What Goes with Turkey Breast? 23 Delicious Side Dish Ideas

Turkey breast is a versatile and tasty cut of meat that can be enjoyed in many ways. From oven roasted whole turkey breast for holiday dinners to quick weeknight turkey cutlets, there are endless possibilities. However, turkey breast on its own can be a bit dry and bland. That’s where the side dishes come in!

Choosing complementary sides is key to bringing out the best in turkey breast and making it a well-rounded meal. The good news is that turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of side dishes. Here are 23 delicious side dish ideas that will make your turkey breast shine.

The Classics

Some classic side dishes have become ubiquitous with turkey for good reason – they just work so well together! Consider these timeless favorites:

• Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes are an essential with turkey breast. They provide a rich, buttery counterpoint to the mild turkey flavor. For extra decadence, use heavy cream and lots of butter.

• Stuffing Also known as dressing bread-based stuffing soaks up all those tasty turkey juices. Opt for herb stuffing cornbread stuffing, or wild rice stuffing – all are delicious!

• Gravy: Is it really turkey without the gravy? This savory sauce brings everything together on your plate. Make it ahead using turkey drippings or whip up a quick homemade gravy.

• Cranberry Sauce The bright tangy sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce perfectly balances the other richer sides. Make your own or use canned for an easy option.

• Green Bean Casserole This combination of green beans cream of mushroom soup and fried onions is a retro classic for good reason – it just hits the spot with turkey!

Seasonal Veggies

In addition to green beans, turkey breast pairs wonderfully with many vegetables in the fall and winter seasons. Some stellar options include:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Halved Brussels sprouts get caramelized and crisp when roasted in the oven. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper or add some crumbled bacon for a savory kick.

• Honey Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots are already sweet on their own – coating them with a bit of honey, butter, and thyme lends them a delicious caramelized flavor.

• Butternut Squash: The natural sweetness of butternut squash makes it a perfect match for turkey breast. Roast cubed squash or puree into a lusciously smooth mash.

• Roasted Root Vegetables: A colorful medley of carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and beets drizzled with olive oil and roasted makes a pretty and tasty side dish.

Comfort Food Favorites

Some stick-to-your ribs comfort food classics feel right at home paired up with turkey breast. Consider these decadent favorites:

• Scalloped Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream and cheese then baked to golden brown bubbly perfection. Oh so rich and irresistible!

• Sweet Potato Casserole: A southern tradition – mashed sweet potatoes topped with a brown sugar and pecan streusel topping.

• Creamed Corn: The creaminess perfectly balances the turkey. Bonus points for adding cheese and baking as a casserole.

• Mac and Cheese: A baked mac and cheese with a crispy, cheesy topping can’t be beat alongside turkey. For fun, stir in cooked turkey to make it a main dish.

Fresh and Light

Balance out all those decadent dishes with some lighter, fresher options:

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the meal beautifully. Spinach, mixed greens, and kale all work nicely.

• Waldorf Salad: Chopped apple, celery, walnuts, and a mayo dressing make this salad a crunchy classic.

• Cranberry Pecan Salad: Mix together fresh greens, dried cranberries, pecans, feta, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a fall-flavored salad.

• Roasted Veggie Quinoa Salad: Protein-rich quinoa mixed with roasted vegetables like cauliflower, butternut squash, and kale makes a hearty and healthy salad.

Breads

Complete your turkey feast with some fresh breads:

• Dinner Rolls: Fluffy yeast rolls are perfect for sopping up gravy and making turkey sandwiches with the leftovers. Keep it easy with store-bought brown and serve rolls.

• Cornbread: A wedge of moist, freshly baked cornbread with bits of corn kernel complements turkey perfectly.

• Cranberry Walnut Bread: Quick bread studded with tart dried cranberries and toasted walnuts makes a festive accompaniment.

• Focaccia: Flavorful rosemary and garlic focaccia bread makes an impressive side for any meal.

Putting it All Together

When planning your entire turkey dinner, go for balance and variety in textures, flavors, colors and nutrition. Aim for a mix of classic comfort foods, fresh vegetable sides, starchy and creamy dishes, and pops of color.

Some example balanced turkey dinner menus:

• Turkey breast, mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, dinner rolls
• Turkey breast, stuffing, green bean casserole, garden salad, gravy
• Turkey breast, mac and cheese, honey glazed carrots, cornbread, kale salad

The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing complementary sides with turkey breast. Use tried and true favorites or get creative to design the perfect turkey dinner! With these 23 side dish ideas, you are sure highlight and enhance the delicious yet mild flavors of turkey breast.