Home » 37 Thanksgiving Sides That Get Everyone Asking Who Made That (And Can They Have the Recipe)

37 Thanksgiving Sides That Get Everyone Asking Who Made That (And Can They Have the Recipe)

Bringing these 37 Thanksgiving sides to one meal is like hosting a potluck with built-in bragging rights. Relatives will be swapping seats to be closer to the most talked-about dish, and the phrase “You’ve got to try this” echoes from every corner. Recipe envy is inevitable, and people will risk mixing cranberry sauce with stuffing in pursuit of tasting everything.

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

A white plate with loaded sweet potato casserole topped with sour cream, bacon, cheese, and green onions, set on a brown charger plate with a fork and cooking utensils in the background.
Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Holiday gatherings often light up when Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole is passed around, thanks to a combination of hearty ingredients and comforting flavors. Each serving brings together creamy sweet potatoes, toasted marshmallows, and crunchy toppings. Guests quickly notice the playful contrast in texture and taste that makes this dish memorable. Requests for this recipe grow as its reputation spreads among those at the table.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

Mexican Black Beans

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

Colorful plates become more interesting with Mexican Black Beans, which offer a robust, flavorful base and a pop of color. Melted cheese, diced tomatoes, and aromatic spices work together to bring warmth and substance to every forkful. Plant-forward eaters find it rewarding, while others admire its ability to complement heavier main dishes. Every bite delivers a well-rounded taste that keeps people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

I've gathered 31 of my favorite casseroles for you and your family to love! I've created and tested each recipe many times, and you can be sure of no AI. Just dependable, scratch-made dishes to dig into!

You'll get ad-free recipes like:

  • Spaghetti Casserole
  • Sloppy Joe Casserole
  • Sausage-Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
  • Tuna Noodle Casserole.
  • and so many more!
$7.99 for a limited time!
This is a digital product. You'll receive an instant download link after purchase.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

A slice of sweet potato casserole topped with pecan crumble on a white plate with a spoon, surrounded by pecans and sunflowers.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

On tables crowded with side dishes, Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping often stands out due to its nutty crunch and subtle sweetness. The mixture of tender sweet potatoes and caramelized pecan topping always draws interest. Conversations often start up about the balance of flavors and the secret behind the crunchy finish. Chances are high someone will want the recipe after experiencing its layered richness.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Cauliflower with lemon and dill on a black board.
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tables look brighter with Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill contributing citrusy aroma and fresh herbal notes. Each forkful brings together lightly steamed cauliflower, tangy lemon, and earthy dill for a refreshing taste. The simple combination regularly leads to discussion about cooking methods and easy flavor pairings. Guests are often eager to find out just how quick and rewarding it is to make.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

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.

Potlucks benefit from including Easy German Potato Salad, renowned for its tangy dressing and lovely potatoes. The combination of vinegar, crisp bacon, and tender potatoes is both refreshing and filling, making it popular among guests. The texture contrasts are subtle but noticeable, sparking questions about preparation techniques. Attendees often reach for seconds, with a few inevitably asking for cooking instructions.
Get the Recipe: Easy German Potato Salad

Smoked Cauliflower

Smoked cauliflower in a skillet on a wooden table.
Smoked Cauliflower. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Flavorful vegetables like Smoked Cauliflower often surprise people with smoky notes and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Smoke infuses every bite, supported by a tasty blend of simple seasonings. This plant-based option frequently becomes a talking point, proving roasted vegetables can hold their own on any table. Friends will be interested in discovering how to recreate the dish at home.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower

Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

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

Gatherings often center around dishes like Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes, which blend richness with aromatic notes. Garlic and rosemary infuse the tender potatoes, resulting in a comforting and memorable flavor profile. The dish draws attention for its graceful balance between robust and gentle tastes. Guests love discussing preparation methods, with several requesting details before leaving.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

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

Unexpected pairings like Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon tend to spark conversations about classic flavors with a modern twist. Tart apples and smoky bacon bring dimension and depth to tangy sauerkraut, making the dish intriguing and fulfilling. People appreciate the contrast between sweet and salty elements. Curiosity often leads to requests for the recipe as folks enjoy each bite.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Ukrainian Potatoes

Ukrainian Potatoes on a white plate.
Ukrainian Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Family-style servings of Ukrainian Potatoes quickly get attention thanks to their creamy texture and comforting flavors. The addition of fresh herbs and subtle seasoning makes this side dish appealing to a wide range of palates. The recipe’s heritage brings an extra layer of warmth and tradition to the meal. Friends around the table rarely resist asking how to replicate the dish at home.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked tomatoes in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Unique sides such as Smoked Tomatoes intrigue with their deep flavor, accented by subtle smokiness and natural sweetness. Guests enjoy how the smoke enhances the tomatoes without overwhelming them, offering a pleasant variation on a familiar ingredient. Many appreciate its ability to pair well with numerous main dishes. After tasting, people frequently want to learn the secret to achieving that signature flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomatoes

Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

A white rectangular plate with Potatoes & Cabbage garnished with parsley on a patterned surface.
Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!). Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple ingredients come together in Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!), showcasing tender potatoes, soft cabbage, and gentle seasoning. Guests comment on how this dish brings a lovely mix of textures and flavors without being heavy. It works well as a complement to richer dishes, earning frequent praise for its understated approach. Often, attendees will ask for the recipe to try with their own spin at home.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes & Cabbage (Not Colcannon!)

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled corn on the cob pieces topped with cheese, chili powder, and cilantro, served on a black slate plate with lime wedges on the side.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Appetizer spreads become more exciting once Grilled Elote Corn Ribs take a central spot, offering charred sweetness and bold spices. Each rib delivers a burst of flavor, with creamy cheese and chili powder rounding out the taste. People love the playful presentation as much as the distinctive essence of each bite. Conversations typically shift to preparation tips as plates empty quickly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

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.

Classic comfort emerges in Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon, where creamy potatoes team up with crispy bacon for crowd-pleasing satisfaction. Tangy sour cream introduces a pleasant twist, balancing out the richness perfectly. Guests appreciate the harmonious flavors and substantial feeling this dish brings to a meal. Requests for how to recreate it often follow enthusiastic compliments.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes with Sour Cream & Bacon

Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup with canned pumpkin garnished with a swirl of cream and sprinkled with pumpkin seeds, placed on a white plate beside a spoon.
Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cozy dinners are enhanced by Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin, which combines velvety texture and gentle autumnal spice. Using canned pumpkin makes preparation simple yet effective, drawing praise for its convenience and smooth finish. The soup’s comforting warmth and hint of sweetness often lead to lively exchanges at the table. Repeat servings signal that the recipe deserves a place in anyone’s home kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

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.

Modern kitchen appliances shine in Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer, where crispy edges and soft centers win over guests every time. This side comes together quickly, yielding the ideal texture that makes each bite enjoyable. Attendees frequently chat about air fryer techniques and how the dish manages to stay both crisp and tender. Many decide to jot down the recipe for their own busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

German Yellow Beans

A bowl of German yellow beans on a wooden table.
German Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light and flavorful, German Yellow Beans pair bright beans with gentle seasoning and a hint of tasty richness from butter. Their appealing color and delicate crunch add variety to any dinner spread. People often remark on the subtlety and freshness that this side dish delivers. Eager to recreate it, several guests will be quick to request the written recipe.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Three halves of roasted sweet potatoes topped with butter on a white plate, set on a white brick surface with a floral napkin and salt and pepper shakers nearby.
Smoked Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Gathering guests gravitate toward Smoked Sweet Potatoes due to their tender texture and complex smoky undertones. The natural sweetness of each potato mixes well with robust flavors from the smoker, creating a memorable side. The dish’s unique profile often spurs conversation on technique and ingredient combinations. Friends are quick to ask for instructions, wanting to try it for themselves.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes

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.

Reluctant vegetable eaters often rethink their stance once Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds land on their plate. The nutty aroma from brown butter blends seamlessly with crunchy almonds and crisp sprouts for a rewarding taste. Regular requests for second helpings prove its popularity among a wide audience. Many guests leave with notes about this unexpected favorite.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon pieces, with one square being served from the dish using a spatula.
Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Plates feel complete with Twice-Baked Potato Casserole, which offers creamy layers, melted cheese, and pockets of crispy topping. Each forkful combines familiar flavors in an unforgettable format, drawing rave reviews from those around the table. Hearty and filling, this dish gets people talking about its rich consistency and bold profile. More than a few reach for their phones to save the recipe for later.
Get the Recipe: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Small bites like Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers bring excitement to appetizer trays, loaded with smoky pork and a gentle spicy kick. These poppers balance tender, smoky fillings with the heat of jalapenos for well-rounded flavor. Friends marvel at how easily these disappear during gatherings, prompting the sharing of recipe secrets. Finding out how to create this crowd-pleaser has become a popular request.
Get the Recipe: Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

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.

Tangy aromas waft from Greek Lemon Potatoes, thanks to bright citrus mingling with perfectly roasted potatoes. Oregano and olive oil amplify each forkful for a truly bold experience. These potatoes gain attention for their tender interiors and crisp edges, encouraging guests to return for seconds. Eating together, people are often interested in the simple steps needed to prepare this classic side.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Shirazi Salad

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

Guests enjoy light options like Shirazi Salad, which features cucumber, tomatoes, and fresh herbs tossed in a tangy dressing. The combination creates a crisp and refreshing addition to bigger, heavier portions on the table. This salad frequently inspires conversations about easy, healthy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. Curiosity about its origins and preparation prompts recipe requests during mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Sweet Potato Casserole

A close-up of Sweet Potato Casserole on a white dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

No feast goes unnoticed when Sweet Potato Casserole is set out, blending creamy sweet potatoes with spices and a caramelized topping. Guests enjoy the familiar flavors while discovering subtle twists introduced during preparation. The appeal lies in its comforting warmth, drawing both children and adults alike. Those who try it for the first time quickly ask for the instructions behind the dish.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone in a black dish.
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A touch of elegance finds its way onto plates with Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone, where silky mascarpone enriches vibrant spinach. The dish’s creamy consistency and gentle flavor make it a welcome change from bolder options. Those sampling it for the first time tend to be impressed by how the dish highlights fresh produce. The recipe is often requested, especially by those seeking new ways to serve greens.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

A white bowl filled with seasoned roasted sweet potato cubes, garnished with chopped herbs, with a metal serving spoon on the side and a printed napkin partially visible.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Perfectly crisp bites await in Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes, where each piece showcases a golden exterior and a tender center. People appreciate the minimal effort paired with rewarding results from the air fryer method. This side often generates discussions about healthy, quick dinner options. Friends regularly note the convenience and ask for recipe details before leaving the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

A square slice of corn pudding casserole with eggs, red bell pepper, and chives sits on a white plate with a serving spoon underneath.
Classic Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamed corn gets upgraded in Classic Corn Pudding Casserole, blending rich kernels with eggs and a hint of sweetness for soft and substantial servings. The texture appeals to all ages, earning praise for its balance between firmness and creaminess. Interest grows as guests discuss how well this dish complements traditional favorites. Many end up asking to take the recipe home for future celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Bacon Fried Corn

Bacon Fried Corn in a serving bowl.
Bacon Fried Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tables are enhanced with the tangy notes in Bacon Fried Corn, where corn kernels absorb flavor from smoky, crisp bacon. The combination becomes an irresistible favorite, especially for those seeking something both simple and memorable. Conversations often start with remarks on the irresistible aroma and crunch. Attendees quickly ask to recreate the dish themselves.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Mashed potatoes with cream cheese topped with melted butter and garnished with fresh parsley.
Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy goodness takes center stage with Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese, as smooth potatoes blend effortlessly with tangy cream cheese. The result is a lush, velvety texture noted by guests for its unique twist on classic mash. People appreciate how this side manages to be both familiar and inventive at the same time. Recipe exchanges are common as requests come in for the secret ingredient.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Baked Spanish Rice

Baked Spanish Rice in two black baking dishes.
Baked Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Vibrancy enters the room with Baked Spanish Rice, which uses saffron, tomato, and fresh vegetables for gentle spice and striking color. The fluffy texture and mellow seasoning make it an ideal companion to heartier entrees. As guests help themselves, discussions about the simple steps and fresh flavors begin. Recipe requests often follow, especially from those wanting to serve something new.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Smoked Brussels Sprouts

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

Subtle smokiness transforms Smoked Brussels Sprouts, offering a pleasant contrast to their natural earthiness. The gentle char adds interest while the tender sprouts maintain integrity and flavor. Guests are intrigued by how the preparation highlights a familiar vegetable. Conversations naturally lead to sharing cooking tips and recipe steps.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Corn Fritters

Corn fritters in a black cast iron pan.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Many dinner parties see quick emptying of plates featuring Corn Fritters, which combine fresh corn batter with fulfilling golden crunch. The airy interior and crisp exterior are a hit among children and adults alike. Simple ingredients combine for a taste that punches above its weight. People frequently compliment the dish and ask for directions on how it can be made at home.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Mediterranean Rice

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

Bowls brimming with Mediterranean Rice draw attention thanks to aromatic grains, mixed herbs, and tender cooked vegetables. The subtle flavors are balanced and comforting, making it an accessible choice for many. Often, guests muse about possibilities for pairing with other favorites. Recipe swapping is common when the taste leaves an impression.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice

Polenta with Mascarpone

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

Creaminess and mild flavor distinguish Polenta with Mascarpone, which pairs fluffy cornmeal with silky mascarpone cheese. The dish stands out for its smooth consistency and gentle richness, impressing even picky eaters. Those sampling polenta for the first time are often surprised by how well it complements tasty mains. Recipe requests are frequent, as leftovers get claimed quickly.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

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

Tables full of hearty options always benefit from Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans, which deliver tender beans infused with smoky spice and a hint of sweetness. Friends appreciate the depth of flavor and the convenience of slow cooking. This side dish is a frequent topic during meal conversations, especially among those seeking comfort food with quick prep. Second helpings signal the start of requests to share the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

A serving of Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli on a black plate.
Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crowd-pleasing comfort emerges with Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli, blending steamed broccoli, creamy rice, and melted cheese seamlessly. The added freshness from real broccoli makes a noticeable difference in both taste and nutrition. The dish works well beside almost any entrée, gaining compliments for its texture and substance. Requests for how to replicate it come soon after the first bites.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

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.

Unique flavors arise with Smoked Spaghetti Squash, where the mild squash absorbs smoke beautifully, resulting in an enjoyable texture and taste. People admire how a light vegetable transforms into a robust side with just a touch of effort. Discussions begin over technique and ingredient choices as plates empty. Many are inspired to try the recipe in their own kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Nostalgia and comfort pair in Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole, featuring layers of creamy mashed potatoes accented by a crisp topping. This side draws smiles and memories from those gathered around as they share bites and stories. Its familiar taste and gentle texture appeal to all ages, making it a regular topic of conversation. After the meal, several people request the secret to capturing this classic recipe.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

By

Leave a Comment