Turkey may be a non-negotiable at the Thanksgiving table but it’s the side dishes that really make the meal memorable. They take up most of the space on the plate so you want to make sure they really shine. And while there may be some family traditions that you can’t take away, you can always add new dishes to the standard rotation. Start with seasonally inspired ingredients to make the side dishes the star of the show, and be sure you have recipes in each category below for a well-rounded Thanksgiving meal.
Stuffing and Rice
Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, we can all agree that Thanksgiving isn’t complete without a side of moist, herb-infused bread or rice baked until golden brown. You can vary the ingredients to refresh classic recipes with additions such as fruit and nuts, fresh herbs, or even by sneaking in additional tasty bites like shrimp or sausage. If you’re looking for a recipe with a twist this year, try a different kind of bread or rice for the base, such as sourdough, cornbread or even wild rice. Or opt for this vibrant basmati rice crispy rice recipe inspired by Middle Eastern tahdig.
Shop: Signature Oval BakerGet the Recipe: Apricot, Pistachio and Saffron Crispy Rice
Pasta
A cheesy pasta casserole is another comfort food staple on the Thanksgiving table. Perfect for a busy kitchen, most of the steps are done ahead of time, so you can pop the casserole into the oven at the last minute to finish cooking so it can be served hot and bubbling. We have a recipe to suit every taste – from a simple three-cheese version to a decadent Creamy Baked Rigatoni with onions and roasted butternut squash. Or for something more sophisticated, try making our pillowy gnocchi Parisienne in a creamy thyme sauce recipe. No one will turn down a scoop (or two) at the table.
Shop: Signature Round Dutch OvenGet the Recipe: Gnocchi Parisienne in Mushroom Thyme Cream Sauce
Potatoes
It’s not Thanksgiving without potatoes and there is nothing more classic than creamy mashed potatoes made with lots of butter and cream. From Yukon Gold to fluffy russet, or even smashed baby potatoes, there’s never a wrong choice with this crowd-pleasing favorite. Opt for this Potato Gratin or Scalloped Yukon and Sweet Potato Casserole for an even more decadent side. For other families, Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a must-have on the table – whether you top them with marshmallows or not is up to you. Or try our easy hash recipe that blends sweet potatoes with smoky bacon, sweet dates and fresh thyme for an earthy, upscale take on tradition.
Shop: Signature Pumpkin BraiserGet the Recipe: Sweet Potato, Bacon and Date Hash with Thyme
Vegetables
If they’re done right, vegetable side dishes can really steal the show – and we love having a variety of casseroles, gratins, roasts and sautés at the table to please all palates. Thanksgiving is not the time to hold back, so go ahead and try out crispy bacon, buttery bread crumbs and rich cheeses as toppings for your favorite vegetable, as in this Mustard Brussels Sprout Gratin with Crispy Bacon and Onion Topping or Parsnip and Carrot Gratin. Or go with something like these Spiced Glazed Baby Carrots recipe, which brings a bright earthy and tangy note to balance out the other dishes on the table.
Shop: Rectangular Dish with Platter LidGet the Recipe: Honey and Thyme Roasted Pumpkin with Feta
Sauces
There are two sauces you can’t skip at Thanksgiving: cranberry sauce and gravy, and they bring very different things to the table. Tart, yet sweet, cranberry sauce adds a bright hit of fresh flavor to richly roasted meats. Homemade versions take less than 30 minutes, so skip the can this year and make it from scratch. On the opposite end of the spectrum, rich, umami-packed gravy couldn’t be more different, but is essential for pouring over turkey, mashed potatoes and stuffing. Traditional gravy (such as our recipe for Bourbon Gravy) uses the pan drippings from your turkey. But you can also make a quick savory gravy by simply using chicken or beef stock, try this Brandy Pink Peppercorn Gravy that is perfect not only with roasted poultry, but also roast beef and fish too.
Shop: Pumpkin Gravy Boat with LidGet the Recipe: Brandy Pink Peppercorn Gravy
Salad
Salad brings freshness and crisp flavors to an otherwise indulgent Thanksgiving table, and brightens up the rich meal to bring balance to your holiday plate. Try this Roasted Beet Salad or Roasted Root Vegetables with Mustard Herb Dressing – both feature hearty vegetables roasted until golden and tender and all tied together with a tangy dressing. Depending on the rest of the menu, though, you might stick with simply tossed greens. Or opt for adding a hearty grain like farro to the greens, along with sautéed mushrooms and a tangy sherry vinaigrette to create a more filling vegetarian side dish. Plus it’s always a good idea to have one dish that can be served room temperature to save room on the stove or in the oven.
Shop: Stainless Steel Saucier PanGet the Recipe: Wild Mushroom and Arugula Farro Salad with Sherry Vinaigrette
