As you start planning your Thanksgiving menu, you're probably thinking about how to add some seasonal flair to your traditional side dishes.
Apples are a natural fit, with their sweet and tangy flavor pairing perfectly with the warm spices and rich flavors of the holiday.
But where do you start? From savory apple and sausage stuffed squash to sweet apple and cranberry crisps, the possibilities are endless.
You're about to discover 25 delicious apple side dishes that will take your Thanksgiving table to the next level - and we're just getting started.
Apple Cider Glazed Carrots
Since autumn's chill sets in, the sweetness of carrots pairs perfectly with the tang of apple cider.
Creating a delightful harmony of flavors in Apple Cider Glazed Carrots.
You'll love how the sweetness of fresh apples enhances the carrots' natural sweetness, while the apple cider adds a rich, tangy depth.
This delicious side dish is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dinner during the holiday season.
Autumn Apple and Brie Salad
A few crisp autumn apples, sliced into thin wedges, elevate this Autumn Apple and Brie Salad from ordinary to extraordinary.
As their sweetness balances beautifully with the creamy richness of brie cheese.
This delicious addition to your apple side dishes features:
- Fresh apple slices from a sweet green apple or tart Granny Smith
- Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to add depth and complexity
- A light vinaigrette to tie all the flavors together, creating a delightful autumn treat
Baked Apple and Sweet Potato
Two to three tender sweet potatoes and a few crisp apples, peeled and cubed, come together in perfect harmony in this Baked Apple and Sweet Potato dish.
Its a delightful twist on traditional apple side dishes.
You'll love the sweet potatoes baked with tart apples, sautéed in apple butter and topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
Making this a welcome addition to your sweet potato casserole.
Caramelized Apple and Onion Tart
You're likely familiar with the classic combination of sweet potatoes and apples, but now it's time to explore another dimension of flavor with the Caramelized Apple and Onion Tart.
This side dish is a game-changer for Thanksgiving, offering a sweet and savory contrast.
Consider these key elements:
- Caramelized apples and onions in a creamy butter sauce
- A flaky, homemade pie crust that adds a satisfying crunch
- A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will elevate your Turkey Day spread
Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash
Pick up the flavors of fall with the Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash.
Its a hearty side dish that's sure to become a seasonal staple.
You'll roast the squash on a baking sheet, filling it with a savory mixture of sausage, apple, and shredded cheese.
Add some leafy greens and a pat of butter for extra flavor.
Serve alongside crescent rolls for a well-rounded Thanksgiving side dish.
Cranberry Apple Relish Recipe
As the savory flavors of the Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash linger on your palate, it's time to balance them out with a tangy and invigorating side dish.
This Cranberry Apple Relish Recipe is a perfect fit for your Thanksgiving table.
- Combine fresh cranberries, apple, and sugar for a sweet and tangy mix.
- Add a splash of orange juice for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Blend until creamy for a delicious, chunky relish that complements your Thanksgiving feast.
Apple Cider Braised Red Cabbage
Savoring the aroma of autumnal spices and the sweetness of apples, you'll find that Apple Cider Braised Red Cabbage is the perfect side dish to round out your holiday meal.
The sweetness of the apple cider balances the tang of the red onions, making it a crowd pleaser.
It pairs well with sweet potato balls and leek soup.
It can even hold its own against traditional apple pie and peanut butter treats on your Thanksgiving menu.
Maple Apple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Your taste buds will do the happy dance when you combine the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the richness of maple syrup and the crispness of apple.
This dish is a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving feast. Simply toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, sea salt, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Then roast at low heat until caramelized and tender.
- Roast Brussels sprouts at low heat to bring out their natural sweetness
- Add a hint of nutty flavor with a sprinkle of sea salt
- Balance the earthiness with the crispness of apple and the richness of maple syrup
Apple and Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf
You'll elevate any autumnal gathering with the Apple and Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf, a thoughtful blend of textures and flavors that's sure to impress.
This simple recipe is one of your favorite apple recipes, combining the sweetness of apple with the crunch of pecan and the nutty flavor of wild rice.
It's a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving side dishes, and it's even better than you remembered from last year.
Spiced Apple and Cranberry Compote
This Spiced Apple and Cranberry Compote is a masterclass in balancing sweet and tart flavors, with tender apples and cranberries infused in a fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
You'll love how it complements the warm spices in your butternut squash casserole. Try it as a twist on traditional cranberry sauce:
- Simmer apples, whole cranberries, and brown sugar in lemon juice until tender
- Add a hint of citrus with mandarin oranges or green grapes
- Serve at room temperature, perfect for pairing with cream cheese-topped crackers
Apple and Cheddar Frittata Bites
Savoring the flavors of autumn, Apple and Cheddar Frittata Bites bring together the comforting warmth of apples and the richness of cheddar in a convenient, bite-sized package.
You'll love how they complement your Thanksgiving table's other side dishes, like broccoli apple salad, without overpowering the main course. T
hey're a great addition to any holiday dinner, including Christmas dinner, and might just become the best part of the meal - even better than dinner rolls with creamy dressings!
Roasted Apple and Butternut Squash
Autumn's bounty is on full display in Roasted Apple and Butternut Squash, a side dish that masterfully balances the sweetness of apples with the comforting warmth of roasted squash.
You'll love how this harvest-inspired recipe brings together seasonal ingredients on a single sheet pan.
- Roasted apple and butternut squash meld together in a sweet and savory union.
- Root vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts add depth to this autumnal dish.
- As a Thanksgiving side dish, it's sure to impress with its fall flavors and comforting warmth.
Apple Cider Vinaigrette Coleslaw
Crunchy, fresh slaw is elevated to new heights in Apple Cider Vinaigrette Coleslaw, where the tangy zip of apple cider vinegar perfectly balances the richness of mayonnaise.
You'll love this revitalizing twist on traditional coleslaw, especially during the time of year when heavy main courses dominate the Thanksgiving table.
Mix it up in a large bowl and enjoy as a light, creamy side dish.
Apple and Sage Stuffed Delicata Squash
Two delicata squash halves, roasted to tender perfection, await their flavorful filling in Apple and Sage Stuffed Delicata Squash.
You'll love the combination of sautéed onions, apples, and sage, mixed with breadcrumbs and cheese, then stuffed into the roasted squash.
This seasonal side dish is perfect for Thanksgiving, evoking the warmth of autumn and the harvest.
- The roasted delicata squash provides a sweet and nutty flavor base
- The apple and sage add a savory and aromatic flavor profile
- The breadcrumbs and cheese provide a satisfying crunch and creaminess
Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Step into the world of sweet and savory with the Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe, where the tender pastry gives way to a rich, velvety caramel and crisp apple filling.
You'll love the perfect balance of fall flavors in this sweet and crispy dessert-turned-side dish, perfect for your Thanksgiving table.
Golden brown empanadas will be the star of your holiday meal.
Apple and Sweet Potato Hash Browns
As you're looking for a side dish that's both sweet and savory, you'll find that Apple and Sweet Potato Hash Browns perfectly complement the flavors of your Thanksgiving feast.
This autumn-inspired recipe combines roasted sweet potatoes and apples with crispy hash browns, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
- The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the sweet potatoes.
- A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the dish.
- This seasonal side dish is sure to become a new Thanksgiving tradition.
Apple Cider Glazed Pearl Onions
You'll elevate your Thanksgiving menu with the sweet and tangy flavors of Apple Cider Glazed Pearl Onions, a side dish that's sure to impress your guests.
By caramelizing pearl onions in a mixture of apple cider and spices, you'll create a sweet and savory glaze that complements the roasted onions perfectly.
This autumnal side dish is a must-have for your fall recipes.
Apple and Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
After savoring the sweet and tangy flavors of Apple Cider Glazed Pearl Onions, it's time to indulge in a sweet breakfast treat that incorporates apples in a whole new way.
Apple and Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast is an autumn-inspired delight perfect for Thanksgiving brunch.
- Sweet apple filling pairs perfectly with tangy cream cheese
- Thick slices of French toast provide a satisfying crunch
- This indulgent treat is sure to become a new breakfast tradition
Apple and Pecan Crumble Bars
Three layers of autumnal goodness come together in Apple and Pecan Crumble Bars, a dessert so satisfying it's sure to become a staple at your holiday gatherings.
You'll love the tender apples, crunchy pecans, and sweet sugar crumble topping, all baked to perfection with a hint of cinnamon.
These bars are an irresistible dessert to serve alongside your Thanksgiving side dishes.
Spiced Apple Cider Donuts Recipe
With autumn's chill in the air, the aroma of spiced apple cider wafts from the kitchen, beckoning friends and family to gather 'round.
You'll want to indulge in these sweet treats alongside traditional apple side dishes and pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving.
- Prep the crock pot with spiced apple cider while you tackle the prep work for these decadent donuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream and sugar for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Resist the urge to add too much sugar to the dough - these donuts are sweet enough!
Apple and Bacon Wrapped Scalloped Potatoes
Savory scents of autumn mingle with the sweetness of apples in this show-stopping side dish, Apple and Bacon Wrapped Scalloped Potatoes.
You'll love how the crispy bacon and tender sweet potatoes complement the roasted apples in this potatoes recipe.
This Thanksgiving side dish is a masterclass in balancing autumn flavors, and it's sure to impress your holiday cooking guests.
Apple Cider Poached Pears Recipe
As you move beyond the savory domain of Apple and Bacon Wrapped Scalloped Potatoes, your taste buds are primed for a sweet and soothing escape.
Apple Cider Poached Pears Recipe is a perfect fit for your Thanksgiving side dishes.
- Infuse fall recipes with autumnal flavors by poaching pears in apple cider.
- Pair the tender pears with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- This dessert recipe is a rejuvenating winter fruit twist on traditional holiday cooking.
Apple and Caramelized Onion Tartlets
Two sweet and savory elements come together in perfect harmony in these Apple and Caramelized Onion Tartlets, a side dish that will elevate your holiday gathering.
You'll love the combination of tender apples and sweet caramelized onions nestled in a flaky pastry crust.
These bite-sized treats blur the line between dessert and side dish, making them a unique addition to your autumn recipes and holiday cooking.
Apple and Cranberry Crisp Recipe
How do you envision the perfect autumnal side dish?
You likely imagine a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors, with a satisfying crunch.
Our Apple and Cranberry Crisp Recipe fits the bill, combining tender apples and cranberries with a hint of cinnamon and a crunchy oat topping.
- A symphony of autumn flavors, with apples and cranberries taking center stage
- A crunchy oat topping adds satisfying texture to each bite
- Perfect as a side dish or dessert for your Thanksgiving gathering
Apple Cider Spiced Apple Rings
One of the easiest ways to add an autumnal touch to your holiday gathering is to serve Apple Cider Spiced Apple Rings as a side dish.
You'll simmer sliced apples in apple cider with cinnamon sticks and a hint of sugar and spice, creating caramelized apples that blend fall harvest flavors.
This sweet and tangy side dish is a unique alternative to traditional Thanksgiving dessert.
Happy Thanksgiving!
You've got a wealth of options to choose from with these 25 apple side dishes, each one showcasing the versatility of this fall favorite.
Whether you're in the mood for something sweet and savory, comforting and warm, or autumn-inspired and spicy, there's an apple-based side dish that's sure to elevate your Thanksgiving table.
So go ahead, get creative, and let the flavors of the season shine!
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