Thanksgiving is the time to gather around the table and savor the flavors of the season, and while the turkey may be the star of the show, it’s the side dishes that truly make the feast. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of comfort, indulgence, or something refreshing, the right-side dish can elevate your entire meal.
From creamy mashed potatoes to crispy garlic smashed potatoes, we’ve put together a list of easy and delicious side dishes that are sure to impress your guests. Plus, we’ve included bonus tips to help you perfect each dish and make your Thanksgiving spread even more memorable. Let’s dive in.
1. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes offer a rich, creamy experience, with layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a velvety cheese sauce. The cheese melds beautifully with the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the edges crisp up to golden perfection. It’s a comforting and decadent dish, perfect for those who love a bit of indulgence at the table.
What to Savor With:
Pair it with a juicy roast turkey or ham. The richness of the cheese complements the savory notes of the meat, making it a perfect holiday duo.
Bonus Tip:
Add a dash of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of fresh thyme to cut through the richness and give the dish a subtle, aromatic lift.
2. Twice Baked Potatoes
Twice-baked potatoes take comfort food to another level. The smooth, buttery filling, rich with sour cream and cheese, is encased in a crispy, golden potato shell. Bacon bits and chives add a savory crunch that balances the creamy interior. This dish is hearty but not too heavy—an ideal side that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
What to Savor With:
These potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats or a tender turkey. The crispy exterior contrasts nicely with the juicy turkey, making every bite a balanced experience.
Bonus Tip:
Top the potatoes with a few dollops of sour cream and extra crumbled bacon just before serving for added creaminess and flavor.
3. Easy Cornbread
Cornbread is the perfect balance of sweet and savory with a light, fluffy texture and a slightly crumbly bite. The subtle sweetness from the cornmeal complements the savory elements of your Thanksgiving spread without overpowering the other flavors. Its warm, golden crust is inviting and comforting, making it a must-have on any holiday table.
What to Savor With:
Cornbread shines when served alongside turkey or fried chicken, especially with a drizzle of gravy or a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Bonus Tip:
For an extra pop of flavor, stir in fresh corn kernels, jalapeños, or a pinch of smoked paprika to add a surprising twist.
4. Mashed Potato Casserole
This mashed potato casserole is a cheesy, creamy marvel, where smooth mashed potatoes meet layers of cheese and sour cream. It’s comforting yet elevated by the richness of the cheese and the subtle tang of the sour cream, giving it a luxurious mouthfeel. The crispy top adds texture and makes each bite a satisfying experience.
What to Savor With:
Pair with your turkey and gravy. The creamy potatoes complement the rich, savory gravy, and the cheese elevates the flavors of both.
Bonus Tip:
For a fun twist, add caramelized onions or roasted garlic into the mash to bring in a deeper, sweeter flavor profile.
5. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are all about the mellow sweetness of the garlic, which becomes nutty and smooth after roasting. This dish takes mashed potatoes up a notch, providing a savory foundation that’s both rich and aromatic. The garlic enhances the creamy texture, giving the dish a delightful depth.
What to Savor With:
These mashed potatoes pair perfectly with roasted meats or grilled chicken. The rich, garlicky flavor complements everything from roast turkey to a juicy steak.
Bonus Tip:
For an even richer flavor, mix in some cream cheese or mascarpone for an extra velvety texture.
6. Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad offers a refreshing contrast to the heavier, richer Thanksgiving dishes. The cool crunch of cucumbers, combined with a tangy vinegar dressing, provides a light, crisp bite that refreshes the palate. It’s a perfect side to balance out the rich flavors of creamy potatoes and meats.
What to Savor With:
This salad pairs beautifully with anything roasted or grilled, especially turkey. The tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the meal.
Bonus Tip:
For added crunch and flavor, throw in some toasted sesame seeds or sliced radishes to add another layer of texture.
7. Potato Croquettes
Potato croquettes are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, offering a satisfying crunch followed by a rich, velvety mashed potato center. The golden, crispy coating adds a savory note, while the mashed potato filling remains comforting and familiar.
What to Savor With:
These croquettes pair well with just about anything—especially roast meats. Their crispy texture is perfect for dipping in gravy or enjoying with a tangy mustard sauce.
Bonus Tip:
Add a pinch of nutmeg or fresh thyme to the mashed potatoes for an earthy, aromatic note that complements the crispy exterior.
8. Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Instant Pot mashed potatoes come out creamy and fluffy, with a perfectly smooth texture that melts in your mouth. The pressure cooking method ensures that they cook quickly while maintaining their flavor. The buttery finish and slight tang of cream cheese give the dish a richness that feels homemade without the hassle.
What to Savor With:
These mashed potatoes are ideal with turkey, as they can soak up all the delicious gravy. They also work wonderfully with roast pork or chicken.
Bonus Tip:
To make them even more indulgent, stir in roasted garlic or sharp cheddar cheese before serving for a burst of flavor.
9. Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes
Cheesy bacon ranch potatoes are a flavor explosion with creamy ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar. The potatoes absorb all of the flavors, creating a dish that’s rich, savory, and slightly tangy. The combination of cheese and bacon offers a delightful balance of saltiness and smokiness.
What to Savor With:
These potatoes are the perfect complement to grilled meats, like steaks or roasted chicken. The smoky bacon and creamy cheese create a delicious contrast to the lighter, charred meats.
Bonus Tip:
For added texture, top with crispy fried onions just before serving for an extra crunch.
10. Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes
Crispy garlic smashed potatoes have it all: golden, crispy edges and a soft, garlicky center. The smashed potatoes absorb all the flavor from the olive oil and garlic while retaining a satisfying texture that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a bit of a crispy edge.
What to Savor With:
These potatoes work wonderfully with turkey or beef, adding an irresistible texture contrast to the meat. Pair them with a simple salad to balance the richness.
Bonus Tip:
Sprinkle with a bit of Parmesan cheese right before serving to add a savory, nutty finish that takes these potatoes to the next level.
These Thanksgiving side dishes are perfect for creating a memorable meal, offering a delightful mix of creamy, crispy, savory, and fresh flavors. Whether you prefer comforting mashed potatoes or tangy cucumber salad, each dish brings something unique to the table. Enjoy your holiday meal with these easy and tasty sides.
Meet Mike O’Connor, (a DIY enthusiast), living in Cincinnati, a city ranked as the noisiest in the USA.
As a work from home dad, I have a first hand experience of how noise can truly affect your well being.
Soundproofing isn’t something that should be taken as a hobby, it should be a skill that every homeowner should be equipped with.
Most of the work documented on this blog comes from purely first hand experience, and the products recommended work as indicated.