Cooking Thanksgiving dinner for someone who can't eat gluten doesn't have to mean making a completely separate meal. These gluten free Thanksgiving side dishes include plenty of familiar favorites that everyone at the table can enjoy. And with so much cooking to do already, having a few easy options is always helpful!
You'll find everything from creamy mashed potatoes and roasted veggies to fresh salads and traditional holiday sides. There are also a few different ideas if you want to try something new, plus Instant Pot and air fryer recipes to save some time. Whether you're hosting the whole family or bringing something to a potluck, there's plenty to choose from. Just remember to check your ingredient labels to make sure everything is gluten-free!
1. Instant Pot Buckwheat with Mushrooms – A Hearty Gluten Free Thanksgiving Side
If you're looking for something different from the usual holiday sides, this Instant Pot buckwheat with mushrooms is a delicious choice. Buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, despite its name, making it a great alternative to wheat-based grains when sourced without cross-contact. The mushrooms add a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey and other Thanksgiving favorites. It's also a budget-friendly option that brings something hearty and comforting to your holiday table without relying on traditional bread stuffing.
2. Instant Pot Braised Green Beans – A Flavorful Thanksgiving Vegetable Side
These Turkish-style braised green beans are a wonderful alternative to traditional green bean casserole. Instead of using a flour-thickened cream sauce or crispy wheat-based toppings, the beans are cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with simple seasonings. Green beans are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy holiday side when the remaining ingredients are gluten-free too. Their tender texture and savory flavor complement roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and other Thanksgiving classics.
3. Instant Pot Creamed Beets – A Colorful Gluten Free Holiday Side Dish
These Instant Pot creamed beets bring a beautiful splash of color to your Thanksgiving spread. Beets are naturally gluten-free, and their earthy sweetness pairs wonderfully with the rich, creamy sauce. Unlike some traditional vegetable casseroles, this dish can be prepared without wheat flour or breadcrumb toppings, provided the sauce uses gluten-free ingredients. It's a lovely seasonal alternative to the usual potatoes and green beans, especially when you want something colorful and comforting.
4. Instant Pot Loaded Mashed Potatoes – A Comforting Thanksgiving Favorite
Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving essential, and this loaded version makes them even more satisfying. Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, while the melted cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions add plenty of comforting flavor without needing wheat-based ingredients. Just make sure the bacon and any packaged seasonings are gluten-free before serving. Their creamy texture and rich, savory toppings make them a delicious match for roasted turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving dishes.
5. Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Garlic – Easy Gluten Free Side Dish
Brussels sprouts get a delicious upgrade with smoky bacon and fragrant garlic in this easy Instant Pot recipe. These vegetables are naturally free of gluten, and the dish doesn't need traditional breadcrumbs or flour-based sauces to taste delicious. The bacon adds a savory touch that pairs beautifully with turkey, mashed potatoes, and other Thanksgiving favorites. Just check that the bacon and seasonings are gluten-free, and you've got a flavorful vegetable side for your holiday table.
6. Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes – Cheesy Thanksgiving Side Dish
These air fryer twice baked potatoes are a comforting addition to any Thanksgiving dinner. Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, and their fluffy centers become even more delicious with creamy, cheesy toppings. Unlike traditional baked dishes that sometimes use flour-based sauces or breadcrumb coatings, these potatoes can be prepared without either, as long as all toppings are gluten-free. Their individual portions also make them easy to serve when you're hosting a holiday gathering.
7. Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks – A Simple Gluten Free Thanksgiving Side
These air fryer cauliflower steaks are perfect when you want something lighter alongside rich Thanksgiving favorites. Cauliflower is naturally gluten-free, and air frying gives it beautifully golden edges without needing a wheat-based coating. Simple seasonings bring out its mild, slightly sweet flavor while keeping the preparation easy. It's a wonderful vegetable side that pairs with roasted turkey and adds a little variety to the usual holiday menu.
8. Air Fryer Parsnips – A Naturally Gluten Free Thanksgiving Vegetable Side
Parsnips deserve more attention during the holidays, especially when they're roasted until golden and tender. These root vegetables are naturally gluten-free, and the air fryer brings out their sweetness without requiring flour or breadcrumbs. Their slightly earthy flavor works beautifully with turkey, savory stuffing, and creamy mashed potatoes. They're also a lovely alternative to roasted carrots or sweet potatoes when you want to introduce something different to your Thanksgiving spread.
9. Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin – A Seasonal Thanksgiving Side Dish
Roasted pumpkin is one of those simple dishes that captures the cozy flavors of fall. Pumpkin is naturally gluten-free, and roasting it in the air fryer brings out its sweetness while creating deliciously caramelized edges. The recipe can fit a gluten-free Thanksgiving menu without wheat-based coatings or sauces, provided the seasonings and toppings are suitable. It's a wonderful seasonal vegetable side that complements turkey, roasted meats, and other comforting holiday dishes.
10. Air Fryer Roasted Vegetables – An Easy Gluten Free Holiday Side
A colorful plate of roasted vegetables is always a welcome addition to Thanksgiving dinner. Vegetables like eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes are naturally gluten-free, making them a great starting point for a holiday side without wheat-based ingredients. The air fryer gives them lightly crisp edges and tender centers while bringing out their natural sweetness. They're especially delicious alongside rich Thanksgiving dishes, adding freshness and variety without requiring a complicated recipe.
11. Cranberry Quinoa Salad with Candied Walnuts – A Festive Gluten Free Thanksgiving Salad
This cranberry quinoa salad brings a refreshing change to the usual warm Thanksgiving sides. Quinoa is a naturally gluten-free grain alternative, while cranberries and candied walnuts add festive sweetness and crunch. It's a colorful choice for guests who want something lighter alongside turkey, mashed potatoes, and casseroles. Just check that the candied walnuts and dressing contain no gluten ingredients, and it can be a lovely addition to your holiday menu.
12. Savory Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan and Herbs – A Thanksgiving Classic Dish
Sweet potatoes are a Thanksgiving favorite, and this savory version offers a delicious alternative to sugary casseroles. They're naturally gluten-free, and roasting them with Parmesan, garlic, and herbs creates plenty of flavor without needing wheat flour or breadcrumbs. The edges turn beautifully golden while the centers stay tender, making every bite satisfying. Their savory flavor pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey and balances the sweeter dishes often served during Thanksgiving.
13. Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes – A Fresh Gluten Free Thanksgiving Side Dish
These roasted asparagus and tomatoes are a lovely way to add something fresh to your Thanksgiving spread. Both vegetables are naturally gluten-free, and simple seasonings help bring out their flavor without relying on wheat-based sauces. The asparagus becomes tender with lightly crisp tips, while the tomatoes add a juicy burst of sweetness. It's a lighter side that complements rich holiday favorites like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and roasted turkey.
14. Garlic and Herb Roasted Mushrooms – A Savory Thanksgiving Side
These garlic and herb roasted mushrooms are a delicious choice when you want something savory without much fuss. Mushrooms are naturally gluten-free, and roasting them with garlic and herbs creates a rich flavor without needing flour-based gravies or breadcrumb coatings. Their tender texture and earthy taste pair beautifully with roasted turkey and creamy mashed potatoes. They're also a wonderful addition to a Thanksgiving menu when you want another vegetable option that feels comforting and flavorful.
15. Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Turmeric-Tahini Sauce – A Showstopping Holiday Side
This whole roasted cauliflower makes an impressive addition to your Thanksgiving table without requiring complicated preparation. Cauliflower and pure tahini are naturally gluten-free, while the turmeric sauce adds a creamy, savory flavor that complements the roasted vegetable. The golden exterior, tender center, and colorful toppings make it especially appealing for a festive holiday spread. It's a beautiful plant-based alternative to traditional casseroles, provided the sauce and toppings contain no gluten ingredients.
16. Pomegranate and Pear Green Salad – A Refreshing Gluten Free Thanksgiving Side
Thanksgiving dinner can be full of rich, comforting dishes, so having a fresh salad on the table is always a good idea. This pomegranate and pear green salad features naturally gluten-free fruits and vegetables, making it a refreshing choice when the dressing and toppings are also gluten-free. The juicy fruit, crisp greens, and ginger dressing create a delicious balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Its bright colors also make it a festive addition that pairs beautifully with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving favorites.
17. Cacio e Pepe Brussels Sprouts – A Cheesy Gluten Free Thanksgiving Side
These cacio e pepe Brussels sprouts bring a delicious Italian-inspired twist to your Thanksgiving vegetables. Unlike traditional cacio e pepe pasta, this version uses naturally gluten-free Brussels sprouts as the base, along with savory cheese and black pepper. Roasting brings out the sprouts' sweetness, while the cheese adds a rich, comforting finish. It's a flavorful alternative to traditional vegetable casseroles that fits beautifully alongside turkey and mashed potatoes when all ingredients are gluten-free.
18. Bacon Green Bean Bundles – An Elegant Thanksgiving Side Dish
These bacon green bean bundles are a fun way to make a simple vegetable feel special for Thanksgiving. Green beans are naturally gluten-free, and wrapping them in bacon adds savory flavor without needing traditional breading. The sweet and tangy glaze creates a delicious contrast with the smoky bacon, making each bundle especially satisfying. Just check that the bacon and glaze ingredients are gluten-free, and they're a lovely addition to your holiday table that guests can easily serve themselves.
19. Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash – A Hearty Gluten Free Thanksgiving Side
Stuffed acorn squash brings together sweet and savory fall flavors in one comforting dish. Acorn squash is naturally gluten-free, and the sausage filling can also be suitable when made without wheat-based binders, breadcrumbs, or other gluten-containing ingredients. The tender squash pairs beautifully with the savory filling, creating a hearty option for your Thanksgiving spread. Serve smaller portions alongside turkey and other holiday sides for a satisfying addition that feels especially appropriate for autumn.
20. Mashed Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese and Rosemary – A Creamy Gluten Free Thanksgiving Side
If you're looking for a delicious alternative to mashed potatoes, this mashed butternut squash is worth adding to your Thanksgiving menu. Butternut squash is naturally gluten-free, and its smooth texture becomes wonderfully creamy with goat cheese and fragrant rosemary. The recipe doesn't need wheat flour or breadcrumbs to create its rich, comforting consistency. Its slightly sweet and savory flavor makes it a lovely seasonal side that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey and other Thanksgiving favorites.
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