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Whether you’re seeking classic Thanksgiving dinner recipes or something new and exciting, you’re sure to love one (or more!) of these 25 Thanksgiving side dishes.
While roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie may have permanent spots on your Thanksgiving menu, It’s always fun to add something new to the side dish spread.
With recipes ranging from classics like mashed potatoes and green bean casserole to innovative soups and squash dishes, you’re sure to find a new family favorite on this list.
Plus, most of these recipes have a healthy twist, which is always a welcome addition to the sea of heavy casseroles.
If you try any of the recipes, be sure to come back and leave a rating and review! Happy Thanksgiving, friends!
Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes
I broke these recipes into four categories:
- Potato and Winter Squash Recipes
- Beans and Brussels Sprouts
- Cauliflower, Carrots, Broccoli, and Mushrooms
- Show-Stopping Salads
Potato and Winter Squash Recipes
Maple-Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This recipe features roasted sweet potato slices tossed in cinnamon maple-butter and topped with spicy-sweet pecan praline. Sweet potatoes have never been this decadently delicious!
Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole
The ultimate savory Butternut Squash Casserole with Parmesan-creamed kale, nutty Gruyere cheese, and a toasted walnut-sourdough topping. This stunning side dish will be the hit of your next holiday gathering.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts
Roasted butternut squash with orange-maple candied walnuts, cinnamon, and crispy sage. This show-stopping side dish is holiday-worthy, yet easy enough for weeknight cooking.
Roasted Garlic Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes take the classic side dish to epic new heights. You won’t be able to resist their rich, roasted garlic flavor and crave-worthy creaminess. Perfect for holiday dinners or to pair with your favorite protein.
Butternut Squash with Brown Butter Hazelnuts
Just 5 ingredients in this roasted butternut squash with brown butter hazelnuts recipe. Featuring garlic, thyme, and the most addictive nutty topping, this cozy side has incredible flavors packed into one simplistic dish.
Mushroom and Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
Creamy Mushroom and Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash with parmesan and rich balsamic reduction. A decadently delicious, gluten free entree or side dish brimming with fall flavors.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Miso Butter
Naturally sweet with a deeply savory twist, these mashed spuds are guaranteed crowd pleasers. Just 5 ingredients with BIG flavor impact, these creamy sweet potatoes will be an instant hit.
Beans and Brussels Sprouts
The Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Brown Butter Green Beans with Hazelnut Dukkah
This 5 ingredient green bean recipe features blanched and browned green beans topped with an addictive, crunchy topping. The browned butter adds unrivaled richness and nutty depth, which complements the toasty dukkah like a dream.
Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney
Only 6 ingredients and 30 minutes to prepare this show-stopping vegetable side dish. Even the most devout veggie skeptics will LOVE these Brussels sprouts.
Miso-Sesame Glazed Brussels Sprouts
These Miso-Sesame Glazed Brussels Sprouts with crispy panko-Parmesan topping are a restaurant-worthy side. Charred and crispy on the outside, meaty on the inside, and with the most addictive miso glaze, they’re a must-make!
Brussels Sprouts with Maple-Mustard Glaze
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Maple-Mustard Glaze, sharp cheddar, and toasted pumpkin seeds. The most delicious way to enjoy Brussels, this goes-with-everything side will become a family favorite.
5 Ingredient Tahini-Thyme Brussels Sprouts
Simple, streamlined, yet elegant enough for entertaining, these sprouts pair perfectly with a classic Thanksgiving dinner spread.
Wild Rice Pilaf with Brussels
In place of classic stuffing, this hearty pilaf recipe is filled with shredded sprouts, apple, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries.
Cauliflower, Carrots, Broccoli, and Mushrooms
The Best Broccoli Cheese Casserole
The most fantastic Broccoli Cheese Casserole with leeks, white cheddar, and a golden panko topping. Try it in place of (or in addition to) classic green bean casserole, and see who goes for seconds!
One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
In lieu of stuffing, try this cheesy wild rice casserole which features buttery mushrooms, fresh thyme, and toasted pecans.
Coriander-Roasted Carrots with Parsley and Pistachios
The most incredible roasted carrots recipe! Spiced with coriander and cumin, tossed in a garlic-herb sauce, and finished with toasted pistachios and sesame seeds. Simple enough for weeknight cooking, yet impressive enough for entertaining, they’re an absolute show-stopper.
Pomegranate-Glazed Carrots with Whipped Goat Cheese
This colorful, creamy side dish will liven up any dinner spread. Only 5 ingredients!
5 Ingredient Skillet Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin
This dish mostly comes together on the stovetop, but finishes under the broiler to get the cheesy breadcrumb topper nice and toasted. The result is a rich, rustic side with contrasting flavors and textures—a bit of crunch to round out the standard stuffing and mashes on the table.
Easy 5 Ingredient Marsala Mushrooms
These quick sautéed mushrooms will add a layer of decadence to any dinner spread. The perfect accompaniment to any dish with gravy!
Show-Stopping Salads
Autumn Delicata Squash Salad
Featuring sweet and spicy roasted squash, crisp greens, avocado, and pomegranate tossed in a lively maple-mustard dressing. This beautiful, nutritious salad will be a welcome addition to any classic side dish spread.
Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Almond Butter Dressing
Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad with creamy almond butter dressing, pomegranate, and pumpkin seeds. This fall-inspired salad is equal parts hearty and healthy.
Autumn Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
Crisp mixed greens tossed with roasted sweet potatoes, apples, Parmesan, and a delicious maple vinaigrette. This fall salad is packed with good-for-you nutrients and will become a seasonal staple.
Winter Chopped Salad with White Balsamic Dressing
Mixed greens tossed with roasted sweet potato, apples, white beans, and a delicious white balsamic dressing. Vibrant, nutritious, and a beautiful addition to your holiday tablescape.
10 Minute Warm Brussels Salad with Whole-Grain Mustard Dressing
A speedy, hassle-free salad that can be prepared earlier in the day for convenience. Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
Shaved Brussels and Pear Salad
Shaved brussels and pear salad with pumpkin seeds, golden raisins, and Manchego cheese tossed in a punchy lemon-Dijon vinaigrette. This simple salad makes delicious use of fall produce and comes together in a flash.
If you give any of these Thanksgiving side dishes a try, be sure to snap a pic and tag #dishingouthealth on Instagram so I can see your creations. Also, follow along on Facebook and Pinterest for the latest recipe updates!