As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, many of us are thinking about what to serve alongside our turkey. But let’s be real – the sides are where it’s at! Whether you’re a classic green bean casserole fan or more into roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, there’s something for everyone on this list of 20 delicious Thanksgiving side recipes.
From creamy mashed potatoes and savory stuffings to sweet potato casseroles and roasted vegetables, we’ve got the perfect menu items to complement your main event. And don’t worry – these recipes are all crowd-pleasers, so you can be sure that everyone at your table will find something they love.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of our 20 recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and techniques for making them a reality in your own kitchen. So grab a pen and paper (or open up a new tab on your phone), because you’re about to get the inside scoop on the best Thanksgiving sides out there.
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This beloved side dish is a staple of American cuisine, combining tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crunchy fried onions for a comforting casserole that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Steam green beans until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and mushrooms in butter until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, black pepper, and salt in the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add green beans to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with French-fried onions.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with this simple recipe that combines the comfort of creamy potatoes with the pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or base for various toppings.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 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, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or whole milk, stirring until the potatoes reach your desired level of creaminess.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
A classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this sweet potato casserole topped with toasted marshmallows is a crowd-pleaser. With its creamy sweetness and crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add heavy cream and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Side Dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove of garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon, garlic (if using), and any additional seasonings to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Orange Relish
This refreshing relish is perfect for accompanying your holiday meals, adding a burst of citrusy flavor to turkey, ham, or even as a topping for crackers or cheese. With its sweet and tangy combination, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh orange zest (about 1 medium orange)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, and orange zest. Process until coarsely chopped.
2. Add orange juice and honey; process until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (or less!)
This relish is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Herb-Butter Roasted Carrots
Elevate your roasted carrots with a flavorful herb-butter mixture that adds a rich and aromatic twist to this classic side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme until well combined.
3. Add the carrot pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with the herb-butter mixture.
4. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Stuffing with Sage
This cornbread stuffing with sage is a delicious and unique twist on traditional bread-based stuffings. The addition of crispy cornbread and fragrant sage adds depth and complexity to this savory side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the melted butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped sage and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the crumbled cornbread and cook until lightly toasted, stirring occasionally.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Pour the wet ingredients over the cornbread mixture and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Rich and comforting, this classic recipe combines tender potatoes with a velvety cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced potatoes and softened butter.
3. In a separate bowl, mix grated cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Arrange potato slices in the dish, overlapping slightly.
6. Pour cheese mixture evenly over the potatoes.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Butternut Squash
Maple Glazed Butternut Squash Recipe: Sweet and Savory Delight
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the rich flavor of maple syrup, creating a deliciously savory side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both squash halves.
5. Dot each squash half with melted butter.
6. Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese, creating a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with garlic, olive oil, and salt; spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with butter and Parmesan cheese; toss to combine.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms
This hearty pilaf combines nutty wild rice with earthy mushrooms and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Once the wild rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the mushroom mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the warmth of pumpkin puree, creating a deliciously creamy and autumn-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs and chopped herbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add milk, whisking continuously.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Add pumpkin puree and cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce; mix well.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and chopped herbs (if using).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
Baked Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
Roasted to perfection, this sweet and nutty acorn squash dish is a delicious side or main course. A hint of brown sugar adds depth and warmth to the natural sweetness of the squash.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Precut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the squash halves, then drizzle with melted butter.
- Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time:
About 45-50 minutes
Honey Butter Dinner Rolls
These sweet and buttery dinner rolls are perfect for any occasion. With a hint of honey and a crispy, golden-brown crust, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
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
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place each piece onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between rolls.
8. Brush tops with melted butter and drizzle with honey.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Apple Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce combines the flavors of crisp apples and tart cranberries with warm spices, perfect for serving alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or other tart variety works well)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider or water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, chopped apple, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Pour in the apple cider or water, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Mashed Cauliflower
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and flavorful loaded mashed cauliflower recipe! This dish is a twist on the classic potato mash, swapping out starchy spuds for nutritious cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Mash the roasted cauliflower in a bowl using a potato masher or fork.
6. Stir in grated cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, and crumbled bacon.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your mashed sweet potatoes game with the rich flavor of roasted garlic! This simple recipe combines tender sweet potatoes, creamy butter, and pungent roasted garlic for a deliciously comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, pierce with a fork several times, and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are roasting, toss garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast at the same temperature for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and fragrant.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Mash with butter, heavy cream, and roasted garlic until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Gratin
This rich and creamy gratin is a perfect side dish or main course, featuring sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyère cheese. It’s easy to prepare and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 30-40 minutes).
3. Add butter, sugar, and wine (if using) to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Transfer the onion mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the onions.
6. Pour heavy cream over the cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles
Elevate your vegetable game with these crispy, savory, and oh-so-easy-to-make Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the green beans into 1-inch pieces.
3. Wrap each bean piece with a third of the bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and brush with olive oil.
5. Place the green bean bundles on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Savory Herb and Sausage Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory stuffing recipe, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or serving as a side dish. The combination of sausage, herbs, and bread creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine bread, cooked sausage mixture, melted butter, dried sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 delicious Thanksgiving side recipes perfect for a crowd-pleasing feast! From classic green bean casserole and creamy mashed potatoes to sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, and many more, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for savory or sweet options, these recipes are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table.
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