🦃Best Thanksgiving Sides Ranked

Classic Mashed Potatoes▲ Rising

Mashed potatoes anchor every Thanksgiving plate with their buttery smoothness that pairs with gravy and turkey. Their rise to the top comes from effortless scalability for big crowds and the satisfying moment when the mixer hits the boiled spuds. No other side matches this universal comfort.

Popularity: 9.7/10Prep Time: 35 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 210 kcalTradition: 9.8/10

added by IJR

Dinner Rolls▲ Rising

Dinner rolls hold steady with their pillowy texture perfect for sopping up every last bit of gravy. The warm, butter-brushed tops right from the oven create the classic holiday aroma. Their simplicity keeps them essential despite fancier sides.

Popularity: 7.5/10Prep Time: 25 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 130 kcalTradition: 8.9/10

added by IJRin 2 rankings

Homemade Cranberry Sauce▲ Rising

Cranberry sauce cuts through rich meats with bright tartness that only homemade delivers. Its quick simmer on the stovetop creates that signature pop of berries, turning a simple relish into a holiday essential. The balance of sweet and sour keeps it ranked high.

Popularity: 9.1/10Prep Time: 20 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 110 kcalTradition: 9.3/10

added by IJR

Green Bean Casserole▲ Rising

Green bean casserole rose through the ranks thanks to its creamy mushroom sauce and crunchy fried onion topping that became a mid-century classic. The moment the casserole bubbles up from the oven with that golden crust is pure nostalgia. It remains a must-have for many families.

Popularity: 8.8/10Prep Time: 45 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 230 kcalTradition: 8.5/10

added by IJRin 3 rankingsgreen bean casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole▲ Rising

Sweet potato casserole claims its spot with the dramatic marshmallow topping that caramelizes into a gooey crown over spiced orange flesh. The holiday signature is watching that topping brown under the broiler. It bridges side and dessert for many tables.

Popularity: 8.6/10Prep Time: 50 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 290 kcalTradition: 8.7/10

added by IJRin 3 rankings

Creamed Corn▲ Rising

Creamed corn delivers sweet, velvety kernels that complement salty turkey and rich sides. The slow simmer until the corn releases its starch creates that signature thick sauce. It remains a quiet favorite in many Midwest and Southern households.

Popularity: 7.2/10Prep Time: 25 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 180 kcalTradition: 7.3/10

added by IJRCreamed corn

Herb Stuffing▲ Rising

Stuffing earns its high rank by soaking up turkey juices and delivering crispy edges around a savory, herb-filled center. The signature Thanksgiving moment is carving into the golden top after hours of baking. Its bread-based heart makes it the most argued-over side.

Popularity: 9.4/10Prep Time: 60 minVegetarian: —Calories: 280 kcalTradition: 9.6/10

added by IJR

Macaroni and Cheese▲ Rising

Mac and cheese sneaks high on the list by delivering creamy, cheesy comfort that appeals to kids and adults alike. The golden breadcrumb crust provides the satisfying crunch that elevates boxed versions. Its modern popularity makes it a frequent addition to traditional spreads.

Popularity: 8.3/10Prep Time: 40 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 320 kcalTradition: 6.2/10

added by IJRin 2 rankingsmacaroni and cheese

Cornbread▲ Rising

Cornbread earns its place with a tender crumb that soaks up gravy and contrasts the meal's richness. Southern-style versions with a crisp crust often spark regional loyalty. The quick bake time makes it reliable for last-minute additions.

Popularity: 8/10Prep Time: 30 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 190 kcalTradition: 8.1/10

added by IJRin 4 rankingsCornbread

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts climbed the rankings with their caramelized edges and smoky bacon bits that convert vegetable skeptics. The high-heat roast creates the signature char that brings out natural sweetness. Modern palates appreciate this lighter, savory option.

Popularity: 7.7/10Prep Time: 35 minVegetarian: —Calories: 140 kcalTradition: 5.4/10

added by IJR

Glazed Carrots

Glazed carrots bring bright color and sweet maple or brown-sugar coating that balances heavier dishes. The quick simmer until tender yet firm makes them reliable. Their simple elegance keeps them a steady mid-tier choice.

Popularity: 6.8/10Prep Time: 20 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 120 kcalTradition: 6.5/10

added by IJR

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole combines creamy corn with cornbread mix for a pudding-like texture that many families treat as a staple. The one-pan bake makes it low-effort for busy hosts. Its Jiffy-mix roots give it broad nostalgic appeal.

Popularity: 6.3/10Prep Time: 55 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 240 kcalTradition: 6.9/10

added by IJR

Biscuits

Biscuits rise in popularity for their flaky layers that split open for butter or gravy. The quick baking powder lift gives them an edge over yeast rolls for speed. Southern traditions keep them firmly in the conversation.

Popularity: 7/10Prep Time: 22 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 160 kcalTradition: 7.8/10

added by IJRin 2 rankingsBiscuits

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach offers rich, garlicky greens that pair well with roasted meats. The quick wilt and cream reduction create a luxurious side. Steakhouse influence has boosted its modern appeal.

Popularity: 4.7/10Prep Time: 20 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 160 kcalTradition: 4.8/10

added by IJRcreamed spinach

Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash earns points for its caramelized cubes and earthy sweetness that fits fall perfectly. The high-heat roast creates crispy edges around soft centers. Health-conscious hosts often choose it over richer casseroles.

Popularity: 6.5/10Prep Time: 40 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 110 kcalTradition: 5.8/10

added by IJRbutternut squash

Collard Greens▲ Rising

Collard greens add a bitter, smoky counterpoint that cuts through rich sides and turkey. Long simmering with ham hock develops the signature tender leaves and pot liquor. Southern traditions give them strong regional loyalty.

Popularity: 5.9/10Prep Time: 90 minVegetarian: —Calories: 90 kcalTradition: 7.5/10

added by IJRin 2 rankingsCollard Greens

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs offer a cool, tangy bite that refreshes between heavier plates. The piped filling and paprika dusting create an attractive platter. Their make-ahead nature makes them a practical addition.

Popularity: 5.7/10Prep Time: 30 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 70 kcalTradition: 6.8/10

added by IJR

Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia salad delivers sweet, fluffy marshmallows and fruit that many Southern families treat as a dessert-side hybrid. The coconut and mandarin oranges create its signature tropical note. Its retro charm keeps it on some tables.

Popularity: 4.9/10Prep Time: 15 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 220 kcalTradition: 5.5/10

added by IJR

Baked Beans▼ Falling

Baked beans bring smoky sweetness and hearty beans that stand up to turkey. Slow baking in a casserole dish develops deep flavor from molasses and bacon. Their potluck roots keep them popular in many regions.

Popularity: 6.1/10Prep Time: 75 minVegetarian: —Calories: 200 kcalTradition: 7/10

added by IJRbaked beans

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad brings crisp apples, celery, and walnuts in a creamy dressing for a fresh, crunchy contrast. Its no-cook prep makes it easy for crowded kitchens. The classic recipe holds nostalgic appeal.

Popularity: 5.2/10Prep Time: 15 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 180 kcalTradition: 5.9/10

added by IJRWaldorf salad

Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables mix carrots, parsnips, and potatoes for earthy, caramelized flavor. The high-heat roast brings out natural sugars. Their simple seasoning keeps them versatile.

Popularity: 4.1/10Prep Time: 45 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 150 kcalTradition: 4.9/10

added by IJR

Succotash▼ Falling

Succotash mixes corn and lima beans for a colorful, simple vegetable medley with historical roots. The quick sauté keeps it fresh-tasting. Regional Southern and New England traditions keep it in rotation.

Popularity: 5.4/10Prep Time: 25 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 130 kcalTradition: 6.3/10

added by IJRSuccotash

Potato Salad▼ Falling

Potato salad provides a cool, tangy counterpoint with mustard and pickles that many serve alongside hot sides. Its make-ahead nature suits busy hosts. Regional variations keep debates lively.

Popularity: 4.5/10Prep Time: 40 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 250 kcalTradition: 5.2/10

added by IJRin 2 rankingspotato salad

Spinach Salad

Spinach salad with warm bacon dressing adds fresh greens and a sweet-tangy note to the meal. The quick wilt of spinach under hot dressing is the signature step. It offers a lighter option among richer sides.

Popularity: 4.3/10Prep Time: 15 minVegetarian: —Calories: 140 kcalTradition: 4.5/10

added by IJRSpinach Salad

Green Salad▼ Falling

A simple green salad offers crisp lettuce and vinaigrette to refresh palates amid heavy dishes. Its no-cook ease makes it a practical addition. Many hosts add pears or nuts for seasonal flair.

Popularity: 3.9/10Prep Time: 10 minVegetarian: ✓Calories: 80 kcalTradition: 3.8/10

added by IJR