10 Thanksgiving Side Dish Staples You Need At Your Table This Year
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and it’s time to start planning the perfect feast. While the turkey often steals the spotlight, let’s be real—the side dishes are what everyone looks forward to! Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or having a cozy meal with loved ones, these 10 classic Thanksgiving sides are sure to bring warmth, comfort, and deliciousness to your table.
To make your hosting even easier, I’ve added some must-have Amazon product recommendations to help you create the ultimate Thanksgiving spread!
1. Classic Mashed Potatoes
Favorite recipe: Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes by DownShiftology
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a creamy bowl of mashed potatoes. This simple, yet crowd-pleasing dish is made with buttery Yukon Gold potatoes, a splash of cream, and a touch of garlic for extra flavor. Pro tip: Add a dollop of sour cream for extra richness!
Recommended: Potato Masher - Get perfectly smooth mashed potatoes every time.
2. Savory Stuffing
Favorite recipe: Buttery Herb Stuffing By How Sweet Eats
Stuffing (or dressing, depending on where you’re from) is an essential side dish that brings together flavors of sage, celery, onion, and herbs. Whether you prefer a classic bread-based stuffing or a twist with cornbread, this savory favorite is perfect for soaking up all the gravy.
Recommended: Large Baking Dish - Ideal for baking stuffing that’s crispy on top and tender inside.
3. Green Bean Casserole
This retro classic combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce and is topped with crispy fried onions. It’s the perfect way to get some greens on the table while delivering a crunchy, savory bite.
Favorite recipe: Green Bean Casserole by Spend with Pennies
Recommended: Casserole Dish with Lid - Keep your green bean casserole warm and easy to serve.
4. Collard Greens
Favorite recipe: Spicy Collard Greens by InnerGlowGirl
Collard greens are a soul-food staple and a great way to add some hearty greens to your Thanksgiving spread. My mom taught us a savory recipe with beef, chicken and shrimp that’s sure to impress any guest.
Recommended: Dutch Oven Pot - Perfect for slow-cooking collard greens to tender perfection.
5. Creamy Corn
Favorite recipe: Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Corn
Corn is the perfect side dish for any meal! It is creamy and rich and slightly sweet.
Recommended: Crockpot - Frees up the stove when many dishes are being prepared at once.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Favorite recipe: Roasted Brussel Sprouts by The Modern Proper
For a veggie side dish that’s packed with flavor, try roasted Brussels sprouts. Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until crispy, these little gems become caramelized and delicious. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or sprinkle of Parmesan for a festive twist.
Recommended: Baking Sheet Set - For perfectly roasted and crispy Brussels sprouts.
7. Buttery Dinner Rolls
Favorite recipe: 1-Hour Soft & Buttery Dinner Roll Recipe by Gimme Some Oven
No Thanksgiving table is complete without soft, buttery dinner rolls. Whether you make them from scratch or pick up a batch from your favorite bakery, they’re perfect for mopping up gravy and making mini leftover sandwiches.
Recommended: Bread Basket - Keep your dinner rolls warm throughout the meal.
8. Mac and Cheese
Favorite recipe: The BEST Homemade Mac & Cheese by Mom on Timeout
For a comfort food twist, creamy mac and cheese is a must-have. This gooey, cheesy side dish is loved by both kids and adults and adds a hearty element to the meal. Top it with crispy breadcrumbs or bacon bits for an extra crunch.
Recommended: Non-Stick Saucepan - Great for making a creamy, lump-free cheese sauce.
9. Spring Salad
Favorite recipe: Bright Spring Salad by Italian Kitchen Confessions
Give your guests a break from heavy, savory dishes with a light and refreshing spring salad packed with crunchy vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Recommended: Vegetable chopper - Quickly chop, slice or dice your veggies.
10. Deviled Eggs
Favorite recipe: Deviled Eggs by Tastes Better From Scratch
Deviled Eggs are delicious and easy, made with simple ingredients that you can serve as an appetizer or with your meal.
Recommended: Egg Cooker - A quick way to cook eggs perfect each time.
These 10 Thanksgiving side dish staples are sure to please your guests and bring comfort and joy to your holiday meal. Whether you stick to the classics or put your own spin on these favorites, the sides are where you can get creative and add a personal touch to your Thanksgiving feast.
Hosting Tip: Be sure to check out my recommended kitchen tools from Amazon to make your Thanksgiving prep a breeze and your meal unforgettable.
