Forget the turkey: 17 delicious Thanksgiving sides worth the spotlight

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Forget the turkey. This Thanksgiving, it’s the side dishes that will grab everyone’s attention. From creamy mashed potatoes to savory stuffing, these 17 sides are so good, they might just become the star of the show. Whether you’re looking for something comforting or a bit different, these recipes will make your dinner table shine.

Hand holding grilled baby bok choy.
Grilled baby bok choy. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa

Image shows an overhead shot of Spinach Parmesan Quinoa in a blue bowl with a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Spinach and parmesan quinoa is a hearty yet light side that’s packed with protein and flavor. The sharp parmesan pairs perfectly with the earthy spinach, making each bite satisfying. This dish brings a fresh, healthy twist to your Thanksgiving spread, giving your guests a new favorite to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa

Ratatouille with an Italian Flair

Italian ratatouille in a glass casserole dish.
Ratatouille with an Italian Flair. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Full of vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this ratatouille is a great way to add vegetables to your Thanksgiving spread. The combination of zucchini, squash, and tomatoes brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies. It’s the perfect side for anyone wanting a healthy, flavorful alternative to traditional dishes.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille with an Italian Flair

Corn Casserole

Overhead image of corn casserole in a white dish.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A rich, creamy corn casserole with crispy bacon is a side that’s sure to impress at Thanksgiving. The balance of sweet and savory flavors will complement turkey and mashed potatoes perfectly. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted brussels sprouts with caramelized edges in a serving dish.
Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon take a classic side and turn it into something truly irresistible. The smoky bacon and caramelized sprouts create a flavor combination that everyone will love. This is a dish that will shine on your Thanksgiving table, turning Brussels sprouts from a side into a standout.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Buttery Crescent Rolls

Image shows an overhead view of homemade Crescent Rolls on a baking sheet.
Buttery Crescent Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Buttery crescent rolls add a touch of comfort to any Thanksgiving meal. Soft, flaky, and rich, they melt in your mouth and pair perfectly with just about anything. These warm rolls will quickly become a must-have at your Thanksgiving dinner, making each bite feel like a special moment.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Crescent Rolls

Grilled Baby Bok Choy

Image shows a hand holding a piece of grilled baby bok choy over a bowl containing more bok choy.
Grilled Baby Bok Choy. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Grilled baby bok choy brings a smoky, bold flavor to the table that’s a welcome change from the usual sides. Tossed in a savory marinade, this side is simple to make and adds a unique twist to your Thanksgiving meal. It’s a fresh take on vegetables that will leave guests asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Baby Bok Choy

Spinach Orzo Salad

This photo shows a spinach orzo salad in a square glass bowl sitting on a black granite countertop.
Spinach Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Spinach orzo salad is a light, flavorful side that’s easy to throw together. The tender orzo and fresh spinach make a great combination, offering something refreshing for your Thanksgiving table. This simple salad will stand out for its balance of flavors and will become a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Orzo Salad

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy scalloped potatoes in a casserole dish on a blue wooden table.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Scalloped potatoes with a cheesy topping are a comforting Thanksgiving side that everyone loves. The smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor pair perfectly with turkey and other main dishes. This dish is the ultimate comfort food that will steal the spotlight and keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Harvest Quinoa Salad

Image shows a closeup head on shot of Harvest Quinoa Salad in a glass bowl.
Harvest Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Harvest quinoa salad is a satisfying, colorful side that mixes quinoa, roasted squash, feta, and cranberries. The blend of sweet and savory flavors makes this salad a great addition to your Thanksgiving spread. This salad offers a fresh, vibrant option that will leave your guests impressed and wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Quinoa Salad

Dinner Roll Knots

Indulge in flaky, buttery goodness with homemade crescent rolls that will melt in your mouth and elevate any meal. These rolls are the epitome of comfort and pair perfectly with just about any meal.
Dinner Roll Knots. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Soft, buttery dinner roll knots are a must-have at Thanksgiving. These rolls are warm, fluffy, and perfect for dipping in gravy or pairing with any dish. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, these rolls will quickly become the highlight of your Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Roll Knots

Cranberry Orange Sauce

Image shows A spoonful of cranberry sauce in a pot.
Orange Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cranberry orange sauce gives the classic dish a fresh twist with a burst of citrus flavor. The tangy cranberries and zesty orange add a vibrant touch to your Thanksgiving spread. This sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, offering a burst of flavor that’ll liven up the table.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Sauce

Mashed Potatoes

Overhead shot of a bowl of mashed potatoes in a blue bowl with parsley sprinkled over it.
Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving essential that’s always a crowd favorite. Made quickly in an Instant Pot, they have the same rich texture everyone loves. This dish is the ultimate side that everyone looks forward to, making it the perfect complement to your Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Cinnamon Apples

Image shows a Fork holding a bite of cinnamon apples with a ramekin holding more in the background.
Cinnamon Apples. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tender cinnamon apples offer a sweet and spiced contrast to the savory flavors on your Thanksgiving table. The warm aroma fills the room, making it a comforting addition to the meal. These apples will be the perfect sweet ending to a hearty Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apples

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Image shows a bowl filled with Buttery Dinner Rolls.
Buttery Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Soft, buttery dinner rolls are a favorite at any Thanksgiving meal. Their light, fluffy texture makes them perfect for pairing with turkey or scooping up gravy. These rolls are so irresistible that they’ll quickly become a staple for every holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Dinner Rolls

Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots

Red, yellow, and orange honey glazed carrots on a slate board.
Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted honey glazed carrots are a sweet and savory side that will shine at Thanksgiving dinner. The honey glaze brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, making them irresistible. This dish adds a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving table while remaining incredibly simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots

Crock Pot Sweet Potato Casserole

Crock pot with sweet potato casserole with pecans and marshmallows.
Crock Pot Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Sweet potato casserole made in the Crock Pot is the perfect easy-to-make side for Thanksgiving. The marshmallow and pecan topping adds the right amount of sweetness to complement the creamy sweet potatoes. This no-fuss side will be a crowd favorite and a guaranteed hit at your Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Sweet Potato Casserole

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garlicky green beans with crispy fried onions are a flavorful side that pairs well with nearly any main course. The garlic butter adds richness, while the fried onions give it a satisfying crunch. This dish will quickly become a Thanksgiving favorite, offering a savory side with the perfect balance of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

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