Thanksgiving is a celebration of flavors, family, and tradition, and the food on our tables reflects that. While the turkey often takes center stage, the sides bring so much personality to the meal. Pairing the right wine with classic sides can level up your feast. Let’s get into some classic favorites and their wine pairings for a memorable Thanksgiving.
10 Classic Thanksgiving Sides and Wine Pairings
Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
The Side: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes topped with rich, savory gravy.
The Pairing: Chardonnay
A full-bodied Chardonnay, especially one with a hint of oak, complements the creamy texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness, while its subtle notes of vanilla or toast pair beautifully with gravy.
Sweet Potato Casserole
The Side: Sweet potatoes with marshmallow topping or a nutty brown sugar crumble.
The Pairing: Riesling
The sweetness of this dish pairs wonderfully with an off-dry Riesling. Its bright acidity balances the sugary notes, while flavors of peach and citrus add a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a Gewürztraminer with its aromatic profile can work equally well.
Green Bean Casserole
The Side: Green beans baked with creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy onions.
The Pairing: Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a fantastic choice for this savory side. Its earthy undertones echo the mushrooms, while the bright red fruit flavors provide a delightful contrast to the dish’s creaminess. A lighter-bodied Pinot won’t overpower the delicate green beans, making it a versatile pairing.
Cranberry Sauce
The Side: Tart and tangy cranberry sauce, whether homemade or straight from the can.
The Pairing: Beaujolais Nouveau
This light and fruity red wine is a Thanksgiving classic for a reason. Its bright berry flavors mirror the tartness of cranberries without overwhelming the palate. Plus, its soft tannins make it a crowd-pleaser.
Stuffing (or Dressing)
The Side: Savory stuffing made with bread, herbs, and sometimes sausage or apples.
The Pairing: Syrah
The complex flavors in stuffing—think sage, thyme, and savory meat—call for a wine with depth. A Syrah offers dark fruit notes and a touch of spice, which harmonizes with the herbs and brings out the dish’s savory elements. For a lighter option, try a Merlot.
Macaroni and Cheese
The Side: Cheesy, gooey, and always a favorite.
The Pairing: Viognier
This rich dish pairs beautifully with a Viognier. The wine’s lush body complements the cheese, while its stone fruit and floral notes bring a fresh twist. Moreover, a red such as Grenache can also work, thanks to its medium body and soft tannins.
Roasted Vegetables
The Side: Caramelized Brussels sprouts, roasted carrots, and other seasonal veggies.
The Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with roasted vegetables. Its herbal notes highlight the veggies’ natural flavors, and the wine’s acidity contrasts with the caramelized sweetness. For a red option, consider a Gamay.
Cornbread
The Side: Sweet and crumbly cornbread, sometimes with a hint of honey.
The Pairing: Sparkling Wine
A sparkling wine like Prosecco or Cava pairs wonderfully with cornbread. The bubbles cleanse the palate, while the wine’s slight sweetness complements the dish without overshadowing its simplicity.
Creamed Spinach
The Side: Rich, velvety spinach cooked with cream, garlic, and a touch of nutmeg.
The Pairing: White Burgundy
A White Burgundy (Chardonnay from France) offers a balanced acidity and subtle creaminess that echoes the richness of creamed spinach. Its mineral notes add depth without overpowering the dish.
Dinner Rolls with Butter
The Side: Warm, fluffy dinner rolls served with creamy butter.
The Pairing: Rosé
A dry rosé is a surprisingly great match for this simple yet comforting side. The wine’s crisp and fruity character complements the buttery rolls without overwhelming their delicate flavor. Plus, its versatility allows it to flow easily between other dishes.
Thanksgiving is about bringing together a variety of flavors, and the right wine can elevate each dish. Don’t be afraid to mix and match—sometimes experimenting leads to the best discoveries. And if you’re hosting, consider offering a mix of red, white, and sparkling options to suit everyone’s taste.
What are your go-to Thanksgiving sides and wine pairings? We’d love to hear your favorites!
