A holiday turkey may be the star of the table, but the true magic lies in the flavorful supporting cast around it.
The right assortment of side dishes savory or sweet and desserts that go with a holiday turkey meal elevates the entire dining experience—bringing balance, color, texture, and seasonal warmth to each plate.
You may be asking, “How many sides should I serve for a full holiday dinner?”
Most hosts offer 4–6 sides: one potato, one green vegetable, one orange vegetable, a salad, bread, and a sweet element.
So whether you’re planning a traditional feast or aiming for a fresh, modern, globally inspired menu, this curated guide will introduce you to fresh ideas.
30 Irresistible Side Dishes Savory or Sweet and Desserts That Go With a Holiday Turkey Meal
Sweet Potato (Savory and Sweet Dishes)
Sweet potatoes bring cozy comfort and vibrant color to any Thanksgiving table.
Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with turkey, while their versatility allows for both savory herb-infused dishes and indulgent maple-kissed creations.
This gallery showcases a warm and welcoming assortment of sweet potato sides that offer balance and richness to your holiday meal.
Brussels Sprouts (Savory and Sweet Dishes)
Brussels sprouts have transformed from a simple vegetable into a holiday favorite, thanks to their ability to caramelize, crisp, and absorb bold flavor profiles.
Whether grilled, roasted, sautéed, or tossed into refreshing slaws, the recipes in this gallery deliver depth, crunch, and bright seasonal contrasts that complement turkey beautifully.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is the bright, tangy heart of a Thanksgiving meal—cutting through richness and adding a festive pop of color.
If you love the classic cranberry sauce, you’ll love this homemade citrus-infused variation. This homemade sauce will enhance every savory bite and elevate your holiday plate.
Potatoes
Potatoes are the comfort-food cornerstone of any holiday feast. Creamy mashed blends, crispy roasted cubes, herb-infused baby potatoes, and elegant French or Mediterranean versions all pair perfectly with turkey.
This gallery highlights potato dishes that satisfy traditional tastes while welcoming new flavors to the table.
Butternut Squash
Butternut squash delivers natural sweetness, a velvety texture, and warm autumn tones that help create a beautifully balanced menu.
These recipes pair well with turkey while offering unique flavor combinations—from roasted herbs to caramelized onions and bright berries.
Carrots and Leeks
Carrots and leeks bring earthy aromatics, sweetness, and a touch of elegance to your holiday spread.
Braised and combined with herbs and citrus, this dish provides a refreshing contrast to heavier sides while adding vibrant color and seasonal charm.
Rice
Rice dishes offer a lighter, naturally gluten-free alternative to stuffing or potatoes.
Wild rice with aromatic herb-infusion, fruity accent and nutty texture creates a satisfying side that is both festive and wholesome.
A beautifully balanced option that will suit any Thanksgiving table.
You might be asking if a rice dish is a good substitute for stuffing?
Most definitely yes. This wild rice dish blends with nuts, citrus zest and dried cranberries offering structure and flavor while feeling lighter than traditional stuffing.
Something Different Other Than The Typical Pumpkin Pie
For holiday hosts seeking a twist, this gallery steps outside tradition with creative pumpkin desserts.
Rich bread puddings, chocolate-spiced pies, tropical-inspired cakes, and inventive gluten-free options bring excitement and personality to the dessert table while still capturing the nostalgic warmth of pumpkin.
Add A Little Worldly Cultural Twist To Your Thanksgiving Spread With These Recipes
Refresh your holiday menu with vibrant global flavors.
These dishes highlight bold spices, tangy glazes, fresh herbs, and regional cooking styles from across the world.
Whether you’re inspired by Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Korean, or Moroccan influences, this gallery empowers you to create a Thanksgiving spread that’s both deeply comforting and wonderfully unexpected.
You may be asking, “How can I add global flavors without overwhelming the traditional menu?
Choose 1–2 sides with international herbs or spices (like za’atar, pomegranate molasses, or gochujang) to enhance rather than dominate.
Crafting a memorable turkey dinner means choosing the right mix of side dishes savory or sweet and desserts that go with a holiday turkey meal.
With warm sweet potatoes, crisp Brussels sprouts, comforting potatoes, vibrant global flavors, and festive pumpkin treats, this curated gallery-style guide helps you build a Thanksgiving menu that feels abundant, inviting, and unforgettable.
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