What Goes With Smoked Turkey: 25 Delicious Side Dishes to Consider

Smoked turkey is a delicious alternative to traditional roasted turkey, with a smoky rich flavor that makes it perfect for special occasions. However, figuring out what sides to serve with smoked turkey can be tricky. You want dishes that will complement the smoky flavor without overpowering it.

After researching popular recommendations and trying various side dishes myself, I’ve discovered 25 delicious options that pair wonderfully with smoked turkey. Whether you prefer traditional Thanksgiving fare or new twists, this list has something for everyone.

Traditional Thanksgiving Favorites

These classic Thanksgiving side dishes are perfect complements to smoked turkey:

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple. They soak up the savory juices from the turkey, and their mild flavor lets the smokiness shine through. For best results, use Yukon gold potatoes and mix in butter, cream, and seasonings like garlic, rosemary, or chives.

Stuffing

Also known as dressing, stuffing is essentially flavored bread. It soaks up the turkey juices and adds texture contrast to the tender smoked meat Make it with cubed bread, chicken or turkey stock, and classic stuffing flavors like celery, onion, herbs, and sausage.

Cranberry Sauce

This bright-colored, tart condiment cuts through the rich fattiness of the turkey. The contrast makes both taste even better. Make your own sauce from fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Add cinnamon, ginger, or citrus zest for extra flavor.

Green Bean Casserole

The crispy fried onions topping this creamy green bean dish provides crunch that pairs perfectly with tender smoked turkey. Use fresh green beans if possible for the best texture and flavor.

Gravy

A smoked turkey dinner would feel incomplete without velvety, savory gravy. Make yours using pan drippings from the turkey, chicken broth, and a roux of butter and flour. Let it simmer until thickened. Pour it over everything on your plate!

Sweet Potato Casserole

A bit of sweetness balances the smoky turkey beautifully. This classic casserole features mashed sweet potatoes with toasted pecan and brown sugar topping. Marshmallows are optional for extra decadence.

Modern and Unique Sides

Beyond the expected, these creative options will perfectly round out your smoked turkey dinner:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully when roasted, turning nutty and sweet. Toss them in olive oil, balsamic, garlic, salt, and pepper. They add texture and color contrast.

Quinoa Salad

Fluffy, protein-packed quinoa bulked up with sauteed vegetables makes a fresh, healthy salad. Toss in dried cranberries and nuts for pops of sweetness and crunch. The tanginess balances the turkey’s richness.

Mac and Cheese

Smoked turkey and mac and cheese is a beloved combination, especially if you use smoky cheeses like gouda or cheddar. Top with crispy breadcrumbs or fried shallots for more texture and flavor.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Nutty wild rice teams up perfectly with deeply savory smoked turkey. Cook wild rice with chicken broth and sautéed mushrooms, then stir in fresh herbs before serving.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Carrots, parsnips, turnips and other root veggies become caramelized and sweet when roasted. Toss them in maple syrup, brown butter or honey for a delicious smoky-sweet duo.

Cornbread

Moist, crumbly cornbread absorbs turkey juices well. Make it extra smoky by adding canned chipotle peppers to the batter. Jalapenos, cheese and kernels of corn also taste great.

Collard Greens

Slow-cooked collard greens punctuate the rich turkey with bitter, earthy notes. Cook them low and slow with smoked turkey legs or neck bones for full-on flavor.

Cranberry Pecan Salad

To make this salad, toss together fresh spinach, diced red onion, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, feta cheese and orange poppyseed dressing just before serving. It’s fresh and tangy, contrasting the turkey beautifully.

Hasselback Potatoes

These potatoes are baked with thin slices across the top so they fan out attractively. Brush with oil, season with salt, pepper and herbs, then bake until crispy. They’re lighter than mashed potatoes but still hearty.

Butternut Squash Soup

Silky smooth butternut squash soup has a subtly sweet, earthy flavor that pairs deliciously with smoked turkey. Garnish with fried sage leaves and a drizzle of cream for an elegant starter.

Creamed Kale

Chopped kale is simmered in cream and chicken broth, becoming velvety soft. The earthy bitterness balances the turkey’s richness. Stir in lemon juice and top with crispy bacon.

Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Pungent, tangy goat cheese crumbles paired with earthy roasted beets and peppery arugula make a fantastic salad. Toasted walnuts add crunch. The flavors contrast beautifully with smoked turkey.

Simple Vegetable Dishes

You can never go wrong rounding out a meal with fresh, seasonal roasted or sautéed vegetables:

• Honey glazed carrots
• Roasted cauliflower with Parmesan
• Sauteed broccoli with garlic and red pepper flakes
• Roasted acorn squash with brown butter and sage
• Sauteed spinach with lemon and pine nuts
• Glazed pearl onions
• Sauteed mushrooms with thyme

Breads and Rolls

Warm breads and rolls are perfect for sopping up turkey juices and gravy:

• Fluffy dinner rolls
• Skillet cornbread
• Rosemary focaccia
• Pumpkin or cranberry walnut bread
• Honey whole wheat rolls
• Buttery biscuits
• Corn muffins with jalapeños

Desserts

End your meal on a sweet note with these delicious desserts:

• Pumpkin pie
• Apple cranberry crisp
• Pecan pie
• Gingerbread cake with lemon glaze
• Pumpkin cheesecake
• Bourbon pecan chocolate tart
• Maple crème brûlée

With so many exceptional options, you’re sure to find the perfect side dishes to complement your smoked turkey. I recommend choosing a couple traditional Thanksgiving favorites along with some more unique pairings to give your meal delicious variety. Happy eating!

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