28 Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Complete Your Holiday Feast

Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey — it’s about the sides that make the meal truly unforgettable. From creamy mashed potatoes and buttery stuffing to roasted vegetables and cozy casseroles, side dishes are what bring warmth, color, and flavor to your holiday table. They’re the recipes that make everyone go back for seconds (and sometimes thirds!), adding that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and comforting flavors that define the season. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or keeping things intimate, the right side dishes can turn your Thanksgiving dinner into a feast to remember.

In this roundup, you’ll find a delicious mix of traditional favorites and creative twists — all made to complement your main course beautifully. Think creamy sweet potato casseroles, golden baked mac and cheese, flavorful wild rice pilaf, and cozy corn pudding — each one designed to bring comfort and joy to your plate. There’s something here for every taste, from classic Southern-style sides to modern, plant-based options that will please everyone at the table.

No matter your menu, these Thanksgiving side dish recipes are easy to make, crowd-approved, and full of seasonal goodness. Each one adds its own special touch — whether it’s a rich, creamy texture, a pop of sweetness, or a hint of crunch. So, preheat your oven, grab your favorite serving dishes, and get ready to fill your table with sides that will steal the show this Thanksgiving.

25+ Thanksgiving Side Dishes for a Perfect Feast

1. Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

This comforting Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect Thanksgiving side dish that brings warmth and sweetness to your holiday table. Made with creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it delivers that classic southern-style richness everyone craves. The maple syrup adds a deep, caramel-like flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes without being overwhelming. It’s smooth, buttery, and irresistibly comforting—everything you want in a holiday dish.

What truly sets this casserole apart is its topping. Instead of just marshmallows, this recipe features a crunchy pecan and brown sugar crumble that bakes into a golden, nutty crust. The contrast between the creamy filling and crisp topping creates an unforgettable texture and flavor combination. Whether you’re serving turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables, this sweet potato casserole brings a perfect balance of sweetness and spice to your Thanksgiving spread. It’s a must-have side that always earns second servings and plenty of compliments.

2. Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a beloved Thanksgiving classic that combines creamy, buttery mashed sweet potatoes with a gooey, golden marshmallow topping. The filling is rich and flavorful, made with a blend of mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, milk, and a hint of vanilla for that irresistible homemade taste. As it bakes, the flavors meld together to create a dish that’s both cozy and indulgent — the kind of side that instantly feels like a family tradition.

What makes this casserole so special is the light, fluffy layer of toasted marshmallows on top. They melt and caramelize beautifully in the oven, forming a sweet, golden-brown crust that perfectly complements the smooth, spiced sweet potatoes underneath. Each spoonful offers a delicious balance of sweetness and creaminess, making it the perfect pairing for savory mains like turkey and stuffing. Whether it’s your first time making it or a yearly favorite, this casserole is sure to be one of the most talked-about dishes on your Thanksgiving table.

3. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey Glazed Carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish that brings natural sweetness and vibrant color to your Thanksgiving table. Tender carrots are simmered or roasted until perfectly soft, then tossed in a glossy glaze made from honey, butter, and a hint of brown sugar. A touch of salt and pepper balances the sweetness, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a burst of freshness. The result is a side that’s both visually stunning and delicious — sweet, buttery, and full of flavor.

What makes these carrots so irresistible is their beautiful caramelization and rich, sticky coating. The honey glaze gives them a subtle shine and a depth of flavor that complements savory main dishes like roasted turkey or ham. You can prepare them on the stovetop or roast them in the oven for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. Quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser, honey glazed carrots add a touch of warmth and brightness to any holiday meal.

4. Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is a timeless Thanksgiving side dish that brings together the best of sweet and crunchy in one comforting bite. The base is made from creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with butter, brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla, creating a smooth and flavorful filling that’s both sweet and savory. It’s the kind of side dish that feels like dessert but still pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, gravy, and all your other holiday favorites.

The real star, though, is the pecan topping — a buttery mixture of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour that bakes into a crisp, caramelized crust. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sweet potato layer beneath it. The toasted pecans add a nutty depth and a satisfying texture that takes this dish from simple to spectacular. Whether you’re serving it for a family feast or a Friendsgiving potluck, this pecan-topped casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

5. Sweet Potato Casserole With Canned Yams

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams is a quick and easy version of the classic Thanksgiving favorite, perfect for when you want big flavor with minimal prep. Using canned yams saves time without sacrificing taste — they’re already tender and naturally sweet, making them ideal for a creamy, flavorful base. Mixed with butter, brown sugar, milk, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, the yams transform into a rich, velvety filling that’s both comforting and delicious.

Topped with a layer of golden-brown marshmallows or a crunchy pecan crumble, this casserole bakes up beautifully with a mix of textures and flavors in every bite. The sweetness of the yams pairs perfectly with the warm spices and buttery topping, making it a crowd-pleaser that tastes like it was made entirely from scratch. Whether you’re short on time or just want a simple, fuss-free side dish, this canned yam version is a lifesaver that still feels homemade and festive.

6. Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots

Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots are a beautifully simple side dish that delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and caramelized flavor. Fresh carrots are tossed with honey, olive oil, and a touch of salt and pepper, then roasted until tender and golden. The high heat transforms the honey into a glossy glaze that coats each carrot, creating a slightly crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. It’s an easy yet elegant dish that adds color and natural sweetness to your Thanksgiving or holiday spread.

What makes roasted carrots so special is the way the oven enhances their flavor — bringing out their natural sugars and deepening the honey’s richness. A drizzle of butter or a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary before serving adds a fresh, aromatic touch. These roasted carrots pair wonderfully with savory mains like turkey, chicken, or beef, offering a pop of brightness and balance on the plate. Simple to prepare and visually stunning, they’re a side dish that always impresses with minimal effort.

7. Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food that embodies the warmth and tradition of Southern cooking. Made with smooth, mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, eggs, and a touch of vanilla, this dish is rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet without being overwhelming. A hint of cinnamon or nutmeg adds that cozy, home-baked aroma that fills the kitchen and instantly makes it feel like the holidays. Every bite melts in your mouth, offering that signature southern charm that makes this dish a Thanksgiving staple.

What truly makes this casserole shine is its irresistible pecan topping — a sweet, buttery blend of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour that bakes into a golden, crunchy crust. The combination of the soft, velvety filling and the crisp topping creates the perfect contrast of textures and flavors. It’s elegant enough for a holiday table yet comforting enough to enjoy year-round. Serve it warm, and it’s sure to steal the spotlight among your Thanksgiving sides.

8. Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf

Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf is a hearty, flavorful side dish that brings a rustic, earthy touch to your holiday table. Made with a blend of wild and long-grain rice, this dish offers a nutty aroma and chewy texture that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving favorites. The rice is simmered in savory broth and tossed with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs like thyme and parsley, infusing every bite with warm, aromatic flavor. It’s wholesome, colorful, and a perfect alternative for guests who prefer lighter sides over creamy casseroles.

What makes this wild rice pilaf truly festive are the mix-ins — toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and sometimes chopped apples or mushrooms — adding pops of sweetness, crunch, and depth. The result is a balanced side dish that feels both comforting and elegant. It’s easy to make ahead and serves beautifully warm or at room temperature, making it a stress-free addition to your Thanksgiving spread. With its vibrant textures and flavors, this pilaf adds a fresh, seasonal twist to the classic holiday lineup.

9. Ruth’s Chris Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole

This Ruth’s Chris Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole brings the famous steakhouse favorite right to your holiday table. Known for its luxuriously smooth texture and perfectly balanced sweetness, this casserole starts with creamy mashed sweet potatoes mixed with butter, sugar, eggs, and a hint of vanilla. The result is a velvety filling that’s rich, buttery, and full of cozy flavor. It’s indulgent yet comforting — exactly what you’d expect from a side dish that’s earned such a loyal following.

The signature element of this copycat version is the irresistible brown sugar pecan topping. Made with chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter, it bakes into a golden, caramelized layer that adds just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. Together, the creamy base and crispy topping create a restaurant-quality dish that’s guaranteed to impress your Thanksgiving guests. One bite, and you’ll see why this casserole is just as unforgettable at home as it is at Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

10. Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate hands-off Thanksgiving side dish that delivers all the traditional flavors with none of the hassle. This slow cooker version starts with creamy mashed sweet potatoes mixed with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla for that cozy, home-cooked taste. As it cooks low and slow, the flavors deepen and blend beautifully, creating an irresistibly rich and velvety texture. It’s perfect for saving precious oven space while still serving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.

Once the sweet potatoes are perfectly tender, you can finish it off with your favorite topping — either a layer of mini marshmallows for a gooey, golden finish or a crunchy brown sugar pecan crumble for a classic Southern touch. The slow cooker keeps everything warm and ready to serve, making it ideal for busy holiday gatherings. This fuss-free casserole brings together the best of convenience and comfort, ensuring your Thanksgiving spread stays stress-free and delicious.

11. Creamy Southern Corn Pudding

Creamy Southern Corn Pudding is a beloved holiday classic that perfectly balances sweetness, richness, and comfort in every bite. Made with a blend of creamed corn, whole kernel corn, eggs, butter, sugar, and a touch of milk or cream, it bakes into a soft, custard-like dish that’s both hearty and silky smooth. The result is a golden, creamy side that’s slightly sweet, wonderfully buttery, and full of corn flavor — a true Southern staple that pairs beautifully with savory Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, ham, or stuffing.

What makes this corn pudding so irresistible is its texture — creamy in the center with just a hint of crispness around the edges. It’s simple to prepare yet feels indulgent and homemade, offering that nostalgic comfort only a traditional recipe can bring. A sprinkle of nutmeg or cracked pepper adds a little depth, while a pat of melted butter on top gives it an extra touch of richness. Warm, cozy, and full of flavor, this Southern favorite is sure to be one of the most talked-about sides on your holiday table.

12. Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

This Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is a wholesome, plant-based twist on the beloved Thanksgiving classic. It’s made with creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with coconut milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla — creating a silky, flavorful filling that’s naturally sweet and dairy-free. The coconut milk adds richness without heaviness, while the warm spices give it that comforting holiday aroma. It’s a simple yet satisfying side dish that fits beautifully into any Thanksgiving spread, whether you’re vegan or just looking for a lighter option.

The topping is what makes this casserole truly special — a golden, crunchy pecan oat crumble made with vegan butter and brown sugar. It bakes into a crisp, caramelized layer that pairs perfectly with the smooth, spiced sweet potato base. Each bite is a delicious balance of creamy and crunchy, sweet and nutty. This vegan version doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture — it’s just as indulgent and festive as the traditional version, making it a hit with everyone at the table.

13. Boston Market Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole

This Boston Market Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole perfectly recreates the famous restaurant side dish known for its rich, dessert-like flavor. The base features creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with butter, brown sugar, and a touch of cream, creating a smooth and velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg give it that comforting, holiday aroma, while the sweetness strikes a perfect balance that pairs wonderfully with savory Thanksgiving mains like turkey or ham.

What truly makes this casserole stand out is its signature topping — a golden, crunchy layer of brown sugar, butter, and crushed cornflakes. This crispy-sweet crust bakes into a caramelized finish that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite, making it feel indulgent and nostalgic at the same time. It’s a side dish that feels more like dessert but fits beautifully alongside your holiday meal. Whether you’ve had the Boston Market version or not, this homemade copycat will easily become one of your most requested Thanksgiving recipes.

14. Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is a nostalgic, old-fashioned favorite that tastes like pure holiday comfort. Made with cubed bread, sautéed onions, celery, butter, and savory herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley, it’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with that unmistakable Thanksgiving aroma. The bread soaks up the seasoned broth, creating a soft, flavorful interior with just the right amount of golden crisp on top. Every bite is rich, aromatic, and perfectly seasoned — just the way Grandma used to make it.

What makes this stuffing so special is its simplicity and homemade touch. There’s no need for fancy ingredients — just wholesome, familiar flavors that remind you of family gatherings around the dinner table. Some versions include eggs for extra richness or a handful of chopped apples, sausage, or nuts for added texture. Whether it’s baked inside the turkey or served on the side, Grandma’s stuffing is timeless, comforting, and guaranteed to be one of the most loved dishes on your Thanksgiving table.

15. Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole

This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole is a delicious and allergy-friendly take on the traditional Thanksgiving favorite. Made with creamy mashed sweet potatoes, butter, maple syrup, and a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, it delivers the same cozy, comforting flavor without any gluten. The smooth, velvety base is naturally rich and sweet, pairing perfectly with savory holiday dishes like turkey, stuffing, and gravy. It’s a simple yet crowd-pleasing side that everyone at the table — gluten-free or not — will love.

The best part is the crunchy gluten-free topping. Made with a blend of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and gluten-free flour (or almond flour), it bakes into a golden, buttery crust that adds the perfect contrast to the creamy filling. You can also top it with marshmallows for a classic, gooey twist. This casserole is proof that you don’t have to compromise on flavor or texture when going gluten-free — it’s just as indulgent, comforting, and festive as the traditional version.

16. Warm Quinoa Sweet Potato Salad

Warm Quinoa Sweet Potato Salad is a wholesome, colorful side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy fall meal. It features roasted sweet potatoes tossed with fluffy quinoa, fresh greens like spinach or kale, and a mix of cranberries, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and sweetness. The roasted sweet potatoes bring caramelized flavor and natural warmth, while the quinoa adds a light, nutty texture that makes the dish both hearty and nutritious. It’s a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy — a refreshing alternative to heavier holiday sides.

What ties this salad together is the simple, flavorful dressing — often made with olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. The dressing lightly coats every ingredient, enhancing the earthy and sweet flavors without overpowering them. Served warm or at room temperature, this quinoa salad makes a vibrant, satisfying addition to your Thanksgiving spread. It’s healthy, filling, and bursting with seasonal goodness — a dish that even non-salad lovers will go back for seconds of.

17. Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole

Paula Deen’s Sweet Potato Casserole is Southern comfort at its finest — rich, creamy, and sweet with just the right touch of spice. The filling is made with smooth mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, eggs, milk, and a splash of vanilla, creating a luscious, velvety texture that feels like dessert but pairs beautifully with savory Thanksgiving dishes. A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg gives it that warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for the holidays. It’s indulgent, homestyle cooking that captures the heart of Southern tradition in every bite.

The topping is where Paula Deen’s version truly shines. Instead of marshmallows, it’s finished with a decadent brown sugar pecan crumble that bakes into a buttery, golden crust. The contrast between the creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy topping creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether served as a side or a sweet finish to your meal, this classic casserole is the kind of dish that makes everyone come back for seconds — and maybe even the recipe.

18. Dairy-Free Sweet Potato Casserole

This Dairy-Free Sweet Potato Casserole offers all the creamy, comforting flavor of the traditional Thanksgiving favorite — without any dairy. Made with mashed sweet potatoes blended with coconut milk (or almond milk), maple syrup, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s naturally sweet, rich, and smooth. The coconut milk gives it a silky texture and subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of the sweet potatoes. It’s a wholesome, allergy-friendly dish that fits perfectly into any holiday menu.

To finish it off, this casserole features a golden, crunchy pecan topping made with dairy-free butter, brown sugar, and a touch of gluten-free flour. It bakes into a crisp, caramelized layer that adds just the right amount of texture and sweetness. Whether you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions or simply prefer a lighter option, this dairy-free version doesn’t compromise on flavor or indulgence. It’s every bit as cozy, festive, and crowd-pleasing as the classic — just made a little kinder to your table.

19. Wild Rice and Roasted Mushroom Salad

Wild Rice and Roasted Mushroom Salad is a hearty, earthy side dish that brings deep, savory flavors to your Thanksgiving table. The nutty texture of wild rice pairs beautifully with roasted mushrooms, caramelized onions, and fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. The mushrooms add a rich umami depth, while the rice provides a satisfying chewiness that makes the salad both wholesome and filling. It’s the perfect blend of rustic and elegant — a great way to add variety and texture to your holiday spread.

A light vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, or balsamic vinegar ties everything together, enhancing the roasted flavors and adding a bright finish. You can also toss in toasted nuts, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of feta for extra contrast and flair. Served warm or at room temperature, this salad is as versatile as it is flavorful. It’s a lighter, more modern side that complements hearty Thanksgiving dishes while still feeling cozy, seasonal, and completely satisfying.

20. Make-Ahead Sweet Potato Casserole

Make-Ahead Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate time-saving side dish for busy holiday hosts. This recipe lets you prepare all the comforting, classic flavors of traditional sweet potato casserole — buttery, creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla — up to two days in advance. The filling stays rich and velvety, ready to be topped and baked when you’re ready to serve. It’s the perfect way to lighten your Thanksgiving day workload without sacrificing any of that homemade taste.

When it’s time to bake, simply add your favorite topping — whether it’s toasted marshmallows for a gooey, golden finish or a brown sugar pecan crumble for a crunchy, caramelized crust. The flavors only get better as they rest, making this dish even more delicious after chilling overnight. This make-ahead version ensures that your kitchen stays stress-free while still delivering a side dish that’s warm, cozy, and absolutely irresistible.

21. Apple Cranberry Stuffing

Apple Cranberry Stuffing is a deliciously festive twist on the traditional Thanksgiving side, offering the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe starts with classic cubed bread mixed with sautéed onions, celery, and aromatic herbs like sage and thyme. Diced apples bring a fresh, juicy sweetness, while dried cranberries add a tart pop that balances the richness of the buttery base. Every bite delivers a mix of textures — soft, fluffy bread with tender fruit and a hint of crispness from baking.

What makes this stuffing shine is its vibrant flavor and holiday flair. The combination of fruit and herbs creates a depth that feels both comforting and bright, pairing beautifully with roast turkey, gravy, and mashed potatoes. For extra richness, you can mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch. It’s a beautiful, colorful addition to your Thanksgiving table that tastes just as good as it looks — warm, fragrant, and filled with all the best flavors of the season.

22. Sweet Potato Casserole With Streusel

Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel is a delightful twist on the traditional Thanksgiving side, combining creamy sweetness with a buttery, crumbly topping. The base is made from smooth mashed sweet potatoes blended with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla, creating a rich and flavorful filling that melts in your mouth. It’s perfectly spiced and sweetened to balance savory mains like turkey and stuffing, while still tasting indulgent enough to double as dessert.

The real magic happens on top — a golden-brown streusel made with flour, brown sugar, butter, and chopped pecans. As it bakes, the topping becomes crisp and slightly caramelized, adding a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the soft, velvety filling beneath. Each bite offers a mix of creamy and crumbly textures that make this casserole a true crowd-pleaser. Whether served at a formal holiday dinner or a cozy family gathering, this streusel-topped version is sure to steal the spotlight.

23. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish — rich, smooth, and perfectly buttery. Made with tender, fluffy potatoes whipped together with butter, milk, and a touch of cream, they deliver a light yet indulgent texture that melts in your mouth. A hint of salt and pepper enhances their natural flavor, while optional add-ins like roasted garlic or sour cream can take them to the next level. These mashed potatoes are the ideal complement to hearty Thanksgiving mains like turkey and gravy, soaking up every delicious drop.

The secret to truly creamy mashed potatoes lies in using the right potato variety and technique. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes give the best balance of fluffiness and creaminess, while gentle mashing ensures they stay smooth and lump-free. Whether you serve them piled high in a bowl with melted butter on top or as part of a holiday spread, this classic dish never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. It’s simple, timeless, and always a crowd favorite.

24. Baked Mashed Potatoes

Baked Mashed Potatoes take the classic comfort of creamy mashed potatoes and elevate it with a rich, golden crust. This dish starts with fluffy mashed potatoes blended with butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and a touch of garlic for a smooth, flavorful base. The mixture is then spread into a baking dish, topped with a little extra butter or cheese, and baked until lightly browned and bubbly. The result is a warm, indulgent side that’s creamy on the inside and perfectly crisp on top — a guaranteed hit for Thanksgiving or any special occasion.

What makes baked mashed potatoes so special is their make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing texture. You can prepare the dish in advance, refrigerate it, and simply pop it in the oven before serving. The baking process enhances the flavor and gives the potatoes a slight tang from the sour cream and cheese, while the golden top adds a satisfying contrast to the velvety interior. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday dinner or a cozy family meal, this baked version adds a touch of elegance to your potato lineup.

25. Creamy Turkey Salad

Creamy Turkey Salad is a delicious and versatile way to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey while keeping all the comforting holiday flavors intact. Tender chunks of turkey are mixed with creamy mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Celery adds crunch, while onions or scallions bring a subtle sharpness that balances the rich dressing. The result is a smooth, flavorful salad that’s hearty yet refreshing — perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or serving on a bed of fresh greens.

What makes this salad truly special is its adaptability. You can easily customize it with ingredients like dried cranberries for sweetness, chopped pecans for crunch, or fresh herbs like parsley and dill for a burst of freshness. A touch of Greek yogurt can lighten it up while keeping the creamy texture intact. Whether you’re enjoying it the day after Thanksgiving or prepping for a quick lunch, this creamy turkey salad is a simple, satisfying dish that transforms leftovers into something deliciously new.

26. Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are a game-changer for holiday cooking — creamy, flavorful, and completely hands-off. This method lets your slow cooker do all the work, freeing up stove space while still delivering perfectly tender, buttery potatoes. Simply combine peeled potatoes, butter, garlic, and broth or milk in the crockpot, and let them cook low and slow until soft enough to mash. The result is a rich, velvety mash infused with flavor, perfect for pairing with gravy, turkey, or any Thanksgiving main dish.

What makes crockpot mashed potatoes so convenient is that you can keep them warm right in the slow cooker until it’s time to serve — no reheating or last-minute stress. A little cream or sour cream stirred in before serving adds an extra layer of richness, making every bite irresistibly smooth. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simplifying your prep, these slow cooker mashed potatoes deliver all the classic comfort with none of the fuss, making them a must-have on any holiday table.

27. Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy crust that makes every bite irresistible. The base features tender elbow macaroni coated in a rich, homemade cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a blend of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère. The sauce is smooth and velvety, perfectly clinging to each noodle for a bite that’s both creamy and satisfying. It’s the kind of side dish that feels nostalgic yet indulgent — a staple at Thanksgiving, family dinners, or any cozy gathering.

What truly sets baked mac and cheese apart is its irresistible topping. Once the pasta and sauce are combined, the dish is sprinkled with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden brown. The contrast between the creamy interior and crunchy top creates a texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether served as a hearty side or the main event, this baked mac and cheese is comfort food perfection — simple, homemade, and always crowd-approved.

28. Fall Harvest Salad with Apple Cider Dressing

Fall Harvest Salad with Apple Cider Dressing is a vibrant, seasonal dish bursting with color, flavor, and texture. It combines crisp mixed greens with sweet roasted butternut squash, thinly sliced apples, dried cranberries, and crunchy candied pecans. The mix of sweet, tart, and savory ingredients creates a refreshing balance that captures the best of autumn in every bite. It’s light yet satisfying, making it the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or fall dinner menu.

What ties this salad together is the homemade apple cider dressing — a tangy, slightly sweet vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and olive oil. The dressing adds a bright, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the earthy roasted vegetables and sweet fruit. Optional toppings like crumbled feta or goat cheese add a creamy contrast that makes the dish even more indulgent. Beautiful, wholesome, and full of fall flair, this salad is as visually stunning as it is delicious — a refreshing side that brightens any holiday table.