You have the turkey. You have the pumpkin pie. Now what about everything else? Here are some of our absolute favorite Thanksgiving sides to round out your holiday dinner.
1/51
Green Bean Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This green bean casserole has always been one of my favorite dishes—it’s so easy to put together! You can make it before any guests arrive and keep it refrigerated until baking time. —Anna Baker, Blaine, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 163 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 485mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
Thanks to its savory flavors, snappy green beans and crunchy onion topping, this easy green bean casserole recipe is as traditional as it gets. Feel free to plus it up and make it yours by adding cheese, bacon or more veggies.
2/51
Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
From the Recipe Creator:
I took my mother's delicious sweet potato casserole and gave it a new twist by adding the tempting taste of orange—a fruit very abundant in our state. The flavors are wonderful together and make this dish a family favorite. —Norma Poole, Auburndale, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 312 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 266mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (41g sugars, 5g fiber), 4g protein.
Try roasting your sweet potatoes before mashing them for this recipe. This will give them a more concentrated flavor that really pops with the nutmeg, orange juice and marshmallows.
3/51
Crockpot Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
If you're hosting a big Thanksgiving dinner this year, add this simple slow-cooked stuffing to your menu to ease entertaining. The recipe comes in handy when you run out of oven space at large family gatherings. —Donald Seiler, Macon, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 178 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 635mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
Keep this slow-cooker stuffing recipe in your back pocket to streamline cooking for a crowd. It cooks low and slow for a moist and fluffy result filled with all the hearty vegetables, fragrant herbs and bread your heart desires.
4/51
Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Cream cheese is the secret ingredient in these comforting spuds. Simply mash, mix and let them warm in the slow cooker. —Frieda Bliesner, McAllen, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 341 calories, 24g fat (15g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 267mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
These extra-creamy mashed potatoes pack plenty of flavor. Keep them in your slow cooker on Thanksgiving to free up the oven.
5/51
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic cranberry sauce couldn't be easier to make. Be sure to chill it after you combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, zest and sugar so the flavors have time to meld. —Wilma Sue Sanders, Divide, Colorado
Unlike some other fruits, cranberries contain their own pectin (a natural thickener) that’s released as they cook. It keeps this homemade sauce super simple and practically foolproof.
6/51
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
From the Recipe Creator:
There are lots of ways to personalize this roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe to your own tastes, but it all starts with perfectly roasted sprouts. Oven temps vary, so keep an eye on the sprouts to make sure they get crisp but don’t burn. —Karen Keefe, Phoenix, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 227 calories, 16g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 381mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 8g protein.
A simple ingredient list and straightforward method make it incredibly easy to roast Brussels sprouts to perfection. The savory bacon balances well with the softly nutty flavor of the sprouts.
7/51
Corn Pudding
From the Recipe Creator:
Cornbread mix and canned corn make this southern corn pudding casserole a snap to prepare. Now, this is real comfort food! —P. Lauren Fay-Neri, Syracuse, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 435 calories, 22g fat (12g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
Yes, the corn is sweet. Yes, every bite is creamy and decadent. And yes! You can enjoy this corn pudding as a side dish without spoiling your dessert.
8/51
Glazed Sweet Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh sweet potatoes that Mom grew disappeared fast at our family table when she served them with this easy, flavorful glaze. She still makes them this way, and now her glazed sweet potato recipe has become a favorite with the grandchildren as well! —Rosemary Pryor, Pasadena, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 352 calories, 9g fat (6g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 96mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (39g sugars, 6g fiber), 3g protein.
Butter, maple syrup and brown sugar make the perfect complement to roasted sweet potatoes. Use quality maple syrup for the glaze—you’ll be able to taste the difference between a pure maple syrup and the sickly sweet ones with additives.
9/51
Baked Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
Even people who have had their own homemade baked macaroni and cheese recipe for years ask for mine when they taste this crumb-topped version. For the best baked mac and cheese, use extra sharp cheddar cheese for more flavor. —Shelby Thompson, Dover, Delaware
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 688 calories, 37g fat (21g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 839mg sodium, 63g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
There are all sorts of mac and cheese recipes for Thanksgiving, but sometimes classic is best. This traditional southern recipe is good no matter where you call home.
10/51
Dinner Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
These are the best dinner rolls around. If you can't decide which enticing topping to choose, just use them all. —Christina Pittman, Parkville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll (calculated without toppings): 118 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
These rolls are the perfect addition to any Thanksgiving. Slather them with butter, dunk them in gravy or eat them plain. If there are leftovers, make leftover turkey sliders the next day!
11/51
Sausage Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
Every family seems to have their own favorite dressing recipe that becomes a tradition, and this is ours. It came from Grandma, who passed it down to my mother. Now our children have carried it into their kitchens. This is truly a good old-fashioned recipe. —Norma Howland, Joliet, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 352 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 826mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 12g protein.
This sausage stuffing boasts bold flavor and a tender, juicy bite. If you can’t find bulk pork sausage, you can use links and cut the casings off with a paring knife.
12/51
Creamed Peas
From the Recipe Creator:
I can still taste these wonderful peas in Mama's delicious white sauce. Our food was pretty plain during the week, so I always thought this white sauce made the peas extra-fancy and fitting for a more formal Sunday meal. —Imogene Hutton, Brownwood, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 110 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 271mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
A simple homemade sauce is all a bag of frozen peas needs to go from blah to unbelievable—and in a hurry too. Add chopped bacon for a little smokiness.
13/51
Creamed Pearl Onions
From the Recipe Creator:
When our children were small, we always celebrated Christmas at our house. This was one of many recipes I relied on that could be prepared a day in advance, which gave me more time to spend with guests. Everyone expected to see this vegetable dish on the table every year. —Barbara Caserman, Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 151 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 440mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
To save time on Thanksgiving, assemble this dish the night before, store it in the refrigerator and slip it into the oven right after the turkey comes out. Make things even easier with frozen pearl onions instead of fresh.
14/51
German Red Cabbage
From the Recipe Creator:
Sunday afternoons were a time for family gatherings when I was a kid. While the uncles played cards, the aunts made treats such as this traditional German red cabbage recipe. —Jeannette Heim, Dunlap, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 64 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 23mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
Tender and sweet, this German cabbage comes together in just one pot and tastes wonderful served warm or chilled. Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
15/51
Green Beans with Bacon
From the Recipe Creator:
Green beans with bacon and onions make such an easy side dish. Fresh beans lend a crisp, bright flavor to any meal. They're best when served hot. —Mari Anne Warren, Milton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 62 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 177mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
You won’t believe how three simple ingredients can create such enormous flavor! Bacon adds savoriness and smokiness, while brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness.
16/51
Broccoli Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Even people who don’t like broccoli beg me to make this comforting broccoli cheese casserole recipe. It's similar to a classic green bean casserole, but the melted cheese just puts it over the top. —Elaine Hubbard, Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 359 calories, 26g fat (11g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 641mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
Just five ingredients go into this creamy dream of a side dish. Try it for a texture twist on traditional green bean casserole.
17/51
Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh green beans are wrapped in bacon and covered in a sweet sauce in this fast and simple side dish. Every time I take these bacon-wrapped green beans to a luncheon or family dinner, people beg me for the recipe. —Julie Hewitt, Union Mills, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 bundle: 196 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 355mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
If you think everything’s better with bacon, we have your new favorite green beans! A sweet sauce finishes this fast and simple side dish. Wrapping the beans is the simplest technique, but it makes the final product so much more elegant.
18/51
Candied Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
These tender, vibrant candied carrots have a buttery glaze and a mild sweetness. This is a simple dish, but it sure makes carrots seem special. —P. Lauren Fay-Neri, Syracuse, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 125 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 174mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein.
Sweet dishes like these candied carrots are ideal for rounding out Thanksgiving dinners full of savory richness. And it doesn’t hurt to add a little color to a notoriously beige spread!
19/51
Parmesan Risotto
From the Recipe Creator:
Risotto is a creamy Italian rice dish. In this version, the rice is briefly sauteed, then slowly cooked in wine and seasonings. Watch for that magic moment when the risotto transforms from just rice in liquid to creamy, tender deliciousness. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 260 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 728mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
Give your feast a little taste of Italy! One of the best ways to use arborio rice is to make cheesy risotto. The creamy texture and subtle flavors make this a memorable side dish for Turkey Day.
20/51
Oyster Dressing
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe came from my mother. She made it every Thanksgiving for my father, who absolutely loved it. —Amy Daniels, Brodhead, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 228 calories, 15g fat (8g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 495mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
There’s nothing fishy about this delicious seafood dressing. Fresh oysters (pre-shucked are easiest!) give the buttery bread a tangy, salted touch.
21/51
Corn and Broccoli in Cheese Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Save room in the oven by making this savory side in your slow cooker. It is a standby in my house. My daughter likes to add leftover ham to create a hearty main course. —Joyce Johnson, Uniontown, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 148 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 409mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 starch, 1 medium-fat meat.
Corn and broccoli might not be the most obvious ingredient combo, but don’t let that stop you from trying this veggie side. Reviewers of all ages have loved it. The next day, stir in leftover turkey for a quick one-pot meal.
22/51
Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to make these twice-baked sweet potatoes because they can be prepared ahead of time. With the addition of cream cheese, they are very creamy and not overly sweet. It is so easy to increase the quantity to any number. —Linda Call, Falun, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed potato: 297 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 100mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein.
These creamy baked sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping put a super fun spin on traditional twice-baked potatoes. Choose sweet potatoes with firm skin that doesn’t have too many bruises or blemishes.
23/51
Roasted Potatoes, Carrots & Leeks
From the Recipe Creator:
Simply seasoned and flavored with garlic, this fantastic side dish will complement just about any entree. The colorful veggies are easy to prepare and look attractive on a holiday buffet, but you'll want to keep this recipe in mind for meals all year long. —Janice Mitchell, Aurora, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 131 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 260mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
Hearty potatoes, subtly sweet baby carrots and delicate leeks bake beautifully to garlicky roasted perfection in this easy dish. Here’s how to clean leeks to get all the sediment out of the crevices.
24/51
Crescent Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
I always have to double this buttery homemade crescent roll recipe because they never last long. You can shape them any way you'd like, but to me, a crescent shape is so pretty. —Kelly Kirby, Mill Bay, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll: 128 calories, 4g fat (3g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 107mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
Skip the can! Crescent rolls are a simple yeast bread that taste richer than anything from the store. Bonus: When frozen, they’re as simple to thaw and warm as the canned ones.
25/51
Makeover Creamed Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
This healthy creamed corn has all the rich feel and flavor of the original, but only about half the calories and about a third of the saturated fat. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 234 calories, 9g fat (6g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 574mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
You don’t have to skip the butter and cream to have a healthier version of traditional creamed corn. This recipe brings all the flavor—and then some.
26/51
Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
I couldn’t shake my mashed potato habit—until I tried mashed cauliflower with a similar consistency. I started making my own, and my family loves it. —Meredith Howard, Franklin, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 154 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 290mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
This caulilflower mash is an excellent option for anyone looking for lower-carb side dishes that still bring the comfort food kick. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
27/51
Smashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Golden brown and buttery, these crispy smashed potatoes live up to their tantalizing name. A sprinkle of fresh herbs when they’re hot out of the oven maximizes the flavor and the pretty. —Althea Dye, Howard, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3 smashed potatoes: 292 calories, 22g fat (9g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 543mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
This simple herb-seasoned side marries the best textures potatoes have to offer—crispy golden exteriors with creamy soft middles. Waxy red potatoes are the best option for this side dish.
28/51
Vegetarian Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
Tasty mushrooms and onions complement the big herb flavor in this amazing stuffing. This dressing stays so moist because it’s made in the slow cooker. —Ruth Ann Stelfox, Raymond, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 212 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 694mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
Free up oven space on the big day by making this classic stuffing in the slow cooker. Bonus: The slow cooker keeps all the juiciness inside while it cooks.
29/51
Funeral Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
On holidays, a friend serves these creamy, cheesy potatoes when we gather together to celebrate with lifelong friends and grown children. —Carol Blue, Barnesville, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 394 calories, 22g fat (14g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 680mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
They don’t have the most comforting name for Thanksgiving dinner, but they sure do deliver on comforting flavors. Frozen potatoes and some pantry staples like cream soup make this creamy, crunchy potato casserole beyond easy.
30/51
Dill & Chive Peas
From the Recipe Creator:
Growing my own vegetables and herbs helps keep things fresh in the kitchen, but frozen peas make this side a breeze to prepare. —Tanna Richard, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 113 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
Sometimes simplicity is best! Fresh herbs and a little lemon-pepper seasoning liven up frozen peas for a simple way to get your greens.
31/51
Sweet Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Tender sweet potatoes are tossed with crunchy nuts and chewy dried cherries for bursts of flavor and texture. —Fran Fehling, Staten Island, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 211 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 189mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
Most potato salads scream summer potluck, but this sweet potato version gives the salad a fall twist. Nutrient-rich sweet potatoes plus nuts and berries make this dish whole-food wholesome.
32/51
Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish is especially wonderful when locally grown asparagus is in season. It's so easy for celebrations because you can serve it hot or cold. —Jannine Fisk, Malden, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 95 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 294mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
Crisp asparagus, bright tomatoes and crunchy pine nuts need only a simple sauce to tie them all together. Opt for asparagus that is bright green and not wilting.
33/51
Spinach Souffle
From the Recipe Creator:
You just can't make an easier, more delicious side dish than this. It's great with beef, pork and lamb, and I especially like serving it for a festive occasion like New Year's Eve. —Bette Duffy, Kenmore, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 375 calories, 33g fat (20g saturated fat), 228mg cholesterol, 630mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
Never made a souffle? This beginner-level dish is a great place to start. Creamy spinach goes with almost any main dish and impresses for a special occasion.
34/51
Southern Collard Greens
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandmother made the best southern collard greens recipe in the world. Eating them with a slice of buttermilk cornbread is pure bliss. —Sherri Williams, Crestview, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 204 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 849mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 7g fiber), 10g protein.
Low-and-slow southern-style cooking yields tender, flavorful greens that go with any region’s feast. Ham hocks infuse the greens with smokiness, while vinegar and garlic balance out the earthier side of the veggie.
35/51
Pomegranate Splash Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
The sparkling pomegranate gems make this salad irresistibly beautiful. My family loves it at holiday gatherings when pomegranates are in season. Even the children can't get enough of this antioxidant-rich delight. —Emily Jamison, Champaign, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup with about 4-1/2 teaspoons vinaigrette: 164 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 140mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch.
This pretty pomegranate salad is topped with a so-simple homemade cranberry dressing that you can make in less than 15 minutes. And, yes, you can eat the pomegranate seeds!
36/51
Spoon Bread
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a traditional Kentucky recipe that's a popular side dish served all year long. If you’ve never tried spoon bread before, I think you’ll find it tasty and comforting. —Caroline Brown, Lexington, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 192 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 433mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
Spoon bread is an American classic that will never go out of style. This version bakes for 40 minutes in the oven, so plan accordingly with other baked side dishes.
37/51
Pineapple Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
When I make pineapple casserole, I double the amount because guests frequently request a second helping for dessert. Sweet-tangy fruit is even better combined with savory cheddar cheese and a buttery cracker crumb topping. —Catherine Ann Goza, Leland, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 514 calories, 22g fat (10g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 465mg sodium, 71g carbohydrate (48g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
If you haven’t had pineapple casserole, it might sound a little unusual. But hear me out: Hawaiian pizza fans and newcomers alike love this sweet-savory mix of fruit and cheese. Serve it as a side dish, appetizer or even dessert.
38/51
Sweet Potato Souffle with Pecans
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandmother makes this sweet potato souffle recipe every Thanksgiving. It's just so full of love and memories that it needs to be shared. —Natalie Gray, Moreland, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 406 calories, 23g fat (12g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 190mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (36g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
Eggs, mashed sweet potatoes and evaporated milk set this fluffy souffle apart from sweet potato casseroles. Try adding pumpkin pie spice or changing the nuts to make the topping your own.
39/51
Cheese Biscuits
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a big fan of homemade biscuits but not the rolling and cutting that goes into making them. This drop biscuit method solves everything! —Christy Addison, Clarksville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 biscuit: 237 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 429mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
Sharp cheddar and some chili flakes give these simple biscuits an unmistakeable zing. Check out the freezer instructions for making them ahead to simplify your holiday even more.
40/51
Crusty Bread
From the Recipe Creator:
Crackling homemade bread makes an average day extraordinary. Enjoy this beautiful crusty bread recipe as is or stir in a few favorites like cheese, garlic, herbs and dried fruits. —Megumi Garcia, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece (calculated without add-ins): 105 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 296mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
The hardest part of making this bread is waiting for it to bake. Your kitchen will smell like your favorite bakery! Make sure to score the loaf so it can expand and rise consistently as it bakes.
41/51
World’s Best Kale Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Instead of your average dinner salad, try a kale salad. I didn't like kale until I made this! —Kathryn Egly, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 181 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 183mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
Fans of blue cheese recipes will love the pungent cheese in this sweet kale salad. Plus, the kale packs a ton of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. This colorful side will balance the beige from the rest of the table.
42/51
Honey Roasted Heirloom Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
They are colorful, salty and sweet—a yummy spin on the typical mashed potatoes that take a spot at the holiday table. These potatoes are versatile and delicious with a main course of spiral sliced ham, turkey or beef roast. —Linda Povlock, Hampstead, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 225 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 659mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
Heirloom potatoes are also known as fingerling potatoes. Whatever you call them, their buttery flavor, thin skins and tender texture make them perfect for roasting.
43/51
Cauliflower Gratin
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a lower-carb side dish that pairs well with pork, ham or beef. It's so creamy and delicious! If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle buttered bread crumbs over the top for the last five minutes in the oven. —Mary Zinchiak, Boardman, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 196 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 291mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
A simple bechamel sauce is way easier to make than its French name might imply. It starts with butter and flour, then milk, cheese and spices get introduced to the party. Bake with cauliflower et voila!
44/51
Pumpkin-Shaped Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
These cute pumpkin rolls are a festive fall favorite in my household and are definitely worth the extra effort. If you don't have pumpkin on hand, try using sweet potato. —Veronica Fay, Knoxville, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll: 211 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 348mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
Kitchen string is the simple trick to making these adorable rolls. Pretzel stick halves make the stems (and are a nice salty garnish).
45/51
Thanksgiving Colcannon
From the Recipe Creator:
I discovered colcannon on St. Patrick's Day, as it is an Irish mashed potato dish. Months later I tweaked the original recipe for the Thanksgiving season. The results? A flavorful and substantial side dish. —Marty Paola, Medford, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 291 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 422mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 10g protein.
A twist on the classic Irish veggie dish, this holiday-worthy colcannon will be brand new to your menu. Butter, farmer cheese and yogurt layer in the creaminess.
46/51
Gluten-Free Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
Gluten-free eaters, rejoice! Now you can enjoy everyone's favorite Thanksgiving dish too. This easy side has all the classic stuffing flavor minus the gluten. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 146 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 561mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
Don’t let your gluten-free guests miss out on all the fun! They’ll really appreciate their own gluten-free stuffing, which is just as easy to make as any stuffing recipe. The only difference is you’ll need day-old gluten-free bread. Easy!
47/51
Celery Gratin
From the Recipe Creator:
This celery gratin was a dish our family came to love. My grandmother knew how to create a dish out of just a few simple ingredients. —David Ross, Spokane Valley, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 331 calories, 27g fat (17g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 390mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
Feel free to use your favorite cheeses in this yummy gratin. Swiss goes great here, but so would Parmesan or Pecorino Romano. Use a good quality white bread with the crusts removed.
48/51
Instant Pot Green Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Free up room on your stovetop when you're cooking for company, and make this easy green bean recipe in a pressure cooker. Mix and match with your favorite herbs and spices for crisp-tender green beans. —Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 60 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 270mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
Instant Pot green beans are the 15-minute side you can pair with anything! The pressure cooker yields crunchy beans with chopped walnuts and a hint of lemon.
49/51
Vegan Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Neutral-tasting soy milk doesn't detract from the potato flavor in this quick-to-fix version of vegan mashed potatoes. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 163 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 388mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
Whether you’re cooking for a vegan guest or have a dairy allergy, this recipe is ideal for vegan diets. Make sure to use unsweetened soy milk for the best results.
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Vegan Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
Mushrooms add earthy flavor to this vegan dressing. Crunchy toasted pecans are stirred in before baking, but walnuts or almonds could also be used. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 270 calories, 18g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 835mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
It turns out that meats (and animal-based ingredients) are totally optional when it comes to making fantastic stuffing. Mushrooms bring the umami and texture you might miss from meat, while herbs give the stuffing lots of flavor.
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Cheesy Baked Asparagus
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheesy baked asparagus is an ideal fresh asparagus recipe with a rich creamy sauce and cashews. It's a favorite vegetable dish that is easy to prepare. —Jerry Gulley, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 261 calories, 21g fat (10g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 447mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
Maybe cheese and crackers can’t be dinner, but cheese and asparagus? We’re all in. Try this one-pan side dish to add richness to the table. Skip the nuts if there are any allergies.
Thanksgiving Sides FAQ
What are traditional Thanksgiving sides?
Most families and regions have their own wonderfully unique traditions. But the most popular traditional Thanksgiving sides include mashed potatoes (and of course, gravy!), stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole and dinner rolls.
What are some easy Thanksgiving sides to make?
Easy Thanksgiving sides to make include homemade cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, roasted Brussels sprouts, cornbread, broccoli casserole, glazed carrots and fall salads. All these recipes take 20 minutes or less to prep, and there are very minimal ingredients to work with.
What sides can be made ahead for Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving sides that can be made ahead of time are dinner rolls, cranberry sauce, corn pudding, stuffing, casseroles and gravy. These can all be assembled and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, or they can be baked ahead of time and rewarmed later.
What are the best Thanksgiving sides for a crowd?
Mashed potatoes are one of the easiest (and most economical) sides to scale up for a group. Other good options include a big batch of stuffing in the slow cooker, a large salad or a few dozen rolls.
How many sides should you have at Thanksgiving?
Serve as many sides as you like! After all, leftovers are as much a part of a Thanksgiving tradition as anything else. You wouldn’t want that extra turkey feeling lonely in the fridge. If you’re feeling creative, try these new ideas for Thanksgiving leftovers to breathe new life into them.
