When it comes to Thanksgiving, the turkey typically is the most talked about food, but it's the side dishes for Thanksgiving that everyone remembers. So I put together my ten best Thanksgiving side dishes that will steal the show! From creamy casseroles to savory stuffing, these side dishes will elevate your Thanksgiving dinner and are sure to become your new family favorites!
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Why I Love These Thanksgiving Sides
Thanksgiving side dishes are the heart and soul of the holiday table. Turkey may be the star, but the sides are what everyone remembers — the cheesy casseroles, buttery vegetables, creamy potatoes, and family recipes that only come out once a year. Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of Thanksgiving recipes for my own family gatherings, Friendsgivings, and holiday parties, and I’ve narrowed it down to the absolute best Thanksgiving side dishes you can make.
This curated list includes everything from iconic classics like stuffing and candied yams to modern favorites like cheesy casseroles and restaurant-inspired sides. Every recipe is comforting, reliable, packed with flavor, and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or looking to level up your holiday spread, these are the sides that will have your guests going back for seconds (and thirds).
If you want a stress-free holiday menu that everyone will rave about, these are the dishes to make. Choose a few classics, add a couple of fun twists, and you’ll have a Thanksgiving feast your family will talk about long after dinner is over.
The Best Side Dishes For Thanksgiving
1. Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole
This Southern-inspired cabbage casserole is actually one of my most popular casserole recipes on the blog. The combination of tender cabbage, savory seasonings, and melted cheese creates a hearty dish that pairs perfectly with turkey and mashed potatoes. It’s easily the tastiest way to make cabbage, and even picky eaters like this casserole!
Get the recipe for this copycat Brenda Gantt Cabbage Casserole here.
2. Classic Stovetop Stuffing
I don't think any Thanksgiving meal is complete without a classic stuffing on the table! This stovetop stuffing recipe is made with savory herbs, rich broth, and a perfect balance of texture from the bread and vegetables.
Whether you serve it on the side or stuff it inside your turkey, this simple yet perfect stuffing will have everyone going back for seconds, trust me!
Check out the full recipe for Stovetop Stuffing here.
3. Cheddar's Broccoli Cheese Casserole
For those who love a cheesy, creamy side dish, this broccoli cheese casserole is always a crowd-pleaser whenever I made it. It reminds me of broccoli cheddar soup but in casserole form with buttery, crunchy crackers on top. So if you're looking for a healthier yet still indulgent side, give this casserole a try!
Find the recipe for Cheddar's Broccoli Cheese Casserole here.
4. Buttery Sautéed Corn
I wanted to make a new fried corn recipe on the stovetop, so I whipped up this sauteed corn the other day. I just posted this recipe on the blog, and everyone has been raving over how good it is!
No Thanksgiving is complete without some corn, so make this buttery fried corn this year!
Get the recipe for Buttery Sautéed Corn here.
5. Pioneer Woman Stuffing Recipe
If you want to add some Southern flavors to your Thanksgiving feast, you have to make this copycat version of the Pioneer Woman's famous stuffing. Packed with flavors from sausage, vegetables, and herbs, this stuffing is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for soaking up turkey drippings.
Check out the Pioneer Woman Stuffing recipe here.
6. Artichoke Casserole
For a slightly different take on your typical Thanksgiving sides, try this artichoke casserole. This has been one of my most popular recipes since I first shared it, and for good reason! This casserole is basically like stuffed artichokes, but it's easier to make and I think it tastes even better!
I promise you won't regret serving this as one of your side dishes this year!
Here is my Artichoke Casserole recipe.
7. Amish Potato Stuffing
Why make mashed potatoes and stuffing separate when you can combine the best of both worlds? This hearty potato stuffing is a delicious twist on traditional stuffing. Made with mashed potatoes, bread, and savory seasonings, it’s the ultimate comfort food Thanksgiving side!
Check out my Amish Potato Stuffing recipe here.
8. Carrot Casserole
Another not-so-common side for Thanksgiving are carrots. Sweet potatoes are typically the orange vegetable of choice, but I have a feeling you'll be preparing carrots every year after you give this a try.
This carrot casserole has a creamy, cheesy sauce with buttery Ritz crackers on top for a flavor and texture combination that's to die for. My nieces love this casserole, so it's totally kid-approved and will be a big hit with any kiddos you have at Thanksgiving! Also, in my humble opinion, I think this is the best carrot Thanksgiving side dish you can make.
Get the Carrot Casserole recipe here.
9. Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach
I like serving one truly healthy side dish on Thanksgiving, and this creamed spinach recipe is my go-to. It's a copycat recipe of the one served at the famous Ruth's Chris steakhouse, and as good as it is with steak, I think it's even better with turkey!
This version is creamy, cheesy, and has a killer blend of seasonings that gives the spinach a delicious savory flavor. It’s truly the best way to add a healthy touch to your Thanksgiving meal while still keeping it comforting.
Check out the Ruth’s Chris Creamed Spinach recipe here.
10. Candied Yams
A Thanksgiving side dish recipes list wouldn't be complete without sweet potatoes. This recipe features tender sweet potatoes coated in a sugary syrup that enhances the natural sweetness of the yams and makes them addictive! This is by far my favorite sweet side to serve on Thanksgiving, and I know you and your family will love it!
Here is my Candied Yams recipe.
Expert Tips for Choosing The Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes
- Plan a balance of flavors and textures. A great Thanksgiving spread has a mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, savory, and fresh elements. Combine casseroles with vegetable sides, buttery starches, and something a little bright (like creamed spinach or sautéed corn) to keep the plate from feeling too heavy.
- Prep as much as possible the day before. Most casseroles, stuffing, and vegetable sides can be assembled ahead of time and baked on Thanksgiving Day. This frees up oven space and makes hosting SO much easier. If a recipe can be made ahead, I always choose it.
- Choose at least one “no-oven-required” side. Your oven will be packed. Make sure your menu includes at least one stove-top side (like sautéed corn), a slow cooker option, or a cold dish to avoid bottlenecks.
- Don’t experiment on Thanksgiving morning. If you’re trying a new recipe, make it once ahead of time. Thanksgiving Day isn’t the time for testing — it’s the time for recipes you trust to turn out perfectly.
- Make more than you think you'll need. Everyone takes bigger portions of sides than turkey. For gatherings of over 8 people, double at least one casserole or potato dish. Leftovers are never a problem — they’re the best part!
- Prioritize dishes that reheat well. Casseroles, mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted vegetables, and creamed greens all hold up beautifully. Delicate dishes (like roasted asparagus or salads) are better saved for other holidays.
- Have one “showstopper” and several simple fillers. A standout dish — like a cheesy casserole, candied yams, or a copycat restaurant favorite — makes the meal feel special, while easier sides round out the table without overwhelming you.
- Label everything if hosting a big group. It’s such a small thing, but it makes the buffet line feel intentional and keeps guests from asking, “What’s this dish again?” My wife likes to make themed labels on Canva to put in front of each dish.
Thanksgiving Side Dish FAQs
What are the most essential Thanksgiving side dishes?
The classic must-haves usually include stuffing, mashed potatoes or a potato casserole, green beans or creamed spinach, sweet potatoes or candied yams, rolls, and at least one comforting casserole. These staples create the traditional Thanksgiving flavors people look forward to every year.
How many side dishes should I serve for Thanksgiving?
For a group of 6–8 people, plan 4–6 side dishes. For 10 or more, aim for 6–8 sides to ensure there’s enough variety and plenty of food. Remember that people almost always take larger portions of sides than turkey.
Can I make Thanksgiving side dishes ahead of time?
Yes — most Thanksgiving sides are perfect make-ahead recipes. Stuffing, casseroles, potatoes, vegetables, and even creamed spinach can be prepared 1–2 days early and baked or reheated on Thanksgiving Day. This is one of the best ways to reduce stress and save oven space.
What sides travel well if I'm bringing a dish to someone else’s house?
Casseroles, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sautéed corn, vegetable bakes, and sweet potato dishes all travel exceptionally well. Bake them in a disposable aluminum pan for easy transport, and keep them warm, wrapped in towels or reheated on arrival.
How do I keep Thanksgiving sides warm before serving?
Use warmers like slow cookers, warming trays, or a low oven set to 200°F. You can also tent dishes tightly with foil and wrap them in towels to hold heat for up to an hour.
What’s the easiest Thanksgiving side for beginners?
Casseroles — especially cheesy vegetable casseroles, like my Velveeta broccoli cheese casserole — are the most forgiving and beginner-friendly. They require very little technique, feed a crowd, and taste amazing even if you’re not an experienced cook.
What side dishes go well with turkey?
Turkey pairs well with creamy, savory, and slightly sweet sides. Popular options include stuffing, mashed or twice-baked potatoes, sweet potato casserole or candied yams, creamed spinach, sautéed corn, green bean casserole, and anything with a cheesy, buttery topping.
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