Let's be honest, the turkey might be the star of Thanksgiving dinner, but the side dishes are usually what I look forward to most! These Thanksgiving Potluck Dishes that go well with turkey include plenty of family favorites that are easy to share. Whether you're hosting or bringing something along, there's no need to make anything complicated.
You'll find everything from creamy mashed potatoes and stuffing to roasted veggies, cheesy casseroles, fresh salads, and homemade rolls. Some are traditional Thanksgiving favorites, while others are a little different if you want to try something new. There are also make-ahead options and dishes that travel well, so you won't have to worry about keeping everything hot on the way to dinner.
1. Instant Pot Loaded Mashed Potatoes – A Thanksgiving Potluck Favorite
What's Thanksgiving turkey without a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes on the side? These Instant Pot Loaded Mashed Potatoes take the classic favorite up a notch with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions for extra flavor. They're rich, fluffy, and delicious alongside roasted turkey, especially when there's plenty of gravy to go around. Plus, making them in the Instant Pot helps free up valuable stovetop space when you're preparing a big holiday meal. It's the kind of comforting side dish everyone looks forward to at Thanksgiving.
2. Instant Pot Collard Greens with Sun-Dried Tomatoes – A Southern Thanksgiving Side
If your Thanksgiving table needs something green to balance all those rich, comforting dishes, these Instant Pot Collard Greens are a wonderful choice. The tender greens have a slightly earthy flavor, while sun-dried tomatoes add a savory touch that makes every bite more interesting. A little lemon brings brightness that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey and creamy potato dishes. Using the Instant Pot also makes preparing this Southern-inspired side more convenient during the busy holiday season. It's a flavorful way to bring something different to your Thanksgiving potluck.
3. Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole – A Classic Side Dish for Turkey
Some Thanksgiving dishes never go out of style, and green bean casserole is definitely one of them. This Instant Pot version combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions for that familiar holiday flavor everyone loves. The rich, savory taste goes wonderfully with roasted turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. Making it in the Instant Pot is also helpful when your oven is already packed with other Thanksgiving dishes. It's a traditional favorite that deserves a spot on the holiday table.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables with Honey Sage Brown Butter – A Colorful Holiday Side
Looking for a vegetable side that tastes just as wonderful as it looks? These roasted root vegetables bring together beautiful fall colors, natural sweetness, and a rich honey sage brown butter finish. Roasting gives the vegetables tender centers and flavorful edges, making them a delicious contrast to juicy Thanksgiving turkey. The sage adds a familiar holiday flavor that works especially well with stuffing and other traditional sides. It's an eye-catching dish that can make your Thanksgiving potluck spread feel a little more special.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping – A Traditional Thanksgiving Favorite
Sweet potato casserole is one of those Thanksgiving classics that always brings a little sweetness to the dinner table. This version has a smooth, creamy sweet potato filling topped with a crunchy pecan crust that makes every spoonful extra satisfying. The combination of sweet and buttery flavors pairs beautifully with savory roasted turkey and herb-seasoned stuffing. It's also a wonderful choice for potlucks because it can be served straight from a casserole dish, making sharing easy. Don't be surprised if guests come back for another helping!
6. Southern Creamed Corn – A Comforting Side That Goes Well with Turkey
There's something about a bowl of warm, creamy corn that makes a holiday meal feel extra comforting. This Southern-style creamed corn has a rich, velvety texture with just enough sweetness to complement savory Thanksgiving turkey. It also goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and other traditional holiday favorites. Since it's easy to serve in a large bowl, it's a practical choice for family gatherings and potluck dinners. Sometimes the simplest side dishes are the ones everyone enjoys the most.
7. Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese and Sour Cream – A Creamy Turkey Side
If you love mashed potatoes that are extra creamy and full of flavor, this version is worth trying. The combination of cream cheese and sour cream gives the potatoes a smooth, fluffy texture with a deliciously rich finish. They're especially good alongside roasted turkey because they soak up gravy beautifully without overpowering the main dish. This is also a comforting choice for Thanksgiving potlucks since mashed potatoes are a familiar favorite that guests of all ages can enjoy. A generous spoonful next to turkey and stuffing makes for a satisfying holiday plate.
8. Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots – A Sweet and Savory Thanksgiving Side
These Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots are a lovely way to add color and a little sweetness to your Thanksgiving dinner. The carrots become tender and flavorful, while the honey balsamic glaze adds a delicious balance of sweet and tangy notes. That contrast works especially well with savory roasted turkey, creamy casseroles, and buttery potatoes. They're also easy to serve on a platter or in a bowl, making them a convenient option for potluck gatherings. It's a simple vegetable side that brings plenty of flavor without making the holiday menu complicated.
9. Savory Vegetarian Stuffing – A Thanksgiving Side Everyone Can Enjoy
Stuffing and turkey are practically made for each other, and this vegetarian version brings all the comforting holiday flavors without needing meat. Toasted bread, vegetables, and savory seasonings come together to create a hearty, flavorful stuffing with tender centers and golden edges. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey and gravy while also giving vegetarian guests a satisfying side dish to enjoy. Since it's baked in a casserole dish, it's easy to bring along and serve at a Thanksgiving potluck. It's a familiar holiday favorite with a vegetable-packed twist.
10. Garlic Lemon Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts – A Flavorful Turkey Side
Brussels sprouts might not always be the first thing people reach for, but this roasted version could change that. Roasting gives them crispy golden edges, while garlic, lemon, and Parmesan add a delicious combination of savory and bright flavors. The slight tanginess helps balance rich Thanksgiving turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and buttery stuffing. They're also a great choice when you want something a little lighter without sacrificing flavor. Serve them warm for a vegetable side that feels right at home on the holiday table.
11. Soft Homemade Dinner Rolls – Perfect for Thanksgiving Turkey and Gravy
No Thanksgiving dinner feels quite complete without a basket of warm, fluffy dinner rolls. These homemade rolls have a soft, pillowy texture and a lightly golden crust that makes them hard to resist. They're wonderful for soaking up turkey gravy, enjoying with butter, or making little sandwiches with leftover turkey. Bringing a basket of freshly baked rolls to a potluck is also a simple way to contribute something everyone can enjoy. Just make sure to bring enough because they tend to disappear quickly!
12. Classic Herb Stuffing – One of the Best Dishes to Serve with Turkey
If there's one side dish that belongs next to Thanksgiving turkey, it's classic herb stuffing. This comforting recipe features tender bread pieces with savory herbs and a golden, lightly crisp top that adds wonderful texture. The familiar flavors complement roasted turkey beautifully, especially when everything is topped with a little gravy. It's also a great potluck option because you can prepare it in a large baking dish and serve generous portions. For many families, Thanksgiving simply wouldn't feel the same without a helping of stuffing on the plate.
13. Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad – A Fresh Thanksgiving Potluck Side
Not every Thanksgiving side needs to be warm and creamy, and this Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is a refreshing change. Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts create a crunchy, fresh base, while the other ingredients add layers of flavor and texture. The salad's lighter taste makes it especially enjoyable alongside rich roasted turkey, cheesy casseroles, and buttery potatoes. It's also convenient for potlucks because it can be served cold without taking up precious oven space. If your Thanksgiving table needs something crisp and colorful, this salad is a lovely addition.
14. Classic Homemade Mac and Cheese – A Cheesy Thanksgiving Comfort Food
There's always room for a big dish of homemade mac and cheese at Thanksgiving, especially when it's baked until golden and bubbly. This classic version brings together tender pasta and a rich, creamy cheese sauce for the kind of comfort food everyone loves. Its cheesy flavor pairs nicely with savory roasted turkey and adds something extra satisfying to the holiday plate. It's also a dependable potluck choice because you can prepare a large batch and serve it straight from the baking dish. Don't be surprised if the kids and adults are equally excited to see this one!
15. Garlicky Roasted Mushrooms – An Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish
If you're looking for a simple side that brings plenty of savory flavor to Thanksgiving dinner, these Garlicky Roasted Mushrooms are worth making. Roasting gives the mushrooms a tender, juicy texture and a deep, earthy flavor that works beautifully with garlic. Their rich taste complements roasted turkey without competing with the traditional holiday favorites. They're also a nice alternative when your potluck table already has plenty of creamy casseroles and potato dishes. A bowl of these warm mushrooms adds a delicious savory touch to the Thanksgiving spread.
16. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes – A Rich and Creamy Side for Turkey
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are the kind of holiday comfort food that makes everyone reach for a second helping. Thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce until tender, with a beautifully golden top that makes the dish extra tempting. The rich flavors pair wonderfully with roasted turkey, especially when served alongside lighter vegetable sides. Since they're baked in a casserole dish, they're also convenient to bring to a Thanksgiving potluck and serve family-style. It's a comforting alternative to traditional mashed potatoes when you want something a little different.
17. Pear Arugula Salad with Prosciutto – A Refreshing Thanksgiving Potluck Dish
A fresh, colorful salad can make all the difference when your Thanksgiving table is filled with rich, comforting foods. This Pear Arugula Salad combines peppery greens, sweet pears, juicy pomegranate seeds, and crunchy walnuts for a wonderful mix of flavors and textures. The salty prosciutto and tangy cheese add extra depth, while the dressing brings everything together. Its refreshing taste balances roasted turkey, creamy potatoes, and hearty casseroles without making the meal feel too heavy. Plus, those beautiful fall colors make it an eye-catching addition to any Thanksgiving potluck.
18. Paprika-Parmesan Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Aioli – A Crispy Turkey Side
If you're looking for a fun alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, these Paprika-Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a delicious choice. Each potato has a crispy, golden exterior with a soft, fluffy center, while paprika and Parmesan bring plenty of savory flavor. The garlic aioli adds a creamy finishing touch that makes every bite even more satisfying. They're especially tasty alongside roasted turkey and make a nice contrast to softer Thanksgiving dishes like stuffing and casseroles. Serve them warm for a crowd-pleasing side that might just steal a little attention from the main course.
19. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese – A Cozy Fall Side Dish for Thanksgiving
Mac and cheese gets a delicious seasonal makeover with this creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. The squash adds a subtle sweetness and velvety texture that blends beautifully with the rich cheese sauce, creating a comforting dish full of fall flavor. Its golden topping adds a little crunch, making every serving even more satisfying. The combination of savory cheese and sweet squash pairs wonderfully with roasted Thanksgiving turkey and other holiday favorites. It's a lovely choice when you want to bring something familiar to the potluck table with a little autumn twist.
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