18 Seasonal Sides That Could Steal Thanksgiving Before It Starts
Sometimes the sides are what make Thanksgiving unforgettable. These seasonal dishes bring out the best fall ingredients and make every plate feel extra special.
They’re easy to prepare, beautiful on the table, and guaranteed to please guests before the main course even begins.
Cranberry Compound Butter
Cranberry butter is a perfect spread that blends the rich creaminess of butter with the tart sweetness of cranberries. This versatile condiment adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor to any dish. It’s perfect for spreading on warm bread, drizzling over pancakes, or even adding a flavorful twist to your cooking. Cranberry butter brings a lovely contrast of flavors that can enhance both sweet and savory dishes, making it a must-try for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Butter.
Smoked Stuffing | Dressing
Cooking stuffing in the smoker adds a whole new layer of flavor, making it an unforgettable side for turkey or any holiday roast. This smoked stuffing is packed with savory herbs and spices, and the gentle smokiness brings warmth to every bite, creating a comforting and unique twist on a classic dish that everyone will want seconds of.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Stuffing | Dressing.
Colored Cauliflower
Are you looking to add some vibrant colors to your dinner plate? Check out this delicious colored cauliflower recipe that’s as visually stunning as it is tasty, making it a perfect addition to any meal!
Get the Recipe: Colored Cauliflower Recipe.
Smoked Sweet Potato
Smoked sweet potatoes combine the rustic allure of smoking with this root vegetable’s rich sweetness. These pair well with beef, poultry, and pork dishes. Smoke them next to your protein of choice.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potato.
Blue Hubbard Squash Recipe
This Blue Hubbard Squash Recipe is incredibly easy and can be used to make so many delicious items, from soups to cakes. The squash itself has a sweet, nutty flavor that enhances any dish you create. When roasted, it becomes tender and caramelized, making it perfect for pureeing into creamy soups. You can also mash it to use in cakes, muffins, and even pies, adding a unique twist to your favorite baked goods. Whether you’re looking for a savory dinner or a sweet treat, this versatile squash is a fantastic ingredient to have on hand. Get the Recipe: Blue Hubbard Squash Recipe.
Beet Puree
Beet puree is a fantastic way to add vibrant color and a hint of earthy sweetness to dishes that might otherwise appear bland. It pairs beautifully with seafood, fish, duck, and chicken, enhancing both the flavor and presentation of your meals. This simple and versatile addition is not only easy to make but also vegan, making it a perfect choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Get the Recipe: Beet Puree.
Sweet Dumpling Squash
This roasted Sweet Dumpling Squash is the ideal fall vegetable, bringing warmth and flavor to your table with minimal effort. It only takes 30 minutes from start to finish and requires just three ingredients to bring out the squash’s natural sweetness and buttery texture. The squash’s small size and tender skin make it perfect for a quick roast, resulting in a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Serve it as a side with your favorite main course, or enjoy it on its own for a light, satisfying meal that celebrates the essence of autumn.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Dumpling Squash.
Parmesan, Spinach, Bacon Spaghetti Squash Boat
These Spaghetti Squash Boats are super easy and delicious! Picture this: strands of tender spaghetti squash nestled in their shells, topped with savory Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon, crunchy toasted walnuts, and fresh spinach. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty taste, while the bacon brings a smoky crunch. Toasted walnuts provide a rich, earthy note, and the spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on pasta night. Everyone will love digging into these flavorful, satisfying squash boats!. Get the recipe: Spaghetti Squash Boats.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan, Spinach, Bacon Spaghetti Squash Boat.
Turban Squash Recipe
Discover the art of creating mouthwatering stuffed turban squash in this step-by-step guide. From selecting the perfect squash to crafting a delectable filling, we’ll unveil the secrets to a savory autumn delight. Load it up with fresh thyme, oregano, and parsley.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Turban Squash.
Honeynut Squash Recipe
This Honeynut Squash Recipe is a delicious fall vegetable dish, perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals. Ready in just 30 minutes, it offers a naturally sweet flavor and tender texture, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful dish with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Get the Recipe: Honeynut Squash Recipe.
Green Beans Almondine- Amandine
Green Beans Almondine has to be one of the easiest vegetable dishes to make! It is excellent for the holidays because the green beans can be blanched the day before, and then the dish can be finished in a few minutes!
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine- Amandine
Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
This Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe is easy and delicious! With just three ingredients, you’ll find out how to roast butternut squash the easy way!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Jackie Kennedy’s Casserole Marie Blanche
First Lady Jackie Kennedy is reported to have served this easy, delicious Casserole, Marie Blanche, during her time in the White House. It is basically a slimmed-down version of the French dish that is covered in a white sauce.
Get the Recipe: Casserole Marie Blanche.
Cranberry Orange Sauce
Making your own Cranberry Orange Sauce is so easy. This version has a little extra kick from Grand Marnier. Feel free to eliminate that if you have little ones sharing your Thanksgiving or Christmas table. It is every bit as good!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Sauce.
Air Fryer Roasted Vegetables
Air fryer roasted vegetables take a fraction of the time it would take to roast them in the oven. They are easy, delicious, and extremely versatile, and go with just about any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Vegetables.
Honey Roasted Beets
Honey Roasted Beets are not only delicious, they are an easy, tasty side dish for the holidays or for any day. With just four ingredients, these beets only take about 40 minutes to roast to delicious, tender perfection.
Get the Recipe: Honey Roasted Beets.
Sweet Potato Soufflé
Sweet Potato Soufflé isn’t just for show—it’s comfort food disguised as something fancy. If your family is anything like mine, this dish always makes its way to the holiday table. And let’s be honest: is it really Thanksgiving without that buttery, crunchy pecan crumble? Whether you’re team pecans, marshmallows, or both, this soufflé has got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Soufflé.
Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Air Fryer Butternut Squash gets caramelized spots just like roasting, so they’re sweet, a bit smoky, and delicious in a fraction of the time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Butternut Squash.
