These 25 Thanksgiving Side Dishes Are So Good, They Might Upstage the Turkey

Add some deliciousness to your holiday table with this collection of side dish recipes! From creative ideas like the adorable Turkey Veggie Tray to mouthwatering sides like Cheddar Garlic Biscuits or classic sweet potato casseroles, this lineup has everything you need to make your Thanksgiving or holiday meal unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a feast or simply looking for something special to share, these recipes will bring flavor and fun to the celebration.

Cavatappi Mac and Cheese with Ham

A wide view of a casserole dish with baked cavatappi macaroni and cheese mixed with ham, partially scooped out to reveal the creamy interior texture. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

This rich and cheesy cavatappi mac and cheese with ham is the perfect comfort food. Creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and savory ham come together for a dish that’s great as a main course or hearty side. Kids and adults alike will love this irresistible twist on classic mac and cheese. CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Turkey Veggie Tray

Colorful turkey-shaped veggie platter with carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas arranged in fan shape. Hummus dip in a bowl on the side. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Who says veggie trays have to be boring? This Turkey Veggie Tray is as festive as it gets, with fresh, crunchy veggies transformed into the cutest Thanksgiving turkey. It’s healthy, colorful, and guaranteed to make everyone smile before they dig in. CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Stuffing with Italian Sausage

A wide view of casserole dish filled with stuffing and mushrooms with a scoop missing and a spoon. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Savory and flavorful, this Stuffing with Italian Sausage takes traditional stuffing to the next level. It’s loaded with herbs and spices, making it the perfect side for any holiday meal.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Stuffing with Italian Sausage

Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes

These Yukon Gold mashed potatoes are creamy, buttery, and perfectly seasoned for any meal. With a silky texture and a hint of garlic, they’re the ultimate side dish for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners. Whip up these easy mashed potatoes for a crowd-pleasing addition to your table.

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Baked Candied Yams

Candied yams wide view in a baking dish with a spoon scooping — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Sweet, caramelized, and bursting with flavor, these Baked Candied Yams are a holiday classic. Easy to prepare, they’re a must-have for any Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Baked Candied Yams

Classic Sweet Potato Casserole

Wide view of a baking dish full of sweet potato casserole topped with toasted marshmallows and pecans, with a portion scooped out, revealing the mashed sweet potatoes underneath. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Sweet, creamy, and topped with a golden brown layer of crunchy pecans and marshmallows, this classic sweet potato casserole is a must-have for your holiday spread. This family-friendly dish combines comforting flavors and textures that everyone will love. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion! CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Cranberry Meatballs (Slow Cooker)

Cranberry meaballs in a slow cooker from overhead with green onions scattered on top. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Sweet, tangy, and oh-so-savory, these Cranberry Meatballs are a holiday hit waiting to happen! Tossed in a slow cooker for ultimate convenience, they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or snacking while waiting for the turkey. CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

No Mayo Deviled Eggs

A plate of three deviled eggs topped with paprika. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Lighten up a classic with these No Mayo Deviled Eggs! Creamy, tangy, and loaded with flavor, these deviled eggs are a must-try twist on the traditional recipe—no mayo needed. Perfect for snacking or dressing up your holiday table! CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Oven-Roasted Green Beans and Potatoes

Close up wide view of roasted potatoes and green beans. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Simple, flavorful, and totally irresistible—this Oven-Roasted Green Beans and Potatoes recipe is a game-changer for your dinner table. Roasted to perfection with a hint of seasoning, it’s a side dish that’s hearty enough to steal the show! CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Easy Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti covered in cheese from overhead in a pan. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Image Credit: On My Kids Plate
Say hello to your new go-to comfort food! This Easy Baked Ziti is loaded with cheesy, saucy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just craving something cozy, this ziti is the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate. I grew up in an Italian family and pasta like baked ziti was always on the table for the holidays. CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Dreamy Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Wide view bowl of a bowl of maple mashed sweet potatoes with a pat of butter on top with a spoon scooping the sweet potatoes. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

These Dreamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes are creamy, smooth, and lightly sweetened with a hint of cinnamon. They’re a perfect side dish for cozy dinners or holiday celebrations.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Dreamy Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Wide view of a skillet filled with creamy honey butter corn, with a serving spoon scooping creamy corn in the middle. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a simple yet irresistible side dish, combining the sweetness of honey with creamy butter for a family favorite. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and holiday meals.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Roasted Baby Carrots with Honey Glaze

Close up of roasted baby carrots — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Roasted Baby Carrots with Honey Glaze are a sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. These tender, caramelized carrots add a vibrant pop of color to your holiday table. CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Roasted Baby Carrots with Honey Glaze

Easy Classic Italian Pasta Salad

A large serving bowl filled full of italian pasta salad zoomed close up from the side of the bowl. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Bright, zesty, and full of fresh veggies, this Easy Classic Italian Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Perfect for potlucks or as a make-ahead side dish for the holidays.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Easy Classic Italian Pasta Salad

Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Rich and creamy, these Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. They’re perfect for soaking up gravy or enjoying as a stand-alone dish.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is packed with bacon, cheese, and sour cream for a side dish that’s pure comfort. Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something hearty.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

Easy Mini Cornbread Muffins

A plate of cornbread muffins stacked. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

These Easy Mini Cornbread Muffins are tender, golden bites of perfection that complement any meal. Great for holiday tables or a quick snack on the go.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Easy Mini Cornbread Muffins

Cranberry Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

This tangy Cranberry Vinaigrette Salad Dressing is a fresh twist on your favorite greens. It’s quick to make and adds a festive flair to any meal.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Cranberry Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

Cheddar Garlic Biscuits

A basket of garlic cheese biscuits piled high from the side. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

Fluffy, cheesy, and packed with savory garlic flavor, these Cheddar Garlic Biscuits are pure comfort in every bite. They’re easy to make and perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or your holiday feast. Get ready for everyone to reach for seconds! CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Fresh Green Bean Casserole with Bacon

Side view of green bean casserole in a casserole dish — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

This Fresh Green Bean Casserole with Bacon is a modern take on a classic side dish, full of rich flavor and crispy bacon. A holiday staple made even better.
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: Fresh Green Bean Casserole with Bacon

Favorite Fall Apple Cranberry Salad

Apple cranberry salad in a large clear bowl from the side at a wide angle. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

This fresh apple cranberry salad is full of sweet and tangy fall flavors. Juicy apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy nuts come together with a delicious dressing to make a side dish that’s light, refreshing, and easy to make. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings!
CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Buttermilk Cornbread

cornbread from above sliced into squares — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

This buttermilk cornbread is moist, tender, and packed with rich buttery flavor in every bite. With a golden crust and a soft, fluffy texture, it’s perfect as a side dish for chili, soups, or your favorite comfort food meals. Easy to whip up, it’s a crowd-pleaser the whole family will love!

CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Easy Homemade Garlic Knots

Close up wide view of garlic knots stacked on a plate. — **Image Credit:** On My Kids Plate

These Easy Garlic Knots are soft, buttery, and loaded with garlicky goodness—perfect for any meal! Made with simple ingredients, they come together quickly and taste just like they came from your favorite pizzeria. Whether you’re serving them alongside pasta or as a holiday appetizer, they’ll disappear in no time! CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Cheddar Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes

Cheese and broccoli stuffed potato up close

Take your potatoes to the next level with these Cheddar Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes! Packed with creamy mashed potato, melted cheese, and bites of tender broccoli, they’re the ultimate holiday side dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Hot German Potato Salad

Wide view of warm german potato salad topped with bacon, parley and green onion pieces on a platter.

Bring a bold twist to your potato salad game with this Hot German Potato Salad! With tangy vinegar, crispy bacon, and a touch of sweetness, it’s a warm and savory dish that’s anything but ordinary. Perfect for holidays or any time you want to impress! CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE

Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Take all the best parts of a loaded baked potato and turn them into this creamy, dreamy Loaded Baked Potato Salad. With crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a velvety dressing, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing side for any gathering. CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE