Top 10 Thanksgiving Casserole Recipes: Easy and Delicious Side Dishes for Your Holiday Feast
Thanksgiving is all about family, food, and traditions—and Thanksgiving casserole recipes are undoubtedly a big part of the celebration. From creamy classics like green bean casserole to new, exciting twists like kimchi stuffing, Thanksgiving casserole recipes bring comfort and flavor to the holiday table. Here are the 10 best Thanksgiving casserole recipes that will have your family and friends asking for seconds.
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Corn Soufflé:
Corn soufflé is the ultimate versatile dish for your Thanksgiving casserole recipe lineup. This fluffy, comforting casserole combines sweet corn with fresh herbs like chives and basil. The result is a dish that pairs beautifully with virtually any main course. Corn is naturally sweet, and in this soufflé, it shines with a light, airy, savory, and slightly sweet texture.
Stephanie Ganz suggests, Corn is one of those veggies that can be paired with many ingredients, making this dish extremely versatile recipe.Green Bean Casserole:
Every Thanksgiving table is complete with green bean casserole. While canned soups and fried onions are commonly used, this recipe takes it up a notch by making everything from scratch. Megan Keno recommends frying your onions, soaking them in buttermilk, and coating them with crispy panko crumbs. The result is a dish with the perfect combination of crunchy and creamy.
“If you want a shortcut,” says Keno, “French’s Fried Onions or Trader Joe’s version are excellent alternatives.”
Potatoes Au Gratin:
Creamy potatoes au gratin is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with turkey or ham. Sally Vargas recommends using Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture for this dish, though russets will work as well if you prefer them. The creamy cheese sauce and a golden, crispy top make this dish a favorite among many.
“If you use russets, adjust the amount of cream and baking time,” advises Vargas.
Kimchi Stuffing:
For a bold twist on traditional stuffing, try kimchi stuffing. This dish combines the tangy, spicy flavors of fermented kimchi with the comfort of conventional stuffing. Cecilia Hae-Jin Lee explains that the riper the kimchi, the more flavor it adds, making this stuffing incredibly flavorful.
” More fermented the kimchi is, the more tart it will become which will give more depth to the food,” Lee says..
Cabbage Au Gratin:
For a unique addition to your casserole lineup, try cabbage au gratin. Shilpa Iyer suggests salting the cabbage before searing it in a pan for maximum flavor. The result is a beautifully browned cabbage that bakes perfectly with cheese, offering a balance of crispy and creamy textures.
“Don’t rush the salting and searing process,” Iyer advises. “That’s where the delicious flavor comes from.”
Sweet Potato Casserole:
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, and when they’re transformed into a sweet potato casserole, they become even more indulgent. To reduce the sweetness, Lisa Lin suggests cutting the maple syrup in half or omitting it completely. This makes for a more balanced dish without sacrificing flavor.
Cheesy Grits Soufflé Bake:
If you’re looking for a comforting dish with a Southern twist, try cheesy grits soufflé bake. This dish is a great starting point for anyone intimidated by soufflés, as it’s not about achieving the fluffy, towering structure of a traditional soufflé. Instead, it’s a homey casserole that’s light, cheesy, and satisfying. Sara Bir says, “It gives you a symphony of textures: light, dense, gooey, lacy, and crisp.”
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese:
Baked mac and cheese is a Thanksgiving favorite, and this creamy baked version elevates the classic. Summer Miller wanted a quick, simple version that was reminiscent of the boxed mac and cheese kids love. But as they age, a more grown-up version with real cheese and a baked, crispy top is the way to go.
This version of mac and cheese is rich and creamy and has just the right amount of crunch on top.
Three Sisters Casserole:
Named after the three crops central to Native American agriculture—corn, beans, and squash—this Three Sisters Casserole is as hearty as it is flavorful. Megan Gordon explains, “The combination of corn, beans, and squash creates a balance of sweet and savory flavors that complement each other perfectly.”
This dish is a great way to showcase seasonal vegetables in a comforting casserole form.
Brussels Sprouts Gratin:
Brussels sprouts gratin offers a creamy, cheesy way to enjoy this often-maligned vegetable. Elise Bauer notes that this dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the pancetta and adding extra butter. For a sweeter variation, you can also swap the pancetta for mushrooms, zucchini, or even carrots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Thanksgiving casseroles ahead of time?
Yes! Many of these Thanksgiving casserole recipes can be made a day or two in advance. Prepare the casseroles, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is especially helpful for busy holiday mornings when you don’t want to be rushing to get everything prepared. Just ensure that you allow the casserole to come to room temperature before baking, or adjust the baking time accordingly.
2. Can I freeze Thanksgiving casseroles?
Absolutely! Thanksgiving casseroles are great for freezing. After baking, allow the casseroles to cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store in an airtight container. Most casseroles can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
3. What’s the best way to reheat casseroles without losing flavor or texture?
To reheat Thanksgiving casseroles without drying them out or losing their flavor, place the casserole in the oven at a low temperature (around 325°F) and cover it with foil. This will help retain moisture and prevent the top from getting too crispy. If you’re reheating a casserole that’s been frozen, it may take a little longer, so be sure to check the temperature and texture throughout.
4. Can I substitute ingredients in these casseroles?
Yes, you can substitute ingredients to make Thanksgiving casseroles work for your dietary preferences. For instance, if you want a dairy-free version of the creamy baked mac and cheese, try using plant-based cheese and milk alternatives. You can also swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes in many casseroles or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option. These casseroles are flexible, and you can adjust ingredients to fit your needs.
5. How can I make my casseroles spicier?
To add a bit of heat to your Thanksgiving casserole recipes, consider incorporating ingredients like jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of cayenne pepper. Adding spicy seasonings or even a bit of sriracha can really elevate the flavor of your dishes. Just remember to taste as you go to avoid making them too spicy for guests who might prefer a milder dish.
6. What are some good side dishes to serve with these casseroles?
While the casseroles themselves are hearty and flavorful, pairing them with lighter side dishes can balance the meal. Consider serving a fresh green salad, cranberry sauce, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter touch, grilled asparagus or a simple green bean almondine also complement these rich casseroles beautifully.
Author’s Notes and Recommendations
Thanksgiving casserole recipes are all about tradition, but there’s always room for new additions to your table. These 10 casseroles balance classic flavors and creative twists, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients and textures. For example, adding more cheese to your potato gratin or swapping in roasted garlic for chives in your corn soufflé can give these dishes your signature touch. The holidays are the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen, and these casseroles are designed to be flexible and delicious!
Enjoy Baking and Tasting
Enjoy baking while savoring each bit of the Thanksgiving casserole recipes! These dishes aren’t just about creating the perfect Thanksgiving meal but about creating lasting memories with family and friends. Baking and tasting along the way will bring excitement to the holiday. There’s something special about homemade casseroles; when you prepare them with love, they’ll indeed become a family tradition.
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“Did you try Thanksgiving casserole recipes? Leave a comment below, rate it, and don’t forget to share your baking success on social media! We’d love to see your creations and hear how these casseroles turned out for you this holiday season.”
