Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey; it’s the delightful side dishes that make it a feast to remember. Imagine a table filled with vibrant colors and mouth-watering aromas, just waiting to be tasted.
Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic butter potato mash from Daen's Kitchen
These mashed potatoes are a creamy, dreamy side that pairs perfectly with rich turkey gravy. Made with Yukon Gold potatoes, they have a natural buttery flavor, enhanced with roasted garlic and a hint of cream.
The magic lies in the roasted garlic, which adds a sweet, nutty flavor that elevates these potatoes from ordinary to extraordinary. The key is to roast the garlic until it’s golden and soft, then mash it into the potatoes for a burst of flavor in every bite. People love this dish because it’s comforting and familiar, yet the roasted garlic adds an unexpected twist.
Savory Sausage and Apple Stuffing
This stuffing is a savory-sweet masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of sausage with the natural sweetness of apples. The bread cubes soak up all the delicious juices, creating a dish that is moist and flavorful.
What makes this recipe stand out is the balance of flavors and textures. The sausage adds a hearty, meaty flavor, while the apples contribute a touch of sweetness and freshness. Combined with aromatic herbs like sage and thyme, this stuffing becomes a symphony of flavors that everyone at the table will love. It’s a classic for a reason, and it never fails to impress.
Cranberry Orange Relish
Grandma’s Cranberry Relish (Old Fashioned Recipe) from Key To My Lime
Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 hr 10 min.
Bursting with fresh flavors, this cranberry orange relish is a zesty side that brings a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread. Fresh cranberries are combined with juicy oranges, a touch of sugar, and a hint of ginger.
Unlike the traditional cranberry sauce, this relish is raw, preserving the bright, tart flavor of the cranberries. The combination of sweet and tangy is refreshing, and the ginger adds a subtle warmth that ties the dish together. It’s quick to make, requires no cooking, and is a fresh take on a holiday classic. It’s a palate cleanser that complements the richness of other Thanksgiving dishes.
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These maple roasted Brussels sprouts are a deliciously sweet and savory side that will convert even the biggest sprout skeptics. The sprouts are caramelized to perfection, then tossed in a maple syrup glaze with crispy bacon bits.
The secret to these sprouts is roasting them until they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The maple syrup adds a sweet, caramelized coating, while the bacon brings a smoky crunch. This dish is special because it transforms a simple vegetable into a decadent treat. It’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears as soon as it hits the table.
Green Bean Almondine
50 Thanksgiving Side Dishes: Easy Mashed Potatoes from Love and Lemons
Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 hr 10 min.
Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Dishes: Honey Glazed Carrots from Downshiftology
Rating: 5. Total Time: 25 min.
Green Bean Almondine is a classic, elegant side dish featuring tender green beans sautéed with almonds and a touch of lemon. The beans are cooked until just tender, then tossed with rich, nutty browned butter.
What sets this dish apart is the simplicity and elegance of its flavors. The almonds offer a crunchy contrast to the tender beans, and the lemon adds a refreshing brightness. It’s a dish that feels luxurious yet is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. It’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes, bringing a touch of sophistication to your holiday meal.
Perfect for those who want a lighter side, Green Bean Almondine is a nod to classic French cuisine, bringing a bit of international flair to your Thanksgiving feast.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
This classic sweet potato casserole is a must-have for any Thanksgiving spread, featuring a creamy sweet potato base topped with gooey marshmallows and a crunchy pecan streusel.
The sweet potatoes are mashed with butter, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a sweet and creamy base. Topped with toasted marshmallows and a pecan streusel, this dish is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It’s like dessert served as a side dish! The gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans create an irresistible topping that is loved by kids and adults alike.
What makes this casserole special is its nostalgic appeal. It’s a dish that brings back memories for many, making it a beloved favorite on Thanksgiving tables across the country.











