When I think ahead to next year’s Thanksgiving, I like lining up ideas that feel worth talking about, and these 13 Thanksgiving recipes easily fall into that category. Each one brings its own moment; something memorable you can pull out, whether you’re hosting, sharing a dish, or planning your menu early. I like having options that spark a little excitement without making the day feel heavy.
Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon
There’s something about this Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon that makes it stand out from the usual Thanksgiving mix of flavors. It’s not your average side dish; it’s tangy, slightly sweet, and loaded with smoky bacon goodness. Guests tend to be surprised by how bold it tastes, and the balance between crisp and tender cabbage is just chef’s kiss.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Who said cauliflower has to be bland? This Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill is light, fresh, and somehow manages to feel indulgent without being too heavy. It’s the kind of side that balances those richer Thanksgiving staples; perfect for breaking up the heaviness of mashed potatoes or stuffing while complementing everything else on the plate. If you haven’t tried this yet, trust me, you’re going to love it.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream
This Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream is the kind of dessert that instantly gives you that warm, cozy holiday feeling. Imagine all the classic flavors of fall: soft-baked apples, hints of cinnamon, and a buttery crumb topping, but the real showstopper is when the vanilla ice cream melts over the top. It’s the dessert everyone waits for after the big meal, and you can count on it being a crowd favorite year after year.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream
Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli
There’s just something about a casserole that feels nostalgic, and this Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli is no exception. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors that make you feel right at home. The fresh broccoli brings a little healthy balance to the mix, but the real magic is how the casserole comes together to create a dish that feels simple yet so satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli
Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan
Smooth, buttery, and with just the right touch of flavor, this Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan is one of those sides that feels like it belongs on every Thanksgiving table. Butternut squash has that sweet, earthy thing going on that blends perfectly with the subtle saltiness of Parmesan cheese. It’s comforting without being overly heavy, and it pairs beautifully with everything from your turkey to your roasted vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan
Classic Corn Pudding Casserole
This Classic Corn Pudding Casserole is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and has that golden, melt-in-your-mouth texture that just screams comfort food. Whether your guests approach Thanksgiving as a traditional feast or like to mix things up, this dish is always a hit. Don’t be surprised if people add it to their “must-have” list for next year’s dinner.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole
Air Fryer Turkey Breast
If you’re not looking to tackle a whole turkey this year or just prefer something smaller with less fuss, this Air Fryer Turkey Breast is the perfect solution. It’s perfect when you want something manageable for smaller gatherings, but it still delivers big on flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to make turkey without feeling totally overwhelmed.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes
This Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes brings a burst of vibrant color and flavor to the table. The mix of roasted vegetables is hearty while still being light, with crispy edges that add just the right texture to every bite. This dish is a lifesaver when you want something easy to make but still impressive enough to take center stage.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer
Talk about a simple side that packs a punch, these Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer are quick, flavorful, and bring out all those caramelized, tender flavors you love. They come out golden with just the right amount of sweetness. This dish has a way of winning over everyone at the table, even if they weren’t originally sweet potato fans. It’s the kind of recipe that feels effortless but delivers big on taste.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
If you’re after something truly bold and flavorful, this Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans is your answer. Slow cooking brings out all those rich, smoky flavors, giving the beans a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of dish that stands out no matter what’s on the table, and it’s an easy yet impressive way to work traditional Southern comfort food into your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Sweet Potato Casserole
Few dishes feel as cozy and holiday-worthy as this Sweet Potato Casserole. The smooth, velvety sweetness of the potatoes combined with that irresistible topping makes it one of the first sides to disappear. People love how it hits that perfect balance between savory and sweet, and if you catch anyone sneaking an extra scoop, you can’t blame them.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Mom’s Bacon Pasta Salad
While pasta salad might not be what everyone expects at Thanksgiving, this Mom’s Bacon Pasta Salad completely wins the crowd over. It’s creamy, slightly smoky from the bacon, and packed with enough crunch and flavor to feel like a star on its own. This dish feels like a break from the heavy, traditional sides, but don’t let its lighter vibe fool you.
Get the Recipe: Mom’s Bacon Pasta Salad
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
If indulgence is the name of the game, these Mississippi Mud Potatoes deliver in the most delicious way. Layers of creamy goodness, melted cheesy perfection, and that touch of smoky flavor blend into something unforgettable. For anyone looking to make a statement with their side dish game, this is the one you want to bring to the table.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes