We all know the star of the Thanksgiving table is the turkey, but for many kids (and let’s be honest, adults too), it’s the side dishes that steal the show. From creamy classics to sweet surprises, getting kids to eat their Thanksgiving meal doesn’t have to be a battle. These kid-friendly side dishes are packed with flavor, simple to prepare, and tailored for even the pickiest little eaters.
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes (With a Twist)
A Thanksgiving classic for a reason, mashed potatoes are a must-have. To make them extra kid-friendly, mix in cream cheese or sour cream for a smooth, rich texture that’s irresistibly creamy. Want to make them fun? Offer toppings like shredded cheese, butter pats, or bacon bits so kids can “decorate” their own mashed potato mountain.
2. Mini Mac & Cheese Bites
Baked in mini muffin tins, these cheesy bites are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Their perfect handheld size makes them great for toddlers and younger kids, and they double as a fun appetizer or leftovers snack. Pro tip: Add a pinch of garlic powder or mild seasoning to make them feel gourmet without overpowering the cheese flavor.
3. Glazed Carrots
Carrots become a sweet treat with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, a pinch of cinnamon, and a quick roast in the oven. They’re soft enough for small kids, but flavorful enough to compete with stuffing and rolls. You can even serve them with toothpicks for a snackable feel at the table.
4. Slow Cooker Applesauce Cups
Skip store-bought and let your house smell like fall with a batch of homemade applesauce. Toss apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sugar into the slow cooker, and let the flavors develop all morning. Serve in small ramekins or even disposable cups with mini spoons, ideal for little ones and a nice contrast to heavier dishes.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel (Optional Marshmallows)
Sweet potatoes are creamy, naturally sweet, and full of nutrients, but adding a crunchy brown sugar streusel or a layer of mini marshmallows makes them a dessert-like favorite on the dinner plate. Bake in a casserole dish or scoop into muffin cups for easier serving.
6. Jiffy Corn Pudding (Cheesy Corn Casserole)
This side blends Jiffy corn muffin mix with creamed corn, whole corn, sour cream, and shredded cheese to create a soft, spoonable dish that tastes like comfort food at its finest. The slightly sweet flavor makes it kid-friendly, while the cheesy texture gives it grown-up appeal.
7. Green Bean Casserole with a Kid-Friendly Upgrade
The traditional version can be a bit much for picky eaters, so swap out the fried onions for crushed butter crackers or cheese-flavored puffs for a gentler crunch. Add some shredded cheddar to the mix to make this veggie-forward dish feel more like mac and cheese with greens.
8. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
If your child is on the broccoli struggle bus, this dish is a secret weapon. Toss steamed broccoli with cheese sauce (homemade or store-bought), top with crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs, and bake until golden. It’s creamy, cheesy, and crunchy, an instant crowd-pleaser.
9. Stuffing Muffins
Kids love anything shaped like a muffin, and these are no exception. Use your favorite stuffing recipe, spoon it into muffin tins, and bake for a crispy top and soft middle. They’re portion-controlled, hand-held, and totally satisfying for both kids and adults.
This Thanksgiving, skip the dinnertime battles and serve dishes that are guaranteed to get gobbled up. These kid-friendly sides are flavorful, easy to make, and sure to become family favorites for years to come. Whether you're feeding toddlers, tweens, or the whole extended family, these side dishes will make your Thanksgiving meal easier, tastier, and way more fun.
