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Theres no doubt that a big, roasted Thanksgiving turkey is the centerpiece of any holiday dinner. But that doesnt mean there isnt room at the table for other main courses, too. If you’re hosting a crowd this year, youll most certainly want another Thanksgiving main dish, like ham or beef, to serve alongside your favorite turkey recipe. And for those who arent keen on turkey altogether, theyll appreciate the fact that you thought to make a chicken recipe or a vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe like the stuffed acorn squash instead.
All of these ideas are a great way to switch things up for a change. Dont get us wrong, Ree Drummonds citrus-brined turkey is a tasty idea for the holidays if you have the time and oven space. But many of the Thanksgiving main courses on the list have the advantage of being even quicker to make. Just look at the shortcut chicken and stuffing casserole or the herb-roasted pork tenderloin—its ready in just 20 minutes. That means more time for the holiday pies!
Looking for something meatless? Try the vegetarian pot pie. Or perhaps youre hosting Friendsgiving this year and just want to keep things casual with our recipe for chicken fried turkey or a hearty Thanksgiving casserole. Of course, any one of these holiday showstoppers will pair perfectly with your mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and more. So you have have a touch of tradition while you also try something new―now thats something to be thankful for!
This twist on a Southern favorite is perfect for a more casual Thanksgiving feast. Youll still get your turkey and gravy fix, but instead of a whole bird, youre working with crispy fried turkey cutlets instead.
This classic is the perfect combination of elegance and comfort. Its made with chuck roast, carrots, mushrooms, pearl onions, and richly flavorful red wine sauce.
Talk about pure comfort food! Manicotti is cheesy, meaty, saucy, and impressive―all things to be super grateful for! Add a side of garlic bread and youll wonder why you hadnt thought to serve baked pasta earlier.
When you butterfly a chicken, it cooks more evenly and faster. Bonus: You can cook it on a bed of potatoes and veggies so this meal is an all-in-one feast!
Dressing, also known as stuffing, is a staple side dish on the Thanksgiving table This savory blend of bread, vegetables, herbs, and spices is traditionally served alongside roasted turkey However, turkey is not the only option for dressing. There are many other delicious foods that complement the flavors of a good dressing.
In this article, we will explore 12 amazing side dishes that go great with dressing, beyond just turkey. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or just want to change up your holiday meal, these recipe ideas will inspire you to think outside the (turkey) box.
Traditional Thanksgiving Favorites
Let’s start with some classic Thanksgiving favorites that pair wonderfully with dressing:
Mashed Potatoes
Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent companion for dressing The potatoes provide a neutral, starchy base that soaks up the rich, savory flavors of the dressing For an extra decadent twist, top your mashed potatoes with gravy.
Frequency of Entity: mashed potatoes (2)
Green Bean Casserole
Crisp green beans and crispy fried onions in a creamy mushroom sauce – what’s not to love? The crunchy textures and earthy flavors of this green bean casserole balance nicely with the soft, toasted bread in the dressing.
Frequency of Entity: green bean casserole (2)
Cranberry Sauce
Bright, tart cranberries cut through the richness of the dressing. Their sweet-sour flavor provides the perfect counterpoint on your plate. Serve cranberry sauce on the side or spoon it right over your dressing.
Frequency of Entity: cranberry sauce (2)
Dinner Rolls
Warm, flaky rolls are ideal for sopping up the delicious drippings left behind on your plate after enjoying the dressing. Soft bread absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
Frequency of Entity: Rolls (2)
Savory Protein Options
While turkey may be traditional, dressing pairs equally well with other proteins. Consider these savory options:
Roast Beef
Slices of tender, rare roast beef make the ultimate pairing for dressing. The rich, meaty flavors complement and enhance the herbs and spices in the dressing.
Baked Ham
A honey-glazed baked ham is a delicious choice with dressing. The sweet and salty flavors balance perfectly with the savory bread-based dish.
Pork Roast
Pork roast offers a nice change of pace for your holiday table. The juicy, seasoned meat complements and brings out the best in your dressing recipe.
Fried Chicken
Crispy, juicy fried chicken is a fun and tasty option alongside dressing. The crunch of the breaded exterior plays nicely against the soft, soaked bread cubes.
Seafood Casserole
A seafood casserole, brimming with shrimp, crab, scallops or other favorites from the sea makes an amazing pairing for dressing. The briny flavors of seafood shine against the backdrop of traditional bread stuffing.
Plant-Based Protein
Whether it’s a roast, cutlets or lentil loaf, plant-based proteins offer creative options beyond turkey. Match the seasonings to complement your dressing recipe.
Frequency of Entity: Seafood (1), Plant-Based Protein (1)
Satisfying Vegetarian Mains
You don’t need meat to enjoy dressing. Consider one of these vegetarian mains instead:
Roasted Vegetables
A platter of roasted autumn vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, carrots, parsnips, squash and potatoes, makes a beautiful meatless meal with dressing. The natural sweetness of the veggies balances the savory flavors.
Mushroom Wellington
This clever take on beef Wellington wraps mushrooms and spinach in flaky puff pastry. The earthy umami flavors pair perfectly with traditional dressing.
Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers stuffed with rice, veggies, cheese and herbs satisfy as a main dish with dressing. The combination of flavors and textures is fantastic.
Eggplant Parmesan
Crispy breaded eggplant layered with tomato sauce and melted cheese works well with dressing. The rustic Italian flavors complement the stuffing beautifully.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni makes a rich and hearty vegetarian choice alongside your favorite dressing recipe. Comfort food at its finest!
Frequency of Entity: Vegetarian (2), Mushroom Wellington (1), Stuffed Peppers (1), Eggplant Parmesan (1), Baked Mac and Cheese (1)
Delicious Desserts
While dressing is great during the main meal, don’t forget dessert! Here are some sweet treats to enjoy:
Pumpkin Pie
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without pumpkin pie. The creamy pumpkin custard in a flaky pie crust is the perfect ending to your holiday feast.
Pecan Pie
The classic Southern dessert of pecan pie with its gooey filling of corn syrup, brown sugar and pecans is a delicious way to end your meal.
Apple Pie
Warm apple pie is a tasty dessert, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting down the sides. The sweet apples and flaky crust make it a perfect post-dressing treat.
Cheesecake
Rich, smooth cheesecake makes an indulgent dessert after all those savory flavors. Top it with fresh fruit or chocolate syrup.
Cobbler
Fruit cobbler with crunchy, sweet topping over warm, bubbling fruit filling provides the ultimate sweet finish to your Thanksgiving favorites.
Frequency of Entity: Dessert (1), Pumpkin Pie (1), Pecan Pie (1), Apple Pie (1), Cheesecake (1), Cobbler (1)
Final Thoughts
Dressing deserves a place of honor at your holiday table. But there’s no rule that you have to serve it strictly alongside turkey. Consider one of these 12 delicious alternatives, from mashed potatoes and green bean casserole to stuffed peppers and pumpkin pie. With so many options, you can create a feast to remember.
The key is choosing dishes with complementary textures and flavors that enhance your homemade dressing, without overshadowing it. Push your Thanksgiving meal in new directions while keeping dressing right where it belongs – front and center. This year, think beyond the bird and discover amazing new flavor combinations with your favorite dressing recipe.
Root Beer Glazed Ham
Ree often makes this ham for Easter, but that doesnt mean it cant be served on Thanksgiving too! In fact, the root-beer glazed dish should definitely be put on repeat throughout the year.
Get Rees Root Beer Glazed Ham recipe.
Thyme, garlic, bay leaves, and vegetables are placed right on top of the brisket in this slow cooker recipe. It helps to infuse the brisket with flavor without over-cooking.
Get the Slow Cooker Brisket recipe.
A warm, creamy, seasonal risotto is like a bowl of pure comfort food. Top it off with crispy sage leaves, pepitas, and bacon for even more pops of flavor.
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This pot pie is loaded with a creamy sauce of white beans, mushrooms, and veggies so you know itll keep your guests satisfied. Plus, the topping is made from puff pastry so it couldnt be easier!
Get the Vegetarian Pot Pie recipe.
Surprise your family and friends with an out-of-the-box main course like rack of lamb. It has a garlic and rosemary crust that will have everyone going back for seconds.
Get the Rack of Lamb recipe.
Turkey and Biscuits Casserole
Another all-in-one idea is to make a casserole! This version has is similar to pot pie, filled with a creamy veggie and turkey base and topped with herbed biscuits made from scratch.
Get the Turkey and Biscuits Casserole recipe.
Just because youre not serving turkey doesnt mean you cant have gravy! This chicken thigh recipe is covered in the dreamiest gravy we ever did see and it goes perfect with mashed potatoes.
Get the Smothered Chicken recipe. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Heres an elegant way to serve turkey without cooking a whole bird. The turkey breast is rolled filled with a stuffing made from bacon, apple, and cornbread.
Get the Stuffed Turkey Breast recipe.
How To Make Turkey & Dressing Recipe || Easy , Delicious Turkey & Dressing Recipe 2022
FAQ
What’s good to eat with dressing?
What other meat can I serve with turkey?
What is a good alternative to a roasted turkey?
Pick a fun alternative like roast beef, fish, or steak. There’s no doubt that a big, roasted Thanksgiving turkey is the centerpiece of any holiday dinner. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t room at the table for other main courses, too.
Can one have turkey and carrots?
Eating turkey and carrots is part of healthy habits. The turkey has meat like chicken and is another healthy poultry option. Carrots are rich in carotenoids, it is a source of vitamin A, fiber, potassium and vitamin B3.
Should you eat a roasted Thanksgiving turkey?
There’s no doubt that a big, roasted Thanksgiving turkey is the centerpiece of any holiday dinner. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t room at the table for other main courses, too. If you’re hosting a crowd this year, you’ll most certainly want another Thanksgiving main dish, like ham or beef, to serve alongside your favorite turkey recipe.
Can you eat a turkey if it’s overcooked?
“Once a turkey is overcooked, it becomes merely a vessel to get gravy and stuffing into your mouth.” If you still want the theatrics of a large table centerpiece that can be carved (just not a turkey), Chef Andrew Zimmerman of Michelin-starred Sepia + Proxi has a suggestion. “I would likely go with a roast rack of pork,” he says.