Thanksgiving isn’t just another meal – it’s about creating memories, and boy, does food play a huge role in that! You’d want every single thing you serve to be memorable, right? That’s why these 29 dishes matter. They’re all about making each bite something to remember. After all, life’s too short for average food, especially on Thanksgiving!
Au Gratin Potato Stacks
Picture this: layers of thinly sliced potatoes, drenched in a rich, creamy sauce, baked to perfection. That’s what these au gratin potato stacks offer. With every bite, you get that creamy goodness and crispy top layer that screams comfort. Essential for the ultimate Thanksgiving feast!
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Sometimes, it’s all about the right combination. And when you match Brussels sprouts with the nutty aroma of brown butter and the crunchy bite of almonds, it’s pure magic. This dish transforms even the biggest Brussels sprout skeptics into fans. Thanksgiving just got a new star side dish!
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Texas Corn Succotash
Bring a touch of Texas to the table with this zesty corn succotash. The blend of corn, bell peppers, and a hint of chili makes it a lively addition. Fresh, with a little kick, and oh-so-moreish – you’ll definitely be tempted to sneak seconds or even thirds.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Smoked Asparagus
Why go for plain when you can elevate? Smoked asparagus offers that beautiful deep flavor that makes it stand out. This isn’t just any asparagus – it’s the kind that draws a “wow” from your guests and leaves an impression long after the meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Asparagus
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
The nostalgia of summer BBQs meets the innovation of modern cooking with air fryer corn on the cob. Crisp, juicy, and perfectly roasted, it’s a familiar favorite with a contemporary twist. An absolute must for a gobble-worthy Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer
Think about a side dish that offers a delightful texture play: crunchy on the outside yet buttery soft inside. These air-fried sweet potatoes are a revelation and might just become a new Thanksgiving staple in your home.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Imagine classic mac & cheese, but with a smoky, robust flavor profile. Every spoonful is a mix of creamy cheese and smoky undertones. There’s a reason people can’t resist seconds – it’s just that unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn brings nostalgia and flavor to the forefront. Its creamy texture paired with the innate sweetness of corn is a match made in Thanksgiving heaven. A dish that comforts the soul and delights the taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Smoked Spaghetti Squash
Add an element of surprise with smoked spaghetti squash. Its unique texture, combined with a smoky aroma, is a delightful experience. If you’re aiming for a table filled with conversation starters, this dish will do the trick.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
An unexpected trio that works wonders together. Tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and crispy bacon create a symphony of flavors. It’s an adventurous and delicious side dish that adds character to any Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Bring a world of flavors to your feast with Mexican cauliflower rice. It’s light, fragrant, and packs a punch. The rich spices intertwined with the mild cauliflower create a side that’s both refreshing and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Smoked Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Imagine a baked potato, but then double the deliciousness. Packed with flavor and smoked to perfection, these potatoes are the ultimate indulgence. Each bite is a flavor explosion that complements your main dish seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Asparagus, when roasted just right, is a treat. Add a generous dollop of rich mascarpone, and it’s transformed into a side dish of dreams. It’s a combo that feels gourmet yet homely – a must-try for any festive meal.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
German Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is a bit of an unsung hero in the veggie world. But when prepared the German way, it turns into a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Perfect for those who love to try something different and memorable.
Get the Recipe: German Kohlrabi
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Sweet potato cubes, right from the air fryer, are just different. They capture that perfect blend of crispy edges and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center. It’s the texture contrast that gets you. If you’re aiming for an impressive and unbeatable Thanksgiving side dish, look no further.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Spinach gets a luxurious makeover with the addition of creamy mascarpone. This dish melds earthy greens with rich creaminess, offering a side that’s as indulgent as it is nutritious. It pairs beautifully with a range of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Greek Lemon Potatoes
Add a zest to your table with Greek lemon potatoes. They’re tangy, aromatic, and roasted to golden perfection. The lemon gives it a refreshing twist, making it a delightful palate cleanser amidst all the rich dishes.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Soft, pillowy gnocchi drenched in a zesty lemon-parmesan sauce is nothing short of heavenly. Each mouthful is a blend of tangy, cheesy, and utterly comforting flavors. If you’re looking to elevate your side dishes, this is a sure bet.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Smoked Sweet Potatoes
A delightful twist on a classic, these smoked sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor profile that’s both familiar and novel. The smokiness enhances their natural sweetness, creating a dish that’s both comforting and intriguing.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Mediterranean Rice
Dive into a world of vibrant flavors with Mediterranean rice. Think olives, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s a colorful and flavorful addition to the Thanksgiving table, ensuring every bite is a journey of taste.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice
Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes
These potatoes, braised with aromatic garlic and rosemary, are the epitome of comfort. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors, making it an essential side for those seeking a hearty addition to their meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes
Beans with Bacon
A classic combo that never goes out of style. The earthiness of beans paired with the savory crunch of bacon offers a side dish that’s both simple and deeply satisfying. Perfect for those who appreciate timeless flavors.
Get the Recipe: Beans with Bacon
Grilled Veggies
Charred to perfection, these grilled veggies bring a smoky, rustic charm to the table. Each vegetable retains its unique flavor, while the grilling process enhances its natural sweetness. A lighter side that’s bursting with taste.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies
Southern Green Beans
Steeped in tradition, Southern green beans are slow-cooked to perfection. Infused with flavors and cooked till they’re melt-in-your-mouth soft, they bring a touch of Southern warmth to any feast.
Get the Recipe: Southern Green Beans
Green Beans Almondine with Bacon
The nutty crunch of almonds combined with savory bacon elevates simple green beans into a dish of distinction. It’s a mix of textures and flavors that’s sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon
Baked Acorn Squash with Maple Syrup
Sweet meets savory in this delightful dish. Baked acorn squash, with its nutty flavor, paired with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, is a side that resonates with the cozy spirit of Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Baked Acorn Squash with Maple Syrup
Creamy Spinach Orzo
Orzo, with its rice-like appearance and pasta texture, pairs wonderfully with spinach in this creamy side dish. It’s rich, flavorful, and a delightful alternative to the usual pasta or rice dishes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Orzo
Spaetzle
These soft German noodles are pure comfort. Chewy, delightful, and slightly buttery, spaetzle is a fantastic addition for those looking to introduce a touch of European flair to their Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Spaetzle
Bacon Fried Corn
Elevate your corn game with this dish! Fresh corn kernels, fried with crispy bacon bits, offer a side that’s both sweet and savory. It’s a combo that’s sure to be a hit and will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn