25 Thanksgiving Side Dishes That Steal the Spotlight

If you tend to pile your plate with Thanksgiving side dishes and forget about the turkey, this curated collection of healthy Thanksgiving side recipes is for you. From lighter mashed potatoes to homemade cranberry sauce, these recipes offer bright, flavorful takes on holiday favorites so you can enjoy tradition without overindulging.

Plate with turkey and Thanksgiving side dishes.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

Holidays are for celebrating, not strict dieting. These lightened-up Thanksgiving side dishes keep the flavors you love while trimming calories and fat so you still have room for dessert—think crustless pumpkin pie or a small slice of your favorite pie. Each recipe is tested to deliver the comfort and richness you expect from classic holiday fare, but with smarter ingredient swaps and straightforward techniques.

Here are a few reasons to choose these recipes for your Thanksgiving menu:

Reliable results: Every recipe is tried and tested so you can cook with confidence on the big day.
Make-ahead friendly: Many dishes can be prepared or partially assembled ahead of time, saving stress on Thanksgiving morning.
Balanced and flavorful: These sides reduce excess fat and sugar without sacrificing the textures and seasonings that make holiday food comforting and memorable.

For more ideas to build your Thanksgiving menu, check the Holiday Recipes collection for starters, mains, and make-ahead tips.

Lightened Up Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Sausage Stuffing Recipe

A fragrant stuffing where chicken sausage and fresh herbs bring bold, savory flavor without overwhelming richness.

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Sweet Potato Casserole with Praline Topping

Sweet potatoes are lightly sweetened with maple and a monk fruit substitute, topped with a crunchy praline for classic taste and fewer refined sugars.

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Broccoli Casserole Recipe

A creamy casserole that skips canned soup and relies on fresh ingredients and a crunchy cracker topping for texture.

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Spinach Gratin Recipe

A creamy, cheesy gratin with a touch of nutmeg that even spinach skeptics will enjoy alongside turkey and potatoes.

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Corn Casserole Recipe

This lighter corn casserole swaps in Greek yogurt for some of the heavier dairy to keep it moist and satisfying.

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Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

Buttermilk gives potatoes a tangy creaminess similar to sour cream but with less fat—perfect for lighter mashed potatoes.

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Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

A seasonal twist on mac and cheese where pureed butternut adds sweetness and nutrition without compromising comfort.

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Roasted Honeynut Squash Recipe

Honeynut squash is sweeter and smaller than butternut—roast it with a sprinkle of pecans for a simple, elegant side.

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Turkey Gravy Recipe

A reliable, family-tested turkey gravy that brings savory depth to mashed potatoes and roasted meats.

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Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

Individual twice-baked sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows make a nostalgic, shareable side dish everyone will enjoy.

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Slow Cooker Butternut Pear Soup

A vegan, dairy-free starter with a subtle ginger note—easy to make in the slow cooker and perfect before the main course.

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Cheddar Biscuit Recipe

Flaky cheddar biscuits are ideal for mopping up gravy and making leftovers taste even better the next day.

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Sweet Potato Gratin Recipe

A savory alternative to marshmallow-topped dishes—layers of sweet potato with a creamy sauce and melted gruyere.

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Cornbread Stuffing Recipe

If your family prefers cornbread stuffing, this recipe balances sweet cornbread with savory sausage for depth of flavor.

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Green Bean Casserole Recipe

A lighter green bean casserole made with cremini mushrooms, shallots, and Parmesan for rich flavor without the heaviness.

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The BEST 3-Ingredient Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Homemade cranberry sauce is quick and tastier than canned—this version adds tender pears for natural sweetness and texture.

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Corn Muffins

Bake and freeze these corn muffins ahead of time to simplify Thanksgiving morning and still serve fresh bread.

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Roasted Green Beans with Caramelized Onions

A fresh alternative to classic casseroles—roasted green beans tossed with sweet, jammy caramelized onions.

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Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

This favorite includes mini marshmallows plus golden raisins, crushed pineapple, and pecans for a layered texture and flavor profile.

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Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pears and Pomegranate

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad

A bright fall salad with pears, pomegranate seeds, pepitas, and goat cheese that balances bitterness and sweetness beautifully.

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Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta

Quickly pan-fried until crisp and browned, these Brussels sprouts get a salty boost from pancetta for a savory side.

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Butternut Squash Galette

A rustic galette that can serve as a main for vegetarians or a flavorful side dish for the whole table.

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Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

A flavorful twist on classic mashed potatoes—garlic adds a savory lift to creamy, crowd-pleasing spuds.

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Best Stuffing Recipe

A family staple inspired by a classic mom’s recipe—herby, aromatic, and finished with a touch of bacon for depth.

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Scalloped Potato Gratin Recipe

Thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes layered with cheese and a light buttery sauce make an elegant, comforting gratin.

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More Healthy Recipe Collections

10 Easy Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes
Thanksgiving Menu with Make Ahead Options
50 Pumpkin Recipes
23 Easy Crock Pot Chicken Recipes
50 Light and Healthy Soup Recipes

Whether you’re serving a full holiday feast or a simpler spread, these healthier side dishes provide classic holiday flavor with thoughtful swaps to keep the meal balanced and delicious. Plan ahead, pick a few make-ahead dishes, and enjoy a Thanksgiving that feels indulgent without excess.