Green bean casserole may be a Thanksgiving classic, but the vegetable sides deserve a little more attention this year. From roasted seasonal favorites to fresh, flavorful dishes, these recipes bring color and variety to the holiday table without adding a ton of extra work. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or bringing a dish to share, you’ll find easy options that pair beautifully with the main meal and give everyone something new to reach for.
Maple Brussels Sprouts
A drizzle of maple syrup brings a touch of sweetness to Brussels sprouts, making their savory flavor shine at the holiday table. The best part is that the whole dish comes together in about 30 minutes, leaving more time for the rest of the Thanksgiving menu. Serve them warm for a simple, flavorful side that might just steal a little attention from the green bean casserole.
Get the Recipe: Maple Brussels Sprouts
Sweet Potato Bites
Crispy edges, buttery centers, and gooey toasted marshmallows make each sweet potato bite feel like a mini holiday treat. They’re quick to prepare and easy to serve, which comes in handy when the kitchen is already busy with Thanksgiving dinner. Set out a platter for guests to enjoy as an appetizer or tuck them alongside the main meal for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Bites
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms
Garlic, butter, and simple seasonings turn juicy mushrooms into a savory side with lightly crisped, golden edges. The air fryer gets them ready quickly without taking up precious oven space during holiday cooking. Serve them alongside the turkey or spoon them over grains for a flavorful addition that brings something different to the vegetable spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms
Broccoli Rice Casserole
Tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and melted cheddar come together in a creamy casserole that feels right at home on a Thanksgiving table. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, it brings plenty of comfort without requiring anything fancy. Bake it until bubbly and golden for a hearty side that gives the classic green bean casserole some real competition.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole
Carrot Raisin Salad
Shredded carrots, sweet raisins, and creamy dressing create a lovely mix of fresh crunch and sweetness. It’s a refreshing change from the usual roasted vegetables, especially when the rest of the holiday meal leans rich and hearty. Make it ahead and chill until serving time for a colorful side that frees up space on the stove.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad
Potato Skins
Crispy potato halves loaded with garlic butter, melted cheese, bacon, and fresh green onions bring plenty of hearty flavor to the table. They’re easy to prepare and offer a fun, shareable option among the usual Thanksgiving sides. Arrange them on a platter for guests who want something savory and cheesy alongside the traditional vegetable dishes.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins
Popeyes Coleslaw
Crisp cabbage and shredded carrots tossed in a creamy dressing make a cool, crunchy side that balances out a rich holiday spread. The familiar fast-food-inspired flavor adds a fun twist to the Thanksgiving table without much fuss. Prepare it ahead and let it chill so the flavors come together while you focus on the main meal.
Get the Recipe: Popeyes Coleslaw
Broccoli Casserole
Tender broccoli coated in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with buttery, crunchy crackers makes vegetables feel extra inviting. Everything comes together in one baking dish, keeping prep and cleanup manageable during a busy holiday. Serve it warm for a comforting side that can hold its own next to the green bean casserole.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy potatoes, rich butter, creamy milk, and fragrant garlic combine for a smooth, comforting side that belongs on any Thanksgiving menu. The familiar flavors make it easy to pair with turkey, gravy, and just about everything else on the plate. Keep a generous bowl on the table for guests who appreciate a classic with a little extra savory goodness.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Frozen green beans get a flavorful upgrade with savory seasonings, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Roasting gives them lightly crisp edges while keeping the centers tender, with no need to fuss over fresh produce prep. They’re an easy way to bring green beans to Thanksgiving in a cheesy, golden form that feels fresh alongside the usual casserole.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet carrots coated in a buttery honey-garlic glaze bring a bright pop of color and flavor to the holiday spread. Simple everyday ingredients and quick prep make them a welcome option when the kitchen is already packed with Thanksgiving tasks. Serve them warm for a sweet-savory side that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey and all the trimmings.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Carrots
Parmesan Potatoes
Baby potatoes roast up with tender, buttery centers and a golden Parmesan crust that adds plenty of crunch. They’re ready in less than an hour, making them a straightforward choice for a holiday meal that needs another crowd-pleasing side. Add a bowl of sour cream for dipping and watch them disappear alongside the turkey and gravy.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Potatoes
Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Smoky bacon wraps around each Brussels sprout, while a touch of maple sweetness brings a lovely balance of savory and sweet. They roast until crisp and golden in about 30 minutes, giving the holiday table a side that feels a little more special without a complicated process. Serve them on a platter for a festive alternative to plain roasted vegetables or the usual green bean casserole.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Braised Cabbage
Cabbage slowly cooks until tender, soaking up savory flavors that turn a humble vegetable into a cozy, flavorful side. The gentle stovetop method makes it a useful option when the oven is busy with the Thanksgiving main course. Serve it alongside roasted meats or other holiday favorites for a comforting dish that adds variety without stretching the budget.
Get the Recipe: Braised Cabbage
Mashed Cauliflower Potatoes
Smooth, fluffy cauliflower brings the cozy feel of mashed potatoes with fewer carbs and plenty of flavor. Butter and seasonings help create a creamy side that fits right in with traditional holiday dishes. Serve it with gravy or roasted vegetables for a lighter option that still feels at home on a Thanksgiving plate.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Cauliflower Potatoes
Italian Green Beans
Frozen green beans simmer in chicken broth with butter, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning, letting every bite soak up plenty of savory flavor. The simple stovetop method is especially handy when oven space is limited on Thanksgiving Day. Bring them to the table for a seasoned, buttery alternative to the classic green bean casserole.
Get the Recipe: Italian Green Beans
Roasted Broccolini
Garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper bring out the natural flavor of broccolini as the tender stems roast with lightly crisp edges. The simple seasoning keeps the dish easy while adding a fresh green touch to a rich holiday spread. Serve it straight from the pan for a colorful side that balances the heavier casseroles and potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Broccolini