These low-carb Thanksgiving sides offer lighter, festive recipes to enjoy on the biggest food holiday of the year, from creamed spinach to roasted Brussels sprouts.
Thanksgiving is a day of feasting, but if you’re watching your carbs, it can also feel like a minefield. These low-carb Thanksgiving sides prove you can indulge while sticking to your dietary goals. Each serving of these veggie-laden dishes has 8 grams of carbs or fewer without sacrificing taste, so you can fill your plate, get your comfort food fix and stay on track.
This collection is packed with holiday favorites reimagined. You can still have stuffing and mash, but the stuffing uses keto bread or vegetables, and the mash is cauliflower-based. There are plenty of green vegetables, including asparagus, green beans, spinach and Brussels sprouts. Try them blanketed in cream sauce, smothered with cheese, seasoned with herbs or dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. No matter the dish, they all work with a classic roast turkey, the centerpiece of the table.
To keep the day stress-free, several of these low-carb holiday sides also work as make-ahead side dishes for a crowd, allowing you to prepare them in advance and reheat when guests arrive. To end the meal, consider healthy Thanksgiving desserts that can work in a low-carb diet, or set out a fancy cheese plate and skip the sweets altogether.
1/39
Spinach Parmesan Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
For those who ignore Popeye and won’t eat their spinach, I find that spinach with garlicky butter and Parmesan helps change their minds. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 239 calories, 21g fat (9g saturated fat), 37mg cholesterol, 703mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 10g protein.
2/39
Keto Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
Imagine all the savory flavors you love in traditional Thanksgiving stuffing—mushrooms, aromatic herbs and tender vegetables—but with a keto twist! Made with keto bread and classic ingredients, this dish is the perfect addition to any low-carb holiday spread. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 50 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 40mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
3/39
Lemon-Scented Broccolini
From the Recipe Creator:
Even the most finicky eaters will eagerly eat this vegetable seasoned with lemon pepper, lemon zest and lemon juice. If you prefer, use broccoli instead. —Kim Champion, Phoenix, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 90 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 232mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
4/39
Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
I couldn’t shake my mashed potato habit—until I tried mashed cauliflower with a similar consistency. I started making my own, and my family loves it. —Meredith Howard, Franklin, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 154 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 290mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
5/39
Garlic Parmesan Asparagus
From the Recipe Creator:
Pair any entree with this fresh side dish for a truly succulent meal. With subtle garlic, melted butter and a hint of Parmesan cheese, what’s not to love? —Tara Ernspiker, Falling Waters, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 71 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 74mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
6/39
Cauliflower Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
This cauliflower stuffing is the vegan substitute you've been looking for. It's perfect for the holidays. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 64 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 301mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
7/39
Marinated Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
My niece introduced me to this colorful recipe some time ago. I now make it when I have buffets or large gatherings because it can be prepared hours ahead. This is a great way to use a bumper crop of tomatoes. —Myrtle Matthews, Marietta, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
about 2 pieces: 93 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
8/39
Cheesy Cauliflower Side Dish
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheesy cauliflower side dish is my favorite way to prepare cauliflower. The topping adds color and enhances the flavor with a little zip. —Rita Reinke, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 88 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 222mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
9/39
Caesar Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This crunchy, refreshing Caesar salad has a zippy, zesty dressing that provides a burst of flavor with each bite. It's a fantastic salad to perk up any spring or summer meal. —Schelby Thompson, Camden Wyoming, Delaware
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 265 calories, 28g fat (4g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 268mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
10/39
Smothered Cabbage
From the Recipe Creator:
Ham adds smoky and salty flavor to this southern side dish. You could also used smoked sausage, smoked turkey leg or bacon. Serve the cabbage with your favorite pork chop dinner or roast chicken. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 65 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 320mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
11/39
Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish is especially wonderful when locally grown asparagus is in season. It's so easy for celebrations because you can serve it hot or cold. —Jannine Fisk, Malden, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 95 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 294mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
12/39
Onion Kugel
From the Recipe Creator:
Sliced eggplant, diced green pepper or shredded cabbage can be used in place of onions for this onion kugel recipe. Easy and traditional, this dish resembles a delicious souffle. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 171 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 140mg cholesterol, 276mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
13/39
Cauliflower Broccoli Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This broccoli cauliflower salad has been to as many family gatherings as I have! It holds well and leftovers are still tasty a day later. —Linda Kangas, Outlook, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 248 calories, 22g fat (4g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 269mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
14/39
Green Beans and Radish Salad with Tarragon Pesto
From the Recipe Creator:
Whichever way my garden grows, I usually build my salad with green beans, radishes and a pesto made with tarragon. That adds a hint of licorice. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 115 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 89mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
15/39
Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Cauliflower
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandkids were never huge fans of cauliflower, but the bacon makes a big difference in this dish. They like it even more with golden cauliflower instead of white. —Patricia Hudson, Riverview, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 137 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 221mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
16/39
Garlic-Herb Pattypan Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
The first time I grew a garden, I harvested summer squash and cooked it with garlic and herbs. Using pattypan squash is a creative twist. —Kaycee Mason, Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 58 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 296mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
17/39
Fresh Green Beans & Garlic
From the Recipe Creator:
I am a firm believer that fresh is best. I developed this recipe to take advantage of our garden veggies. It really shows off the full flavor of the green beans. —Carol Mayer, Sparta, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 91 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 245mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
18/39
Oven-Fried Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
Baked yellow squash is beautifully crispy. You don’t have to turn the pieces, but do keep an eye on them. —Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 137 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
19/39
Sugar Snap Pea Stir-Fry
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh ginger, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce and sesame oil provide a nice blend of flavors in this Asian-inspired recipe for fresh sugar snap peas. This quick-to-cook recipe will complement most any entree, including ham, lamb, chicken or fish. Best of all, it's easy to double for large crowds. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 60 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 59mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
20/39
Shredded Gingered Brussels Sprouts
From the Recipe Creator:
Even people who normally don't care for Brussels sprouts will ask for a second helping of these. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 56 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 214mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
21/39
Green Bean Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Serve up those green beans in a whole new way–with a green bean salad recipe! The tangy flavors and crunch of these balsamic green beans complement any special meal or holiday potluck. —Megan Spencer, Farmington Hills, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 77 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 112mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
22/39
Creamed Spinach & Pearl Onions
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was a culinary student, this creamy dish wowed me, and I don't even like spinach. This side is a keeper! —Chelsea Puchel, Pickens, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 307 calories, 30g fat (18g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 328mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
23/39
Sauteed Spinach
From the Recipe Creator:
My dad has grown spinach for years, and we’ve developed several recipes for it, but this one beats them all! —Terra Fondriest, St. Joe, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 98 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 544mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
24/39
Cajun Broccoli
From the Recipe Creator:
I usually make this minus the Creole seasoning, but a few weeks ago, I decided to try adding a different spice just to see what would happen. I loved it! It's garlicy, spicy and crunchy! —Krista Frank, Krista Frank, Rhododendron, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 107 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 166mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
25/39
Green Beans in Red Pepper Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
For easy veggies, I make a simple sauce of sweet red peppers, almonds and parsley. We also like this sauce with zucchini or roasted cauliflower. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 95 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 276mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
26/39
Steakhouse Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
I got this recipe from a friend back when we were in nursing school. Whenever my husband is cooking meat on the grill, you can bet I'll be in the kitchen preparing these mushrooms. —Kenda Burgett, Rattan, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 131 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 276mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
27/39
Pepper Parmesan Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
A colorful mixture of peppers and green beans gets an Italian treatment with basil and Parmesan cheese in this delightful vegetable dish. The garlic adds a savory zip. —Marian Platt, Sequim, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 107 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 357mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
28/39
Roasted Root Vegetables
From the Recipe Creator:
Pleasantly seasoned with rosemary and garlic, this appealing side dish showcases good-for-you roasted turnips, carrots and potatoes. It's a nice homey addition to our family's holiday meal. —Kerry Sullivan, Maitland, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 55 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
Roasted Herb & Lemon Cauliflower
From the Recipe Creator:
A standout cauliflower side is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. Crushed red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 161 calories, 14g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 342mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1 vegetable.
29/39
Lemon Garlic Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
I baste whole mushrooms with a lemony sauce to prepare this simple side dish. Using skewers or a basket makes it easy to turn them as they grill to perfection. —Diane Hixon, Niceville, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 94 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
30/39
Artichoke Spinach Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Although he isn't a fan of spinach, my husband loves this dish. The combination of ingredients may sound unusual, but the flavors meld well. It's an excellent side vegetable for a formal dinner. —Judy Johnson, Missoula, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 136 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 249mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
31/39
Lemony Green Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
You can throw together this dish in minutes using ingredients you probably already have on hand. That’s the beauty of it. —Jennifer Tarantino, Rutherford, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without lemon wedges): 76 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 88mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
32/39
Broccoli Cauliflower Combo
From the Recipe Creator:
Shallots, basil and broth rev up the taste of this nutritious vegetable medley. The bright color and fresh flavors will dress up your plate! —Clara Coulston, Washington Court House, Ohio.
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 38 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 204mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 vegetable.
33/39
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
From the Recipe Creator:
My roommate and I used to make garlicky Brussels sprouts at least twice a week. Now I make them as a healthy side for all sorts of occasions. —Katherine Moore-Colasurd, Cincinnati, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 69 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 215mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
34/39
Spinach Souffle
From the Recipe Creator:
You just can't make an easier, more delicious side dish than this. It's great with beef, pork and lamb, and I especially like serving it for a festive occasion like New Year's Eve. —Bette Duffy, Kenmore, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 375 calories, 33g fat (20g saturated fat), 228mg cholesterol, 630mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
35/39
Roasted Cauliflower Mash
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a tempting yet lower-carb alternative to traditional side dishes of spuds or rice. Guests who don’t detect the cauliflower might even think it’s mashed potatoes! —Jane McGlothren, Daphne, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 224 calories, 18g fat (9g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 523mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
36/39
Lemon-Pepper Broccoli
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh green broccoli turns tangy and tasty when roasted with lemon juice and pepper. A sprinkle of almonds adds crunch. —Liz Bellville, Jacksonville, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 84 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 103mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
37/39
Garlic Asiago Cauliflower Rice
From the Recipe Creator:
The garlic seasoning and Asiago really pack a punch, making this five-ingredient low-carb side dish a real weeknight winner. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 112 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 103mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
38/39
Italian Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Only four ingredients create a rich and flavorful side dish that goes well with beef and mashed potatoes. —Kim Reichert, Fargo, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 99 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 281mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
39/39
Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower
From the Recipe Creator:
Whenever we make a time-consuming entree, we also prepare this quick broccoli and cauliflower side. The veggies are a good fit when you’re watching calories. —Debra Tolbert, Deville, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 58 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 173mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
Low-Carb Thanksgiving Sides FAQ
What non-starchy vegetables are low-carb for Thanksgiving?
Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are non-starchy and fit perfectly into a holiday menu, so you don’t feel like you are missing out on anything. For low-carb Thanksgiving side dishes, you can include classic herbs, like rosemary, thyme and sage, to pair with the rest of the meal or try new seasonings, like a Cajun spice blend.
How do you make stuffing low-carb?
Traditional Thanksgiving stuffing recipes have a bread or cornbread base, but swapping in low-carb bread is an easy way to transform the side and reduce carbohydrates. Try store-bought or homemade keto bread and add plenty of herbs and broth for moisture and flavor. Sauteed low-carb aromatics, like celery, garlic and onion, will keep the same comforting taste as classic stuffing, and eggs can help bind everything together.
What can I substitute for mashed potatoes on a low-carb diet?
Mashed cauliflower is the go-to mashed potato substitute for those on a low-carb diet, offering a similar mild taste and creamy texture. For variety, try boiling or steaming and mashing other root vegetables, like turnips, rutabaga or celery root, though each of these has a more distinct flavor than cauliflower.
