24 Cheap and Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

Are you hoping to impress your family with some delicious Thanksgiving side dishes this year? I know I am! Even though we’ve retired and moved from Puerto Rico to the Philippines, I’m committed to keeping the Thanksgiving tradition alive in our home here. It’s a holiday we’ve always cherished back in Puerto Rico, and it’s one I want my son to grow up experiencing, no matter where we are.

As a mom, there’s nothing I enjoy more than preparing for the holidays, especially when it comes to cooking up a delicious meal that my family will love. This year, I decided to make Thanksgiving planning a bit easier by searching for affordable recipes that are both budget-friendly and full of flavor.

After spending some time browsing, I discovered some fantastic recipes that check all the boxes: simple, tasty, and easy on the wallet. So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your Thanksgiving menu, here’s my list of 24 cheap and easy Thanksgiving side dishes to bring a little extra comfort and joy to your table this year.

Delicious , Easy and Cheap Thanksgiving Side Dishes

1. Soft and Buttery Parker House Rolls 

Soft, fluffy, and perfectly buttery, Parker House Rolls are a classic side dish that never disappoints. Each roll is light and airy, with a golden brown crust that is brushed with melted butter for an irresistible finish. These rolls are a quintessential addition to any meal, adding a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the dining experience. 

Photo Credit: Cloudy Kitchen

2. Cheesy Grits Souffle Bake 

This fluffy, golden-brown masterpiece of cheesy goodness is a guaranteed delight for your taste buds. The creamy grits meld seamlessly with melted cheese, creating an irresistibly smooth and gooey texture. Each bite offers a rich, comforting flavor that makes this dish an unforgettable standout. Perfectly balanced and indulgent, it’s comfort food at its finest.

Photo Credit: Simply Recipes

3. Sweet Potato Casserole 

Indulge in the sweet and decadent flavors of this sweet potato casserole, topped with crunchy pecan streusel. The creamy sweet potatoes are perfectly seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a warm and comforting dish that is sure to please any palate.

Photo Credit: Once Upon a Chef

4. Chipotle Pumpkin Soup

This creamy and flavorful soup is the perfect way to start your Thanksgiving meal. The earthy sweetness of the pumpkin is perfectly balanced by the smoky heat of the chipotle peppers, creating a warm and comforting dish that will leave you craving more. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro for a touch of freshness.

Photo Credit: Simply Recipes

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Balsamic Syrup

These tender Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and then drizzled with a sweet, tangy balsamic glaze. The crispy bits of pancetta add a salty kick that balances out the flavors perfectly. 

Photo Credit: Just a Taste

6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes 

Creamy, velvety mashed potatoes infused with the rich, savory flavor of roasted garlic epitomize comfort food at its finest. Each fluffy bite is a heavenly blend of buttery goodness and aromatic garlic, making this side dish a must-have on any Thanksgiving table.

Photo Credit: The Kitchn

7. Easy Garden Salad 

The combination of assorted greens, colorful vegetables, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing adds a light and healthy element to the meal. This simple yet vibrant dish is a great option for those looking for a lighter alternative to the traditional Thanksgiving fare.

Photo Credit : Culinary Hill

8.  Roasted Butternut Squash 

With its crispy edges and tender center, roasted butternut squash is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. This simple yet elegant side dish is a wonderful way to add a touch of sophistication to any dining experience. 

Photo Credit: Love and Lemons

9. Green Bean Casserole

Fresh green beans smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions create a dish that is both decadent and comforting. With its savory flavors and crunchy texture, this classic casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.

10. Apple Salad with Maple-Mustard Vinaigrette

Who doesn’t love a good salad, especially when it’s packed with fresh apples and mixed greens tossed with a flavorful dressing? I’m always on the lookout for new healthy recipes to try out, so this one definitely made it onto my list. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys salads or just wants to eat a bit healthier.

Photo Credit: Taste of Home

11. Roasted Root Vegetables 

This dish is a delightful medley of colorful root vegetables, perfectly seasoned and roasted to caramelized perfection. The natural sweetness of the vegetables shines through in every bite, making it a satisfying addition to your holiday feast.

Photo Credit: Love and Lemons

12. Quick Creamed Spinach 

Creamed spinach is the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish for when you need something quick and easy to whip up. I love how you can throw it together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect dish for those last minute meal preparations.

Photo Credit: EatingWell

14. Roasted Green Beans 

I love cooking, but I also love saving time. These green beans get a delicious browned flavor from a quick trip to the oven, and the best part is you can customize them however you like. Add some garlic for a little extra kick, or sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.

Photo Credit: The Kitchn

15. Classic Stuffing 

No Thanksgiving meal would be complete without stuffing. This dish is made by combining cubed bread with onions, herbs, and broth, then baking it until it’s golden brown and crispy on top. The savory flavors and hearty texture of stuffing make it a Thanksgiving tradition that everyone looks forward to.

Photo Credit: Delish

16. Radicchio and Beets Salad 

One delightful side dish to enjoy during the holiday season is this fresh radicchio and beets salad. The mix of the earthy beetroot and bitter radicchio creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both satisfying and light.

Photo Credit: Bon Appetit

17. Wild Rice Pilaf 

Looking for a satisfying and healthy option to balance out all the rich and savory dishes on the table? Then you must try this wild rice pilaf recipe. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is a delicious way to add some depth and texture to your meal.

Photo Credit:  Chew Out Loud

18. Baked Macaroni and Cheese 

If you’re craving something cheesy and comforting, consider serving up a dish of baked macaroni and cheese. This ultimate comfort food features tender pasta coated in a luscious cheese sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden brown, this gooey and creamy side dish is sure to please everyone.

Photo Credit:  Feast and Farm

19.  Cheesy Grits Souffle Bake 

My son is a huge fan of anything cheesy, so I am sure he’ll love the dish! The gooey cheese mixed with the creamy grits is just perfection. And when  it bakes up all puffy and golden brown, it looks so impressive!

Photo Credit: Simply Recipes

20. Maple Glazed Carrots 

Sweet and tender, these maple glazed carrots are a delightful side dish that celebrates the essence of fall. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by a glossy maple glaze that adds a touch of indulgence.

Photo Credit: The Blond Cook

21. Slow Cooker Spicy Molasses Roasted Sweet Potatoes 

As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve tried my fair share of sweet potato recipes, but this one really stood out to me. The combination of jalapeno and stone-ground mustard added a whole new level of flavor to the dish. It’s a little spicy and a little sweet. I had never thought to pair sweet potatoes with these ingredients before, but now I can’t imagine having them together.

Photo Credit: Melanie Makes

22. Rustic Onion Tart 

This tart has this really cozy and rustic vibe to it, which I think is perfect for the holiday season when you want something warm and comforting to enjoy with family and friends. And the best part is, it won’t break the bank! You can easily use a store-bought pie crust instead of making one from scratch. 

Photo Credit: Simply Recipes

23. Cheesy Corn Casserole 

There is nothing quite like a serving of extremely cheesy corn casserole to brighten up your Thanksgiving meal. This creamy and indulgent dish is made with sweet corn kernels, melted cheese, and a touch of butter. With each bite, you’ll be transported to a place of pure savory goodness.

Photo Credit: Melanie Makes

24. Easy Homemade Corn Pudding 

A velvety concoction of sweet corn and creamy custard baked to perfection. With each spoonful, you can taste the richness of the corn, blending seamlessly with the subtle hints of butter and spices.

Photo Credit: Spend with Pennies 

Final Thoughts

I know firsthand how challenging and expensive it can be to plan for a big holiday feast like Thanksgiving. The grocery costs seem to keep going up, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the joy of sharing a special meal with your loved ones. 

The good thing is, you don’t need to splurge on extravagant side dishes to have a memorable and fabulous Thanksgiving feast. By getting crafty in the kitchen with budget-friendly recipes like the ones I’ve curated, you can enjoy your holiday experience without blowing your family budget.

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