This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Thanksgiving side dishes are just as important as the turkey. They bring color, texture and all the little extras that make a plate feel special.
If your turkey is already decided, use this list to play with the sides. Some recipes are cozy and creamy, others are fresh and crunchy, and quite a few can be made ahead or cooked in a slow cooker or Instant Pot so the oven stays free for the main.
You will not find classic stuffing, plain mashed potatoes, or marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole here. Instead there are twists on favorites, veggie-loaded sides and easy salads for meat lovers, potato fans, vegans and anyone who likes something a bit different with their Thanksgiving dinner.
If you still need ideas for appetizers, mains and dessert to go with these non-traditional sides, have a look at my Thanksgiving Menu Recipe Ideas post.
Crispy roasted potatoes with rosemary and parmesan that go with almost anything you serve. Easy to double for a bigger crowd and a nice change from plain mash.
Boiled potatoes that get smashed, brushed with garlicky oil and roasted until the edges are golden. A good pick when you want something crispy that also works for vegan guests.
Mashed potatoes lifted with sautéed kale and leeks, then finished with spring onions and a knob of butter. A small twist that still feels very comforting.
Baked potatoes sliced into thin “fans”, filled with cheese and bacon and finished with sour cream on top. They look special on the platter and are a fun pick for potato lovers.
A big tray of seasonal vegetables, from potatoes and carrots to Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, roasted until caramelized. You can swap in your favorite vegetables and use this as an easy way to add more of them to the meal.
Pan roasted Brussels sprouts with prosciutto and feta that cook on the stove instead of in the oven. Ready in about 25 minutes and a nice match for turkey or pork.
Sweet braised red cabbage with a hint of vinegar that cooks in a few minutes in the Instant Pot. You can make it earlier in the day, then reheat when the turkey is resting.
Green beans sautéed until just tender, finished with cranberries, parmesan and a touch of lemon. Bright, festive and ready in about the time it takes to carve the turkey.
Soft apples, pears and onions cooked slowly with herbs and a bit of butter. This sweet savory side pairs nicely with turkey, pork or duck and quietly simmers in the background while you work on other dishes.
Crisp iceberg wedges with creamy dressing, bacon and extra toppings of your choice. You can have it on the table in a few minutes and it adds a fresh, crunchy element to the plate.
Roasted squash, quinoa and greens in one colorful salad that feels lighter than many mayo based sides. Ideal when you want something veg forward that still feels filling.
Shredded red cabbage in a creamy dressing that keeps well in the fridge. Easy to make a few hours ahead and handy if you like at least one crunchy, cold side to go with all the warm dishes.
Mushrooms sautéed in a buttery sauce with garlic and herbs. Serve them warm as a side next to the turkey or set them out as a small bite while everyone waits for dinner.
Thanksgiving side dish FAQs
How many side dishes do I need for Thanksgiving?
For a smaller group of 4–6 people, two or three sides are usually enough, especially if you serve bread or appetizers as well. For a larger crowd, plan on three to five sides and mix them up a bit: one potato recipe, one or two vegetable sides and one salad or cold dish.
Can I make these Thanksgiving side dishes ahead of time?
Quite a few of these sides can be made in advance or prepped the day before. Potato salads, bean salads and coleslaw are happy in the fridge. Braised cabbage and gratins reheat well and slow cooker or Instant Pot recipes help free up oven space on the day.
