There's no doubt that the turkey has an unfair advantage in the Thanksgiving popularity game. You bust out the big bird once a year, and all those delicious side dishes tend to take a back seat… until now! There's no match for these 30 whimsical Thanksgiving side dishes that are sure to steal the dinnertime spotlight.
Sarah Anderson
It doesn't get more fall than this. These bacon-wrapped sweet potato pieces are hearty, filling, and so tasty, you won't have any leftovers. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Give your fam something to dip into before the main event. This pumpkin hummus is perfectly creamy and satiating. (via Brit + Co)
Brittany Griffin
These vegan and gluten-free green bean casseroles taste just like the real thing. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Two of our favorite comfort foods combine to create a side dish that's perfect for a down-home Thanksgiving. Creamy spinach artichoke dip makes these corn muffins rich and moist. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Why choose between baked, mashed, or fried potatoes when you can have all three in one? (via Brit + Co)
Bitter Sweet
We couldn't pass up this Thanksgiving side based on its adorable name alone! Just squeeze some seasoned potato-butternut squash puree through a large, star-topped piping bag, and bake them 'til they're golden brown all over. (via Bitter Sweet)
Fifteen Spatulas
Keep the kids from fighting over who gets more spoonfuls of mac and cheese by transforming the casserole into these bite-sized cups! You can thank your muffin pan for this (and other) savory munchies. (via Fifteen Spatulas)
Beyond Kimchee
This whimsical Thanksgiving side dish is the number one spotlight stealer on our list, and you'll be happy to know it's so easy to make! Just slice your biscuit dough in eight segments, bake, and brush with melted butter for shine. Don't forget to finish with sliced pecan “stems." So cute! (via Beyond Kimchee)
Smitten Kitchen
Not only do we recommend making these stuffing-stuffed onions, but we also dare you to say it three times fast without slipping up. ;) (via Smitten Kitchen)
SheKnows
You bet we're gonna give this sangria-spiked cranberry sauce a try at our Brit + Co Thanksgiving potluck! (via SheKnows)
Spoon Fork Bacon
We imagine the whole “don't play with your food" rule was set before these awesome potato rings were made. Though, maybe reserve the potato ring toss from across the dining table for Friendsgiving. (via Spoon Fork Bacon)
Smitten Kitchen
We're nuts about this creative concoction. A layer of bubbling marshmallow oozes through the center of these sweet potato muffins, which is sure to satisfy any mid-meal sweet tooth. (via Smitten Kitchen)
Adventures in Cooking
Why leave applesauce all by its lonesome when you can have it buddy up with mac and cheese? While it may sound strange, apples and cheese totally go together, so be sure to give it a try! Mix in some chicken-apple sausage to amp up the apple flavor even more. (via Adventures in Cooking)
Your Vegan Mom
We love this sweet twist on classic tater tots. We'll also go ahead and say we wouldn't be opposed to dipping them in gravy during Thanksgiving meal time. (via Your Vegan Mom)
Food52
Fondue is such a fun way to enjoy a meal with family and friends, especially when it's housed in a squash. (via Food52)
Martha Stewart
Leave it to Martha to find an amazing way to make roasted root veggies irresistibly appealing. If you serve pizza at Thanksgiving dinner, you win. (via Martha Stewart)
Salt & Lavender
Shallots become sweet and caramelized after roasting in the oven. The addition of butter and tangy balsamic make this a worthy Thanksgiving side dish. (via Salt & Lavender)
Basically Cooking
Combine multiple sides into one dish with this recipe. It's finger-food friendly, so you can dig in while using your fork to scoop up plenty of turkey. (via Basically Cooking)
Culinary Ginger
Stuff acorn squash with Parmesan risotto to make this elegant Thanksgiving side dish. It works well as a vegetarian entree, too. (via Culinary Ginger)
Salt N Pepper Here
Sometimes a salad is just what you need to counteract the heavy holiday food on the table. This one is perfect for colder weather, made with a blend of shaved broccoli and Brussels sprouts. (via Salt N Pepper Here)
Plated Cravings
Liven up a tray of mashed potato casserole with some simple additions. Tangy sauerkraut and sweet apples bring dynamic flavor to each bite. (via Plated Cravings)
Sip + Sanity
Hasselback sweet potatoes are ideal for soaking up big flavors. These are topped with pumpkin seed pesto butter, along with fragrant basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. (via Sip + Sanity)
Delightful Mom Food
Skip the glazed carrots and opt for these crunchy carrot “fries" instead. A coating of cheese, garlic, and herbs helps them crisp up in the oven! (via Delightful Mom Food)
Evolving Table
Cauliflower doesn't get enough love in the kitchen. When pureed and mixed with soft roasted garlic and plenty of olive oil, it's like the sophisticated cousin of mashed potatoes. (via Evolving Table)
Running to the Kitchen
Salads aren't just for summer. This hearty version, made with sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and maple tahini dressing, deserves a place on the holiday table. (via Running to the Kitchen)
Domestic Gothess
For really crispy mashed potatoes, cook them twice. First until they're tender; then, smash them flat, sprinkle with cheese, and finish cooking. (via Domestic Gothess)
Half Baked Harvest
Did someone request a cheesy side dish that's not mac and cheese? Make this scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions side dish to satisfy their taste buds' desires. (via Half Baked Harvest)
The Girl on Bloor
These bite-sized quiches are the perfect savory starter that also have a nice, spicy kick to 'em. (via The Girl on Bloor)
Kathryn's Kitchen
Thanksgiving isn't complete without a platter of classic deviled eggs! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
Pink Owl Kitchen
Tell your dad's famous potato salad to move over, because there's an updated version in town that doesn't want to share the spotlight. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)
For more Thanksgiving side dishes and delicious holiday recipes, follow us on Pinterest.
Additional reporting by Justina Huddleston, Jasmine Williams, and Meredith Holser.
