Oh, Thanksgiving! That glorious time of year when the kitchen feels like the warmest, most colorful place on earth, and the air is just buzzing with anticipation. For me, the real magic of Thanksgiving isn’t just the turkey – it’s all about the sides! It’s where tradition meets creativity, and honestly, it’s so much fun figuring out that perfect lineup. This year, I’m so excited to share my absolute favorite Thanksgiving Sides: Top Thanksgiving Side Dishes You Will Love. This collection is packed with comforting, inspiring dishes that are sure to make your holiday table shine. I still remember one Thanksgiving when I took over all the sides myself – it was a whirlwind, but seeing everyone’s happy faces digging into everything from fluffy potatoes to glazed carrots made it all so worth it. Those sides are truly what make the meal!
Why You’ll Love These Thanksgiving Sides
Seriously, these sides are going to be your new holiday best friends! Here’s why I just know you’ll adore them:
- Super Easy to Make: I’m all about delicious, but not about stress! These recipes are totally doable, even if you’re juggling a million other things.
- Flavor Bombs: We’re talking classic comfort with a little twist. Think rich, savory, and just the right hint of sweetness to make your taste buds sing.
- Crowd Pleasers, Guaranteed: Picky eaters? Big family? These dishes have a way of making everyone happy. They’re just universally loved!
- Perfect Holiday Fits: They look amazing on the table and taste even better. They’re designed to complement your turkey and make your whole meal feel special.
Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple and Herbs: A Sweet and Savory Side
Okay, can we talk about this Roasted Acorn Squash? It’s like the quiet superstar of the Thanksgiving table! It’s got this gorgeous deep orange color, and the flavor… oh my gosh. It’s the perfect balance of sweet maple syrup and aromatic herbs, making it a total showstopper and a fantastic sweet and savory side. I love making this because it feels fancy, but it’s honestly so ridiculously easy. Plus, it always gets rave reviews! It’s one of those dishes that just makes people feel instantly cozy and thankful. I’ve made it tons of ways, but this simple maple and herb version is just *chef’s kiss*.
Ingredients for Roasted Acorn Squash
Here’s what you’ll need to make this happen. Don’t worry, it’s all super simple stuff!
- 3 medium acorn squash, halved vertically and seeded (make sure those seeds are all out!)
- About 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, enough for drizzling
- About 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage and/or rosemary, finely chopped (use whichever you love, or both!)
- A good pinch of sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to sprinkle
How to Prepare Roasted Acorn Squash
Alright, let’s get this squash roasted! It’s way simpler than it looks.
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). It needs to be nice and hot to get that lovely caramelization. While the oven is heating up, grab a baking sheet and cover it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze, trust me on this!
Now, take your halved and seeded acorn squash and place them cut-side up on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle both the inside and a little over the edges with olive oil and then generously with that glorious maple syrup. Sprinkle everything with a good pinch of sea salt and a crack of black pepper. You can even get your hands in there (wash ’em first!) to gently coat the insides of the squash.
Next, get your chopped fresh sage and/or rosemary and sprinkle it right into the center of each squash half. It smells so amazing at this stage!
Pop the baking sheet into your hot oven. Roast for about 25 to 40 minutes total. You’ll know they’re ready when the squash is fork-tender and the edges are starting to get beautifully golden brown and a little caramelized. Keep an eye on them – the exact time really depends on the size of your squash, so start checking around the 25-minute mark.
Once they’re tender and delicious, carefully take them out of the oven. Give them another little sprinkle of salt and pepper if you think they need it. You can serve these beauties just as they are, or for an extra layer of flavor, check out other simple roasting ideas like these roasted stuffed bell peppers for inspiration on how to finish them off!
More Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Love
While our roasted acorn squash is pretty darn special, the beauty of a Thanksgiving feast is all about having a whole spread of incredible flavors and textures! That’s why I always love having a few other go-to Thanksgiving Sides: Top Thanksgiving Side Dishes You Will Love on the menu. These are the dishes that round out the meal and make everyone feel totally pampered.
Herb Roasted Potatoes: A Classic Favorite
You can never, ever go wrong with potatoes, right? My Herb Roasted Potatoes are a total staple for a reason. We’re talking perfectly tender on the inside, a little crispy on the outside, and infused with gorgeous, aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme. They soak up all those delicious gravy juices like a dream and just make the whole meal feel so wonderfully comforting. Seriously, they’re always the first to disappear!
Make Ahead Sides for Stress-Free Holidays
Okay, let’s be real: Thanksgiving Day can get a little C-R-A-Z-Y in the kitchen! That’s where the magic of Make Ahead Sides comes in. Who wouldn’t want fewer things to do when the guests are arriving? Think about dishes like a delightful cranberry sauce or even a slow-cooker creamy polenta. I love prepping things like sun-dried tomato and feta stuffed French toast (okay, maybe not for Thanksgiving dinner, but you get the idea – make-ahead goodness is key!) the day before so I can actually relax and enjoy the holiday myself. It makes a HUGE difference!
Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Sides
Alright, my friends, let’s make sure those Thanksgiving sides knock it out of the park! It’s not just about following a recipe; it’s about a little kitchen smarts that make a huge difference. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that I just have to share. First off, really take a moment to think about your ingredients. Fresh is almost always best for veggies – those vibrant colors mean more flavor! And don’t be afraid to taste as you go; a little extra salt or a pinch of herbs here can elevate everything. For more on thoughtful ingredient choices, I always find Jennifer Jones’s insights really helpful.
Timing is your best friend on Thanksgiving. Map out when each side needs to go into the oven. Sometimes, I’ll roast veggies that don’t need as much heat while the turkey rests. Speaking of ovens, oven space is precious! See if you can use stovetop methods for things like mashed potatoes or gravy, or make a side dish that can be served at room temperature. For presentation, I love using different bowls and platters – it makes the table look so inviting! Trust me, if you plan a little, you can actually enjoy the day too!
Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Sides
I know planning Thanksgiving can bring up all sorts of questions, and that’s totally normal! Here are a few things folks often ask me about making those perfect holiday sides:
Can I make Thanksgiving sides ahead of time?
Oh, absolutely! This is my secret weapon for a stress-free holiday. Dishes like cranberry sauce, sweet potato casseroles, and even stuffing (baked separately) can usually be prepped the day before. Just store them covered in the fridge and reheat gently on Thanksgiving Day. It’s a lifesaver!
What are some good vegetarian Thanksgiving sides?
You’re in luck, because Thanksgiving is a veggie lover’s dream! Besides our Roasted Acorn Squash, think about things like creamy mac and cheese, roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, or a hearty mushroom and wild rice pilaf. Most traditional sides are naturally vegetarian or easily adaptable! If you ever get stuck, checking out a general resource can sometimes spark ideas.
How do I keep side dishes warm for serving?
This is a common challenge! For dishes like mashed potatoes or gravy, a slow cooker on the ‘warm’ setting is brilliant. Casseroles can often be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F/95°C) for a bit. For things that don’t sit well on heat, like roasted veggies, just do a quick reheat in the oven or microwave right before serving.
Are there any make-ahead sides that are also really simple?
Definitely! Simple Make Ahead Sides are my go-to. Things like green bean casserole (assemble the day before, bake the day of), a beautifully braised dish, or even just chopping all your veggies for roasting ahead of time saves so much hassle. Don’t forget a good contact form if you need more help, like the one here!
Nutritional Information
While it’s tough to give exact numbers since everyone’s squash size and ingredient brands vary, here’s a general idea of what you’re looking at for this yummy Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple and Herbs, per serving (half a squash):
Calories: Around 200-250 kcal
Fat: About 8-12g
Protein: Roughly 2-3g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
Remember, these are just estimates! It’s all about enjoying that lovely fall flavor.
Share Your Favorite Thanksgiving Sides
Now I’ve shared some of my absolute favorite Thanksgiving side dishes with you, but honestly, the best part of holiday cooking is all the little traditions and new ideas everyone brings to the table! What are *your* go-to Thanksgiving sides? Do you have a special variation on a classic stuffing, or maybe a secret way you make your mashed potatoes sing? I’d absolutely love to hear about them! Drop a comment below and share your delicious traditions, or if you have any last-minute questions, fire away! You can find another fun recipe here!
Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple and Herbs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the acorn squash halves on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Use your hands to coat the squash evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped sage and/or rosemary into the center of each squash half.
- Roast for 25 to 40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the edges are golden brown. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your squash.
- Season to taste and serve warm. You can find additional serving suggestions in the full blog post.
Notes
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Paige Graham is a dedicated culinary content creator known for her wholesome, flavor-forward approach to home cooking. With a passion for teaching and a commitment to creating dependable recipes, Paige helps home cooks build confidence, expand their skills, and rediscover the joy of homemade meals. Her work blends practical kitchen wisdom with creative inspiration, making her a trusted voice for readers seeking reliable, approachable, and delicious dishes. Today, she proudly shares her recipes on chomzi.com, where she helps inspire everyday cooking with clarity and heart.
Paige’s culinary journey began in the world of hospitality, where she worked in boutique cafés and event kitchens, gaining firsthand experience in flavor pairing, crowd-pleasing recipe creation, and fast-paced cooking environments. Inspired by how food brought people together, she transitioned into culinary writing and digital recipe development, dedicating her career to teaching others the techniques and flavors she once shared in person. Her ability to simplify recipes without sacrificing depth or satisfaction quickly helped her gain traction in the food media space.
As her career grew, Paige collaborated with local food brands, cooking instructors, and kitchenware companies to develop recipes, video content, and educational cooking guides. Her work has been highlighted in online food communities for its clarity, warmth, and dependable results. With a growing library of well-tested recipes, she continues to refine her craft through ongoing research, culinary experimentation, and an unwavering commitment to helping home cooks succeed.
