22 Friendsgiving Sides That Play Nice Together

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Potato Casserole With Bacon

These creamy mashed potatoes are taken to the next level with a generous topping of smoky, savory bacon and a golden layer of crunchy bread crumbs. The combination of silky-smooth potatoes with the crisp, salty bite of bacon creates a comforting dish that feels both hearty and indulgent. Perfect for the holidays, this side dish can be made ahead of time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the celebration. It’s the kind of recipe that pairs beautifully with almost any main course and is sure to be one of the first dishes to disappear from the table.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole With Bacon

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole

This comforting dish brings together the natural sweetness of tender, slow-cooked sweet potatoes with a decadent topping of candied nuts and gooey, golden marshmallows. The slow cooker does all the work, making it a stress-free recipe that still delivers rich, homemade flavor. Each bite is the perfect balance of creamy potatoes, crunchy nuts, and melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite. It’s an easy side dish that feels special enough for the holidays but simple enough to enjoy any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole

Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

These creamy and flavorful Instant Pot mashed potatoes are the kind of side dish that everyone will be asking for seconds of. With the Instant Pot doing all the work, you get perfectly cooked, tender potatoes in just 8 minutes, making it a total game-changer for busy weeknights or holiday dinners. Once mashed, they turn out incredibly smooth, fluffy, and rich, with that comforting, homemade taste we all love. Whether you serve them with gravy, alongside roasted meats, or simply on their own, these mashed potatoes are bound to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Bacon Jalapeno Spoon Bread

This spoon bread recipe is the ultimate comfort food, with a soft, moist, and creamy texture that makes every bite irresistible. The rich, cheesy goodness melts beautifully into the bread, while the crispy bacon adds just the right amount of crunch and smoky flavor. It’s a simple dish to make, yet it feels special and always gets plenty of compliments around the table. My family looks forward to it every time I serve it, and it’s quickly become one of our go-to recipes for both weeknights and gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Jalapeno Spoon Bread

Green Bean Casserole From Scratch

This rich and comforting holiday side dish is made with a creamy homemade mushroom sauce that feels both hearty and indulgent. It’s finished with a crispy layer of DIY French fried onions on top, adding just the right amount of crunch to balance out the creaminess underneath. Not only does it look beautiful on the table, but it’s also surprisingly practical since you can prepare it ahead of time, making holiday cooking a little less stressful. With its cozy flavors and irresistible textures, this dish is sure to be a favorite that family and guests will look forward to year after year.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole From Scratch

Carrot Casserole

This Carrot Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with just the right touch of sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon. The warm spices pair beautifully with the creamy, smooth texture, making every bite taste like a hug in a dish. It’s a versatile recipe that works wonderfully as a unique side dish for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving, but it’s also sweet enough to serve as a simple dessert. Whether you enjoy it alongside a savory main course or as the finishing touch to a meal, this casserole is sure to bring warmth and nostalgia to the table.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Casserole

Jiffy Cornbread Dressing

Give your Thanksgiving table a delicious update with this Jiffy cornbread dressing that blends tradition with a touch of modern comfort. It takes the warm, savory flavors of classic Southern dressing and pairs them with the slightly sweet, tender crumb of buttermilk cornbread, creating the perfect balance in every bite. The seasonings are simple yet spot-on, allowing the cornbread’s natural flavor to shine while still tasting rich and satisfying. Best of all, it’s an easy recipe to put together, so you can spend less time stressing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday with your loved ones. This side dish is sure to become a favorite that guests will look forward to year after year.
Get the Recipe: Jiffy Cornbread Dressing

Roasted Acorn Squash

If you’re searching for a Thanksgiving side dish that’s both easy to make and sure to impress, this Roasted Acorn Squash is the perfect choice. With just a handful of ingredients—Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a sprinkle of herbs—you can transform humble squash into a beautifully golden, flavorful dish. The Parmesan adds a savory, nutty crunch, while the olive oil keeps the squash tender and rich. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to shine on your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Acorn Squash

Almond, cranberry and sweet potato stuffing casserole

This almond, cranberry, and sweet potato stuffing is a delicious twist on a classic holiday favorite, bringing together both sweet and savory flavors in every bite. The natural sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with tart cranberries, while the crunch of almonds adds just the right amount of texture. To make it even more special, a berry granola topping is sprinkled over the top, giving it a unique flavor and satisfying crunch that sets it apart from traditional stuffings. It’s the kind of dish that feels comforting yet unexpected, making it a standout addition to any Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Almond, cranberry and sweet potato stuffing casserole

Shrimp and Grits Dressing

Shrimp and Grits Dressing takes a beloved Southern favorite and gives it a festive Thanksgiving twist, making it a standout addition to your holiday table. Creamy, flavorful grits are combined with tender shrimp and savory seasonings to create a side dish that feels both comforting and excitingly different. It’s the perfect recipe to surprise your guests with at Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving, offering a unique spin on traditional dressing. Rich, hearty, and full of flavor, this dish is sure to spark conversation and quickly become a new holiday favorite that everyone looks forward to year after year.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Dressing

Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked mac and cheese is one of those timeless comfort foods that never goes out of style, no matter the season. Its rich, creamy cheese sauce and golden, crispy topping make it a dish that feels just as fitting at a festive holiday table as it does on a quiet weeknight at home. Whether you’re serving it alongside a big family feast or enjoying it as the star of a cozy dinner, it always brings that warm, nostalgic feeling to the table. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults look forward to with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mac and Cheese

Sweet Potato Wedges

These seasoned sweet potato wedges are the kind of dish that can do it all—whether you’re looking for a tasty side, a fun appetizer, or just a quick snack to munch on. Each wedge is coated in just the right amount of seasoning, giving you a burst of flavor with every bite. They’re baked until golden and crisp on the outside while staying soft and tender on the inside, making them completely irresistible. Simple to make yet so satisfying, they’re a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast no matter when you serve them.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

This Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a show-stopping side dish that’s perfect for the holidays or any special meal. The cauliflower roasts to tender perfection on the inside while developing a beautifully golden, crisp exterior that’s full of flavor. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and comes together in about 30 minutes. The buttery finish adds a rich, comforting touch that pairs wonderfully with any main course. It’s one of those dishes that looks impressive on the table but is surprisingly effortless to make.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Amish Macaroni Salad

Amish macaroni salad is a creamy, slightly sweet side dish that’s perfect for any gathering, from family dinners to summer picnics. It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly, yet the flavors are rich and comforting. Each bite is a delightful mix of tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a lightly sweet dressing that keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s the kind of salad that feels homemade and nostalgic, bringing a little extra warmth to your table. Truly, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

These Sautéed Cast Iron Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are the perfect side dish for any meal, bursting with savory, smoky flavor. Crispy bacon pairs beautifully with tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts, creating a combination that’s simple yet irresistible. With just five ingredients and a single cast iron skillet, this recipe comes together quickly and keeps cleanup easy. It’s a hassle-free way to add a delicious, homemade touch to your weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. Every bite is full of flavor, making it one of those dishes everyone will keep going back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Smoked Boursin Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes take comfort food to the next level with the creamy, indulgent addition of Boursin cheese. A subtle hint of smokiness adds depth and a savory richness that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, they feel both cozy and a little luxurious at the same time. Whether served alongside a weeknight dinner or at a special holiday gathering, these potatoes are guaranteed to impress. You’ll love how effortlessly they turn a simple classic into something truly gourmet.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Boursin Mashed Potatoes

Pretzel Ale Stuffing

This Pretzel Ale Stuffing is a fun and flavorful twist on a holiday classic, blending soft, chewy pretzel buns with a splash of pale ale and a hint of tangy mustard. Each bite is rich and savory, with a subtle Bavarian flair that makes it feel special on any festive table. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables. The combination of textures—from the soft bread to the lightly crisped edges—makes every mouthful a delight. Your guests are sure to be impressed by this unique, cozy side that brings something unexpected and delicious to the holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Pretzel Ale Stuffing

Crawfish Cornbread Dressing

This crawfish cornbread dressing is pure comfort in every bite. Juicy crawfish tails mingle with smoky sausage, buttery cornbread, and crisp, fresh vegetables, creating a rich and flavorful combination that warms the soul. A subtle hint of Cajun seasoning ties all the flavors together without overpowering them, making each mouthful irresistible. Perfectly hearty yet balanced, it’s the kind of dish that steals the spotlight at any Thanksgiving table. Pair it with your favorite holiday sides, and you’ve got a meal that family and friends will be talking about long after the feast is over.
Get the Recipe: Crawfish Cornbread Dressing

Roasted Murasaki Sweet Potato Salad

This Quick and Easy Roasted Murasaki Sweet Potato Salad is a colorful and flavorful addition to any holiday table. Roasted to perfection, the sweet potatoes bring a naturally sweet and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with a light, tangy dressing. With just five main ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a simple dish that doesn’t sacrifice taste. It’s versatile enough to serve as a hearty side or a satisfying main salad, and being both vegan and gluten-free, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all kinds of dietary preferences. Perfect for festive gatherings or a healthy weeknight meal, this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Murasaki Sweet Potato Salad

Broccoli au Gratin

This Broccoli au Gratin is pure comfort in every bite, rich and cheesy with a golden, crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping that makes it feel extra special. Roasting the broccoli instead of boiling or steaming brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor while keeping each piece tender and full of texture, all without a mountain of dishes to wash afterward. It’s a side dish that feels elegant enough for holiday dinners but easy enough to make ahead, so you can spend more time enjoying your guests. The combination of creamy cheese and crunchy topping creates a perfect balance that will have everyone asking for seconds. Truly, it’s a show-stopping dish that brings warmth and indulgence to your table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli au Gratin

Maple Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles

These maple bacon-wrapped green bean bundles are the kind of side dish that makes everyone at the holiday table smile. The crisp-tender green beans wrapped in smoky, sweet bacon create a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. They’re simple to make but feel extra special, adding a touch of indulgence to your festive spread. Whether you’re serving them alongside a roasted turkey or a hearty ham, they’re sure to be a favorite that disappears fast. This little bundle of goodness is proof that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most memorable.
Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles

Cranberry Jello Salad

This Cranberry Jello Salad is a festive and flavorful holiday side dish that everyone will love. Bursting with tart cranberries, crisp apples, crunchy celery, and toasted nuts, it’s a delightful mix of textures and tastes in every bite. The vibrant colors make it a beautiful addition to any holiday table, while the sweet-tart flavor keeps it refreshing and light. It’s surprisingly easy to make, especially when using fresh cranberries, so you can whip it up without any stress. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just adding a little holiday cheer to your meals!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Jello Salad