Thanksgiving is synonymous with mountains of comforting food shared with loved ones. While turkey or ham takes center stage, the true stars are often the sides—and these can easily become a source of stress for hosts trying to wow their guests. Don’t succumb to pressure! Delicious and impressive Thanksgiving sides don’t require hours in the kitchen.
Forget complicated recipes that demand days of prep. This list features 15 mouthwatering side dishes you can assemble in under 10 minutes, letting your oven do most of the heavy lifting. Whether you crave cheesy indulgence, sweet and savory combinations, or vibrant healthy options, we’ve got something to please every palate.
Think creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, tangy cranberry salsa bursting with fresh flavor, or even crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic glaze for a touch of sophistication. These recipes offer stress-free elegance without sacrificing taste.
By freeing up precious time on Thanksgiving Day, these quick sides allow you to savor the moment and enjoy the company of your guests. Let’s get cooking!
Sweet Sides
- Cranberry Salsa: A burst of fresh flavor with diced cranberries, jalapeno for a kick, orange zest, and cilantro. Serve with baked brie or tortilla chips for an unexpected appetizer too!
- Figgy Potatoes: Roasted baby potatoes mingle with dried figs, balsamic glaze, and rosemary for a sweet and savory side dish with elegant appeal.
Savory Sides
- Jalapeño Poppers: Not just for appetizers anymore, these cheesy jalapeño poppers made with cream cheese and bacon crumbles are a crowd-pleaser baked right into your Thanksgiving spread.
- Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin: A healthier take on classic potato gratin, this dish features cauliflower florets in a creamy cheese sauce topped with crunchy breadcrumbs.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Elevate simple Brussels sprouts by roasting them with balsamic glaze and pine nuts for a sophisticated touch that balances bitterness with sweetness.
Healthy Sides
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Maple Pecans: Skip the marshmallows! Mashed sweet potatoes get a gourmet upgrade with maple syrup, toasted pecans, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic and Parmesan cheese offer a bright green addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Creamy & Indulgent Sides
- Green Bean Casserole Upgrade: Take your classic green bean casserole to the next level with crispy fried onions, mushrooms sautéed in garlic butter, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
This curated collection ensures you have something delicious and effortless for every taste preference. Embrace simplicity this Thanksgiving and enjoy a stress-free feast!
