The Ultimate Guide to Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and whether you're hosting or just bringing a dish to share, finding side dishes that everyone can enjoy is key to holiday success. But what if you or someone at your table is gluten-free? Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! This guide to gluten-free Thanksgiving side dishes will make sure your spread is not only inclusive but also totally delicious. Whether you're cooking for a large group or a cozy Friendsgiving, these recipes will ensure that no one misses out on the fun (or the food).
Let’s be real, the sides are the best part of Thanksgiving. You might even be tempted to skip the turkey once you see these mouthwatering gluten-free options!
Why Gluten-Free Doesn’t Mean Flavor-Free
First things first: gluten-free doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste. Gluten is often found in traditional Thanksgiving dishes like stuffing, rolls, and gravies maing it hard for us GF girlies. But with a few simple swaps you can serve dishes that are just as flavorful and comforting as the classics.
From rich and creamy mashed potatoes to perfectly roasted veggies, there’s no shortage of gluten-free possibilities. The key is to focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors that make your sides shine.
Let’s dive in!
Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Olive Oil
Everyone loves mashed potatoes, and the good news is that they're naturally gluten-free (as long as you skip any flour-based thickeners). For a fresh twist on this classic, try mashed potatoes with garlic and olive oil.
Ingredients: Yukon gold potatoes, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, fresh parsley
Why it's awesome: Olive oil gives these mashed potatoes a richer, more sophisticated flavor than butter, and the garlic adds a savory punch. Plus, it's dairy-free for your lactose-intolerant friends!
Tip: Keep the skins on for added texture and nutrients.
My favorite Recipe: Meaningful Eats’ Gluten-Free Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Brussels sprouts are the unsung heroes of the holiday season. Roasted to crispy perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze, they’re an easy, gluten-free side that adds a pop of green to your table.
Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, sea salt
Why it's awesome: The combination of sweet balsamic glaze and caramelized Brussels sprouts is downright addictive.
Tip: Toss in some toasted almonds or pomegranate seeds for extra crunch and color!
My Favorite Recipe: Once Upon a Chef’s Roasted Brussle Sprouts with Balsamic Vinegar and Honey
Sweet Potato Casserole (Without the Marshmallows)
Sweet potato casserole is usually a sugar bomb, but this lighter, gluten-free version lets the natural sweetness of the potatoes shine. Skip the marshmallows and top it with a crunchy pecan crumble instead.
Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, coconut milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, pecans, gluten-free oats
Why it's awesome: It’s sweet but not too sweet, and the pecan topping adds a satisfying crunch.
Tip: Make it vegan by using coconut oil instead of butter in the topping.
My Favorite Recipe: The Gluten Free Palate’s The Best Gluten Free Sweet Potato Casserole
Gluten-Free Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
Yes, you can have stuffing on a gluten-free Thanksgiving! This recipe uses gluten-free bread (which is more widely available than ever) along with sausage and apples for a deliciously savory and slightly sweet side dish.
Ingredients: Gluten-free bread, Italian sausage, apples, celery, onions, sage, thyme, chicken stock
Why it's awesome: The savory sausage and tart apples make this stuffing feel indulgent and holiday-worthy, even without gluten.
Tip: Use a high-quality gluten-free bread for the best texture.
My Favorite Recipe: Confessions of a Fit Foodie’s Gluten Free Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary
Potatoes are a Thanksgiving must, and this recipe takes them to the next level with rosemary and a crispy finish. These potatoes are so good, they might steal the spotlight from the turkey!
Ingredients: Baby potatoes, olive oil, fresh rosemary, garlic, sea salt, black pepper
Why it's awesome: The crispy edges and fragrant rosemary make these potatoes totally irresistible.
Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet for maximum crispiness.
My Favorite Recipe: Serious Eats’ The Best Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary
Gluten-Free Cornbread
Cornbread is a Thanksgiving staple, and making it gluten-free is easier than you think! Using a mix of cornmeal and gluten-free flour creates a fluffy, moist bread that pairs perfectly with all your other sides.
Ingredients: Cornmeal, gluten-free flour blend, eggs, honey, baking powder, butter, buttermilk
Why it's awesome: Slightly sweet, perfectly crumbly, and a great vehicle for that extra gravy on your plate.
Tip: For a Southern twist, add in some chopped jalapeños or cheddar cheese.
My favorite NONrecipe ;) No Shame here, This box mix is great from Krusteaz. There are plenty of great recipes, but this is my go to.
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Cranberry sauce is naturally gluten-free, and when made from scratch, it’s a world apart from the canned stuff. Adding orange zest gives it a fresh, citrusy kick that complements the tart cranberries.
Ingredients: Fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey or maple syrup
Why it's awesome: Bright, tangy, and with just the right amount of sweetness, this cranberry sauce will make your whole meal pop!
Tip: Make it ahead of time! Cranberry sauce keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week.
My favorite recipe: Once Upon a Chef’s Cranberry Sauce
Butternut Squash Gratin
This creamy butternut squash gratin is a comforting gluten-free alternative to scalloped potatoes. It’s layered with a rich cheese sauce and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients: Butternut squash, heavy cream, gruyere cheese, thyme, nutmeg
Why it's awesome: It’s rich and indulgent, yet slightly lighter than potato gratin.
Tip: Use a mandoline to slice the squash evenly for the best results.
My Favorite Recipe: Feasting at Home’s Butternut Squash Gratin
Notes for subbing non-GF recipes:
What gluten-free flour is best for Thanksgiving side dishes? When baking gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend is a safe bet for most recipes. For cornbread or stuffing, look for flour blends that include rice flour, potato starch, and xanthan gum to mimic the texture of regular flour.
How do I make sure my gluten-free side dishes taste as good as regular ones? The key is to focus on fresh ingredients, bold seasonings, and textures. Gluten-free doesn’t have to mean bland! Use herbs, spices, and high-quality fats like olive oil and butter to amp up the flavor.
What are naturally gluten-free Thanksgiving sides? Many classic Thanksgiving sides are naturally gluten-free, like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, and green beans. Just double-check any broths, sauces, or dressings to make sure they don’t contain hidden gluten.
Can I substitute almond flour for regular flour in Thanksgiving recipes? Almond flour can be a great substitute in certain recipes, especially in baked goods like pie crusts or stuffing. However, it’s denser and more moist than regular flour, so it works best when paired with a gluten-free flour blend.
This Thanksgiving, wow your guests with a selection of gluten-free side dishes that are as delicious as they are inclusive. Whether you're making mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a mouthwatering sweet potato casserole, these recipes will make sure no one feels like they're missing out. By focusing on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, you’ll create a spread that everyone can enjoy — gluten-free or not! So, grab your apron, put on some festive tunes, and get ready to serve up a holiday meal to remember. If you have any questions or would just like to chat, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section or feel free to email me at hello@emmatarynjones.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
Much Love,
Emma
XO