13 Delicious Thanksgiving Potato Recipes to Elevate Your Feast

Potatoes are the quiet heroes of Thanksgiving dinner. Sure, the turkey gets the spotlight—but let’s be honest, it’s the potato dishes that everyone piles high on their plate (and then goes back for seconds).

Whether you like them mashed, roasted, cheesy, or baked into something rich and golden, there’s a way to dress up potatoes that fits every style of feast. They’re versatile, crowd-pleasing, and somehow manage to taste even better with all those classic Thanksgiving sides.

These 13 delicious Thanksgiving potato recipes cover all the bases—from comforting classics to a few fun twists you might not have tried before. So if you’re looking to level up your side dish game without adding extra stress, these potato recipes are here to save your holiday spread.

Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Classic creamy mashed potatoes are a staple at any Thanksgiving table. They have a rich, buttery flavor and a smooth, velvety texture that pairs perfectly with gravy or as a side to your favorite turkey dish. This recipe is simple and can be whipped up in no time, making it an easy choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Not only do these mashed potatoes bring comfort and warmth to your holiday meal, but they also allow for a little creativity. You can customize them with garlic, herbs, or even cheese if you want to add your own spin. Let’s get into how to make these delightful mashed potatoes!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chives or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them until smooth.
3. Add Butter and Cream: Stir in the butter, heavy cream, and milk. Mix until all ingredients are combined and the potatoes are creamy.
4. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust cream or milk if you prefer a thinner consistency.
5. Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives or parsley if desired.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are a tasty side dish that everyone will love. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect complement to your Thanksgiving feast. With the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese, these potatoes are simple to prepare and pack a punch of flavor.

This recipe is great for anyone looking to add a delicious touch to their holiday table without spending hours in the kitchen. You just need a few ingredients and about 30 minutes to create a dish that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby red potatoes, halved
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the halved potatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Toss until the potatoes are well coated.
3. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a delightful dish often found on Thanksgiving tables. Its creamy texture, combined with a sweet topping of toasted marshmallows, creates a balance of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent. Making this casserole is simple and straightforward, making it a perfect choice for home cooks of all skill levels.

The sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the gooey marshmallows, which melt into a delightful topping when baked. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a festive touch to your holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes with sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the mixture is set.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle mini marshmallows on top.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your sweet potato casserole!

Scalloped Potatoes With Gruyère

Scalloped potatoes with Gruyère are a warm and comforting dish that combines layers of tender potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce. The rich flavor of Gruyère cheese adds a nutty tone, making this a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the company of family and friends.

This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, as it pairs well with turkey, ham, or any main course. With its golden, bubbly top and creamy interior, scalloped potatoes are a crowd-pleaser and can elevate your holiday meal effortlessly.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat until warm but not boiling.
3. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the cheese. Pour half of the cream mixture over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Twice-Baked Potatoes With Bacon And Cheddar

Twice-baked potatoes with bacon and cheddar are a delicious twist on the classic baked potato. They offer a creamy and cheesy filling, enhanced with crispy bacon bits, making them a perfect side dish for any Thanksgiving meal. The combination of flavors is rich and satisfying, providing a warm and hearty addition to your holiday feast.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few steps to prepare. With the convenience of baking twice, you achieve a fluffy interior and a wonderfully crispy skin. Everyone will love these potatoes, and they’re sure to become a staple at your Thanksgiving table!

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Butter, for greasing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes and poke holes in them with a fork. Bake for about 45-60 minutes until tender.
2. Once baked, let the potatoes cool slightly. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving a small border inside the skin.
3. Add the cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, crumbled bacon, and chives to the bowl. Mix everything together until creamy and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins and sprinkle additional cheese and bacon on top if desired. Place them back in the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until heated through and the tops are golden.
5. Serve hot, garnished with extra chives if desired.

Sweet Potato Mash With Maple And Cinnamon

This Sweet Potato Mash with Maple and Cinnamon is a delightful twist on a classic side dish. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes, warm maple syrup, and a hint of cinnamon creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and festive. It’s simple to make and perfect for your Thanksgiving table.

To prepare this dish, you’ll need to cook the sweet potatoes until they’re tender, then mash them to a smooth consistency. Mixing in maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the potatoes, while cinnamon gives it a warm, cozy touch. This mash is sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup milk (or as needed)
• Optional: chopped pecans for topping

Instructions

1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Add the butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt to the sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth, adding milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or seasoning as needed.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with chopped pecans if desired. Serve warm.

Loaded Potato Skins With Sour Cream

Loaded potato skins are a fun and tasty addition to any Thanksgiving gathering. These crispy, savory bites feature a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a crowd favorite. With crispy skin, creamy filling, and topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions, they’re sure to impress your guests.

This recipe is simple to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious appetizer without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, making your holiday prep a breeze!

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork. Bake for about 45-60 minutes until tender.
2. Once baked, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a bit around the edges for stability.
3. Brush the insides of the potato skins with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side up on a baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes until crispy.
4. Fill each skin with cheese and bacon, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
5. Top with sour cream and green onions before serving. Enjoy your loaded potato skins!

Potato Gratin With Herbs And Cream

This Potato Gratin with Herbs and Cream is a delightful side dish that brings a touch of warmth and comfort to your Thanksgiving table. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes are enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce infused with fresh herbs, making each bite a heavenly experience. It’s simple to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festivities while impressing your guests with its deliciousness.

The creamy texture combined with the aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that is both satisfying and elegant. It pairs perfectly with turkey and makes for a wonderful addition to any holiday spread. Let’s jump right into how to make this scrumptious gratin!

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a bowl, combine the cream, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
4. Add the remaining potato slices, followed by the rest of the cream mixture and cheese.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, herb-infused potato gratin!

Mashed Sweet Potatoes With Brown Butter

Mashed sweet potatoes with brown butter are a delightful twist on a classic side dish. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of brown butter, creating a comforting and rich taste that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. This recipe is simple to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a creamy, savory side that complements any holiday meal. Plus, the addition of brown butter elevates the dish, making it a must-try for your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg

Instructions

1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns a golden brown color and gives off a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Pour the brown butter over the potatoes, followed by the milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and spices if desired.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with any remaining brown butter. Enjoy!

Potato And Leek Casserole

This Potato and Leek Casserole is a delightful side dish perfect for Thanksgiving. It features layers of creamy potatoes and tender leeks, all baked to golden perfection. The combination of flavors creates a comforting and rich taste that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Making this casserole is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels special and festive. It’s creamy, savory, and sure to become a staple at your holiday gatherings!

Ingredients

• 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 leeks, cleaned and chopped
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Gruyère or cheddar)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
4. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, followed by half of the leeks, and sprinkle half of the cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
5. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layered casserole. Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Sweet Potato Rounds With Goat Cheese And Pecans

Sweet potato rounds topped with goat cheese and pecans are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. These bites are not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy tang of goat cheese and the crunch of pecans, creating a harmony of flavors that everyone will love.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this elegant dish in no time. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these sweet potato rounds will surely impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet.
2. Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until they are fragrant.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Top each round with crumbled goat cheese and a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
5. Drizzle honey over the top for added sweetness and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Garlic Herb Mashed Red Potatoes

These Garlic Herb Mashed Red Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Creamy and buttery, they are infused with fragrant garlic and fresh herbs that elevate their natural sweetness. The vibrant color of the red potatoes not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to a richer flavor. Perfectly simple to make, this dish combines ease with elegance, making it a standout side for any Thanksgiving table.

Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet family dinner, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress. They’re a comforting addition to your spread, complementing turkey and other traditional sides beautifully. Let’s get into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds red potatoes, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the quartered potatoes. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Prepare the Garlic: While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Drain and Mash: Once the potatoes are done, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the garlic butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy this creamy side dish warm!

Sweet Potato And Apple Bake

This sweet potato and apple bake is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth to any Thanksgiving table. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the tartness of the apples, creating a comforting side dish that everyone will love.

Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy holiday cooking. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delicious bake that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 3 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 3 cups apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes and apples. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss everything together until well-coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans on top for added crunch.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the apples are soft, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish warm!