35 Thanksgiving Sides That Taste Like Grandma, Only Louder

ByJenn

Thanksgiving is the one time everyone agrees that side dishes secretly steal the spotlight. This list of 35 classics brings that comforting, family-style vibe, just with a bit more volume. Think of it as Grandma’s favorite sides, only a little louder and made to impress the whole table without saying a word.

A close-up of a spoon holding a portion of Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup, topped with melted cheese, over a baking dish filled with the same dish.
Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Smoked Brussels Sprouts with bacon on a white plate.
Smoked Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a bold twist to your Thanksgiving table with Smoked Brussels Sprouts, offering a deeper and richer flavor than the traditional roasted version. The smoky essence brings out the earthy charm of this beloved veggie, making it a standout side. It’s a new way to turn a classic into something memorable. Serve these to impress family and friends!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Sweet Potato Cornbread

A piece of cornbread on a plate next to a few potatoes.
Sweet Potato Cornbread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A modern spin on an old-fashioned staple, Sweet Potato Cornbread is tender, sweet, and brings warmth to your holiday spread. The sweetness of sweet potato mingles with that golden cornbread texture you already love. Perfect with a pat of butter or alongside your favorite dishes. Experience a fresh mix of comfort and familiarity.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread

Smoked Spaghetti Squash

A baked spaghetti squash half filled with cooked strands, garnished with chopped parsley, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Smoked Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Thanksgiving gets louder with Smoked Spaghetti Squash, a vibrant vegetable dish that blends smooth textures with smokiness for a bold upgrade. This is a fun alternative to traditional squash dishes that draws attention on the dinner table. Fork the strands and watch as it creates its own magic of transforming into a unique side option.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash

Corn Pudding Casserole

A Corn Pudding Casserole topped with chopped chives in a metal baking dish, with a portion being lifted out on a serving spatula.
Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

When conversations turn nostalgic, Corn Pudding Casserole hits all the right notes with its sweet and rich profile. It’s that timeless recipe many grew up with, now ready to please a new generation with a little added depth in flavor. This dish pairs well with nearly anything else in your Thanksgiving feast. It’s worth passing around seconds!
Get the Recipe: Corn Pudding Casserole

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon.
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Celebrate tradition with Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon, a dish deeply rooted in family gatherings with bold accents of smoky and tangy flavors. The combination of savory bacon and subtle sweetness of apples brings excitement and balance to your table. It’s a side that starts conversations and creates lasting memories at your Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Baked Acorn Squash with Maple Syrup

Two halves of Baked Acorn Squash with Maple Sryup on a white plate.
Baked Acorn Squash with Maple Syrup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A festive side dish, Baked Acorn Squash with Maple Syrup combines tradition with hints of sweetness to compliment your Thanksgiving spread. Roasted to perfection, it delivers balanced flavor that nods to Grandma’s kitchen with a slightly louder flair. It’s visually appealing and fits seamlessly with other holiday favorites.
Get the Recipe: Baked Acorn Squash with Maple Syrup

Spaetzle

A plate of Authentic German Spaetzle garnished with parsley.
Spaetzle. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

While pasta might not be the first thing to come to mind for Thanksgiving, Spaetzle shows why it deserves its place. This German-inspired dish packs unmistakable flavors that will stand out against traditional sides, adding flair to your spread. Whether buttery soft or slightly crispy, it brings unique texture to holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Spaetzle

Smoked Jalapeños

Smoked Jalapenos in 2 cast iron pans.
Smoked Jalapeños. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Heat things up with Smoked Jalapeños, a bold and flavorful side that amps up your Thanksgiving plate. Filled with savory goodness, it’s a dish that adds contrast to milder fare and draws attention for its unique profile. Each bite delivers a punch of smoky heat, making it perfect for those who love something exciting with their holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeños

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light and refreshing, Shirazi Salad brings balance to your Thanksgiving feast with its vibrant flavors and crisp textures. Reminiscent of Grandma’s fresh vegetable dishes, this side harmonizes well with heavier items. It’s the perfect palate cleanser to enjoy between bites of family-favorite meals.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Fried Tomatillos

Fried Tomatillos in a black cast iron pan.
Fried Tomatillos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fried Tomatillos take Grandma’s love for fried dishes and dial them up with crispy and tangy goodness perfect for Thanksgiving. These golden bites break away from traditional sides while still honoring comfort food traditions. Add this dish to your plate for a fun twist that guests will rave about after the holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos

Sausage Stuffing

Sausage stuffing in a red pot.
Sausage Stuffing. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Few sides scream Thanksgiving tradition louder than Sausage Stuffing, bringing bold flavors and hearty textures to the table. It’s your chance to serve a modern take on a classic dish without losing its nostalgic roots. Every bite of this stuffing complements the main course beautifully, keeping the holiday spirit alive with each forkful.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffing

German Kohlrabi

German Kohlrabi in Cream Sauce on a black plate.
German Kohlrabi. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

While Kohlrabi might sound unfamiliar, German Kohlrabi joins the Thanksgiving lineup with a crisp texture and a distinct flavor profile. This refreshing yet hearty dish channels old-world cuisine while fitting beautifully into a holiday spread. It proves that a side can be unconventional yet warmly welcomed.
Get the Recipe: German Kohlrabi

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A symphony of flavor emerges with Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds, blending nutty richness with a crunch that redefines a classic holiday vegetable. This unique variation offers a fresh way to appreciate this Thanksgiving favorite. Pair it with your main course for a dish that’s both nostalgic and strikingly memorable.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob with slices of butter on top.
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Forget boiling corn this year! Air Fryer Corn on the Cob is an effortless way to enhance a timeless Thanksgiving side with a fresh new approach. The perfect texture and caramelized flavor of this toasty version will impress everyone at the table. Serve this simple yet standout dish and upgrade the holiday tradition further.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Mediterranean Rice

Mediterranean Rice in a black bowl on concrete.
Mediterranean Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up the side game with Mediterranean Rice, a vibrant dish offering fresh flavors and fragrant flair to complement traditional Thanksgiving favorites. This isn’t your typical rice side and is sure to add variety to the holiday table. It’s the perfect accompaniment if you’re looking for something outside-the-box yet festive.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice

Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

A sweet potato on a plate with a fork.
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring ease and slightly crisp perfection to your holiday with Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. This method brings out all the familiar flavors you love but adds a modern edge with convenient preparation. Perfect as a sweet and savory addition, it’s a quick way to deliver the nostalgia of Thanksgiving to those seated at your table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Creamed Corn

Smoked Creamed Corn in a black skillet.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reimagined for a modern palate, Creamed Corn still exudes the comfort of grandma’s recipe but with more depth and richness. This creamy side is perfect for pairing with turkey and all the fixings. It’ll have everyone appreciating how even simple classics can step up their game for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Braised potatoes in a pan after cooking.
Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Infused with bold aromas, Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes bring the heartiness of potatoes with a deeper flavor that enhances the Thanksgiving feast. This upgraded side is anything but ordinary and ensures second servings. It’s a must-have for anyone craving both tradition and excitement in the same dish.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take comfort food to a whole new level with Smoked Mac & Cheese, a loud upgrade of Grandma’s well-loved version. The smokiness blends seamlessly with the creamy, cheesy goodness, delivering a side dish worthy of center stage. Perfect for both kids and adults, this dish is sure to make an impression at the Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Easy German Potato Salad

German Potato Salad with red onions, and bacon pieces, garnished with chopped parsley are served in a white dish with a spoon.
Easy German Potato Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

To add some global flair to your table, Easy German Potato Salad offers that perfect balance of tangy and savory in every bite. Unlike the mayo-heavy versions, this dish stands out with cleaner, bolder tones that pair well with turkey or ham. A gathering of flavors that will make everyone ask for the recipe!
Get the Recipe: Easy German Potato Salad

Polenta with Mascarpone

Polenta with mascarpone in a white bowl.
Polenta with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smooth and velvety Polenta with Mascarpone offers a luxurious texture as it accents your Thanksgiving dinner arrangement. This side dish is versatile and pairs excellently with meat or roasted veggies. It adds an unexpected yet welcome style to your holiday meal, proving its worth as part of this thoughtfully presented table.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone

Classic Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe

A black plate with bow-tie pasta salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, diced vegetables, herbs, and a creamy dressing.
Classic Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

For a hit of nostalgia with a fresh upgrade, Classic Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe brings together hearty textures and robust flavors perfect for family gatherings. Great for those craving something traditional but not overly heavy. This salad balances richness and freshness you won’t want missing from the feast.
Get the Recipe: Classic Bacon Pasta Salad Recipe

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Save some stove space with Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans, a comforting side dish that cooks effortlessly while packing bold flavor. The slow cook method perfectly melds all its tastes into a memorable holiday offering. It’s classic comfort with an easy twist, ideal for any Thanksgiving gathering with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

A bowl of boiled potatoes with skins on, topped with a creamy herb sauce and garnished with chopped fresh dill.
Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The addition of sour cream and bacon gives Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon their bold new personality for Thanksgiving. Velvety with savory undertones, this dish adds indulgence and character alongside timeless classics. It’s an easy win for reinventing homestyle cooking while still honoring family recipes.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a white bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes all it takes is simplicity done right, like Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots, for Thanksgiving perfection. Their melt-in-your-mouth flavor reminds everyone of home-cooked traditions, even with that subtle extra kick. They’re a no-fuss crowd-pleaser ideal for rounding out any festive dinner spread.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A colorful addition, Wild Rice Salad mixes flavors and textures with flair that breaks away from the ordinary. It adds contrast to the hearty traditional mains while still being rooted in a sense of celebration. This side is ideal as a refreshing yet filling complement to turkey and other holiday favorites.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta served on a white plate.
Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Go beyond the basics and serve Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta, showcasing the potential of often overlooked ingredients. This dish emphasizes bold flavor in simple ways, perfect to add variety to your Thanksgiving lineup. Ideal for adventurous eaters or those looking to try something different during the meal.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup garnished with cream and pumpkin seeds, served on a white plate with a gold spoon, next to a small pitcher and salt and pepper shakers.
Creamy Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A warm, comforting start for Thanksgiving, Creamy Pumpkin Soup acts as the perfect introduction to a festive meal. Its rich texture and earthy flavors set the tone for autumnal celebration while welcoming everyone at the table. Whether served in small bowls or cups, it’s a sophisticated addition to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Close-up Southern Style Pickled Shrimp with lemon slices and dill on a jar.
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Switch things up with Southern Style Pickled Shrimp, offering briny, tangy flavors that contrast traditional heavier sides. A nod to southern cuisine, it’s a side that sparks curiosity while adding complexity. Served chilled, it’s a refreshing change perfect to accompany a Thanksgiving spread full of variety.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

German Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A white bowl filled with cooked red cabbage and pieces of bacon, placed on a light wooden surface.
German Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Balancing sweetness and tang, German Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon honors tradition while introducing accents that liven up the Thanksgiving table. This pairing of flavors offers a fresh perspective on sides while keeping the essence of holiday comfort intact. Family members will enjoy its vibrant twist as part of the celebration.
Get the Recipe: German Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Baked Bean Casserole

A wooden spoon holds a serving of Baked Bean Casserole above a pot filled with more bean casserole.
Baked Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Amplify tradition with Baked Bean Casserole, a bold upgrade to a familiar dish that pairs incredibly well with Thanksgiving mains. Rich flavors make it a perfect companion to roasted turkey or glazed ham. This side dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a comforting energy to any shared family table.
Get the Recipe: Baked Bean Casserole

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

A Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts in a white bowl, accompanied by a fork.
Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Bring elegant balance to your spread with Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts, offering contrasting textures and harmonious flavors. It’s perfect for rounding out hearty Thanksgiving meals with light, creative touches. A feast for the eyes and palate, serve this dish for a transformed modern take on holiday feasting.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Round black dish filled with seasoned roasted potato wedges, placed on a white wooden surface alongside a white and yellow striped cloth napkin.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add bright, punchy flavor to your Thanksgiving spread with Greek Lemon Potatoes, a perfect twist on everyone’s favorite starch. These potatoes are anything but ordinary with their tangy accents, blending beautifully with other festive dishes. Expect the family to go back for seconds of this bold reimagination.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Mexican Black Beans

Mexican black beans in a white bowl with parsley and garlic.
Mexican Black Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mexican Black Beans add variety and excitement to your Thanksgiving table with a fresh approach to holiday sides. Their rich, bold flavors provide a welcome contrast to traditional turkey and potatoes. Include them as a vibrant option for guests looking to mix tradition with something new and memorable during the feast.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans

Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

A close-up of a spoon holding a portion of Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup, topped with melted cheese, over a baking dish filled with the same dish.
Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Reinvent tradition with Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup, offering bold flavors and fresh textures made from scratch. No shortcuts here, just a rich and comforting dish that feels homemade but looks like a showstopper. A must-try for families who want something special yet familiar this Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup