Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table with family and friends, and what better way to celebrate than with a spread of delicious, easy-to-make Thanksgiving side dishes?
In this collection, I've gathered go-to recipes that are not only simple but packed with flavor, leaving you with more time to spend with loved ones and less time stressing over the stove. Dive in and find the perfect side dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Jump to:
- 1. Cranberry Quinoa Salad with Candied Walnuts
- 2. Roasted Carrots with Farro, Chickpeas & Herbed Crème Fraîche
- 3. Savory Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan, Garlic & Herbs
- 4. Melting Sweet Potatoes
- 5. Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Recipe
- 6. Macaroni Pie
- 7. Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes
- 8. Muffin Tin Potatoes Gratin
- 9. Air Fryer Vegetables Recipe
- 10. Green Bean Salad with Crispy Bread Crumbs
- 11. Roasted Mushrooms
- 12. Pull-Apart Garlic Butter Bread Wreath
- 13. Sweet potato, Balsamic-caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Galette
- 14. Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Turmeric-Tahini Sauce & Pistachios
- 15. Pomegranate & Pear Green Salad with Ginger Dressing
- 16. Three Sisters Stew
- 17. Cacio e Pepe Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- 18. Creamy Pumpkin and Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes
- 19. Bacon Green Bean Bundles
- 20. Creamy Cheesy Cornbread
- 21. White Cheddar Cauliflower Gratin
- 22. Deep-Fried Stuffing
- 23. Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage
- 24. Mashed Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese and Rosemary
- 25. Easy Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce
- 26. Butternut Squash Pasta With Shredded Brussels Sprouts, Bacon And Raisins
- 27. Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- 27 Deliciously Simple Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Try
1. Cranberry Quinoa Salad with Candied Walnuts
This delicious cranberry quinoa salad bursts with flavor and texture, making it a standout side dish for any holiday spread.
Tossed with homemade candied walnuts, this salad also delivers a satisfying crunch with a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing the earthy notes of the quinoa. It’s a refreshing, nutrient-packed option that will leave everyone at the table reaching for seconds!
2. Roasted Carrots with Farro, Chickpeas & Herbed Crème Fraîche
The naturally sweet, caramelized carrots pair beautifully with the hearty, nutty flavor of farro, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
Topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese, this vibrant recipe offers a festive touch that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
It’s an ideal vegetarian main dish, bringing wholesome ingredients and beautiful colors to the table without any fuss.
3. Savory Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan, Garlic & Herbs
In less than an hour, you can have these delicious savory roasted sweet potatoes on the table, making them an ideal side dish for any fall meal.
Roasted to perfection, they’re topped with freshly grated Parmesan, fragrant herbs, and minced garlic for a flavor-packed twist on a seasonal favorite.
With their crispy edges and rich, savory taste, these sweet potatoes are so irresistible you’ll definitely be going back for seconds!
4. Melting Sweet Potatoes
Introducing your new go-to one-pan side dish for Thanksgiving and any cozy fall gathering! This sweet potato masterpiece delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture with minimal effort, bringing together simplicity and incredible flavor.
Start by browning thick slices in a buttery skillet, then transfer them to the oven, where they develop a deliciously syrupy glaze with hints of maple and fresh thyme. For a fun twist on a holiday favorite, top with golden-toasted marshmallows, giving a nostalgic, caramelized finish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
5. Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Recipe
The air fryer brings out the pumpkin's natural sweetness while creating a perfectly crisp, caramelized exterior that’s irresistibly tasty. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, it’s an effortless dish you can enjoy as a seasonal side or a healthy, unique snack. Each bite captures the essence of autumn, making it a delicious way to celebrate the season!
6. Macaroni Pie
This Macaroni Pie is firm enough to slice but creamy enough to feel like pure magic in every bite. Thanks to a blend of Gruyère, extra-sharp white Cheddar, and fontina, each mouthful bursts with rich, savory flavor, while fresh thyme lends an aromatic depth that elevates this dish far beyond classic mac and cheese.
The result is a perfectly balanced creation with a satisfying structure and luxurious creaminess that will make it the standout on any table.
7. Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes
This Tuscan-style roasted asparagus is the perfect combination of fresh, savory, and simple ingredients, making it an ideal side dish for any meal.
The asparagus is roasted to perfection, with crispy, caramelized tips, and a tender center, while a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning bring it all together. The final touch of lemon zest adds a burst of freshness that really pops.
8. Muffin Tin Potatoes Gratin
With thinly sliced potatoes layered in a muffin tin for a personal-sized twist on classic gratin. Each stack is baked to golden perfection, with a creamy, cheesy filling that melts into every layer.
A touch of garlic and Parmesan adds just the right amount of savory richness, making these little stacks irresistibly delicious. They’re perfect as a unique side dish for gatherings or a fun addition to a cozy dinner at home—plus, they’re just as adorable as they are tasty!
9. Air Fryer Vegetables Recipe
Learn how to transform everyday vegetables into a crave-worthy side dish with this foolproof air fryer recipe! The air fryer creates that perfect balance of a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, juicy center, locking in all the flavors and natural sweetness of your veggies.
With just a touch of seasoning and a quick cook time, each bite promises a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, making this an easy, delicious way to enjoy vegetables any night of the week.
10. Green Bean Salad with Crispy Bread Crumbs
Lightly dressed in a zesty vinaigrette and topped with freshly grated Parmesan, this salad brings a bright, savory flavor that’s perfect for any gathering.
The crispy breadcrumbs add an irresistible texture, elevating the dish to something truly special. It’s simple, flavorful, and sure to become a favorite on your table—whether for a holiday or a casual meal!
11. Roasted Mushrooms
Bursting with earthy, savory flavor and an irresistible tenderness that melts in your mouth. Roasting brings out their natural umami richness, while a drizzle of olive oil, fresh garlic, and herbs like thyme or rosemary deepen the taste with each bite.
Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for brightness, these mushrooms are a versatile side that pairs beautifully with almost any main course.
12. Pull-Apart Garlic Butter Bread Wreath
Each fluffy, golden piece is infused with rich, garlicky butter and just the right touch of salt, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Fresh out of the oven, this bread is irresistibly warm and inviting, perfect with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for an extra burst of flavor. It’s the ideal centerpiece for holiday gatherings, guaranteed to impress guests and disappear in minutes!
13. Sweet potato, Balsamic-caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Galette
Say goodbye to lackluster plates of side dishes and hello to a hearty, flavorful vegetarian main course that’s perfect for Thanksgiving! This dish is crafted to be the star of the table for your vegetarian guests, offering a satisfying blend of seasonal flavors and textures that rival any traditional centerpiece.
With ingredients that capture the cozy essence of fall, this main dish ensures that everyone, vegetarians included, can enjoy a feast that feels festive, filling, and worthy of the holiday.
14. Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Turmeric-Tahini Sauce & Pistachios
Roasted to golden perfection, the cauliflower is tender on the inside with a beautifully crisp, caramelized exterior. Drizzled with a creamy, spiced turmeric-tahini sauce, it’s rich in earthy and nutty flavors that pair deliciously with the cauliflower’s natural sweetness.
A sprinkle of vibrant, crunchy pistachios adds the perfect finishing touch, making this dish as visually impressive as it is delicious. It’s a showstopping, plant-based main that will have everyone at the table eager to dig in!
15. Pomegranate & Pear Green Salad with Ginger Dressing
Brimming with the fresh, festive flavors of juicy pomegranate, sweet Bartlett pear, and crisp Honeycrisp apple! Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures—from the crunch of greens to the burst of pomegranate seeds, all balanced with the tender sweetness of the pear and apple.
It’s dressed lightly to let the natural flavors shine, bringing a refreshing, colorful touch to your holiday spread that’s sure to impress your guests and brighten up the table!
16. Three Sisters Stew
Here's an easy, wholesome vegetable dish that’s gently stewed in a fragrant broth, highlighting the warmth of seasonal flavors. With roots in indigenous cooking, it’s a perfect choice for celebrating the harvest, adding a comforting touch to Thanksgiving, or warming up any chilly winter day.
Packed with tender, flavorful vegetables and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s as quick to prepare as it is satisfying—ideal for bringing a bit of cozy, homemade goodness to your table.
17. Cacio e Pepe Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Tossed in a rich, creamy blend of Parmesan and Pecorino cheeses, with a generous sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, these Brussels sprouts have the perfect balance of savory and slightly spicy flavors.
Roasting the sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, while the cheesy sauce adds indulgence with every bite. Whether as a side dish or a light main, this recipe is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dish that elevates the humble Brussels sprout to new heights.
18. Creamy Pumpkin and Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes
Packed with sweet pumpkin puree and savory cheddar cheese, this version elevates the traditional scalloped potatoes with an extra layer of warmth and richness.
The melt-in-your-mouth potatoes soak up the creamy sauce, creating a decadent, comforting dish that combines the best of autumn flavors. It’s a must-try for any fall gathering or holiday meal, sure to become a new favorite on your table.
19. Bacon Green Bean Bundles
Fresh green beans are bundled together with crispy bacon and then roasted to perfection, giving them a savory, smoky flavor that perfectly complements their natural crispness.
Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze made from brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, these bundles offer a delightful balance of flavors in every bite. Whether served for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these green bean bundles are sure to become a family favorite!
20. Creamy Cheesy Cornbread
Baked to golden perfection, it’s infused with melted cheese that creates a deliciously creamy texture in every bite. Whether you serve it as a side for your holiday meals or a weeknight dinner, this cornbread will quickly become a favorite. The cheesy goodness is perfectly complemented by a hint of savory seasoning, making it a simple yet irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
21. White Cheddar Cauliflower Gratin
Cauliflower is transformed into a comforting, indulgent side dish in this recipe, coated with a rich, creamy, cheesy sauce that adds a luxurious depth of flavor.
Topped with crunchy Panko breadcrumbs and baked to crispy perfection, each bite offers a delightful mix of textures. And let’s not forget the crispy bacon, adding a savory, smoky touch that takes this dish to the next level.
22. Deep-Fried Stuffing
Paired with a simple, creamy cranberry sauce for dipping, these golden bites become even more irresistible.
Deep-fried stuffing is a clever and tasty way to transform your leftover Thanksgiving stuffing into a crispy, golden appetizer that’s perfect for game day or any casual gathering. Whether served as a fun snack or a unique twist on leftovers, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests!
23. Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage
Sausage-stuffed acorn Squash is a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for fall and winter meals. The sweet, tender acorn squash is filled with a savory mixture of sausage, onions, garlic, and herbs, creating a satisfying balance of flavors.
The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the richness of the sausage, and a touch of cheese adds a creamy finish. This dish is as visually stunning as it is flavorful, making it an impressive addition to your holiday table or a comforting weeknight dinner.
24. Mashed Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese and Rosemary
The natural sweetness of the butternut squash is enhanced by the tangy richness of goat cheese, while fresh rosemary adds a fragrant, savory note that complements the squash beautifully.
This easy-to-make dish is not only a vibrant addition to your holiday table but also a comforting, seasonal favorite that will impress your guests and become a go-to for special occasions.
25. Easy Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce
The tartness of fresh cranberries is balanced perfectly with the natural sweetness of apples, while a hint of cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic touch.
This vibrant sauce comes together quickly, making it an effortless addition to your holiday spread. Whether served alongside turkey, roasted meats, or even over your favorite side dishes, this cranberry sauce will bring a burst of seasonal flavor to every bite.
26. Butternut Squash Pasta With Shredded Brussels Sprouts, Bacon And Raisins
This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Shredded Brussels Sprouts, Bacon, and Raisins is a deliciously unique dish that perfectly blends savory, sweet, and creamy flavors.
The rich, velvety butternut squash sauce envelops the pasta, while the crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch. The Brussels sprouts bring a fresh, earthy bite, and the raisins provide a surprising burst of sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a comforting, well-balanced meal that’s perfect for the fall and winter months.
27. Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Tender green beans are mixed with a creamy, savory mushroom sauce, and then topped with a crunchy layer of crispy fried onions. The casserole is cooked in the air fryer, which gives the topping a perfect golden brown crunch while keeping the beans tender yet crisp.
It’s a delicious, fuss-free version of the traditional dish that’s ideal for holiday gatherings or weeknight meals, offering all the comforting flavors you love in a more streamlined, healthier way.
Rate This Recipe
27 Deliciously Simple Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Try
Print Recipe Pin RecipeNotes
- Cranberry Quinoa Salad with Candied Walnuts
- Roasted Carrots with Farro, Chickpeas & Herbed Crème Fraîche
- Savory Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan, Garlic & Herbs
- Melting Sweet Potatoes
- Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Recipe
- Macaroni Pie
- Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes
- Muffin Tin Potatoes Gratin
- Air Fryer Vegetables Recipe
- Green Bean Salad with Crispy Bread Crumbs
- Roasted Mushrooms
- Pull-Apart Garlic Butter Bread Wreath
- Sweet potato, balsamic-caramelized onion and goat cheese galette
- Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Turmeric-Tahini Sauce & Pistachios
- Pomegranate & Pear Green Salad with Ginger Dressing
- Three Sisters Stew
- Cacio e Pepe Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Creamy Pumpkin and Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes
- Bacon Green Bean Bundles
- Creamy Cheesy Cornbread
- White Cheddar Cauliflower Gratin
- Deep-Fried Stuffing
- Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage
- Mashed Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese and Rosemary
- Easy Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce
- Butternut Squash Pasta With Shredded Brussels Sprouts, Bacon And Raisins
- Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Leave a Reply