37 Mouthwatering Thanksgiving Potato Side Dishes for a Stress-Free Holiday Feast

Sandra Walker

September 9, 2025

Holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the inevitable craving for comforting foods that warm the heart and soul. For me, this means indulging in all things potato-related. The chilly weather outside seems to awaken my passion for hearty dishes that bring people together, and what better way to achieve this than with a delicious potato recipe? Whether you’re a fan of mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or baked potatoes, the humble spud has a special place in many hearts.

If you share my enthusiasm for all things potato, then you’ve come to the right place! Below, I’ll be sharing an impressive collection of 37 Thanksgiving potato recipes that are sure to make your holiday feast even more memorable.

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s time to think about side dishes that are not only easy to prepare but also pack a punch when it comes to flavor and texture. This casserole recipe delivers on both fronts, with every mouthful bursting with delicious flavors from the smoky bacon, tangy sour cream, and melted cheese. It’s essentially a fully-loaded baked potato in casserole form – but trust me, this dish is so much more than just a variation of a classic favorite.

In fact, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Irish Mashed Potatoes (Colcannon)

Irish Mashed Potatoes (Colcannon)

Adding an extra layer of indulgence to traditional mashed potatoes is what makes Irish mashed potatoes truly special. While they may look and taste similar to the classic spuds you’re familiar with, the addition of a generous helping of butter elevates them to a whole new level. The richness it brings to every bite is nothing short of exceptional.

Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes

Zeroing in on comfort food classics, this recipe for funeral potatoes is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Not only is it an absolute blast to make and enjoy, but the combination of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for more. The star of the show here is the cornflake coating, which adds a delightful crunch to each bite that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving these potatoes at a potluck, a funeral gathering (hence the name!

), or a festive occasion like Christmas or Thanksgiving, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Garlic and Chive Mashed Potatoes

Garlic and Chive Mashed Potatoes

Just imagine sinking your teeth into a plate of creamy, delicious mashed potatoes that are incredibly easy to make. Juggling a busy schedule during the holidays can be challenging, but this recipe requires only a few simple ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time, making it perfect for a quick yet impressive side dish. Join in on the festivities by pairing them with turkey and a rich, savory gravy for a truly memorable holiday meal.

Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Looking for a way to take your mashed potatoes to the next level? Adding cream cheese is a game-changer. When you try this method, you’ll be able to create a rich and creamy side dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. To make it happen, simply cook your potatoes as you normally would, then mix in a generous amount of cream cheese while mashing them. The end result is nothing short of amazing – a comfort food classic that’s so good, you’ll find yourself craving it all the time.

Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped Potatoes

Not only do scalloped potatoes possess an undeniable allure, but they also boast an unbeatable combination of textures. The rich and buttery flavor is perfectly balanced by the tender softness within, while the crispy topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s little wonder that this comforting dish has secured a special spot in my heart. What can seem daunting at first – making homemade scalloped potatoes from scratch – becomes surprisingly accessible with this recipe.

With its clear instructions and streamlined process, you’ll be on your way to creating a mouthwatering batch of sliced spuds in no time, all within the span of under an hour.

Lighthouse Inn Potatoes

Lighthouse Inn Potatoes

Beyond the allure of its visually appealing presentation, this recipe for Lighthouse Inn Potatoes has become synonymous with comfort food. Hailing from the Colonial Revival Hotel in New London, Connecticut, where it gained fame, these potatoes boast an exceptional texture that complements their silky sauce and crunchy panko topping perfectly.

Though the hotel itself may have ceased operations, the enduring popularity of this recipe ensures its continued relevance as a sought-after addition to Thanksgiving gatherings.

Easy Oven Roasted Potatoes

Easy Oven Roasted Potatoes

You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up mouth-watering oven-roasted potatoes with this incredibly straightforward recipe. Even the most novice home cook can easily prepare this dish, thanks to its simplicity. All you have to do is dice your potatoes, give them a good seasoning, and pop them in the oven for 30 minutes. After that short waiting period, these crispy spuds are ready to impress family and friends alike.

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice Baked Potatoes

Hailed as a party favorite, these twice-baked spuds are sure to be the star of any gathering. The time-consuming aspect is actually a minor drawback, as they’re surprisingly easy to prepare. Most of the cooking process involves baking in the oven, allowing you to multitask and attend to other tasks while the potatoes do their magic.

Each bite perfectly balances rich buttery potatoes with a tangy kick from the sour cream and satisfying crunch from the crispy bacon, resulting in an irresistibly delicious treat that’s sure to have your guests clamoring for the recipe.

Whipped Sweet Potatoes

Whipped Sweet Potatoes

Here’s a key component you shouldn’t miss at your Thanksgiving dinner: whipped sweet potatoes. The reasons for incorporating them into your menu are numerous, but primarily it comes down to their effortless preparation and exceptional taste. With only 7 ingredients required, the cooking process is incredibly simple.

What sets these spuds apart, however, is their minimalist seasoning, which allows the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes to take center stage, creating an unforgettable flavor experience.

4-Ingredient Potato Soup

4-Ingredient Potato Soup

Often, simplicity is key to creating a dish that’s truly unforgettable. Take, for instance, this 4-ingredient soup recipe that has left many skeptics speechless. The rich, buttery texture in every spoonful is nothing short of remarkable. What’s behind this culinary magic? A combination of onion, celery, potatoes, and cream, carefully combined to produce a cozy masterpiece that embodies the warmth of winter.

No snow-filled evening would be complete without warming up with a bowl of this comforting soup at least once.

Potatoes Au Gratin

Potatoes Au Gratin

Delighting guests with a warm, cheesy, and comforting side dish is what potatoes au gratin excels at on my Thanksgiving table. The recipe’s popularity is evident when I return home with an almost-empty casserole dish, a testament to its enduring appeal. To elevate this classic recipe to new heights, it’s essential to incorporate a few clever techniques that make all the difference.

For instance, blending Gruyere and cheddar cheese adds a rich, smoky depth to the dish, while dry mustard is the unsung hero that introduces a subtle tanginess to the sliced potatoes.

Easy Old-Fashioned Creamed Potatoes

Easy Old-Fashioned Creamed Potatoes

Made from scratch with minimal effort, these old-fashioned creamed potatoes are an excellent side dish option for holiday meals. Each bite offers a rich and satisfying experience, boasting a silky texture and subtle undertones of smoky paprika that elevate the dish. Additionally, they can be prepared in as little as 15 minutes, making them an ideal choice for those occasions when a last-minute addition to the dinner menu is required.

Amish Potato Stuffing

Amish Potato Stuffing

Knowing that comfort foods are often associated with nostalgia and warmth, it’s no wonder why this Amish potato stuffing stands out as a top contender. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, crunchy breadcrumbs, and fragrant sage is a match made in heaven. To take this dish to the next level, don’t forget to finish it off with a generous drizzle of rich gravy, adding an extra layer of flavor and indulgence to this already-satisfying side dish.

Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to try or a classic to revisit, this Amish potato stuffing is sure to become a family favorite.

Potato Cakes

Potato Cakes

Although you might be feeling overwhelmed by the abundance of post-holiday mashed potatoes, there’s no need to worry about wasting them. Instead, put your leftovers to good use by transforming them into a delicious batch of potato cakes.

Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes

Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes

Undoubtedly, one of the most winning combinations in the culinary world is cheese, bacon, ranch, and potatoes. It’s hard to go wrong with these classic ingredients that are staples in many cuisines. When you bring all four of these delectable components together, you get a side dish that’s not only mouth-watering but also incredibly flavorful. This particular recipe is perfect for elevating plain mashed potatoes into an extraordinary treat that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Rosemary Roasted Potatoes

Rosemary Roasted Potatoes

Fresh from the kitchen, rosemary and potatoes are a match made in heaven, reminiscent of classic pairings like peanut butter and jelly. There’s something inherently comforting about this timeless flavor combination that’s hard to resist. Do you share this sentiment? If so, you’ll be thrilled with this fantastic recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for a quick and delicious meal.

Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions

Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions

With the holidays just around the corner, you’re likely on the hunt for some delicious recipes to wow your guests. Whether you need a side dish for Thanksgiving or a tasty accompaniment for brunch, this pan-fried potatoes and onions recipe is sure to hit the spot. Every bite of these crispy, golden treats will melt in your mouth with their rich, savory flavor, leaving you wanting more. This versatile dish will serve as a perfect addition to your holiday menu, no matter what the occasion may be.

Loaded Twice-Baked Red Potatoes

Loaded Twice-Baked Red Potatoes

Just imagine sinking your teeth into a bite-sized delight that’s packed with twice the flavor of its full-sized counterpart. Miniature versions of these twice-baked potatoes are not only irresistibly adorable but also incredibly convenient as a finger food for holiday gatherings. The instant you pop one of these small, yet satisfying treats into your mouth, you’ll be rewarded with an intense sensation of creamy, savory goodness that’s sure to leave you wanting more.

If this culinary dream sounds like the epitome of gastronomic bliss to you, then it’s time to check out our simple recipe and bring this indulgent delight to life in your own kitchen.

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Finding yourself craving the signature dishes from Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse? Look no further! This copycat recipe brings you one of their best-kept secrets, a sweet potato casserole that will exceed your expectations. Every bite is a masterful balance of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes perfectly complemented by the savory notes and the satisfying crunch of crispy pecans.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just looking for a delicious side dish to elevate your meals, this recipe is a must-have for any occasion.

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Generally speaking, air fryers have become a staple in many home kitchens, and for good reason. By harnessing the power of hot air, they allow users to achieve crispy fried foods with minimal oil usage, saving time and calories. One of the standout features of an air fryer is its versatility in cooking potatoes – take potato wedges as a prime example.

With these, you can go from prep to perfectly cooked in just half an hour, yielding a delightful balance of crunch on the outside and tender interior that’s simply irresistible.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet Potato Fries

Discovering the perfect snack for any occasion can be a daunting task, but look no further than these irresistible sweet potato fries. With a mere three ingredients – sweet potatoes, seasoning, and olive oil – you’ll be enjoying crispy perfection in no time. Whether you’re gearing up for a Friday night football party or just need a quick pick-me-up, this simple yet satisfying recipe is an absolute must-have for your kitchen arsenal.

Sweet Potato Frittata

Sweet Potato Frittata

Undoubtedly one of the most versatile dishes in Italian cuisine is the humble frittata. It’s a staple that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether you’re starting your morning off right with breakfast, taking a break for lunch, or ending your day with dinner.

Easy Cottage Potatoes

Easy Cottage Potatoes

Nothing says comfort food like a warm, cheesy casserole that’s easy to make. If you’re a self-proclaimed casserole aficionado, then you’re in for a treat with this recipe. Not only is it incredibly simple, but the flavor combination will leave you speechless. Imagine each bite packed with melted cheese, crunchy cornflakes adding a delightful textural element, and fluffy potatoes that melt in your mouth.

Ultra-Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Ultra-Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Not only does this recipe showcase the versatility of the humble potato, but it’s also ridiculously easy to prepare. To create these delicious bite-sized treats, simply follow a straightforward sequence: boil the potatoes until tender, then smash them with a fork to release their natural sweetness. Next, bake them in the oven until crispy and golden brown. Finally, drizzle with your favorite sauce or seasoning to add an extra burst of flavor.

Trust us, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked and will be making these potato wonders for every occasion imaginable.

Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselback Potatoes

Most people are familiar with Hasselback potatoes, and for good reason – they’re incredibly easy to make while looking like a dish from a high-end restaurant. Making them involves just two simple steps: first, slice the potatoes thinly while drizzling them with a butter mixture, then bake until golden brown. In the second step, insert layers of cheese between the slices before baking again, finishing off with a garnish of chives, bacon, or sour cream to add some extra flavor and texture.

Once you’ve completed these easy steps, you’ll be left with potatoes that are not only impressive in appearance but also packed full of flavor.

Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

Sink your teeth into the delightful baked potato casserole, which boasts an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. With each bite, the crunch of crispy bacon gives way to a rich and creamy sour cream topping, while tender potatoes add a satisfying depth to the dish. This versatile casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for last-minute gatherings or weeknight meals.

Whether you’re planning a special occasion like Thanksgiving or simply need a quick dinner solution, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Go to Recipe

Crockpot Baked Potatoes

Crockpot Baked Potatoes

Considering you’re short on time or oven space, there’s a convenient solution: using a slow cooker to bake potatoes. This clever method allows you to free up valuable oven real estate while still enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal. Simply wrap your spuds in foil and let them cook for around 8 hours, giving you ample time to focus on other tasks or head out to work without worrying about dinner prep.

Come home, add your favorite toppings, and you’ll have a ready-to-eat meal in no time – talk about effortless cooking!

Wingstop Fries

Wingstop Fries

Having satisfied your cravings for Wingstop’s signature flavor, it’s time to bring their mouth-watering fries into your own kitchen. This recipe lets you relive the experience without ever leaving home. A crucial component is the addition of a small amount of granulated sugar, which harmoniously balances out the savory flavors and adds a touch of subtle sweetness.

Scored Seasoned Baked Potatoes

Scored Seasoned Baked Potatoes

Delighting in a twist on traditional baked potatoes is a surefire way to get your taste buds dancing with excitement. Instead of settling for an ordinary spud, why not try taking it to the next level by scoring your potatoes before roasting? This simple yet effective technique allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the flesh, eliminating the need to overcompensate with toppings and resulting in a more balanced and satisfying dish.

Garlic Parmesan Duchess Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Duchess Potatoes

Zeroing in on creativity, this recipe showcases the versatility of potatoes in a visually stunning way.The presentation is undoubtedly fancy, but don’t be fooled – it’s surprisingly straightforward to execute.If you’ve had experience piping icing with a bag, you’ll find that the technique translates remarkably well to mashed potatoes.Simply swap out the frosting for a dollop of your favorite potato mash to create an artful and delicious appetizer.

Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Fresh from the kitchen, this delightful finger food is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving celebrations. With its ease of preparation, it’s an ideal pre-dinner snack that will leave your guests wanting more. Simply sauté sliced potatoes until crispy, melt a blend of cheeses over the top, and finish with a few carefully chosen toppings. Before you know it, these loaded baked potato bites will be ready to devour.

Mashed Potato Puffs

Mashed Potato Puffs

Versatile in its applications, these bite-sized potato puffs can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal. They are an excellent way to utilize leftover mashed potatoes and make for a fantastic party appetizer, side dish, or late-night treat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quick preparation time. When you take that first bite, the fluffy texture will surely impress you.

Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins

Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins

Wrapped up in a convenient package, this recipe makes use of leftover mashed potatoes to create a scrumptious breakfast treat. To make these muffins, you’ll need to mix the cooled mashed potatoes with cheddar cheese, chopped chives, and an egg. The mixture is then baked in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and ready to be devoured.

This recipe is particularly well-suited for a post-holiday breakfast, like Thanksgiving, when you’re likely to have leftover mashed potatoes on hand.

Potato Dinner Rolls

Potato Dinner Rolls

But the truth is, Thanksgiving dinner can be made or broken by one simple thing: the rolls. A mediocre roll can be a major letdown, especially if it feels like an afterthought. On the other hand, when they’re perfectly baked and deliciously flavored, you know the rest of the meal will follow suit. One way to ensure your Thanksgiving dinner is off the charts is by prepping a batch of these scrumptious potato dinner rolls in advance.

Each soft and fluffy roll is made for sopping up extra gravy and cranberry sauce – just what you need on Turkey Day. And let’s be real, it’s the slathering of honey butter that takes these rolls to a whole new level, elevating your entire holiday spread.

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

Known for its comforting and familiar taste, mashed potatoes are often overlooked as a canvas for creative flavor enhancements. By incorporating just one simple yet impactful ingredient, the humble spud can be transformed into an extraordinary dish. Adding a generous dollop of sour cream to the mix unlocks a burst of tangy freshness that perfectly complements the fluffy texture of the mash.

Once you’ve experienced this elevated take on a classic comfort food, it’s unlikely you’ll ever settle for ordinary mashed potatoes again.

37 Best Thanksgiving Potato Recipes

Just when you thought you’d seen the last of creative and delicious ways to prepare potatoes for Thanksgiving, think again. These five-star potato recipes are a masterclass in culinary excellence, with their perfect balance of flavors, textures, and presentation.

Instructions

Instructions

Begin by choosing a recipe that you’re eager to try, making sure it’s one that you’ve used before and is familiar with its preparation time. Next, take some time to gather all the necessary ingredients, checking that everything is fresh and within its expiration date. With these steps complete, you can then focus on preparing your dish, aiming to have it ready in 30 minutes or less.

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