23 Irresistible Thanksgiving Sides That’ll Steal the Show from the Turkey!
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Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished holidays, bringing Americans together around a table piled high with food. While turkey traditionally takes center stage, the side dishes deserve their share of the spotlight. A recent survey by the American Farm Bureau reported that turkey accounted for 44.2% of the cost of a classic 10-person feast.
From comforting classics to innovative recipes, side dishes are the real crowd-pleasers at many gatherings. If you’re hosting this year, picking the right sides can elevate your meal, charm your guests, and leave bellies full and happy. Here are 23 irresistible Thanksgiving sides that may just outshine the turkey.
Classic Green Bean Casserole
An all-time favorite, green bean casserole has been a Thanksgiving staple since the 1950s. This dish combines creamy mushroom sauce, crispy fried onions, and tender green beans, creating a nostalgic taste many crave.
According to a report by Campbell’s Soup Company, the dish graces the tables of more than 30 million households every Thanksgiving. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and comforting flavors, making it a must-have on the holiday menu.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet and savory, honey-glazed carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish. Carrots are delicious and boast high levels of beta-carotene and Vitamin A, making them nutritious.
The honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the natural earthiness of the carrots. According to Agricultural Marketing Resource Center, Americans consumed 7.71 pounds per person in 2020, with a significant portion enjoyed during the holiday season.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
This beloved dish blurs the line between dessert and side—candied sweet potatoes topped with gooey marshmallows create a delightful sweet treat. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and nutrients, making them a healthy and delicious choice.
According to the USDA, over 2.7 billion pounds of sweet potatoes are harvested annually in the U.S., much of which is enjoyed during the holiday season.
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Homemade cranberry sauce—with its tart, citrusy flavor—adds the perfect tang to balance out heavier dishes. The addition of orange zest enhances the sauce’s flavor, making it a refreshing complement to the Thanksgiving feast.
According to Fulton Sun, Americans consume about 400 million pounds of cranberries each year, 20 percent of which are “gobbled up” at Thanksgiving, underscoring its role as a holiday staple.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Brussels sprouts have experienced a resurgence in popularity, especially when paired with crispy bacon. This combination elevates the humble sprout into a savory and irresistible side dish.
According to The Columbus Dispatch, Brussels sprouts sales spike during the holiday season as more people incorporate this nutritious vegetable into their meals.
Butternut Squash Risotto
Creamy, comforting, and slightly sweet, butternut squash risotto is a warm addition to any feast. The creamy arborio rice pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the squash, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant.
The North Carolina State University has noted an increase in squash-based dishes during Thanksgiving, reflecting a trend toward exploring seasonal flavors.
Herbed Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy, and aromatic, herbed dinner rolls are an essential accompaniment to Thanksgiving entrees. Whether homemade or store-bought, these rolls provide the perfect vehicle for sopping up gravy and sauces.
Bakery products expenditure of U.S. households amouted to 574 dollars on average, according to Statista, as more people embrace the art of bread-making.
Creamed Spinach
Rich and velvety, creamed spinach contrasts well with savory proteins like turkey. Packed with iron and calcium, spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, providing a healthy and flavorful addition to the Thanksgiving table.
As noted by the Harvard School of Public Health, spinach offers numerous health benefits, making this creamy side dish both delicious and nutritious.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Carrots, parsnips, and beets roasted with olive oil and herbs create a colorful and hearty side dish. The caramelization process brings out their natural sweetness, adding complexity to the holiday meal.
There’s a growing preference for roasted vegetables during holiday meals as people seek nutritious and flavorful options.
Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries and Pecans
Earthy wild rice pairs beautifully with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a sophisticated addition to the table. The nutty flavor of the rice is complemented by the sweetness of the cranberries and the richness of the pecans.
According to the Minnesota Wild Rice Council, wild rice has become a go-to grain for holiday dishes, appreciated for its taste and texture.
Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, these roasted potatoes with Parmesan and garlic are always a hit. The cheese adds a savory crust, while the garlic infuses the potatoes with flavor.
U.S. potato production reaches its peak thanks to holiday demand, as noted by Statista, underscoring the popularity of this versatile and delicious side dish.
Baked Ziti
No, it’s not just for Italian households—baked ziti has become a comfort food favorite at Thanksgiving. This dish combines al dente pasta with a rich marinara sauce, layers of seasoned meat, and gooey cheese, creating a hearty and universally appealing option that pleases any crowd.
Whether it’s complemented by a crisp salad or enjoyed on its own, baked ziti brings a cozy, family-friendly vibe to the holiday table.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Served hot and bubbly, spinach and artichoke dip is a delicious appetizer and side dish combination that’s hard to resist. Packed with creamy cheese and tender vegetables, this dip is best served with warm pita bread or crispy crostinis.
A report by Technomic reveals that dips are among the fastest-growing holiday food categories, thanks to their versatility and wide appeal in both casual and formal gatherings.
Glazed Pearl Onions
These bite-sized gems, glazed in butter and sugar, make a sophisticated addition to your holiday table. Caramelized to perfection, glazed pearl onions offer a sweet yet savory taste that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a medley of other vegetables.
They’re an homage to classic French cuisine, a style that continues to influence Thanksgiving meals with its emphasis on rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Harvest Salad
A fresh change of pace amid rich dishes, harvest salads bring a burst of color and flavor to your meal. Typically, these salads include seasonal ingredients like crisp apples, toasted pecans, and creamy goat cheese, often drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette.
According to produce sales data from the USDA, there’s an increased demand for salad greens during Thanksgiving, reflecting the growing interest in lighter, healthier options during the holiday season.
Cauliflower Gratin
Cheesy and creamy with a crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish transforms cauliflower into something truly special. Layers of tender cauliflower are bathed in a rich béchamel sauce and topped with golden breadcrumbs, making it a standout side dish.
A Pew Research Center survey found that 18% of holiday hosts now incorporate vegetarian-friendly sides, highlighting the growing trend toward accommodating diverse dietary preferences.
Maple Roasted Acorn Squash
Drizzled with maple syrup and roasted to perfection, acorn squash is a delightful nod to fall’s bountiful harvest. The natural sweetness of the squash is enhanced by the caramelized maple glaze, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Small-scale farms report a 42% increase in demand for specialty squash varieties during November, according to Local Foods Research, as more people seek out unique and festive seasonal produce.
Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Tart
Buttery puff pastry filled with sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyere cheese creates an impressive offering that tastes as good as it looks. This tart combines flaky pastry with a savory filling, making it a perfect starter or side dish for holiday gatherings.
Its elegant presentation and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress guests.
Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin takes the spotlight in this creamy, spiced soup served as a starter or side. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, the soup is both comforting and festive.
According to NielsenIQ, pumpkin product sales soar every holiday season, including fresh and canned varieties, as people indulge in this iconic ingredient in various culinary creations.
Deviled Eggs with a Twist
Add a creative spin to this classic appetizer—consider sriracha, smoked paprika, or pickled jalapeños for bold flavors. These enhancements elevate the traditional deviled egg, offering unique tastes that surprise and delight.
Deviled eggs have been a holiday staple since the early 1900s, and the modern twists ensure they continue to be a favorite at festive gatherings.
Gourmet Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese isn’t just for kids—it can be elevated to gourmet status with a blend of rich cheeses like Gruyère, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan. Adding breadcrumbs or truffle oil can provide extra depth and texture.
According to YouGov Today Macaroni and cheese is the 4th most popular italian dish and the 8th most popular dish. Its recipe is highly sought after during the holiday season as people seek familiar and satisfying flavors.
Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing brings a Southern twist to traditional stuffing. Whether prepared with sage, sausage, or cranberries, this dish emphasizes texture and flavor, offering a deliciously moist and crumbly alternative to classic bread stuffing.
A statistic from Statista indicates that 76% of Americans include some type of stuffing at their Thanksgiving meal, with cornbread being a popular choice for its unique taste.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy, buttery, and full of flavor, mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving necessity. Garlic amplifies their appeal, adding depth and richness to the dish that complements the gravy and turkey.
AgHires Blog reports that over 250 million pounds of potatoes are consumed during Thanksgiving week alone, highlighting the dish’s popularity and importance on the holiday table.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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