat without even leaving home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole

A square baking dish filled with Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole and topped with strips of cooked bacon; a wooden spoon holds a serving.
Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Comfort food takes center stage with this Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole. It’s warm, hearty, and just what you need for balancing all those lighter sides. The sweet and savory combination pulls you right back for second helpings every time. It’s an unexpected addition to the Thanksgiving table, but one that’s always welcome when guests dig in.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Add a touch of elegance with this Wild Rice Salad, a colorful, textural delight for your holiday feast. The nutty rice pairs beautifully with crunchy ingredients and fresh flavors that feel light yet festive. This versatile dish holds its own alongside turkey, casseroles, and stuffing. If you’re looking for a side that’s impressively different, this salad is the one everyone will talk about.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

A close-up of a spoon holding a portion of Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup, topped with melted cheese, over a baking dish filled with the same dish.
Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Skip the shortcuts and get back to fresh cooking with this Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup. Made from scratch, it’s creamy, hearty, and filled with flavor that feels homey yet upgraded. There's something special about knowing every bite is pure, wholesome comfort. Bring this to your Thanksgiving spread, and it’ll easily earn a permanent spot on your holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

A retired chef who knows her way around comfort food, Jenn has spent years perfecting approachable and flavorful dishes. From hearty stews to rich desserts, Jenn’s recipes deliver the kind of warmth that makes you want seconds. When she’s not in the kitchen, you can find her brainstorming her next culinary creation or sharing tips she learned during her years as a professional chef.

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