The Most Popular Thanksgiving Side Dishes In All 50 States
Published: October 26, 2022
The turkey may get all the hype for the Thanksgiving meal, but the true stars of the feast are the side dishes. Those side dishes are what make individual dinner tables unique. They help define family traditions, show creative interpretations of recipes, and make even a dry turkey taste magnificent. But depending on where you are regional, the favorite side dish may vary. Zippia.com broke down the most popular side dishes by state google searches, and here at YourWineStore, we paired those dishes with the most important menu item of any holiday gathering: wine.
Taking into consideration the starch, fat, sugar, and richness of each dish, we’ve selected the varietals that will pair best:
Thanksgiving Side Dish Wine Pairings
The Ultimate Wines for Thanksgiving: Why Pairing Matters
Thanksgiving is one of the most indulgent meals of the year. Between the savory, sweet, and sometimes tangy flavors on your plate, wine pairing can make all the difference in bringing those tastes to life. A well-chosen wine doesn’t just complement the food—it enhances it. For instance, a Riesling can add brightness to sweet dishes like glazed carrots or sweet potato casserole, while a bold Cabernet Sauvignon can hold its own alongside hearty stuffing or turkey with gravy.
Pairing wine with Thanksgiving sides is also a fun way to introduce variety to your table. A sparkling rosé might be the conversation starter that gets everyone excited to sip and savor between bites of buttery rolls or biscuits.
How to Build a Thanksgiving Wine Bar
Want to impress your guests? Set up a Thanksgiving wine bar! Create a lineup of wines that match your menu and encourage everyone to experiment with different pairings. Include a mix of reds, whites, and sparkling options to suit every taste. Label each wine with suggested pairings, like “Best with mashed potatoes” or “Perfect for green beans,” so guests can sip and compare as they feast.
Pro tip: Include a sweet dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling for those finishing off the meal with pie or other sweet treats. It’s the cherry on top of a perfectly paired dinner!
Bonus: Wines That Work with Leftovers
Thanksgiving isn’t just about the main event—it’s also about the glorious leftovers! Whether it’s a turkey sandwich, reheated stuffing, or a mashup of everything on one plate, these wines can make your leftovers shine:
- Turkey Sandwiches: Pair with a light Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
- Stuffing and Gravy: A bold Zinfandel or Syrah adds depth to these savory flavors.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: Riesling or Moscato can brighten up those sweet leftovers.
Leftovers are a chance to experiment with pairings in a low-pressure, fun way. Who knows—you might even find a new favorite!
Tag us in your holiday posts @YourWineStore + #YourWineStore and show us which sides dishes and wine you’re having this Thanksgiving!