Tired of the same predictable side dish lineup that shows up at your holiday table every year? Say hello to “30 Unique & Delicious Holiday Side Dishes” that will shake up your holiday spread and help steal the spotlight from the main course. Go ahead, throw caution to the wind, embrace the unexpected, and surprise your loved ones with a new holiday favorite. The only decision you have to make is which recipe you’ll try first.
After spending the last several years making Thanksgiving dinner for my Dad, B.O.B. Bob and I are more than ready for a timeout this year. No more brining a turkey, no more freaking out about where to get the best rolls, knowing that they won’t even begin to measure up against my Mom’s, and definitely no more driving two hours with all of the food packed in a cooler, the evening before Thanksgiving. Nope. For our first holiday season without Dad, we’re switching things up. We’ll be spending the holiday with friends.
And while we’ll definitely be missing Dad something fierce, we certainly will not be missing cooking an entire large turkey for six people because my Dad will only eat dark meat. Honestly, y’all, there’s a 90% chance that B.O.B. Bob and I will never make an entire turkey again. Instead, we’ll probably just stick to a turkey breast and save time and effort on the big day. After all, the side dishes are where it’s really at, right? They’re the supporting characters that kind of take over and shine. And this year, my assigned sides are these deviled eggs and this cranberry sauce.
From deviled egg, cranberry sauce, and stuffing recipes to green bean, sweet potato, and biscuits recipes, we’ve totally got y’all covered for the big day. After all, it’s a great year to try something new. Whether you only switch up one recipe or you daringly choose to make several of the recipes featured below, it never hurts to step out of your comfort zone. This year, why not spend less time focusing on the turkey and more time concentrating on the sides? Don’t be afraid to try something new. You might find that you even enjoy it.
Deviled Egg Recipes
Sweet Chili Candied Pumpkin Seed Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic holiday treat, and this version takes it up a notch with a creamy, flavorful chili powder seasoned filling, lightly sweetened with just a touch of honey. Topped with easy-to-make buttery roasted and candied pumpkin seeds and a touch of flaky sea salt, these deviled eggs are the perfect fall side dish or appetizer. They’ll add a special touch to your holiday table or buffet and make a wonderful addition to your next gathering. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Deviled Eggs with Basil Pumpkin Seed Pesto
Imagine a deviled egg filling that is impossibly creamy, brightened up with a burst of fresh basil and lemon, and finished with the satisfying, earthy crunch of roasted salted pepitas. It’s a texture lover’s dream. Topped with a sprinkle of finely ground black pepper and crumbled shaved Parmesan cheese, this deviled egg recipe strikes the perfect balance of creamy, salty, nutty, tangy flavor. Sophisticated enough for a holiday appetizer but simple enough for a Tuesday night craving, these Deviled Eggs with Basil Pumpkin Seed Pesto are the year-round staple your recipe box has been missing. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Cranberry Sauce Recipes
Cherry & Brandy Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce
Get ready to impress your holiday guests this season with this delightful sweet and tart cherry-flavored cranberry sauce. Made with frozen cherries, brandy, and a lovely mix of granulated and light brown sugars, this fresh cranberry side dish is sure to impress. With just a dash of cinnamon, a pinch of sea salt, and a hint of vanilla, it’s bursting with flavor. Best of all, this colorful cranberry sauce is super easy to make, leaving you more time to spend with your family and friends this holiday season. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Rum Raisin Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce
This homemade whole berry cranberry sauce is the perfect holiday side dish. Made with fresh cranberries, golden raisins, spiced rum, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon, sea salt, and vanilla, this rum-raisin-flavored cranberry sauce adds a special touch to any holiday meal. The tartness of the cranberries, the sweetness of the sugars, and the spiciness of the rum all come together to make a delicious and unique cranberry sauce that will be a hit with your holiday guests. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Soup Recipes
Parmesan Pumpkin Soup with Hot Honey
Parmesan Pumpkin Soup with Hot Honey is the perfect fall soup to warm you up on a chilly autumn night. Start by peeling and cubing fresh pumpkin and simmering it in a stockpot with chicken broth and seasonings until the pumpkin is tender. Once the pumpkin has cooked, add some freshly grated parmesan, half and half, and heavy whipping cream. Purée the soup until smooth and creamy, then ladle it into bowls. Top each bowl with a drizzle of honey infused with chiles for a hint of heat, and then sprinkle on some freshly grated parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty flavor. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Simple Zero Cream Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Craving a rich, velvety butternut squash soup experience, but maybe you’re not so keen on the heavy cream hangover that usually comes along with it? This simple, lighter, guilt-free version still delivers all the cozy, creamy goodness you want, with absolutely zero cream and zero guilt. It’s a lighter, healthier spin on the classic, with a gentle peppery kick and not a single complicated spice in sight. You can serve it with a hunk of crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich, or even pair it with a crisp salad or a small sandwich. It’s comfort food that won’t leave you feeling like you need to hibernate when the meal is over. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Coleslaw Recipes
Dried Cranberry Creamy Chipotle Coleslaw
Turn a simple bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix into a truly delicious creamy side dish with the addition of sweetened dried cranberries and just a touch of ground chipotle powder. This dried cranberry creamy chipotle coleslaw is the perfect addition to almost any busy weeknight meal, not to mention that it’s also a creative way to sneak more fruits and vegetables onto your dinner plate. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Creamy Cabbage & Carrot Coleslaw with Apple
It’s so easy to transform a simple bag of pre-shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots into an absolutely outstanding side salad. This particular creamy coleslaw recipe is made even more delicious with the addition of a crisp red apple and crunchy sunflower seeds. I’m fairly certain that this time-saving slaw is going to become one of your new favorite go-to summer recipes. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Green Bean Recipes
Sweet & Spicy Brown Sugar Green Beans
Imagine tender, slow-cooked green beans infused with the rich, smoky goodness of salty bacon, with a decadent touch of brown sugar and a generous sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Simmered to absolute perfection, these green beans are completely make-ahead-friendly, making them the ultimate secret-weapon side dish for stress-free holiday entertaining or hectic last-minute weeknight dinners. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Fresh Basil Honey Mustard Flat Green Bean Salad
Imagine crisp, tender flat green beans dressed in a bright, homemade honey mustard dressing infused with the aromatic sweetness of fresh summer basil. Whether you’re enjoying a casual backyard barbecue or a simple weeknight meal, this green bean salad, topped with a generous and crunchy sprinkle of toasted, buttery panko breadcrumbs, is sure to impress. Served chilled, at room temperature, or warmed, this summer side dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Squash Recipes
Maple Chipotle Hasselback Butternut Squash
Butternut squash makes the perfect holiday side dish, especially when it’s Hasselback butternut squash. The thin slits cut into each squash half allow the butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and ground chipotle mixture to get in every single nook and cranny, which means more flavor in each pretty little bite, making this one Thanksgiving side that everyone at your holiday table will be super-excited to gobble up. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Butternut Squash Taco Ravioli with Queso Fresco
Store-bought refrigerated ravioli is a convenient and versatile ingredient that can save you lots of time in the kitchen on a busy weeknight. This flavorful Mexican-inspired pasta recipe pairs soft, pillowy butternut squash ravioli with a simple, quick, zesty taco seasoning sauce infused with rich, creamy butter and tangy lemon juice. Garnished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and crumbled queso fresco, this quick-fix side dish is one your whole family will enjoy. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Sauerkraut Recipes
Apple & Cranberry Oven-Roasted Sauerkraut
This sweet and sour one-dish recipe is one that will help you navigate mealtime on almost any busy weeknight. Not only is it the perfect side dish for any type of pork or sausage, but it also pairs extremely well with mashed potatoes. And, thanks to an apple, a few dried sweetened cranberries, and a touch of brown sugar, this oven-roasted sauerkraut has just the right amount of sweetness to help balance out its naturally sour flavor. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Dried Apple & Bourbon Oven-Baked Sauerkraut
This Dried Apple & Bourbon Oven-Baked Sauerkraut is a simple yet delicious side dish that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the sweetness of dried apples and brown sugar plus the bold and smoky flavor of bourbon. It’s the perfect side dish to add some variety to your meals and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for any game day, cookout, or holiday gathering. If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy sauerkraut, be prepared to be blown away by this delicious sweet and tangy version. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Potato Recipes
Creamy Parmesan Acini di Pepe with Potatoes
Why choose between pasta and potatoes, when you can have both in one comforting recipe? Tender, small-cubed Yukon gold potatoes, and delicate Acini di Pepe pasta are tossed in a silky, light, shiny sauce made with grated Parmesan, pasta water, and a touch of butter. The result is an easy-to-make, healthier alternative to macaroni and cheese or mashed potatoes, infused with a peppery warmth and a bright, zesty kiss of lemon. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Oven-Baked Au Gratin Potatoes in a Pie Dish
This easy-to-make oven-baked au gratin potato side dish will definitely become one of your new go-to recipes. So, grab a pie dish, slice up some potatoes, and crank up that oven. It’s time to make some creamy, cheesy, comforting au gratin potatoes for dinner. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Corn Recipes
Smoky Southwestern Corn Salad with Chives
This fresh corn salad features a perfectly balanced homemade southwestern seasoning blend made with smoked paprika and warm coriander to bring lots of lovely smoky flavor without adding too much heat. When combined with just a little bit of mayonnaise, a hint of heavy cream, and a splash of vinegar, this seasoning blend creates a slightly sweet, smoky, tangy sauce that’s effortlessly delicious. And with its colorful green pop of fresh chives, this flavorful side dish hits pretty much every flavor note without feeling too heavy. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Corn & Tomato Salad with Hot Honey Vinaigrette
This bright and colorful corn and tomato salad is the perfect side dish for almost any busy weeknight dinner, impromptu cookout, or last-minute barbecue. Simply microwave a bag of steam-in-bag corn kernels, halve some cherry tomatoes, and mix the steamed corn and halved tomatoes in an easy-to-make vinaigrette, made with chili-infused hot honey, finely chopped fresh parsley, and a few common pantry seasonings. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Collard Green Recipes
Honey Baked Ham Crockpot Collard Greens
Don’t let that leftover honey baked ham bone go to waste. Instead, use it to make ham stock, which you can then use to make these comforting sweet and spicy collard greens in a crockpot or slow cooker. You’ll discover that this flavorful side dish is truly a great accompaniment to almost any meal. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Pineapple and Bacon Collard Greens
Collard green lovers tend to cling to the classic trio of collards, smoked meat, and a splash of tangy vinegar. But with these tropical-inspired collard greens, pineapple is the star of the show. The pineapple’s fresh burst of acidity replaces the vinegar in traditional collard greens and pairs beautifully with bacon’s smoky, salty flavor. Spoon these tender, flavorful pineapple-infused collard greens over a bed of creamy Parmesan grits for a brilliant, unexpected treat. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Macaroni and Cheese Recipes
Creamy Simple Stovetop Gouda Mac & Cheese
This creamy mac and cheese recipe is made with just a handful of simple ingredients, including gouda cheese, milk, and heavy whipping cream. The addition of black pepper and sweet paprika gives this dish an extra kick of flavor, but can easily be left out for those who prefer a milder taste. Plus, you can easily swap in your preferred variety of pasta, making this recipe versatile and customizable. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting cheesy side dish to satisfy your cravings, this creamy stovetop macaroni and cheese is sure to become a family favorite. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Kale Macaroni & Cheese with Balsamic Vinegar
This veggie-packed macaroni and cheese has everything you love about a rich, creamy stovetop mac, plus fresh kale for a healthy kick and added texture. With just the right amount of gooey sharp cheddar and whole milk, this cozy pasta is super creamy without being overly rich. A slightly spicy yet tangy mix of hot sauce and balsamic vinegar stirred in before serving gives this cheesy side dish a sweet, spicy, tangy, delightfully unexpected, and dangerously easy-to-make flavor. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Sweet Potato Recipes
Maple & Honey Butter Crockpot Sweet Potatoes
After making sweet potatoes in a crockpot or slow cooker, you may never make them any other way. They are perfectly tender and ready to top with your favorite fixings after only six hands-off hours of slow cooking. In this simple recipe, these sweet potatoes are topped with a sweet and flavorful homemade butter infused with maple and butter. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Warm Cranberry & Jalapeño Sweet Potato Salad
This warm side salad is made using oven-roasted sweet potatoes and cranberries, which are tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, along with chopped scallions, finely diced jalapeño, and fresh parsley. This unique and flavorful summer potato salad just goes to show you that sweet potatoes and cranberries aren’t just for Thanksgiving anymore. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Stuffing Recipes
Make-Ahead Loaded Veggie Corn Bread Stuffing
Thanksgiving day is always hectic. So, why not make your holiday a little easier with this make-ahead side dish? This loaded veggie corn bread stuffing is chock-full of diced carrots, celery, and onion, with just the right amount of butter, cream, and chicken broth to make it extra flavorful and moist. And, by prepping the stuffing ahead of time, you’ll have more time to relax with your family and friends on the big turkey day. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Whiskey-Soaked Raisin Baked Stove Top Stuffing
While store-bought boxed stuffing mixes offer a convenient quick-fix addition to any holiday meal, elevating them with a few simple ingredients can help transform them into a mouthwatering side dish your entire family will look forward to. With the addition of whiskey-soaked golden raisins, dried parsley, dried minced onion, finely ground black pepper, and crunchy diced celery, you’re sure to impress your guests with this easy and delicious baked stuffing side dish this holiday season. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Biscuit Recipes
Buttery Everything Bagel Seasoning Biscuits
Are you ready to take your biscuit game to the next level? Look no further than this delicious and buttery biscuit recipe. Made with everything bagel seasoning and simple pantry ingredients, these biscuits are the perfect balance of crispy and flaky on the outside, and soft and tender on the inside. The addition of butter, garlic, and onion, along with sesame and poppy seeds, adds a burst of flavor to every bite. These biscuits are both easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, so get ready to treat yourself to some buttery everything bagel seasoning biscuit amazingness. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Savory Canned Pumpkin Drop Biscuits
If you’re the kind of person who dreads baking any type of bread with yeast, drop biscuits are the ideal alternative. These particular drop biscuits are made with canned pumpkin, giving them a unique orange hue. Not only do they look stunning, but they’re also buttery, savory, and truly delicious. Especially when eaten straight from the oven. They also make the perfect easy-to-make accompaniment to any holiday meal, since they require minimal effort. If you’re looking for a delicious and effortless side dish, these drop biscuits are the way to go. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Muffin Recipes
Apple Cornbread Muffins with Cinnamon Icing
Studded with crisp, fresh diced red apples and drizzled with sweet cinnamon powdered sugar icing, these apple cornbread muffins are the perfect morning pick-me-up. But don’t let the sweet icing fool you. These delicious fruit-filled cornbread muffins are just as at home tucked beside a steaming bowl of savory chili or soup as they are served alongside your morning coffee or tea. And while you could leave the icing off for dinner, let’s be honest, why would you ever want to? CLICK HERE for the recipe.
Buttery Cinnamon Pumpkin Muffins
Nothing says autumn like the smell of pumpkin muffins baking on a crisp fall day. Made with ground cinnamon, canned pumpkin, butter, and a healthy dose of vanilla, these muffins are sure to be a hit with everyone. They have a super-moist texture and a sweet, buttery flavor that’s pretty hard to resist. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast, as a special occasion dessert treat, or even share them with friends as a way to welcome autumn. CLICK HERE for the recipe.
PIN THESE RECIPES
Don’t let these recipes slip away. How often do you find a recipe intriguing, yet forget where to find it when you finally get the hankering to make it? Instead of digging through old posts or wandering aimlessly around on the internet, why not Pin this recipe to Pinterest where you can find it when you eventually need it? Simply Pin the image above and you’ll have it when that time comes. You can follow us HERE on Pinterest or simply click HERE to find all of our pin-worthy recipes.
