47 Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes That Cause Serious FOMO

Some people swear they only take small portions at Thanksgiving, until these 47 side dishes show up. Chairs slide back, elbows rise, and personal space becomes optional. Someone will try to call dibs but nobody listens during food panic season. Side dish FOMO turns even the calmest family into a competitive team sport.

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise. — Layered Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fresh Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate. — Fresh Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bright color and great texture make this side dish stand out. Fresh Beet Salad is light but still filling enough to keep people coming back for more. It’s perfect for balancing out heartier main dishes on the table. You’ll want this in your rotation every Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

A close-up image of honey chipotle seasoned roasted potatoes garnished with parsley, served alongside grilled steak and lettuce. — Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something about a little sweet and smoky that grabs attention. Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes hits all the right notes for a comforting dish. It’s bold and pairs perfectly with classic holiday sides. Don’t be surprised if everyone talks about this one after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Hearty Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible. — Hearty Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

If you want something warm and filling, this is your dish. Hearty Cabbage Casserole brings simple ingredients together in the most fulfilling way. It’s rich enough to feel special but still feels approachable. This is going to be one of those sides that makes any holiday meal better.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Crispy Stuffing Balls

Close-up of several stuffing balls containing herbs and dried cranberries, garnished with fresh parsley. — Crispy Stuffing Balls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Everyone loves stuffing, but this twist might just steal the spotlight. Crispy Stuffing Balls are easy to grab and packed with flavor in every bite. They’re crunchy outside and soft inside, which gives them that perfect texture. These won’t last long on the table, guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls

Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole

A close-up of a serving of savory bread pudding with bacon and herbs being lifted from a white baking dish. — Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Who says holiday sides can’t break tradition a little? Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole brings a comforting, all-in-one vibe that works any time of day. It’s hearty, cheesy, and a great option for sharing. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Classic Amish Breakfast Casserole

Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

A turkey charcuterie board features a playful face design with sliced meats, cheeses, pretzels, grapes, olives, breadsticks, and two candy eyes on an apple. — Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re looking for a lighter option with variety, this will impress. Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board is loaded with everything you’d want for a snackable addition. It’s fun, colorful, and functional when waiting for the main meal. Perfect for gathering around and sharing with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Savory French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs. — Savory French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Packed with rich flavor, this dish feels like an irresistible hug on your plate. Savory French Onion Casserole blends all the right ingredients into something truly comforting. It’s one of those sides that can almost steal the show. Make sure there’s plenty because everyone’s going to want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad. — Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Light, crunchy, and loaded with texture, this one stands out every time. Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing adds a refreshing, sweet, and savory element to your spread. It’s different enough to make your plate interesting while complementing heavier dishes. This is the kind of dish that turns skeptics into fans.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Close-up of stuffed cabbage rolls filled with rice and ground meat, topped with tomato sauce and garnished with chopped herbs. — Hearty Stuffed Cabbage. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a dish that feels like home, this is perfect. Hearty Stuffed Cabbage hits the spot with its filling and satisfying ingredients. It doesn’t just sit on the table; it’s one that gets finished off fast. Plan for extra because this one never gets left behind.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Comforting Turkey Soup

A bowl of chicken soup with rice, carrots, celery, herbs, and pepper sprinkled on top. — Comforting Turkey Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you need something warm and nostalgic, this is it. Comforting Turkey Soup is simple but feels like a big holiday hug in every spoonful. It’s a great way to enjoy those savory turkey flavors in a cozy format. Definitely a solid addition to any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Soup

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A plate of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with pine nuts on parchment paper. — Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you thought Brussels sprouts weren’t your thing, this might change your mind. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze brings out the best with that perfect mix of sweet and roasted. They’re crispy and tender in all the right ways. You’ll probably wish you made extra once these disappear.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Close-up of creamy macaroni and cheese topped with crispy breadcrumbs and chopped parsley. — Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of cheesy comfort. Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is rich, velvety, and impossible to resist. Perfectly cooked pasta makes it extra fulfilling every single time. This one’s a hit for both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet. — Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

This dish takes potatoes to the next level every time. Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes have everything you’d want, packed inside their crispy shells. Each bite is hearty, creamy, and perfectly balanced. Perfect for when you need something extra special on the table.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Close-up of a dish featuring glazed carrots garnished with chopped herbs, served in a white bowl. — Easy Honey Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet and simple sides can steal the show at Thanksgiving. Easy Honey Glazed Carrots brings a subtle sweetness to your plate with just the right amount of comfort. They’ll complement everything on your table without overwhelming the flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that disappears quickly because everyone always wants seconds.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

A wooden spoon lifts a serving of cheesy casserole with chunks of ham and potatoes from a baking dish. — Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for something hearty, this is it. Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole is the perfect crowd-pleaser for any holiday meal. It’s warm and filling, and the balance of savory and creamy is spot on. Everyone will wonder who made it and head back for more.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

A mouthwatering close-up of pumpkin soup garnished with a swirl of cream, crunchy pumpkin seeds, a crispy slice, and aromatic sage leaves. — Creamy Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This is the dish that will make people cozy up with their bowls. Creamy Pumpkin Soup is smooth and rich, perfect to start your Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a simple addition to your table that feels special without being fussy. You’ll likely have folks asking for the recipe before the night is over.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Fresh Greek Salad

A bowl of Greek salad with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, green bell peppers, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. — Fresh Greek Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Thanksgiving dinner isn’t all heavy, and this proves it. Fresh Greek Salad adds a refreshing bite to balance out the indulgent dishes. It’s bright and crisp with an amazing mix of textures that keep everyone coming back. Having this on the table means there’s something for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek Salad

Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese. — Loaded Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bigger appetites call for serious side dishes. Loaded Million Dollar Casserole has a richness that feels perfect for a holiday treat. It’s packed and hearty, making it a star among other options on the table. Watch as it disappears quicker than you thought possible.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

Crusty Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper. — Crusty Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bread adds something special to Thanksgiving spreads, and this one is worth it. Crusty Focaccia Bread will have your guests reaching for butter and asking if it’s homemade. Its soft center and crunchy texture can handle any topping or dip you pair with. This side might just steal the spotlight from the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Focaccia Bread

Rich French Onion Soup

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme. — Rich French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A classy addition always makes dinner feel complete, and this does the trick. Rich French Onion Soup is the perfect mix of warm, hearty, and filling without being complicated. Its bold taste pairs well with every Thanksgiving classic you’re serving. It’s so good, folks won’t believe it wasn’t your main dish.
Get the Recipe: Rich French Onion Soup

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

If you want something slightly different, this is it. Mashed Sweet Potatoes brings a touch of sweetness and richness that works alongside everything on your table. It’s creamy and smooth, filling the spot for a perfect fall-inspired dish. People will love that it’s slightly unexpected but just right.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A close-up of a spoonful of chicken stuffing, showcasing croutons, shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and sprinkled herbs. — Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Everyone loves stuffing, but this idea steps it up. Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole will feel familiar but give your Thanksgiving meal an extra twist. Its satisfying blend of hearty and flavorful feels right at home among Thanksgiving classics. Don’t be surprised if leftovers vanish the next day.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Tender Roasted Broccoli

A bowl of roasted broccoli topped with grated cheese and seasoning. — Tender Roasted Broccoli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Green veggies don’t have to be boring, and this proves just that. Tender Roasted Broccoli has the perfect balance of crisp and tenderness to fit in with other dishes. It’s simple, healthy, and adds a punch to your plate without trying too hard. Everyone will appreciate how fresh and tasty it feels.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and garnished with fresh thyme and cracked black pepper. — Buttery Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No holiday dinner feels complete without a classic potato side. Buttery Mashed Potatoes are guaranteed to be creamy and smooth, perfect next to turkey or gravy. Their texture and simplicity make them a favorite that’s always welcomed by all ages. Better grab an extra spoon because everyone will want to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Someone spooning out cranberry sauce from a glass bowl. — Homemade Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, a little tartness makes all the difference. Homemade Cranberry Sauce steps in to brighten up heavy dishes and complete your Thanksgiving lineup. It’s fresh and bold, making everything round out perfectly. No one will miss the store-bought version after tasting this one.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Easy Cornbread Casserole

A portion of a cheesy, golden-brown savory cornbread casserole is being lifted from the dish, showing its flaky crust and gooey cheese filling. — Easy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You’ll want something warm and comforting on your holiday table. Easy Cornbread Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that fits that vibe perfectly. It’s moist and hits that spot when paired with other rich, holiday dishes. This one’s bound to disappear quickly once folks start digging in.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Colorful Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. — Colorful Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A dish that’s light but packs a punch is always nice in the mix. Colorful Antipasto Salad is one side you’ll hear people ask about. Crunchy and loaded with variety, this is no boring salad. Toss it together, and it’ll have everybody’s plate looking extra good.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top. — Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Trust me, there’s always room for something next-level comforting. Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes will win hearts the moment they’re on the table. They’re creamy, indulgent, and undeniably good. It’s one of those sides that screams “more, please.”
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing. — Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You need a side that brings a little heat and a little sweetness to shake things up. Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad does exactly that in the best way possible. It’s bold and avoids being just another regular dish. Easily one of those recipes that’ll keep people talking.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Savory Bread Stuffing

A close-up of a casserole dish filled with stuffing made of bread cubes, cranberries, chopped herbs, and celery. — Savory Bread Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

It’s nice to have classic options that still stand out. Savory Bread Stuffing fits right into that category with its hearty, comforting vibes. This is the kind of dish people pile onto their plate without even thinking twice. You can’t go wrong serving it on Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Stuffing

Rich Creamed Spinach

A bowl of creamy spinach topped with grated cheese, being stirred with a spoon. — Rich Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something about this next dish that feels timeless. Rich Creamed Spinach is both comforting and different enough to make people appreciate it. Smooth and rich, it complements almost anything else on that plate. Folks won’t hesitate to scoop seconds of this one.
Get the Recipe: Rich Creamed Spinach

Classic Southern Cornbread

Close-up of two stacked pieces of cornbread with melted butter on top, showcasing a golden-brown crust and moist, crumbly texture. — Classic Southern Cornbread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Growing up with this dish, it’s a holiday staple in many homes. Classic Southern Cornbread brings nostalgia to the table every time. It’s simple but definitely holds its own among a table full of Thanksgiving goodness. Perfect for soaking up those gravies and sauces too.
Get the Recipe: Classic Southern Cornbread

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce. — Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes you just need something cheesy to pull everyone in. Cheesy Funeral Potatoes do that without a doubt. They’re made to grab attention with every gooey bite. Even potato lovers will be fighting over seconds with these.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

A bowl of risotto topped with roasted pumpkin pieces, grated cheese, and fresh parsley, with a checkered napkin and herbs nearby. — Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When everyone’s biting into the main dish, this side can be an amazing addition. Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto gives a nice contrast to the heavier options. It’s smooth, comforting, and complements Thanksgiving flavors really well. You’ll wish you made a second batch.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Rich Turkey Gravy

Close-up of a bowl filled with creamy turkey gravy soup, featuring small bubbles and herbs on the surface. The bowl has a reddish-brown rim. — Rich Turkey Gravy. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With turkey at the center of everything, the perfect sauce matters a lot. Rich Turkey Gravy ties the meal together and does the job in every bite. Whether it’s on meat or mashed potatoes, it’ll bring that needed boost to your plate. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this one.
Get the Recipe: Rich Turkey Gravy

Creamy Green Bean Casserole

A casserole dish filled with green bean casserole with a spoon in it. — Creamy Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Stick with a holiday classic that gets love every year. Creamy Green Bean Casserole is a must-have for a reason, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Comforting and easy to pair with anything, it’s a total win at the dinner table. No leftovers guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves. — Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Throw in a little sweet and savory combo to switch things up this year. Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad hits all those notes just right. It feels fancy but doesn’t overdo it, making it a great addition to the spread. It’s light and works well next to heavier sides.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Breaded and fried patties garnished with chopped parsley are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of creamy dipping sauce with herbs. — Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who love potatoes, this one’s got that perfect crispy finish. Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes do crunchy in the best way possible. They’re bite-sized but big on flavor, and people will keep coming back for more. Definitely a fun twist to serve this Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole

A golden brown Thanksgiving casserole of baked stuffing garnished with fresh herbs. — Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s always room for something hearty at the holiday table. Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole is packed with all the favorites for a cozy dish that feels like a hug. Each layer brings something special, making everyone want more. Get ready to see this disappear fast from the table.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole

Crunchy Celery Salad

A bowl filled with chopped celery, red onion, apples, almonds, and fresh herbs. — Crunchy Celery Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A fresh, crunchy option is always welcome next to heavier dishes. Crunchy Celery Salad keeps things bright and adds a nice texture to the mix. It’s simple but stands out because of its unique combination. This is perfect when you need a refreshing bite in between all the rich holiday mains.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs. — Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Comfort foods are always a hit during Thanksgiving. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is that one dish that makes people come back for seconds. It’s hearty, warm, and super reliable. Everyone will be stacking it up on their plates for sure.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme. — Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

You can never go wrong with roasted vegetables during the holidays. Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables bring color and balance to the table. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and adds delicious texture. They’re a must-have alongside your main course.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Fluffy Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole. — Fluffy Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You’ve got to have something light and fluffy in the mix. Fluffy Egg Casserole is the ultimate breakfast-for-dinner item that steals the spotlight. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, with its pillowy layers that are hard to ignore. Don’t be surprised if people ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Casserole

Tender Sautéed Kale

A white bowl filled with sautéed kale and sliced garlic, with a fork lifting a portion from the bowl. — Tender Sautéed Kale. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Adding greens to your table doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Tender Sautéed Kale adds freshness and warmth without stealing too much space on your plate. It transforms into a soft, tasty option that pairs well with everything else. Plus, it’s the feel-good choice for every guest.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale

Soft Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray. — Soft Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone appreciates freshly baked bread at Thanksgiving. Soft Garlic Knots are the go-to option for buttery, comforting bites. They pull apart easily, making them perfect for soaking up sauces or enjoying on their own. These are always first to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots

Mushroom Gravy

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with mushroom and onion gravy, garnished with rosemary. — Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A rich, smooth sauce is essential during Thanksgiving. Mushroom Gravy delivers that depth you want with every bite. It’s perfect poured over just about anything on your plate. You’ll wish you made extra once people start reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Layered Seven Layer Salad

No holiday table is complete without a fun and colorful salad option. Layered Seven Layer Salad brings a mix of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s stacked to impress and has something for everyone at the table. Guests won’t be able to resist diving into this layered masterpiece.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad