The countdown is on — we’re officially in Thanksgiving mode! Have you started planning your menu yet? If not, don’t worry — I’ve gathered my favorite Thanksgiving recipes that are guaranteed to make your holiday table shine. From cozy classics to modern twists, these dishes bring all the comfort, flavor, and festive cheer. Let’s dive into the best part of Thanksgiving (yes, I said it) — the sides!
Have you started mapping out your Thanksgiving must-makes yet? And are you hosting or traveling this year? Our menu has been discussed at length, but we still haven’t finalized it completely. Thanksgiving for us is always on the smaller side, but that never stops me from going all-in on the food. Even with a cozy gathering, I want all the cozy flavors — and yes, leftovers are absolutely non-negotiable. After that cooking marathon, we deserve a fridge full of goodness for days.
Even though I skip the turkey, I never feel like I’m missing anything. Textured meats were never my thing — even the most “perfectly juicy” turkey just isn’t for me. And no, I won’t be making a tofurky or meat substitute either… because if I don’t like the original, why try the replica? Hard pass. Instead, I happily pile my plate high with appetizers, all the sides, and dessert. Sides truly steal the show anyway — can we all agree on that?
Thanksgiving Sides
Sides will forever have my heart! We have our tried-and-true family favorites, but I’ve also been testing some fun new additions lately — because why not keep things exciting? Below, you’ll find a mix of appetizers, sides, and sweet treats to round out your holiday table. It’s nearly impossible to pick just a handful when there are so many delicious dishes out there, but I pulled together some of my top picks, and I hope they become staples for you, too. Think simple yet elevated — recipes that look special without creating chaos in the kitchen. Your guests will be talking about them long after dinner is done. And if you’re on turkey duty this year, don’t worry — I’ve linked a few great options for you as well. I’ve got you covered!
How To Build An Epic Cheeseboard
First up: the ultimate cheeseboard! A beautifully arranged board is always a show-stopper and one of the easiest ways to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Think creamy cheeses, salty meats, seasonal fruit, crunchy nuts, crackers, and a little something sweet — all arranged in a way that feels abundant and festive. It’s simple, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to be the first thing everyone gathers around. Let’s build one that looks like it came straight from a magazine spread!
Mushroom Polenta Bites
Next up: elegant yet comforting Mushroom Polenta Bites. These little nibbles pack big flavor — creamy, golden polenta rounds topped with savory sautéed mushrooms, herbs, and a touch of parmesan. They’re the perfect bite-sized appetizer: cozy, earthy, and just fancy enough to feel holiday-worthy without being fussy. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for mushroom lovers and skeptical guests alike!
Kale Brussels Salad
Kale & Brussels Sprouts Salad, crisp, fresh, and layered with texture — thinly shaved Brussels sprouts and tender kale tossed in a bright, zippy dressing, then finished with crunchy nuts and a touch of cheese for richness. It’s the kind of salad that feels wholesome and hearty, yet totally at home on a holiday table. Trust me, it never gets overlooked!
Potato Leek Soup
Up next is a classic — Potato Leek Soup. Creamy, comforting, and wonderfully simple, this soup lets humble ingredients shine. Soft leeks, tender potatoes, and a silky broth come together to create a velvety bowl of warmth that feels like a hug on a chilly fall day. It’s elegant enough for a holiday spread, yet easy enough for any weeknight. Serve it with crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil, and you’ve got pure comfort in a bowl.
Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet potato casserole is a treasured recipe shared with us by a longtime family friend — its exact origins may be a little mysterious, but the flavor has stood the test of time. I’ve lightened up the butter and sugar slightly over the years, but it’s still wonderfully indulgent and every bit as delicious as the original. With its rich, nutty, dessert-like topping, I technically serve it as a side… but let’s be honest, it easily doubles as dessert and I’m never mad about that!
Roasted Cauliflower ‘Steaks’
Roasted cauliflower steaks are the perfect way to elevate a humble veggie into a stunning holiday side. Thick-cut cauliflower slabs are seasoned and oven-roasted until caramelized and tender, with beautifully crisp edges. They bring a hearty, savory element to your Thanksgiving table — elegant enough for guests, simple enough to prep without stress, and a delicious option for anyone who prefers more plant-forward sides. Whether served with a drizzle of tahini, a sprinkle of herbs, or simply as-is, these “steaks” always feel special.
Melting Potatoes
Melting sweet potatoes are a guaranteed show-stopper — golden on the outside, incredibly soft and buttery on the inside, and packed with cozy fall flavor. Slow-roasted in the oven and finished with a little broth to give them that irresistible “melting” texture, these beauties are the perfect blend of simple ingredients and wow-factor results. They pair beautifully with any Thanksgiving spread and are the kind of side dish guests will ask for year after year. Perfectly caramelized, tender, and so easy to make — this one’s a must-save for your holiday table.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Not many in my house love cranberry sauce, but I do consider it a staple on the table. It’s that small amount that you combine with your turkey or stuffing that makes the flavors just pop! There really is nothing better than homemade. No shade if you like the canned stuff either. My version has 1/3 less added sugar and one reason I like making it homemade, you get to manage the amount of added sugar. A little tart, just sweet enough, cranberries are quintessential on the Thanksgiving table.
No-Bake Sweet Potato Mini Cheesecakes
Yes, I already listed Sweet Potato Casserole as a must-make side dish/dessert. However, this individiaul Sweet Potato Mini Cheesecakes are a great make-ahead dessert. Simply remember to bake a few extra sweet potatoes to have on hand (if you decide to make the sweet potato casserole or this dessert) and you’re good to go! They’re individual, which is perfect for everyone to have their own!
Puff Pastry Apple Tart
Flaky, golden layers of pastry topped with thinly sliced apples, a touch of cinnamon, and a glossy finish — it’s the kind of dessert that looks impressive but comes together with ease. Perfect for cozy fall gatherings or a simple weekend treat, this puff pastry apple tart celebrates the beauty of apple season in the most delicious way. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of dulce de leche for an extra-special touch.
Apple Cider Mimosa
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this elegant Apple Cider Mimosa—a sparkling twist on a classic brunch favorite. Made with crisp apple cider and bubbly champagne, it’s the perfect drink for autumn gatherings, weekend brunches, or holiday celebrations. Lightly sweet with notes of fresh apple and a touch of spice, this seasonal cocktail captures everything we love about fall in one glass. Simple to make yet effortlessly beautiful, this Apple Cider Mimosa is sure to impress guests and become a new seasonal tradition.
Apple Cider Margarita
Nothing screams fall more than apples and apple cider. This Apple Cider Margarita uses seasoning from the cinnamon sugar rim paired with sweet apple cider for an irresistible combination. Perfect for all your fall gatherings, and parties. Cheers to the first day of fall!
And as promised, a few turkey recipes from a few food bloggers that I follow. Trust me when I say you wouldn’t want a turkey recipe from me. These are reliable and have been tested. Enjoy!
- Mark Bittman’s 45 minutes Roast Turkey
- Ina’s Perfect Roast Turkey
- Alton Brown’s Deep-Fried Turkey
- Ree Drummond’s Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey
- And for those serving a smaller crowd, this Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast will fit the bill!
There you have it. A few of my favorite Thanksgiving appetizers, sides, and desserts! More will be added in the coming years, but this is a few to get you started and be your ‘keeper’ favorite Thanksgiving sides too! Happy (early) Thanksgiving. So much gratitude to you all for following along.
1 thought on “Thanksgiving Recipes”
SO excited for all of the sidesssss!!