Everything But The Turkey Recipes for Your Thanksgiving Spread

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Thanksgiving’s coming up, and while the turkey might be the centerpiece, we all know it’s the sides that get everyone excited! Whether you’re all about fluffy mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, or creamy mac and cheese, there’s just something magical about a table packed with all the classics (plus a few surprises). So if you’re looking to bring something extra tasty to the table this year, skip the stress over the bird and try these recipes that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Mashed Potatoes with Leeks

A bowl of mashed potatoes with butter on top and garnished with a thyme sprig with a spoon in it.
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

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You’ve probably made mashed potatoes for your holiday table every year – but have you ever made mashed potatoes with leeks? The caramelized leeks give the potatoes a sweet and rustic flavor that’s just unmatched! Full recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Leeks

Maple Balsamic Brussel Sprouts

closeup of a dish of roasted Brussel sprouts
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

These Brussels sprouts are crispy, sweet, and tangy with a hint of maple and finished off with smoky bacon. Even Brussels sprouts skeptics will want seconds! Full recipe: Maple Balsamic Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

Glazed baby carrots in a serving bowl with a sprig of thyme
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

Glazed carrots are such a classic Thanksgiving side and these are as close to perfect as you can get! They’re sweet, buttery, and just the right amount of caramelized with hints of orange and thyme. Full recipe: Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

Roasted Cauliflower with Cumin and Coriander

Roasted cauliflower florets on a foil-lined baking sheet
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

If you’d like to add a different veggie to your sides this year – try this roasted cauliflower with cumin and coriander! Roasting cauliflower with cumin and coriander brings out its nutty flavor and gives it a satisfying crunch. Full recipe: Roasted Cauliflower

Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

overhead view of a dish of maple roasted sweet potatoes
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

Roasted sweet potatoes are a must on my Thanksgiving table and I like to roast mine with some browned butter for a nutty flavor and maple syrup for natural sweetness. If you don’t want to serve the traditional sweet-potato casserole, try this recipe instead! Full recipe: Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Spanish Manchego Mac and Cheese

a bowl of mac and cheese with a dish in the background
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

There should always be some mac and cheese to serve alongside your turkey and this version is simple enough but tastes super gourmet! So take your mac and cheese game up a notch with rich Manchego cheese and a hint of Spanish flair. Full recipe: Spanish Manchego Mac and Cheese

Apple Pecan Salad

Overhead view of a bowl of mixed apple pecan salad with serving utensils in it.
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

Finally – a salad suggestion! Well this one is just too good to skip. Crisp apples, crunchy pecans, and a tangy maple vinaigrette come together in this refreshing salad that’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Full recipe: Apple Pecan Salad

Roasted Asparagus & Potatoes

overhead view of a plate of roasted potatoes with asparagus
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

If you’re looking for more simpler flavors to complement your holiday spread – roasted potatoes with asparagus can always be an answer! This is so simple to make but still such a show-stopper. Full recipe: Roasted Asparagus & Potatoes

Sautéed Carrots

picking up sauteed carrots with a fork
Image Credit: Our Happy Mess

Sautéed in butter with a touch of maple syrup, these carrots are tender and flavorful. They’re such a quick and easy side dish to make but still pack so much flavor! Full recipe: Sautéed Carrots

Kale Pomegranate Salad

kale pomegranate salad in a bowl
Image Credit: Image credit goes to.

This vibrant salad features hearty kale, juicy pomegranate seeds, and a sprinkle of feta, all tossed in a light lemon pomegranate dressing. A festive and nutritious addition to your table! Full recipe: Kale Pomegranate Salad

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