Thanksgiving can be one of the most challenging days of the year for anyone allergic to gluten or living a gluten free lifestyle for any number of reasons. The key to a successful meal is making one or several gluten free Thanksgiving side dishes.
If you’re not hosting, it can be especially daunting since you don’t know what you’ll be able to eat. If you’re visiting a family or friend’s house this Thanksgiving, your best option is to bring a gluten friendly side dish that you can eat, so that you can be sure you have something safe (besides the turkey of course!).
Preparing gluten free Thanksgiving side dishes is a lot easier if you’re hosting – you can make your entire meal gluten free and not have to worry about cross contamination.
If you’re out of ideas for gluten free Thanksgiving side dishes, here are our top 11 gluten free side dish ideas:
- Almond Flour Biscuits: These serve as a fantastic grain-free alternative to traditional bread rolls, perfect for those who are avoiding gluten but still want something bread-like to accompany their meal
- Gluten Free Corn Casserole: This delicious casserole will remind you of the comfort foods of your childhood
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pears: This dish combines Brussels sprouts with pears, and you can also add apples, fresh figs, and pecans to create a flavorful and festive side dish
- Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries: This dish is not only gluten-free but also vegan, paleo, and Whole30 compliant, featuring the warm flavors of cinnamon paired with butternut squash and cranberries
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic side that’s naturally gluten-free when made with cream and butter. Just be sure to check the labels on any additional ingredients like sour cream or cream cheese to ensure they are gluten-free
- Green Bean Casserole: To make this traditional dish gluten-free, use gluten-free fried onions and gluten-free cream of mushroom soup
- Sweet Potato Meringue Bake: A delightful twist on the classic sweet potato casserole, this version is a bit sweeter without being overly sugary and can be topped with a fluffy meringue for an extra special touch
- Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Beets: This vibrant salad pairs the earthy flavors of beets with the creamy tang of goat cheese, all dressed with a vinaigrette. It’s a fresh counterpoint to the more traditional, heavier Thanksgiving dishes
- Braised Red Cabbage with Caramelized Onions and Cider: A German-inspired side that’s both colorful and flavorful, with cabbage wedges braised in a cinnamon-spiced apple cider until they’re tender
- Sweet Potato Casserole: To keep this classic side dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and oats for the streusel topping. It’s a sweet and comforting dish that’s a staple at many Thanksgiving tables
- Gluten-Free Wild Rice Stuffing: A hearty and savory stuffing alternative made with wild rice. It’s seasoned with fresh herbs and is a great gluten-free substitute for traditional bread stuffing
Being prepared is the best way to have a safe and happy gluten free Thanksgiving!
