No Thanksgiving table feels complete without a lineup of classic Thanksgiving sides. They bring warmth, color, and comfort to every plate. From creamy mashed potatoes to sweet potato casseroles and golden dinner rolls, these timeless dishes always steal the spotlight—sometimes even from the turkey!
Each recipe here has earned its place at the holiday feast. You’ll find make-ahead favorites, easy crowd-pleasers, and a few creative upgrades to keep things exciting. Whether you’re hosting for ten or contributing one dish to a potluck, these sides will help you serve a meal everyone remembers.
So, grab your apron and plan your perfect spread—because Thanksgiving isn’t just about the main course. It’s about the sides that make every bite feel like home.
Why You’ll Love These Thanksgiving Side Dishes
These Thanksgiving side dishes are more than just supporting recipes — they’re the heart of every holiday table. Whether you love cozy comfort food or fresh new twists, each dish brings warmth, flavor, and nostalgia to your celebration.
- Easy to make: Most recipes use simple ingredients and clear steps, perfect for busy cooks.
- Make-ahead friendly: Many dishes can be prepared a day or two in advance, saving you time on Thanksgiving Day.
- Crowd-pleasing flavors: From creamy potatoes to crispy veggies, these sides satisfy every guest.
- Mix of classics and new favorites: You’ll find beloved traditional sides and creative modern twists.
- Perfect for pairing: Each dish complements turkey, ham, or any holiday main beautifully.
🥗 Green Bean Casseroles
Green bean casseroles have earned their place on every Thanksgiving table. They’re creamy, savory, and topped with irresistible crunch.
Whether you love the classic or crave a twist, these recipes deliver crowd-pleasing comfort.
- Green Bean Casserole — The ultimate traditional favorite with creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions.
- French Onion Green Bean Casserole — A rich, modern spin layered with caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese.
- Easy Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles — Elegant bundles that turn a simple vegetable into a stunning side.
🥔 Potato Favorites
No Thanksgiving meal feels complete without potatoes. From creamy mashes to golden puffs, these sides bring pure comfort to every bite.
- Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes for Thanksgiving Dinner — Silky, rich, and nutty; the browned butter makes all the difference.
- Crispy Parmesan Smashed Potatoes — Golden edges, fluffy centers, and plenty of garlic-Parmesan flavor.
- Irresistible Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs — Bite-size delights perfect for using leftover mash and impressing guests.
🍠 Sweet Potato Classics
Sweet potatoes are the heart of Thanksgiving comfort. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with brown sugar, butter, and warm spices.
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel — A classic blend of creamy mash and buttery crunch that everyone expects.
- Easy & Sweet Potato Gratin with Cream and Thyme — Layers of tender slices baked in rich cream for a sophisticated twist.
- Melt-In-Your-Mouth Sweet Potatoes — Buttery, caramelized perfection—simple yet irresistible.
- Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs & Parmesan — Crispy cubes with a savory edge for balance against all the holiday sweetness.
🌽 Corn, Carrots & More
Bright, colorful vegetables bring balance and beauty to the Thanksgiving table. These sides add texture, sweetness, and a touch of freshness.
- Creamy Corn Casserole for Thanksgiving — Soft, buttery, and baked golden; the definition of cozy.
- Glazed Carrots — Shiny, sweet, and tender—an effortless classic that brightens the plate.
- Charred Carrots — Smoky flavor meets natural sweetness; a restaurant-worthy side made simple.
- Creamy Mashed Cauliflower — A lighter, low-carb option that still feels indulgent.
- Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole — Sweet meets savory with melted cheese and roasted squash depth.
🍞 Bread & Make-Ahead Helpers
Soft rolls and casseroles complete the meal. They fill the house with a comforting aroma and make hosting stress-free.
- Flaky Buttermilk Dinner Rolls for Thanksgiving — Buttery layers baked golden brown and perfect for gravy dipping.
- Baked Mac and Cheese for a Crowd — Creamy, cheesy, and made to feed everyone around the table.
🍽️ Final Tip
Plan a balance of creamy, crunchy, and colorful sides. Mix make-ahead dishes with fresh vegetables. Then reheat gently so every serving tastes homemade and special.
🦃 Conclusion
Thanksgiving sides define the feast. They bring balance to the turkey, color to the table, and comfort to every bite. Whether you prefer creamy potatoes, crispy green beans, or buttery rolls, these classic dishes never fail to impress.
The best part? You can mix and match to fit your crowd—pair a few make-ahead favorites with quick veggies and watch everyone come back for seconds.
When your sides are set, complete the celebration with juicy turkey, homemade gravy, and cozy drinks from our Thanksgiving Mains, Gravy & Leftovers Guide. And don’t forget to end on a sweet note with our Best Thanksgiving Desserts roundup.
Plan, cook, and enjoy every moment—the true joy of Thanksgiving is sharing these classics with the people you love most.
Classic Thanksgiving Sides — FAQ
Quick answers to common Thanksgiving side questions.
Can I make Thanksgiving sides ahead of time?
Yes, most classic Thanksgiving sides can be made one or two days ahead. Store them covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. Mashed potatoes, casseroles, and rolls reheat beautifully with a splash of milk or butter.
What are the must-have sides for a traditional Thanksgiving meal?
The most traditional sides include mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, stuffing or dressing, and dinner rolls. Add a bright vegetable or salad for balance and color.
How do I keep side dishes warm before serving?
Keep casseroles covered in a low oven at 200°F (93°C) or use a warming tray. For mashed potatoes, use a slow cooker on “warm” with a bit of butter to keep them creamy until serving time.