The Most Popular Side Dishes for Thanksgiving: Top Recipes to Try

Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition that brings family and friends together, often around a table laden with a delightful spread of holiday favorites. While the turkey often takes center stage, it's the side dishes that truly complete the feast. From creamy mashed potatoes to tangy cranberry sauce, the side dishes can be just as beloved as the main course. If you're seeking inspiration for your Thanksgiving menu, look no further. We've compiled a list of the most popular side dishes for Thanksgiving, complete with the best recipes to make your holiday meal truly memorable.

Whether you're hosting the festivities or bringing a dish to share, these recipes promise to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters and offer something for everyone around the table. Let's explore these classic side dishes that not only embody the spirit of Thanksgiving but also bring warmth and comfort to your celebration.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a staple on any Thanksgiving table. Made with butter, cream, and a touch of garlic, this side dish is both rich and comforting. For the best mashed potatoes, start with Yukon Gold potatoes, as they offer a buttery texture and flavor. Bring peeled and quartered potatoes to a gentle boil, then simmer until tender. After draining, mash them with warm cream, melted butter, and a dash of garlic powder to taste. Season with salt and pepper, and you'll have the perfect partner for that delicious gravy.

2. Classic Green Bean Casserole

The timeless green bean casserole has earned its place as one of Thanksgiving’s most popular side dishes. This easy-to-prepare dish combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crunchy fried onions. To make it, simply mix canned green beans with cream of mushroom soup, a splash of soy sauce, and milk. Layer this mixture in a baking dish and add a generous topping of crispy fried onions. Bake it until bubbly and golden for an irresistibly savory addition to your meal.

3. Fresh Cranberry Sauce

A refreshing change from the canned variety, fresh cranberry sauce is a must-have on your Thanksgiving menu. To make a basic cranberry sauce, combine fresh cranberries with sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, letting the berries pop, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. For an extra twist, add a touch of orange zest or cinnamon. This vibrant sauce brings a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements savory dishes like turkey and stuffing.

4. Savory Stuffing

No Thanksgiving spread is complete without a savory stuffing. Often considered the ultimate comfort food, this dish combines cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, and herbs to create a flavorful side. In a large pan, sauté onions, celery, and garlic in butter. Toss the mixture with day-old bread cubes and season with sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken stock until the bread is moist, then bake it to golden perfection. Classic and satisfying, stuffing is a side dish that will always be a holiday favorite.

5. Sweet Potato Casserole

A festive favorite, sweet potato casserole brings a sweet and savory component to your Thanksgiving menu. With a topping of crunchy pecans or marshmallows, this dish is hard to resist. Begin by boiling sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. Spread them in a baking dish and top with a mixture of chopped pecans, more brown sugar, and flour. Bake until the topping is golden for a side dish that's almost a dessert.

6. Fluffy Dinner Rolls

Nothing mops up a delicious Thanksgiving meal like a fluffy dinner roll. Homemade dinner rolls can be the perfect addition to your holiday table, offering a soft and buttery complement to the festivities. Whether using a yeast recipe or opting for quick dinner rolls, the key is letting them rise until perfectly fluffy. Brush with melted butter for that extra golden finish, and watch them disappear as everyone reaches for a second—or third—helping.

Thanksgiving is about more than just food; it's about the company we keep and the memories we create. By incorporating these beloved side dishes, you're sure to enhance your Thanksgiving celebration and bring joy to everyone gathered around your table. Whether sticking to traditional flavors or adding your own twist, these recipes are bound to please both friends and family, making this holiday a truly special occasion.