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What to Serve With Deep Fried Turkey: 15 Best Side Dishes

Serving deep-fried turkey for a special meal calls for the perfect side dishes to create a memorable feast. Classic mashed potatoes, whether garlic-infused or buttery, offer a satisfying complement. Green bean casserole, with its creamy texture and crispy onions, brings warmth to the table. Tart cranberry sauce adds a vibrant touch that balances the richness of the turkey. Well-seasoned stuffing introduces comforting, savory depth, while mac and cheese provides an indulgent, cheesy delight. Each dish enhances the meal experience, making your holiday spread truly unforgettable. Explore more delicious sides to find the perfect match for your deep-fried turkey.

Mashed Potatoes

comforting thanksgiving side dish

Mashed potatoes serve as a classic and complementary side dish for deep fried turkey, offering a creamy and comforting texture that balances the meal.

Creamy variations, such as garlic-infused or buttery mashed potatoes, can enhance the experience.

Additionally, loaded toppings like crispy bacon bits, chives, and shredded cheese provide extra flavor and texture, making this side dish both versatile and satisfying alongside turkey.

Green Bean Casserole

text about holiday dish

Green bean casserole is a quintessential side dish that pairs excellently with deep fried turkey, offering a rich blend of flavors and textures.

The dish features tender green beans in a creamy mushroom base, creating a delightful contrast.

The crowning glory is the crispy onion topping, adding an irresistible crunch.

This classic casserole brings warmth and tradition to your holiday table, making it a favorite.

Cranberry Sauce

thanksgiving staple dish item

Why not elevate your deep fried turkey with the vibrant and tangy essence of cranberry sauce? This delectable side adds a burst of flavor that complements the savory turkey perfectly.

Pair it with cranberry cocktails for a festive touch or incorporate it into cranberry desserts for a cohesive meal. The tartness of the cranberry sauce balances the richness of the turkey, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Stuffing

delicious thanksgiving turkey stuffing

While the tangy cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor to your meal, a well-seasoned stuffing brings a comforting, savory depth that complements the rich, crispy turkey.

There are many stuffing variations to explore, from classic bread-based recipes to more adventurous options featuring wild rice or sausage.

Homemade stuffing, with its fresh ingredients and personal touch, can truly elevate your holiday feast.

Mac and Cheese

comfort food for all

Mac and cheese, with its creamy, velvety texture and rich, cheesy flavor, serves as an indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with the crispy perfection of deep-fried turkey.

Sweet Potato Casserole

delicious holiday side dish

Sweet potato casserole, with its harmonious blend of sweetness and savory undertones, serves as an ideal accompaniment to the bold flavors of deep-fried turkey.

The creamy sweet potatoes, enriched with a marshmallow topping, offer a delightful contrast to the savory turkey.

Adding a pecan streusel introduces a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the dish's complexity while complementing the rich, crispy turkey.

Cornbread

southern comfort food classic

Cornbread, with its golden crust and tender crumb, stands as a quintessential side dish that pairs seamlessly with the robust flavors of deep-fried turkey.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, jalapeno cornbread offers a delightful kick.

Spread a generous dollop of honey butter on top, and you have a comforting, delicious complement that enhances the meal's savory notes.

Brussels Sprouts

healthy vegetable side dish

Roasted Brussels sprouts, with their caramelized edges and nutty flavor, offer a sophisticated and healthy side dish that complements the richness of deep-fried turkey.

Enhance their natural taste by adding crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This combination not only provides a delightful crunch but also a sweet-savory contrast, making the sprouts a perfect accompaniment for your holiday feast.

Gravy

delicious thanksgiving dinner addition

A rich, velvety gravy is essential for enhancing the flavors of your deep-fried turkey and tying together the various elements of your holiday meal.

Achieving the perfect gravy consistency is key for a delightful dining experience.

Explore gravy variations by incorporating herbs, spices, or even a splash of wine. These tweaks can add depth and make your meal truly memorable for everyone.

Coleslaw

creamy cabbage side dish

Complementing the rich flavors of deep-fried turkey, coleslaw provides an invigorating and crunchy contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.

With various coleslaw varieties, such as traditional cabbage or colorful mixed veggies, there is something for everyone.

Dressing options range from creamy mayonnaise-based to tangy vinegar-based, catering to different taste preferences.

This simple yet delightful side dish balances the meal beautifully.

Dinner Rolls

warm fluffy bread rolls

Guaranteeing the meal's comfort and warmth, dinner rolls serve as a quintessential side dish that pairs perfectly with deep-fried turkey.

Their buttery texture and soft, fluffy interior make them irresistible. A homemade recipe guarantees a fresh, delightful taste that complements the rich flavors of the turkey.

These rolls are easy to make, adding a touch of homemade goodness to your festive feast.

Roasted Vegetables

healthy and flavorful dish

Roasted vegetables bring a vibrant medley of colors and nutrients to the table, perfectly balancing the richness of deep-fried turkey.

A well-seasoned vegetable medley, featuring carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, can be enhanced with herb seasoning to elevate its flavors.

This side dish not only complements the turkey but also adds a healthy, colorful touch to your festive spread.

Garlic Bread

delicious comfort food option

Garlic bread, with its irresistible aroma and crispy texture, is a delightful side that pairs exceptionally well with deep-fried turkey.

The rich garlic butter, generously spread over rustic loaves, enhances the savory flavors of the meal.

Its warm, golden crust and soft interior create a perfect balance, making it an ideal accompaniment that your guests will surely appreciate and enjoy.

Caesar Salad

tossed with creamy dressing

A well-prepared Caesar salad offers an invigorating contrast to the richness of deep-fried turkey, with its crisp romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, and savory Parmesan cheese.

Anchovy dressing adds a delightful umami flavor, while exploring different crouton varieties can bring an exciting texture.

This classic salad not only refreshes your palate but also complements the turkey, making the meal balanced and satisfying.

Can the Same Side Dishes be Served with Deep Fried Turkey and Ham Fried Rice?

Yes, the best side dishes for ham fried rice can also be served with deep fried turkey. Options like stir-fried vegetables, egg rolls, or a fresh fruit salad complement both dishes and add variety to the meal. These sides provide a balance of flavors and textures to enhance the dining experience.

Deviled Eggs

easter potluck favorite dish

Deviled eggs serve as a classic and flavorful appetizer that pairs beautifully with the robust taste of deep-fried turkey.

To add interest, explore flavor variations like spicy sriracha, tangy mustard, or smoked paprika.

For serving tips, arrange them on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This not only enhances the presentation but also elevates the taste experience for your guests.