25 Easy Side Dishes That Will Outshine the Turkey This Year

When it comes to holiday dinners, the turkey might be the star, but it's the side dishes that truly steal the show and make the meal memorable. I’ve rounded up a list of easy side dishes that are not only simple to prepare but are sure to impress your guests and bring balance to your feast. These sides are perfect for adding variety, flavor, and that special touch that keeps everyone reaching for seconds.

No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

This rustic bread is a perfect addition to the holiday spread, with its crispy crust and tender center complementing any main dish. It requires minimal effort, so you can focus on preparing other sides. The warm, homemade flavor adds a touch of comfort to the meal. Ideal for soaking up sauces or spreading with butter, this bread fits seamlessly into the lineup. An easy way to impress without adding stress.
Get the Recipe: No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Sweet potato casserole brings a comforting blend of creamy sweet potatoes and a crunchy pecan topping to the table. Using canned yams makes this dish quick to assemble, making it a great option for busy holiday preparations. The balance of sweet and nutty flavors complements turkey and other main dishes beautifully. This classic side is sure to become a favorite among guests. A sweet addition that adds warmth and depth to the holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

These air-fried carrots feature a touch of maple glaze that brings a hint of sweetness, creating a well-rounded side dish. Quick to prepare, they add color and brightness to the holiday table. The caramelized edges offer a nice contrast to the tender center, making them a delightful pairing with turkey. This simple side dish is perfect for adding variety without taking up too much time. A fresh way to highlight seasonal flavors.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

These Brussels sprouts are cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, providing a satisfying crunch that complements holiday mains. Lightly seasoned, they bring out their natural flavors while adding a touch of elegance to the spread. The ease of preparation makes this dish a reliable choice for busy cooks. A great way to add a vegetable option that guests will enjoy. A versatile, no-fuss side that pairs well with turkey.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

This creamy mac and cheese is an excellent comfort food addition that pleases guests of all ages. The slow cooker method allows you to focus on other dishes while it cooks to perfection. Rich cheeses make this side hearty and flavorful, perfect alongside turkey and other holiday favorites. A warm, familiar dish that adds variety to the table. Ideal for creating a sense of homestyle comfort during the meal.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

These green beans, tossed in garlic butter, are a simple yet flavorful addition that pairs well with turkey and other main courses. Their vibrant color adds a fresh touch to the table, and they’re quick to prepare for a busy day. The light seasoning brings out their natural taste without overwhelming the dish. Perfect for balancing out richer sides and mains. An easy way to include greens in the holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Green Bean Casserole

Classic green bean casserole combines tender green beans with a creamy base and crispy onion topping, creating a side dish that everyone expects and enjoys. It’s straightforward to prepare, making it a practical choice for the holiday lineup. This dish adds both texture and rich flavor that pair perfectly with turkey. A reliable option that brings nostalgia and warmth to the table. A must-have for those seeking tradition.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

These air fryer smashed potatoes feature crispy edges and melted cheese, making them a standout on the holiday table. Quick to make and full of flavor, they provide a unique twist on a potato side dish. The combination of crunch and cheese creates a satisfying bite that pairs well with turkey. An ideal option for those who want a simple yet special dish. Perfect for adding a bit of indulgence to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy sauce make these scalloped potatoes a comforting side dish. This classic choice pairs well with turkey and other main dishes, offering warmth and depth to the meal. It’s easy to put together, making it a great option for those with a busy holiday schedule. The golden, bubbly top adds an inviting touch to the table. A familiar side that’s sure to please everyone.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

These mashed red potatoes have a smooth, buttery texture and a hint of garlic that pairs perfectly with the main course. They are easy to make and offer a traditional flavor that balances rich holiday dishes. The dish provides a comforting addition that guests will appreciate. Ideal for creating a well-rounded meal without extra effort. A classic option that completes the spread with ease.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Pistachios

Combining maple, bacon, and pistachios, these Brussels sprouts bring a blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements. This side dish is easy to make and adds a bold flavor profile that pairs well with turkey. The combination of ingredients makes it unique and memorable, perfect for those looking to stand out. The dish offers a fresh twist while keeping preparation simple. A delicious way to add excitement to the table.
Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Pistachios

Homemade Stuffing

This homemade stuffing combines seasoned bread, herbs, and vegetables for a hearty side that complements turkey beautifully. Easy to prepare, it adds a warm and familiar flavor that everyone expects on the holiday table. The mix of herbs and vegetables provides a balance of texture and taste. A classic choice that completes any holiday spread. Perfect for bringing comfort and tradition to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Stuffing

Creamy Baked Cheddar and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

This baked mac and cheese features a rich blend of cheddar and smoked gouda, offering a deeper flavor than standard versions. It’s a comforting, cheesy side that pairs wonderfully with turkey and other holiday dishes. Simple to make, it adds a touch of indulgence to the spread. The creamy consistency makes it a standout that guests will come back for. Ideal for adding warmth and variety to the table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Baked Cheddar and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes

Fondant potatoes with garlic butter provide a refined, flavorful side that stands out among traditional holiday dishes. Their golden, crisp exterior and soft center pair well with the main course. Simple to prepare yet elegant in presentation, they offer a touch of sophistication. Perfect for those looking to introduce something unique and flavorful. A side that adds both texture and depth to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes

Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes are combined with melted cheese and crispy bacon for an extra flavor boost. Simple to make, they bring a hearty and satisfying side that pairs well with turkey. The bacon adds a bit of crunch and depth to the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser. An easy way to add richness to the holiday table. Perfect for guests who love traditional sides with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes

Easy Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

These dairy-free mashed potatoes provide a creamy, rich texture that pairs well with holiday mains. Quick to prepare, they cater to various dietary preferences without losing flavor. The dish adds comfort and familiarity to the table, making it a reliable side option. A great choice for those looking to include everyone in the meal. Complements turkey and other dishes seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Easy Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

Vegan Corn Casserole (Gluten-Free)

This vegan corn casserole offers a blend of sweet and savory flavors that work well with turkey and other holiday dishes. Easy to make, it provides a hearty side that suits various preferences. The casserole's texture adds substance to the table, ensuring guests enjoy each bite. A great option for those looking for a plant-based addition that everyone can appreciate. Perfect for balancing the flavors of the main course.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Corn Casserole (Gluten-Free)

Gochujang Maple Roasted Carrots

These roasted carrots with gochujang and maple syrup offer a mix of spice and sweetness that complements holiday dishes. Quick to prepare, they add a bold, unexpected flavor that contrasts nicely with traditional sides. The touch of heat from the gochujang pairs well with the sweetness of the maple. Ideal for those looking to add variety and interest to the meal. A simple yet striking side that enhances the holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Maple Roasted Carrots

Crispy Roasted Yukon Gold Baby Potatoes

Roasted to a perfect golden crisp, these Yukon gold baby potatoes offer a mix of crunchy exteriors and soft, fluffy centers. Easy to prepare, they make a dependable side that pairs well with turkey and other dishes. The seasoning enhances their natural taste without overpowering, making them versatile. A comforting choice that guests will reach for again and again. Perfect for rounding out the holiday table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Roasted Yukon Gold Baby Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Baby Potatoes

These roasted baby potatoes are infused with garlic and topped with Parmesan for a simple, flavorful side. The dish is easy to make and pairs perfectly with turkey, adding a hint of richness. The crispy exterior and tender interior create a satisfying bite. Ideal for guests looking for a familiar yet tasty option. A dependable choice for the holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Baby Potatoes

Carrot Pineapple Jello Salad

This carrot pineapple jello salad is a refreshing side that adds a sweet contrast to savory main dishes. Easy to prepare, it offers a nostalgic element that many guests will recognize and enjoy. The bright flavors of carrot and pineapple bring a pop of color to the table. Perfect for balancing out richer sides and mains. A fun, lighter option that stands out among traditional sides.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Pineapple Jello Salad

Balsamic Green Beans

Green beans tossed in balsamic vinegar create a simple, tangy side that pairs well with holiday mains. The slight acidity of the balsamic enhances the natural flavor of the green beans, offering a nice contrast to richer dishes. Quick to prepare, this dish fits into any holiday spread effortlessly. The tender-crisp texture adds variety to the meal. A great way to bring freshness and balance to the table.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Green Beans

Potatoes au Gratin - Dauphinoise Potatoes

These potatoes au gratin feature layers of thinly sliced potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce, baked to golden perfection. The dish pairs beautifully with turkey, adding warmth and richness to the holiday table. Easy to assemble, it’s a reliable side that guests will appreciate. The golden, bubbly top provides visual appeal that enhances the spread. A traditional option that adds comfort and heartiness to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes au Gratin - Dauphinoise Potatoes

Warm Roasted Vegetable Salad with Boursin

This warm salad combines roasted vegetables with the creamy touch of Boursin cheese for a unique, flavorful side. Simple to prepare, it adds both color and depth to the table. The creamy cheese and roasted flavors pair nicely with turkey, making it a standout choice. Great for those who want to add something hearty yet fresh. A versatile side that enhances the meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Warm Roasted Vegetable Salad with Boursin

Sausage Sweet Potato Salad

Combining sweet potatoes and savory sausage, this salad adds a hearty twist to the holiday lineup. Easy to make, it brings a blend of warm flavors that pair perfectly with turkey. The balance of sweet and savory elements makes it a memorable addition. A great way to introduce a unique yet comforting side. Perfect for those seeking variety in their holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Sweet Potato Salad