Thanksgiving sneaks up fast—but planning ahead means less stress and more flavor. Whether last year’s sides were a hit or a miss, this is your chance to level up the menu. From creamy crockpot mac and cheese to maple-roasted Brussels sprouts, these easy-prep dishes bring cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort without last-minute panic. Trust me—you’ll want every single one on your table this year.

Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese (Ultra Creamy & Cheesy)

Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese (Ultra Creamy & Cheesy). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This slow cooker mac and cheese is irresistibly creamy and cheesy, making it a no-fail family favorite. With minimal prep and maximum comfort, it’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it dish—just cook the pasta first and let the slow cooker do the rest.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese (Ultra Creamy & Cheesy)

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes (Crisp & Easy)

A rectangular baking dish filled with roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potato cubes. A gray cloth is to the left, with a small bowl of sauce and a fork nearby. A small bowl of spices is at the top.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes (Crisp & Easy). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes come together for a quick, flavorful side with crispy edges and bold seasoning. It’s an easy dish that works just as well for weeknights as it does for holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes (Crisp & Easy)

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes (Creamy & Effortless)

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes (Creamy & Effortless). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

These Crockpot mashed potatoes are creamy, buttery, and perfect for hands-off holiday prep or weeknight comfort. They’re an easy make-ahead side that brings cozy flavor without the hassle of boiling.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Mashed Potatoes (Creamy & Effortless)

Green Tomato Casserole with Cheese and Crackers

Green Tomato Casserole with Cheese and Crackers. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Green tomato casserole is a classic Southern dish with layers of tangy tomatoes, sweet onion, seasoned cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a warm and comforting side for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Green Tomato Casserole with Cheese and Crackers

Crock Pot Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes

Crock Pot Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This cheesy hash brown potato recipe for the crock pot is quick to prep and perfect for feeding a crowd. Creamy, cheesy, and effortlessly delicious, it’s a no-fuss side dish everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes

Instant Pot Baked Beans (Smoky & Sweet)

Instant Pot Baked Beans (Smoky & Sweet). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Instant Pot baked beans combine smoky and sweet flavors for a warm, comforting side that’s easy to prepare. With bold seasoning and a hint of molasses, they’re perfect for potlucks or weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Baked Beans (Smoky & Sweet)

Cream Cheese Deviled Eggs (Easy & Flavorful)

Cream Cheese Deviled Eggs (Easy & Flavorful). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Cream cheese deviled eggs are a smooth, tangy twist on the classic appetizer, ready in under 40 minutes. Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or potlucks, they’re flavorful bites that always disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Deviled Eggs (Easy & Flavorful)

Southern Fried Apples with Cinnamon & Butter

Southern Fried Apples with Cinnamon & Butter. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Southern fried apples are tender, buttery, and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg for a nostalgic treat. Serve them as a comforting side or top with vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Apples with Cinnamon & Butter

Classic Amish Potato Salad with Tangy Dressing

Classic Amish Potato Salad with Tangy Dressing. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Amish potato salad is a creamy, tangy side dish made with tender potatoes and a sweet vinegar-based dressing. A staple at picnics and potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleaser rooted in tradition.
Get the Recipe: Classic Amish Potato Salad with Tangy Dressing

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts (5-Minute Prep)

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts (5-Minute Prep). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Maple roasted Brussels sprouts are sweet, savory, and caramelized to perfection. With minimal ingredients, this oven-roasted side adds seasonal flavor to any meal with ease.
Get the Recipe: Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts (5-Minute Prep)

Tangy Pickled Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs

Tangy Pickled Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Pickled potatoes are a zesty, garlicky side that adds bold flavor and crunch to any meal. Easy to prep ahead, they’re a unique and memorable addition to your table.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Pickled Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs

Ranch Style Beans (Easy Tex-Mex Side Dish)

Ranch Style Beans (Easy Tex-Mex Side Dish). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Ranch-style beans offer bold Tex-Mex flavor with smoky spices and tender pinto beans. It’s a hearty and satisfying side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or Southwestern meals.
Get the Recipe: Ranch Style Beans (Easy Tex-Mex Side Dish)

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans with Smoky Flavor

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans with Smoky Flavor. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This easy copycat chipotle black beans recipe brings bold, smoky flavor and authentic spices to your table. Great as a side or in burrito bowls, tacos, and more.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans with Smoky Flavor

Green Beans and Mushrooms (Simple & Fresh)

Green Beans and Mushrooms (Simple & Fresh). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Learn how to cook green beans and mushrooms to perfection with this simple, step-by-step guide. Achieve tender yet crisp veggies every time—no sogginess here.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Mushrooms (Simple & Fresh)

Crock Pot Boston Baked Beans

Crock Pot Boston Baked Beans. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Crock Pot baked beans are sweet, smoky, and hearty, making them a go-to for potlucks and family meals. With minimal prep and rich flavor, this recipe is always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Boston Baked Beans

Creamy Corn Casserole with Baked Cheese Topping

Creamy Corn Casserole with Baked Cheese Topping. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Baked corn casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with sweet corn flavor. With just 15 minutes of prep, it’s a comforting side dish ideal for holidays or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Corn Casserole with Baked Cheese Topping

Homemade Applesauce with Warm Fall Flavors

Homemade Applesauce with Warm Fall Flavors. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This homemade applesauce simmers with cozy cinnamon and sweet apples, delivering all the flavors of fall in one comforting bowl. Simple to make and deeply nostalgic, it’s a seasonal favorite with heartwarming roots.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Applesauce with Warm Fall Flavors

Sweet Potato Cornbread (Southern-Style Favorite)

Sweet Potato Cornbread (Southern-Style Favorite). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Sweet potato cornbread adds a flavorful twist to the classic with a hint of cinnamon and a tender, moist crumb. Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a Southern-style favorite that sneaks in a bit of extra veggie goodness.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread (Southern-Style Favorite)

Southern Sweet Potato Pudding with Spices

Southern Sweet Potato Pudding with Spices. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Sweet potato pudding is a warm, spiced Southern dessert that’s creamy, lightly sweetened, and baked to golden perfection. It’s nostalgic comfort in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pudding with Spices

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

This sweet potato casserole is smooth and creamy, topped with gooey marshmallows for that classic holiday touch. Sweet, comforting, and festive—it’s a must for the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping

Peach and Sweet Potato Casserole with Crumble

Peach and Sweet Potato Casserole with Crumble. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Sweet potato casserole with peaches blends creamy sweet potatoes and juicy peaches under a buttery crumble topping. It’s a warm, fruity twist on a holiday staple that’s both comforting and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Peach and Sweet Potato Casserole with Crumble

Moist Southern Cornbread Dressing

Moist Southern Cornbread Dressing. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Cornbread dressing is a Southern must-have, baked until golden with savory herbs and rich cornbread flavor. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any comforting meal, it’s a dish full of tradition and warmth.
Get the Recipe: Moist Southern Cornbread Dressing

Sweet Potato Cranberry Almond Stuffing Bake

Sweet Potato Cranberry Almond Stuffing Bake. Photo credit: An Immigrant’s Table.

These gluten-free almond tuile cookies are light, crisp, and delicately flavored with orange zest and vanilla. Perfect for pairing with tea or serving as a refined treat any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cranberry Almond Stuffing Bake

Air Fryer Japanese Sweet Potatoes (Caramelized & Easy)

Air Fryer Japanese Sweet Potatoes (Caramelized & Easy). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Air fryer Japanese sweet potatoes are simple, flavorful, and caramelized on the outside with a tender interior. This easy recipe makes a great side or healthy snack with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Japanese Sweet Potatoes (Caramelized & Easy)

Roasted Purple Yams (Simple and Vibrant Side)

Roasted Purple Yams (Simple and Vibrant Side). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Roasted purple yams are a vibrant, flavorful twist on a classic side. With their naturally sweet taste and colorful presentation, they’re perfect for elevating everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Purple Yams (Simple and Vibrant Side)

Microwave Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar Glaze

Microwave Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar Glaze. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Microwave acorn squash is tender and sweet, finished with a caramelized brown sugar butter glaze. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a quick and cozy side that feels like fall.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar Glaze

Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole with Crunchy Topping

Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole with Crunchy Topping. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This cheesy hash brown casserole layers shredded potatoes, sharp cheddar, and a crunchy cornflake topping for the ultimate potluck side. It’s creamy, crispy, and always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole with Crunchy Topping

Skillet Potatoes au Gratin (Quick & Creamy)

Skillet Potatoes au Gratin (Quick & Creamy). Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Stovetop potatoes au gratin deliver creamy, cheesy goodness in one skillet and under 30 minutes. A quick and satisfying side for busy nights or special dinners.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Potatoes au Gratin (Quick & Creamy)

Stouffer’s Style Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Stouffer’s Style Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This Stouffer’s-style macaroni and cheese brings classic, oven-baked comfort to your table. Rich, cheesy, and satisfying, it’s a nostalgic favorite done right at home.
Get the Recipe: Stouffer’s Style Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy Cranberry Salad with Oranges and Pecans

Creamy Cranberry Salad with Oranges and Pecans. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

This easy cranberry salad mixes juicy cranberries, oranges, and pecans in a sweet whipped cream base for a refreshing and colorful side. It’s a festive, no-fuss addition to any table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cranberry Salad with Oranges and Pecans

Savory Cornbread Dressing with Herbs and Sausage

Savory Cornbread Dressing with Herbs and Sausage. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Jiffy cornbread dressing is rich, savory, and full of comforting flavor from cornbread, herbs, and sausage. It’s a go-to side for holidays or hearty meals that need a Southern touch.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cornbread Dressing with Herbs and Sausage

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