28 Potluck Sides Grandma Always Set Out Before the Turkey

Growing up, I can still picture those familiar potluck sides that Grandma proudly arranged long before the turkey ever made its grand entrance. She had this way of turning simple dishes into the warmest memories, and honestly, half the excitement was seeing what she set out first. It always felt like a cozy preview of the feast ahead, full of scents and flavors that hinted at the celebration to come. Just thinking about it brings back all those comforting holiday vibes.

Wild Rice with Roasted Grapes – A Savory-Sweet Holiday Side

 

Wild rice with roasted grapes combines nutty grains with caramelized grapes and herbs for a savory-sweet side. It’s a unique addition to any holiday table that feels both elegant and comforting.
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Crispy Roasted New Potatoes – Simple and Golden

Crushed and roasted new potatoes are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, delivering golden, crunchy edges every time. A simple, classic side that always disappears first.
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Oven-Roasted Yukon Gold Potatoes with Onions

Oven-roasted potatoes are golden and tender with perfectly crisp edges, seasoned to highlight their natural flavor. They pair effortlessly with turkey and other holiday favorites.
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Honey-Glazed Hasselback Sweet Potatoes

Hasselback sweet potatoes with honey and pecans get a warm spice boost from cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper. Make them ahead and warm just before serving for a show-stopping side.
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Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Topping

Hashbrown casserole is creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden, with tender shredded potatoes throughout. It’s a comforting dish that works at breakfast or beside the main meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Topping

Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is smooth, creamy, and nostalgic, a cozy addition to any holiday spread. Its sweet layers bring warmth to the table with every bite.
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Southern-Style Cornbread Dressing – Moist and Flavorful

Cornbread dressing blends crumbled cornbread with savory seasonings into a moist, golden side. A Thanksgiving classic, it pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy for a traditional touch.
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Savory Bread Pudding with Pesto and Mushrooms

Savory bread pudding transforms bread cubes into a custardy bake with cheese, vegetables, and seasonings. This versatile side adds both texture and flavor to any holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bread Pudding with Pesto and Mushrooms

Stove-Top Candied Sweet Potatoes – Classic Holiday Favorite

Candied sweet potatoes are tender and glazed in buttery sugar for a rich, caramelized finish. This Southern favorite balances sweet and savory, bringing a familiar warmth to the table.
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Creamy Skillet Corn – Southern Comfort in a Side

Creamed corn is tender corn simmered in a buttery, creamy sauce, slightly sweet and silky. A timeless side, it complements turkey and other holiday mains effortlessly.
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Peaches – A Sweet Twist

Sweet potato casserole with peaches combines smooth sweet potatoes and juicy fruit, topped with a buttery crumble. A bright twist on a classic holiday favorite.
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Smoked Italian Pasta Salad with Zesty Dressing

Smoked Italian pasta salad takes pasta salad to the next level with a subtle smoky flavor. It’s a potluck-friendly side that’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to serve.
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Crock Pot Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Crock Pot green beans are made with bacon, aromatics, and spices, all slow-cooked to tender perfection. A no-fuss side the whole family will reach for first.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Cream Cheese Deviled Eggs – Easy Crowd-Pleaser

Cream cheese deviled eggs are creamy, tangy, and smooth, blending cream cheese, mayo, and mustard. A quick, foolproof favorite for gatherings or holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Deviled Eggs – Easy Crowd-Pleaser

Green Bean and New Potato Salad with Honey Vinaigrette

Green bean salad is crisp and vibrant, tossed in a bright, flavorful dressing. It’s a refreshing side that pairs well with hearty mains or casual meals alike.
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Cheesy Corn Casserole with Ham – Comfort Side Dish

Corn casserole is soft, custardy, and baked to golden perfection, with a subtle sweetness. A comforting side that always earns a spot at the holiday table.
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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese with Pimentos

Pimento mac and cheese is rich, cheesy, and dotted with tangy pimentos. This Southern twist on a classic mac makes a crowd-pleasing comfort side.
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Roasted Butternut Squash Casserole with Wild Rice

Butternut squash casserole is creamy, slightly sweet, and topped with crunchy pecans. Perfect for autumn dinners or holiday meals that call for a cozy side.
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Kentucky Spoon Bread – Soft, Custardy, and Buttery

Spoon bread has a soft, custard-like texture that’s warmer and lighter than cornbread. A comforting Southern side that complements any holiday plate.
Get the Recipe: Kentucky Spoon Bread – Soft, Custardy, and Buttery

Creamy Red Cabbage Coleslaw with Tangy Dressing

Red cabbage slaw is crisp, vibrant, and tossed in a tangy dressing. It adds a refreshing pop of color and flavor to meats, sandwiches, or barbecue.
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Duchess Potatoes – Golden and Elegant Side

These showy roasted potatoes are surprisingly easy to make and perfect for both sides or appetizers. Their golden, crispy finish always draws attention.
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Scalloped Potatoes and Ham with Gruyere Cheese

Scalloped potatoes and ham are layered with tender potatoes, cheese, and savory ham. A hearty, comforting dish that works for potlucks or family dinners.
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Savory Butternut Squash Casserole with Bacon

Butternut squash casserole with bacon, mushrooms, and walnut crumble is rich, cozy, and irresistible. A holiday-ready side that disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Savory Butternut Squash Casserole with Bacon

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage and Apples

Stuffed acorn squash features roasted squash filled with grains, vegetables, and seasonings. A wholesome, hearty fall side that works as a main or accompaniment.
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Fruit and Nut-Stuffed Acorn Squash

Acorn squash stuffed with apples, cranberries, and nuts is sweet, tender, and warmly spiced. A fall favorite that brightens chilly evening dinners.
Get the Recipe: Fruit and Nut-Stuffed Acorn Squash

Candied Yams – Sweet and Buttery Holiday Classic

Candied yams are tender, spiced, and glazed with buttery sweetness. A classic holiday side that’s cozy, nostalgic, and always welcomed on the table.
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Skillet Charred Corn – Sweet and Smoky Side

Charred corn is smoky, sweet, and lightly caramelized, cooked until golden. A simple summer-inspired side that pairs well with meats or salads.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Charred Corn – Sweet and Smoky Side

Cheesy Vegetable Casserole – Easy Family Favorite

Cheesy vegetable casserole works with everything from chicken to steak or ribs. A reliable, comforting side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegetable Casserole – Easy Family Favorite

27 Thanksgiving Dishes Everyone Wishes They Had Thought Of First

Every year, when Thanksgiving rolls around, someone shows up with a dish so good it makes everyone at the table wonder why they didn’t come up with it first. From creative twists on classics to brand-new flavor mashups, these dishes have a way of stealing the spotlight.
Grab it here: 27 Thanksgiving Dishes Everyone Wishes They Had Thought Of First