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Turkey may take center stage at Thanksgiving, but let’s be honest—everyone’s secretly here for the sides. In 2024, the classic dishes we all love get some exciting new twists, alongside a few fresh contenders that’ll have your guests asking for seconds (or thirds). Whether you’re a die-hard stuffing fan or can’t get enough of mashed potatoes, we’ve rounded up the best Thanksgiving sides to grace your table this year.
Prepare your taste buds for a feast of flavor!
1. Gourmet Stuffing with Cranberries, Sausage, and Sage
Stuffing has come a long way from its boxed origins! In 2024, the trend is all about elevated stuffing that combines savory and sweet in perfect harmony. This recipe features crusty sourdough bread, juicy sausage, tart dried cranberries, and fresh sage, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures—crispy on top, soft and flavorful inside.
Pro Tip: Swap in spicy sausage if you want to give this traditional side a modern kick. Your guests will love the unexpected heat!
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2. Brown Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Maple Drizzle
Regular mashed potatoes are great, but in 2024, it’s all about their colorful cousin: mashed sweet potatoes. This year’s twist? Rich, nutty brown butter folded into the mix, giving the sweet potatoes an irresistible depth of flavor. Top it all off with a light maple syrup drizzle for that perfect sweet-and-savory combo.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle with toasted pecans for a little crunch, or go wild and add a dash of cinnamon or cayenne for an extra punch.
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3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate and Feta
Brussels sprouts have cemented their place as a Thanksgiving staple, but in 2024, they’re getting a refreshing update! Roasted until crispy and caramelized, these sprouts are then tossed with pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and sweetness, and crumbled feta for that creamy, tangy contrast. The result? A stunning side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. The acidity pairs perfectly with the earthy sprouts and sweet pomegranate.
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4. Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin
Move over, mac and cheese! This year, it’s all about the cauliflower gratin. Roasted cauliflower florets are smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce made with a mix of parmesan and Gruyère, then baked to golden perfection. It’s creamy, cheesy comfort food with a modern veggie twist.
Pro Tip: Add a touch of Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce for a slight tang, or top with crispy breadcrumbs for added texture. Either way, this side is bound to steal the show.
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5. Cornbread Sausage Stuffing Muffins
Why settle for plain stuffing when you can serve it in muffin form? This twist on traditional stuffing is made with crumbled cornbread, sweet Italian sausage, and a mix of onions, celery, green apples, and herbs, all packed into individual muffin tins. These stuffing muffins are not only delicious but also convenient for serving—no more fighting over the crispy edges!
Pro Tip: Serve with a side of gravy for dunking. It’s a fun, handheld way to enjoy stuffing with all the fixings.
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6. Kale and Quinoa Salad with Butternut Squash and Cranberries
By Garden In The Kitchen; Silvia Dunnirvine
In 2024, even your salads are going to feel like a hearty fall meal. This kale and quinoa salad is packed with roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and a homemade green goddess dressing. It’s vibrant, nutrient-packed, and provides a refreshing contrast to the heavier dishes on the table.
Pro Tip: Massage the kale with olive oil and salt to make it more tender and flavorful. This step is key to a perfect kale salad that everyone will actually want to eat.
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7. Green Bean Almondine with Lemon Zest
A classic side with a modern twist, Green Bean Almondine is the dish for those who like to keep it simple yet flavorful. Green beans are sautéed with sliced almonds, olive oil, and garlic, then finished with lemon juice zest for brightness. It’s light, fresh, and the perfect accompaniment to the richer dishes on the table.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of chile flakes on top for a taste sensation. This easy upgrade will take your green beans to the next level.
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8. Truffle Mac and Cheese
By Preppy Kitchen; John Kanell
Okay, mac and cheese lovers, this one’s for you! In 2024, truffle mac and cheese is making waves as the ultimate indulgent side dish. Rich and creamy with a hint of luxurious truffle oil, this dish features a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere for maximum cheesiness. It’s comfort food elevated to holiday status.
Pro Tip: If you can get your hands on some, shave fresh black truffles on top for the ultimate indulgence. Otherwise, a drizzle of truffle oil will do the trick!
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9. Cranberry Chutney with Ginger and Orange
Forget the canned cranberry sauce—this year, it’s all about cranberry chutney. This version features fresh cranberries simmered with ginger, orange zest, and brown sugar for sweetness. The ginger adds a lovely warmth, while the orange brightens up the flavor. It’s a vibrant, zesty side that pairs beautifully with turkey and stuffing.
Pro Tip: Make this chutney ahead of time to let the flavors meld. It’ll only get better as it sits!
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10. Twice-Baked Butternut Squash with Blue Cheese
If you’re a fan of twice-baked potatoes, you’ll love this 2024 update! Halve and roast butternut squash, then scoop out the flesh, mash it with butter, garlic, and a touch of blue cheese, and stuff it back into the skins. Bake until golden and topped with parsley leaves for a side that’s creamy, tangy, and oh-so-decadent.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the blue cheese.
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The Sides Are the Stars in 2024
This year’s Thanksgiving side dishes are all about taking classic flavors and giving them a fresh, modern twist. Whether you’re keeping it traditional or venturing into new territory, these sides will have everyone talking—and reaching for seconds!
So, as you plan your 2024 Thanksgiving feast, don’t forget: the sides are just as important as the turkey. In fact, with these show-stopping dishes, they might just steal the spotlight!
What side dish are you most excited to try this year? Let us know in the comments, and happy feasting!
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