The turkey may be the star of the table, but let’s be honest: the Thanksgiving side dishes are what everyone really looks forward to. With Thanksgiving falling on Thursday, 26 November 2026, now is the perfect time to start planning your menu. Whether you’re hosting a big family feast or a cozy Friendsgiving, these 15 crowd-pleasing sides cover everything from comforting classics to fresh, colourful options.

1. Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

No Thanksgiving is complete without a big bowl of creamy mashed potatoes. Boil Yukon Gold potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, warm milk and roasted garlic for extra flavour. Top with a pat of butter and chopped chives just before serving.

2. Green Bean Casserole

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This retro favourite never goes out of style. Tender green beans are baked in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions. For a fresher twist, make the sauce from scratch with sautéed mushrooms and cream.

3. Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Topping

Mashed sweet potatoes flavoured with cinnamon and vanilla are topped with a buttery brown sugar and pecan crumble. It’s sweet, nutty and a perfect partner for savoury turkey. Prefer the classic version? Swap the pecans for toasted marshmallows.

4. Classic Herb Stuffing

Cubes of day-old bread, sautéed onions, celery, butter and fresh herbs like sage and thyme come together in this essential side. Bake it in a dish until the top is golden and crisp while the inside stays soft and savoury.

5. Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Skip the can this year. Homemade cranberry sauce takes about 15 minutes and needs just fresh cranberries, sugar, water and a strip of orange zest. It’s bright, tangy and can be made several days ahead.

6. Baked Mac and Cheese

Rich, cheesy and golden on top, baked mac and cheese is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. Use a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for depth of flavour, and finish with buttery breadcrumbs for crunch.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Even Brussels sprouts sceptics come around to this one. Roast halved sprouts at high heat until crispy, then toss with crumbled bacon and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and savoury finish.

8. Honey-Glazed Carrots

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Simple but delicious, these carrots are roasted or simmered with butter, honey and a pinch of thyme until tender and glossy. They add a pop of colour to the table and are ready in about 25 minutes.

9. Skillet Cornbread

A warm, buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up gravy. Bake it in a cast-iron skillet for crisp edges, and serve with honey butter. Add a handful of cheddar or chopped jalapeños for a savoury twist.

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10. Roasted Butternut Squash With Sage

Cubes of butternut squash roasted with olive oil, maple syrup and crispy sage leaves make a cozy, seasonal side. It’s naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a great option for guests with dietary needs.

11. Creamed Corn

This rich, comforting side is made by simmering sweet corn with butter, cream and a touch of sugar. It comes together quickly on the stove and pairs perfectly with turkey and ham.

12. Soft Dinner Rolls

Fluffy, buttery dinner rolls are a must for the bread basket. Make them from scratch a day ahead and warm them just before serving, or upgrade store-bought rolls with a brush of garlic herb butter.

13. Autumn Harvest Salad

Balance the rich dishes with a fresh, crunchy salad. Toss mixed greens with sliced apples, dried cranberries, candied pecans and crumbled goat cheese, then dress with a simple maple vinaigrette.

14. Wild Rice Pilaf With Mushrooms and Cranberries

This hearty pilaf combines nutty wild rice with sautéed mushrooms, onions, dried cranberries and toasted pecans. It’s a delicious alternative to stuffing and works well for gluten-free guests.

15. Southern-Style Collard Greens

Slow-simmered collard greens cooked with onions, garlic and smoked turkey are a beloved Thanksgiving tradition in many homes. A splash of vinegar and a pinch of chilli flakes add brightness and a gentle kick.

Thanksgiving Side Dish Planner

The right side dishes can turn a good Thanksgiving dinner into an unforgettable one. With a mix of classic comfort foods, colourful vegetables and make-ahead favourites, this list has something for every guest at your table. Pick a few, prep ahead, and you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is Thanksgiving in 2026?
Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, 26 November 2026, the fourth Thursday of November.

2. How many side dishes should I make for Thanksgiving?
Most hosts serve around 4 to 6 side dishes for a typical gathering. Aim for a mix of a potato dish, a vegetable, a bread, stuffing and cranberry sauce.

3. Which Thanksgiving sides can be made ahead of time?
Cranberry sauce, casseroles, stuffing, mac and cheese, dinner rolls and cornbread can all be prepared 1 to 2 days in advance and reheated before serving.

4. What are good vegetarian Thanksgiving side dishes?
Roasted butternut squash, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots and autumn harvest salad are all great vegetarian options. Use vegetable stock for stuffing to make it vegetarian too.