A curated collection of soul food Thanksgiving side dishes that bring warmth, flavor, and tradition to your holiday table. These classic Southern sides — from candied yams to collard greens and baked mac and cheese — will make your Thanksgiving memorable and comforting for family and friends.
If you’re planning a Thanksgiving menu with Southern soul food sides, you’re in the right place. These recipes highlight comforting textures and bold, familiar flavors that pair beautifully with turkey, ham, or any centerpiece you choose.
Thanksgiving is a time to gather, share gratitude, and enjoy a table full of comforting food. Whether you grew up with these traditions or are discovering them now, these side dishes showcase flavors and techniques that have been loved and refined over generations.
A traditional Black Thanksgiving often includes turkey or ham served with cornbread dressing, candied yams, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and a variety of vegetable sides. Desserts frequently feature sweet potato pie, pecan pie, and cobblers. Many families also enjoy dishes such as spaghetti, green beans, dinner rolls, and layered or frosted cakes—each family’s table reflects its own history and favorite recipes.
Be sure to check out our soul food Thanksgiving menu for main dishes and desserts like Thanksgiving turkey and sweet potato pie.
Best Soul Food Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Candied Yams
Sweet, buttery candied yams are a Southern holiday classic. This baked version blends brown sugar, warm spices, and vanilla for a glossy, caramelized side that’s both nostalgic and crowd-pleasing.
Baked Mac and Cheese (with egg, condensed milk)
A rich, no-roux baked macaroni and cheese made with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella. This soulful, custardy casserole is indulgent and comforting—ideal for holiday gatherings.
Soul Food Collard Greens
Slow-simmered collard greens with ham hocks, onion, and a hint of red pepper flakes. These greens are tender, savory, and deeply flavorful—an essential side for many Thanksgiving tables.
Chicken and Dressing
A classic cornbread dressing made with shredded chicken and buttermilk cornbread. Hearty, moist, and full of savory herbs—perfect alongside roasted turkey or ham.
Southern Cornbread Dressing
Traditional cornbread dressing that’s rich in flavor and history. Serve it warm with gravy or enjoy it later in a turkey sandwich—either way, it’s a family favorite.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping
An old-fashioned sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. Creamy sweet potatoes meet buttery streusel for a side that doubles as dessert for many families.
Baked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese (with a roux)
Creamy mac and cheese made with a classic roux and a blend of Gouda, sharp cheddar, and Colby Jack. It bakes to a golden, cheesy crust that’s ideal for holidays.
Best Green Bean Casserole (with Fresh Green Beans)
A refreshed green bean casserole using fresh beans, creamy soup, and crispy fried onions for texture. It’s familiar, comforting, and easy to prepare for a crowd.
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Smoked turkey adds depth to slow-simmered collard greens. The result is tender, savory greens with a smoky finish—perfect for a hearty holiday spread.
Fried Cabbage
Southern fried cabbage combines bacon, smoked sausage, and seasonings for a savory, quick-cooking side. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of smoky flavor.
Homemade Cornbread Recipe
Moist, tender cornbread made with buttermilk and butter. This classic side is versatile—serve it with dressing, beans, or simply slathered with butter.
How to Cook Black Eyed Peas
Black-eyed peas simmered with smoked neck bones, onion, bell pepper, and celery. This classic dish is earthy, flavorful, and often served with rice or cornbread.
Green Beans and Potatoes
A hearty side of fresh green beans and potatoes simmered with smoked turkey, garlic, and seasonings. It’s a comforting, flavorful addition to any holiday table.
How to Make Dirty Rice (Louisiana Cajun Recipe)
Dirty rice is a Cajun-style rice dish rich with seasoned meats, vegetables, and spices. It’s bold, aromatic, and works well as either a side or a main.
Sweet Potato Cornbread
Moist sweet potato cornbread flavored with cinnamon and finished with melted butter. It combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the comfort of classic cornbread.
Cabbage
Boiled cabbage simmered in a smoky, seasoned broth with smoked turkey or ham hocks. This savory side is tender, flavorful, and a beloved Thanksgiving staple.
Creamed Corn Recipe
Tender corn kernels in a rich, creamy sauce—sweet and comforting. This creamed corn comes together quickly and is a popular, easy side for holiday meals.
Collard Greens and Cabbage (Mixed Greens)
A mix of collard greens and cabbage simmered together with ham hocks, onions, and spices for a smoky, savory side that highlights the best of Southern cooking traditions.
📖 Recipe
Soul Food Thanksgiving Side Dishes
15 mins
50 mins
1 hr 5 mins
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray or softened butter
- 5 medium orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- For the full method and step-by-step photos, visit the candied yams recipe linked above. The recipe walks you through preparing and baking the sweet potatoes, making the buttery sugar glaze, and finishing the casserole so the yams are tender and caramelized.
Nutrition
More Soul Food Thanksgiving Recipes
Explore additional recipes for mains, sides, and desserts to build a complete Thanksgiving menu rooted in Southern traditions. From savory dressings and smoky greens to pies and cobblers, these dishes help you create a warm, memorable holiday table.