Why Side Dishes Are Arguably the Best Part of Thanksgiving

Let’s be so for real: the turkey might be the main event, but it’s the side dishes that make us all hungry and excited for Thanksgiving. Sure, the bird looks impressive when it comes out of the oven, golden and glistening —but when it’s time to fill your plate, what do you reach for first? The mashed potatoes. The stuffing. The sweet potato casserole with that perfectly toasted marshmallow topping. Exactly.

The Real Stars of the Table

Side dishes bring color, texture, and personality to the Thanksgiving spread. Turkey is… turkey. But side dishes? They’re where tradition meets creativity. My mom swears by her cornbread recipe, while my cousin insists on trying a new green bean casserole recipe every year. They reflect family traditions, regional twists, and little personal experiments that make the meal unique.

One of the best things about Thanksgiving sides is their variety. Creamy, crunchy, sweet, savory—there’s something for everyone. You can mix and match flavors in every bite: tangy cranberry sauce cutting through buttery potatoes, green bean casserole balancing out rich gravy. The turkey is a solid foundation, but the sides are what build the flavor story.

Sides are also where nostalgia lives. Maybe it’s Grandma’s mac and cheese or topping ridiculous amounts of marshmallows on your sweet potato casserole with your mom. Those dishes aren’t just food—they’re memories. Each bite tastes like family, laughter, and all the little moments that make Thanksgiving special.

So yes, the turkey deserves its moment. But the sides? They’re the soul of Thanksgiving. They’re what people talk about all year long, what you look forward to making (and eating), and what makes the meal feel like home. So go ahead—pile your plate high with stuffing, potatoes, and every casserole you can fit. Because on Thanksgiving, the sides aren’t just the accompaniment—they’re the main attraction.