Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Side Dishes

I put together this list of my all-time favorite sweet potato recipes that are perfect for all of your Thanksgiving get-togethers. This list includes classics like baked sweet potatoes and sweet potato casserole as well as some less traditional options.

Either way, they are all delicious and you'll find something here for you and your family.

Whether you're a pro at hosting Thanksgiving dinner and holiday parties or giving it a try for the first time this year, you're sure to find my ultimate guide to planning Thanksgiving a help! Don't forget to safely thaw your holiday turkey early, too!

1. Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These mashed sweet potatoes are a delicious twist to the classic mashed potatoes. Whether you are looking for a side that isn't as sweet as candied yams, or simply want to add more sweet potatoes to the menu, check out this recipe.

These potatoes are easy to make and you can customize how sweet they are.

2. Baked Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potatoes are simple, tasty, and incredibly versatile. You can load them up with whatever toppings you like, whether it be sweet or savory.

They pair well with everything, from turkey, to ham, to stuffing.

3. Candied Yams

Candied yams are one of the most traditional, classic, and iconic Thanksgiving sweet potato side dishes. The natural flavor of the yams is allowed to shine while being emphasized with brown sugar and toasty marshmallows.

4. Sweet Potato Fries

These sweet potato fries are extra simple because they're made in the air fryer. They serve as a great kid-friendly option but are loved by adults as well.

Try them with my homemade sweet potato fry dip for a sweet and tangy treat.

5. Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

This classic family-favorite side dish is also a personal favorite that I love sharing with many meals in addition to Thanksgiving dinner. You can cook these tender sweet potatoes up any night of the week they're so simple.

6. Pan Fried Sweet Potatoes

Pan-fried sweet potatoes are an easy side dish recipe that comes together in no time at all and is packed with great flavor. It's perfect for cooking on short notice and is a great savory option for Thanksgiving.

7. Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is one of those Southern side dishes that everyone knows and loves. My recipe features the classic toasted marshmallow topping plus crunchy pecans and brown sugar.

8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes & Onions

Roasted sweet potatoes and onions are a simple, easy, and incredibly delicious side dish. They have all of the flavors of roasted potatoes but with a hint of sweetness plus savory onion flavor.

9. Sweet Potato Cornbread

This sweet potato cornbread is a simple yet stunning side dish, perfect for everything from holiday gatherings to weeknight dinners. The blend of sweet potato, brown sugar, and warm spices delivers a delicious fall taste that everyone will love.

10. Sweet Potato Muffins

These delicious sweet potato muffins are incredibly easy to make and perfect for Thanksgiving. Moist, flavorful, and packed with warm spices, they're great as a unique side dish. They also freeze well, so you can make them ahead of time.

11. Sauteed Sweet Potatoes

Short on time this Thanksgiving? These sauteed sweet potatoes are ready in 15 minutes. They're a nutritious and delicious side dish that's easily customized to your liking (sweet or savory).

12. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner with these unbelievably easy air fryer sweet potato cubes. The contrast of crispy exterior and creamy interior, perfectly seasoned, makes them a quick-yet-tasty option.

13. Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

These twice-baked sweet potatoes are the perfect make-ahead side dish for Thanksgiving! Baked twice for ultimate flavor and loaded with bacon, jalapeño, cheese, and your other favorite toppings, they're a delicious and impressive addition to your holiday spread.

💭 Tips For Choosing The Perfect Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Side Dish

1. Sweet or savory? Decide whether you want to lean into the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes or go for a savory side dish. Sweet potato casseroles with marshmallows or brown sugar are classics, while roasted sweet potatoes with garlic and herbs are more hearty.
2. Texture. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are rich and comforting, while crispy sweet potato fries or pan-fried sweet potatoes add a savory crunch.
3. Pair with the meal. If your stuffing and cranberry sauce is sweet, a savory sweet potato dish will create a better balance on the plate. On the other hand, if your sides are savory, it's the perfect opportunity to toss in some candied sweet potatoes.
4. Time and space. If you're juggling a lot of dishes on Thanksgiving and are limited on oven space, utilize your kitchen appliances or pick a stovetop recipe. The crock pot works great for sweet potatoes, and you can set it and forget it.
5. Seasonal flavors.
   Depending on the recipe, adding seasonal ingredients like pecans, cinnamon, maple syrup, or sage will tie your sweet potatoes to the classic flavors of Thanksgiving.

Be sure to add these Thanksgiving sweet potato side dishes to your holiday recipe lineup. Let me know in the comments which one you plan to try this year.

📖 Recipe Card