13 Thanksgiving Sides So Good They’ll Make Grandma Say, “Now This Is How It’s Done”

Thanksgiving sides are more than just extras—they’re the dishes that bring everyone to the table and keep traditions alive. These recipes have the kind of flavors and charm that Grandma would proudly nod at and maybe even ask for seconds. Whether you’re aiming to impress or simply recreate a holiday feast everyone loves, these sides are a perfect match for the season. Packed with nostalgic touches and seasonal ingredients, they’re sure to make your table unforgettable.

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

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Side view of wild rice pilaf with pomegranate and butternut squash. — Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This butternut squash wild rice pilaf brings a seasonal richness to the Thanksgiving table with nutty wild rice and tender, roasted squash. Its hearty nature complements the main course without overwhelming it, making it a thoughtful side choice. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s practical for holiday preparation while delivering a dish Grandma would definitely approve of. Guests might just leave with this recipe added to their favorites list.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Sweet Potato Casserole with Hazelnuts

A slice of crumbly dessert topped with a dollop of white cream is presented on a dark plate. The dessert is garnished with chopped nuts, and a fork rests in front of it, partially obscuring the dessert. — Sweet Potato Casserole with Hazelnuts. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Sweet potato casserole with hazelnuts brings together creamy sweet potatoes and the crunch of toasted hazelnuts for a balanced holiday side. Perfect for Thanksgiving, it’s an easy addition to the table that feels both festive and comforting. The rich flavors create a nostalgic feel that pairs well with classic dishes. Grandma will probably nod her approval at how this one steals the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Hazelnuts

Almond, Cranberry, and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole

A dish of granola with cranberries and sprigs of rosemary. — Almond, Cranberry, and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This stuffing casserole brings together sweet potatoes, tart cranberries, and crunchy almonds for a textured dish that feels like a celebration of the season. It’s a standout among traditional sides, offering something a little different without straying too far from classic Thanksgiving vibes. Simple to make, it’s a practical yet thoughtful choice for busy holiday prep. Expect this casserole to spark conversation and leave an impression on your guests.
Get the Recipe: Almond, Cranberry, and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole

My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole

A delightful slice of carrot cake with a dollop of whipped cream graces a decorative black and white plate. A fork rests invitingly on the cake while a white and blue cup peeks from the background, almost like the perfect ending to a recipe for an unforgettable carrot casserole. — My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This carrot casserole pairs tender carrots with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar for a side dish that feels almost like dessert. Its balance of sweetness and spice makes it a standout on any holiday table, and it’s as easy to prepare as it is crowd-pleasing. A nod to old-fashioned flavors, it’s a recipe that might just rival Grandma’s own collection. Once it’s served, don’t be surprised if it disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole

Mashed Potatoes with Greek Garlic Beet Greens

A bowl of mashed potatoes with garlic and thyme. — Mashed Potatoes with Greek Garlic Beet Greens. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Mashed potatoes with Greek garlic beet greens add a bold twist to a classic Thanksgiving side. The garlicky greens bring a fresh depth to the creamy potatoes, creating a dish that’s flavorful and festive. With its quick preparation and standout presentation, it’s a thoughtful choice for any holiday table. By the end of the meal, this might become the new family tradition.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Greek Garlic Beet Greens

Sauteed Cabbage with Peppers

A plate with mashed potatoes and meat on it. — Sauteed Cabbage with Peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Sauteed cabbage with peppers adds a homestyle touch to the Thanksgiving feast, balancing hearty main dishes with its tender texture and savory flavor. Cooked with onions, tomatoes, and peppers, it brings depth to the table without taking over. This easy-to-prepare side is perfect for rounding out the holiday spread with something both familiar and comforting. Guests may find themselves drawn back to its simple, satisfying flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cabbage with Peppers

Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts

A plate of roasted multicolored carrots topped with chopped hazelnuts and garnished with fresh thyme. The carrots are glazed and appear slightly caramelized, arranged neatly on a white dish. — Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

Roasted carrots with hazelnuts highlight the natural sweetness of carrots with the nutty richness of hazelnuts and a touch of seasonal herbs. The thyme and date syrup enhance the flavors, making it both festive and understated. This dish is elegant without being fussy, fitting seamlessly into a Thanksgiving spread. Guests might just declare this their favorite side of the evening.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts

Roasted Carrot Dip with Whipped Feta, Dukkah, and Honey

A plate of hummus garnished with slices of cherry tomato, a parsley leaf, and sprinkled with black sesame seeds and spices. The dish is placed on a marble surface next to a partial view of a plate with sliced bread. — Roasted Carrot Dip with Whipped Feta, Dukkah, and Honey. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

This roasted carrot dip combines sweet, savory, and spiced flavors for a side dish that doubles as a festive appetizer. The whipped feta and dukkah add texture and depth, while a drizzle of honey ties it all together beautifully. It’s a creative way to incorporate fall flavors into the meal, and its bright color makes it a centerpiece-worthy option. Serve this and watch it quickly disappear, proving Grandma’s nod of approval.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Carrot Dip with Whipped Feta, Dukkah, and Honey

Honey Miso Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A white serving dish filled with roasted brussels sprouts and fresh rosemary. — Honey Miso Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Honey miso roasted Brussels sprouts combine bold, sweet, and savory flavors that could steal the spotlight at any Thanksgiving meal. Roasted to caramelized perfection, they offer a depth of flavor that feels elevated yet effortless. The tender interior and crispy edges make them a standout side dish. These sprouts could easily become the most talked-about item on the table.
Get the Recipe: Honey Miso Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Three baked potatoes on a blue and white plate. — Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Stuffed baked potatoes combine creamy mashed potatoes with butter, cheddar cheese, and minced onion for a side that feels like pure comfort. Brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with paprika, they bake to a golden, crisp perfection. This dish brings a hearty, nostalgic charm that fits right into a holiday meal. With flavors this satisfying, Grandma might just declare them the best potatoes she’s had.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Sage and Bacon Stuffing

A closeup is shown of a baking dish full of bacon and sage stuffing. — Sage and Bacon Stuffing. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Sage and bacon stuffing blends traditional ingredients like onion, celery, and parsley with the savory punch of bacon for a side that’s both classic and bold. This recipe honors holiday traditions while adding a touch of something extra to make it special. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a dish that complements any Thanksgiving spread. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the talk of the table this year.
Get the Recipe: Sage and Bacon Stuffing

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts bring a perfect balance of tangy sweetness and tender roasted texture to the holiday table. This dish pairs seamlessly with hearty mains, giving the meal a richness that’s hard to overlook. Its elegant yet approachable flavor makes it an unforgettable addition to your spread. These sprouts might even win over those who think they don’t like Brussels sprouts.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots

Roasted honey glazed carrots deliver a beautiful balance of sweetness and earthy flavor, enhanced by a touch of thyme. Their tender, slightly crisp texture adds variety to the Thanksgiving table, complementing the main dishes. Simple to prepare and visually appealing, they bring a pop of color to your holiday spread. Grandma might just ask for the recipe after tasting these.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots