17 Thanksgiving sides no one will fight over

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Think of this Thanksgiving side spread as the low-stress way to satisfy the crowd, where every dish gets a warm reception without causing a frenzy. These options offer something for everyone without sparking the usual race to the last spoonful, keeping everyone’s focus on the fun. With these sides, there’s only peace in every bite, and leftovers might even make it through dessert!

A white bowl filled with seasoned roasted sweet potato cubes, garnished with chopped herbs, with a metal serving spoon on the side and a printed napkin partially visible.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey & Apple Panini

A stack of grilled sandwiches with layers of turkey, cheese, and pickles, served on a white plate with a blurred background of green plants and a brown vase.
Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo Credit: Cook What You Love

Thanksgiving just got a flavor upgrade with Turkey & Apple Panini – it’s the kind of dish that feels just right for the season without the usual fuss. Think of it as a modern spin on traditional leftovers that brings freshness to the table. With turkey and a hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for a quick bite during the feast or the day after. Serve it, and you’ll notice it’s the one “side” everyone actually wants seconds of.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy, layered, and full of flavor, Au Gratin Potato Stacks are here to show everyone that potatoes can be the highlight of the table. Forget the usual mashed or roasted versions; these stack up differently with a bite-sized charm that’s hard to resist. It’s the kind of dish that says, “grab one more – no one’s counting.” With each layer bringing a little more to love, this will be the side that goes faster than you’d expect.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned

A glass of Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned garnished with sliced apples on a skewer.
Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want a drink that feels as cozy as a sweater, Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned has you covered. It’s like a warm dessert and a classic cocktail decided to team up for the holiday. Perfectly suited for sipping, it captures those autumn spices without stealing the show. Serve it, and suddenly everyone’s ready for the long holiday conversations around the table.
Get the Recipe: Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If brussels sprouts have ever had a winning moment, it’s with Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. These aren’t the sprouts you have to bribe people to eat; they’re the ones everyone’s secretly piling onto their plates. The nutty flavor and perfect crunch turn a simple vegetable into a Thanksgiving star. A dish so good, even the skeptics are suddenly fans.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour

A glass of Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour.
Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who like their drinks with a little edge, Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour brings a blend of sweet and smoky that’s hard to pass up. It’s not your average holiday cocktail – think of it as the grown-up version of your favorite seasonal flavors. With a hint of maple and a smooth finish, it’s ideal for warming up as the day goes on. Just wait, everyone will be asking for the recipe by the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

A slice of no-bake pumpkin cheesecake delight on a white plate, partially eaten with a fork resting on the plate.
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

This No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake is the dessert that does all the work without any of the oven drama. Creamy and full of that pumpkin flavor everyone loves, it’s a Thanksgiving treat that feels effortless. Perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth but short on time, it hits the spot without any baking stress. With a slice this smooth, expect empty plates and happy guests.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

A plate of Prosciutto & Parmesan Puff Pastry pinwheels.
Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a side that looks fancier than it is, Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels bring a little class to the Thanksgiving table. Flaky, crispy, and just the right size for snacking, these pinwheels are easy to share without causing a scene. They’re the finger food that keeps everyone from getting too hungry before the main course arrives. Try them, and watch them disappear like magic.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Two-layer Pumpkin Brownies

Three pieces of pumpkin brownies on a slate plate.
Two-layer Pumpkin Brownies. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Why settle for one dessert when Two-layer Pumpkin Brownies offer a double dose of flavor? These brownies combine the richness of chocolate with a hint of pumpkin, making them an instant hit for those who love to mix things up. It’s a dessert with layers that keep everyone coming back for more. Whether for the chocolate lover or the pumpkin enthusiast, this one covers all bases.
Get the Recipe: Two-layer Pumpkin Brownies

Cider Sangria

Two glasses of cider sangria with cinnamon sticks.
Cider Sangria. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Celebrate fall with a glass of Cider Sangria that brings just the right amount of fruity fun to the table. It’s refreshing but still holds that cozy, seasonal charm, perfect for pairing with the heavier dishes. A little sweetness, a bit of fizz, and suddenly, everyone’s ready for round two. This is the drink that makes Thanksgiving feel like a real holiday.
Get the Recipe: Cider Sangria

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon.
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Get ready to see a classic side in a new light with Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. This dish packs a surprising punch, blending savory with a hint of sweetness that hits just right. It’s a twist that adds personality to the table without overwhelming other flavors. You’ll wonder why sauerkraut hasn’t always had this extra kick.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress your guests without the hassle of a main course with Beef Wellington Bites. These little bites deliver all the flavor of a classic beef Wellington in a single poppable portion. They’re perfect for adding a touch of sophistication without stealing time from other dishes. Plus, who doesn’t love a side that’s as rewarding as the main?
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce

Two bowls of cranberry sauce on a wooden cutting board.
Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those who want all the flavor without the sugar, Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce is here to save the day. It’s the perfect tangy addition to any Thanksgiving spread, adding color and brightness without the added sugar rush. This sauce keeps things light and lets the cranberries shine on their own. Watch as it quietly becomes everyone’s favorite on the table.
Get the Recipe: Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you need a side that does its thing without constant attention, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are a go-to. These green beans take their time, cooking up tender and full of Southern-inspired flavor. They’re the perfect addition to balance out the heavier dishes, bringing a bit of comfort without fuss. Let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy the compliments.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet and hearty, Sweet Potato Casserole is one dish everyone secretly hopes will make an appearance on Thanksgiving. It’s that blend of textures and flavors that’s impossible not to love, whether it’s for dessert or a side. This casserole doesn’t demand attention but quietly wins everyone over. Don’t be surprised if this is the first dish to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry on a counter.
Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For anyone who loves leftovers, Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry give turkey a second chance to shine. These mini pot pies combine tender turkey with a golden, flaky crust that makes every bite feel like Thanksgiving all over again. Perfectly portioned and easy to eat, they’re a crowd-pleaser without stealing the spotlight. Serve them, and watch guests look for a reason to take one more.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles in a circle on a grey and blue plate.
Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When cookies meet fall flavors, you get Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies that bring a hint of warmth to Thanksgiving. These cookies are soft, chewy, and full of autumn charm that pairs perfectly with dessert or a coffee break. They’re the kind of treat that doesn’t need much fanfare but somehow makes every moment a little sweeter. Trust, there won’t be any left by the end of the day.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

A white bowl filled with seasoned roasted sweet potato cubes, garnished with chopped herbs, with a metal serving spoon on the side and a printed napkin partially visible.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a modern twist on a classic, Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes bring that perfect balance of crisp and tender. They’re easy to snack on and bring a fresh take to the traditional sweet potato side. These little cubes pack all the flavor without the mess, letting everyone grab a few without committing to a whole serving. Expect these to be the side that no one thought they’d love – until now.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

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