12 Thanksgiving Sides So Good They Deserve Their Own Holiday

Every Thanksgiving, the turkey gets all the attention, but let’s be honest, sides are what make the meal unforgettable. From buttery mashed potatoes to creamy casseroles and perfectly roasted vegetables, these dishes often steal the spotlight. The right sides can transform a good dinner into a feast you remember all year. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or perfecting your family favorites, these recipes prove that side dishes can hold their own. Here are twelve Thanksgiving sides so good they deserve their own holiday.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, fluffy, and full of flavor, garlic mashed potatoes are a must on your Thanksgiving table. The key is roasting the garlic until it’s sweet and golden before folding it into buttery Yukon Golds. The smooth texture and subtle richness make them perfect alongside turkey or on their own with gravy. You can keep them classic or mix in sour cream or cream cheese for extra indulgence. No matter how you prepare them, they always end up being the first dish to disappear. Add some chives or a drizzle of browned butter for a final touch that makes them unforgettable.

2. Sweet Potato Casserole

This side is comfort food at its finest, blending sweet, fluffy potatoes with warm spices and a buttery brown sugar topping. Some people prefer the gooey marshmallow layer, while others swear by a crunchy pecan crumble. Either way, the contrast of textures makes every bite irresistible. Sweet potato casserole adds a cozy sweetness that balances out savory dishes. Serve it piping hot, and it’ll earn a spot on your table year after year. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla can elevate it even more.

3. Green Bean Almondine

Light, crisp, and elegant, green bean almondine gives you a break from all the heavy, creamy sides. Fresh green beans are blanched until tender, then sautéed with butter, garlic, and sliced almonds for a delicate crunch. The dish adds color, freshness, and a touch of sophistication to the meal. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create something special, and it pairs beautifully with just about everything else on the plate. A squeeze of lemon before serving adds brightness that ties the whole meal together.

4. Cornbread Stuffing

A Southern classic that delivers both comfort and flavor, cornbread stuffing brings a buttery, slightly sweet taste to the table. You mix crumbly cornbread with onions, celery, herbs, and a rich broth to create something hearty and aromatic. The baked top turns crisp while the inside stays soft and moist. It’s one of those sides that feels like a meal in itself, offering a taste of tradition in every bite. Add sausage or apples if you want to give it an extra kick of flavor.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Even if you’re not a Brussels sprouts fan, this version can change your mind. The high heat caramelizes the sprouts, bringing out their natural sweetness, while crispy bacon adds a smoky edge. A drizzle of maple syrup or balsamic glaze ties it all together with a touch of sweetness. The result is a side dish that’s savory, slightly sweet, and absolutely addictive. It’s the kind of recipe that turns skeptics into fans instantly. Toss in some toasted pecans for extra crunch and warmth.

6. Cranberry Orange Relish

This fresh, tangy side cuts through all the richness of Thanksgiving dinner. Instead of the usual canned sauce, this version uses fresh cranberries blended with orange zest, juice, and a hint of sugar. The balance of tart and sweet wakes up your palate and brightens the entire plate. It’s quick to make, keeps well, and adds a burst of color that looks beautiful on the table. You can even add a pinch of ginger for a little extra zing.

7. Macaroni and Cheese

Few sides bring as much joy as creamy, baked macaroni and cheese. With its golden crust and molten interior, it’s pure comfort in a dish. You can keep it classic with cheddar or blend in gruyere, fontina, and parmesan for a richer flavor. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top gives it that perfect crunch. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own and always gets seconds matter how much you make. Try baking it in individual ramekins for a fun twist on a favorite.

8. Honey Glazed Carrots

Vibrant and tender, honey-glazed carrots add a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements savory dishes. The glaze of honey, butter, and a touch of thyme brings out the carrots’ natural flavor and gives them a glossy finish. Roasting enhances their caramelized edges, making them as beautiful as they are tasty. They’re an easy side that adds balance, color, and a bit of elegance to your spread. For extra depth, add a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle with lemon juice.

9. Creamed Spinach

Silky, rich, and full of flavor, creamed spinach is the comfort food you didn’t know you needed on Thanksgiving. Fresh spinach is cooked down with butter, garlic, and cream until it turns into a luxurious, velvety side. The flavor is deep and satisfying without being heavy. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or other veggie dishes, offering a touch of old-school charm that never goes out of style. Add a bit of nutmeg or parmesan to make it even more indulgent.

10. Butternut Squash Risotto

Creamy risotto with roasted butternut squash brings a touch of sophistication to your table. The sweet squash blends into the rice as it cooks, creating a velvety texture that’s both hearty and elegant. Parmesan adds richness while sage or nutmeg rounds out the fall flavor. It’s the perfect side for anyone wanting something special without being fussy. Every spoonful feels like autumn in a bowl. Finish it with a drizzle of olive oil or extra cheese for a restaurant-worthy touch.

11. Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

This dish takes everything you love about baked potatoes and turns it into a crowd-pleasing casserole. Think fluffy potatoes mixed with sour cream, cheddar, and crispy bacon, then baked until golden and bubbly. Chives add freshness while melted cheese pulls it all together. It’s warm, satisfying, and impossible to resist. Once you serve it, it’s guaranteed to become a permanent part of your Thanksgiving lineup. You can even add jalapeños or ranch seasoning for a bold twist.

12. Dinner Rolls with Herb Butter

Soft, golden dinner rolls are the unsung heroes of Thanksgiving dinner. Fresh from the oven, they’re perfect for sopping up gravy or spreading with herbed butter. The buttery aroma alone makes them irresistible. You can make them ahead of time and reheat just before serving. Simple, fluffy, and nostalgic, they bring everything together, reminding you that sometimes the simplest things steal the show. Add a sprinkle of flaky salt or a brush of garlic butter for extra flavor.