I don’t know about you, but to me, it’s the side dishes that truly make Thanksgiving special.
Sure, turkey takes the spotlight, but the real excitement comes from everything that surrounds it: creamy, cheesy, buttery, perfectly roasted goodness that keeps you going back for “just one more bite.”
Whether you’re craving something cozy and comforting or bright and unexpected, this list brings together the perfect Thanksgiving sides that make your plate feel complete.
1. Mushroom Leek Bread Pudding
This savory bread pudding is a total crowd-pleaser. The mushrooms add an earthy depth while the leeks bring a subtle sweetness that ties everything together. Cubes of bread soak up the rich custard mixture, creating a dish that’s crisp on the outside and custardy in the center.
I love making this when I want something a little different from the usual stuffing—it feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of fresh thyme.
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2. Creamy Corn Pudding
Comforting and slightly sweet, this creamy corn pudding strikes the perfect balance between custard and casserole. It’s velvety, rich, and loaded with sweet corn flavor that feels like a hug on a plate.
Add a touch of smoked paprika for depth, though it’s delicious as is. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats but can easily stand on its own.
Want to recreate this at home? Click here.
3. Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese
Roasted butternut squash gets a gourmet upgrade with tangy goat cheese and a drizzle of honey. The mix of sweet, savory, and creamy makes this one unforgettable.
Toss in toasted pecans for crunch or fresh herbs like sage to bring out the fall flavors. It’s colorful, comforting, and incredibly easy to make—a total win for Thanksgiving prep.
For a side that looks as good as it tastes, click here.
4. Horseradish Carrots
This one’s for anyone who loves a little kick. Tender roasted carrots get tossed with a creamy horseradish sauce that adds just the right amount of heat.
The flavor combination is bold yet balanced, making it the perfect complement to rich mains like turkey or ham. I like to finish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten things up.
You have to give this a try: click here.
5. Cauliflower Gratin
Think of this as mac and cheese’s elegant cousin. Tender cauliflower florets are baked in a luscious cheese sauce until bubbling and golden brown. The top gets perfectly crisp, while the inside stays creamy and comforting.
This version with Gruyère before, and it’s unbelievably good. It’s a sneaky way to add a veggie to your table while still keeping everyone happy.
If you want a dish that balances indulgence and wholesomeness, click here.
6. White Macaroni and Cheese
This all-white version of mac and cheese uses white cheddar, mozzarella, and cream for a smooth, velvety texture that feels a little more refined than the classic orange version.
It’s rich but not too heavy, and the creamy sauce clings to every noodle just right. I sometimes bake it with a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch. It’s familiar yet elevated—exactly what a holiday comfort dish should be.
For the creamiest mac and cheese, click here.
7. Deviled Eggs
A timeless appetizer that somehow fits perfectly at a Thanksgiving spread. The creamy yolk filling—seasoned with mustard, a touch of paprika, and a hint of tang—feels nostalgic and satisfying.
You can keep them classic or jazz them up with bacon bits, chives, or even a dash of hot sauce.
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8. Green Bean Casserole
No Thanksgiving is complete without it. Tender green beans bathed in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions—it’s tradition in a baking dish.
You can make yours from scratch, using fresh beans and real mushrooms for better flavor and texture. It’s still that familiar favorite, just a little more grown-up.
Ready to make the ultimate comfort side? Click here.
9. Oyster Dressing
A Southern staple that brings rich, briny flavor to the table. Fresh oysters mix with buttery bread cubes, onions, celery, and herbs for a dressing that’s hearty yet refined.
The oceanic taste of the oysters balances beautifully with the savory base, creating something deeply satisfying.
For a bold and flavorful twist on stuffing, click here.
10. Mushroom Rice
Fluffy rice infused with earthy mushrooms and herbs makes a comforting, umami-packed side dish. It’s simple yet flavorful, with just enough richness to hold its own beside your main course.
Finishes it with a drizzle of olive oil and a handful of chopped parsley for color. It’s a great make-ahead option too, perfect for busy Thanksgiving mornings.
For a side that’s hearty but not heavy, click here.
Sides That Steal the Spotlight
Thanksgiving sides are where creativity shines. They bring color, texture, and personality to every plate—transforming a meal into a true feast.
These dishes prove that side dishes can absolutely steal the spotlight. I’ve always believed the magic of Thanksgiving isn’t just in the main course but in how everything comes together on one plate.
So mix and match, try something new, and most of all, have fun with it. After all, there’s no wrong way to celebrate when everything tastes this good.
Featured image credit: @reciperunner
