Thanksgiving is a time for family, togetherness, and, of course, food. While the turkey often steals the show, it’s the side dishes really make the dish. This year, the newest thanksgiving trend is to focus on trendy side dishes. The top dishes America’s chefs are making this year include classics like mashed potatoes but also new flavors like one-pot kimchi mac-n-cheese.

For many, Thanksgiving wouldn’t feel complete without mashed potatoes. They are classic and comforting. But mashed potatoes are only one part of the side dish lineup. There’s also stuffing. This is another classic dish that varies from family to family. Some people prefer it baked in a casserole dish, while others cook it inside the turkey, absorbing all the juices. Stuffings can be made with cornbread, white bread, or a combination of both, seasoned with herbs like sage and thyme, and perhaps dotted with bits of sausage or cranberries.

Next, is vegetables. Vegetables like roasted carrots and potatoes tie dishes together. As well as Green bean casserole, Roasted Brussels sprouts, and marshmallow sweet potatoes. Also, as mentioned before, new dishes like one-pot kimchi mac-n-cheese.

Then there are the sauces and condiments that bring everything together: cranberry sauce,  to balance the richness of the turkey and stuffing; and gravy. These sauces are the finishing touches that elevate the meal, bringing both flavor and moisture to an otherwise dry turkey.

For dessert, of course, there’s pumpkin pie. But even this iconic dessert is often preceded by other sweet treats, like pecan pie, apple crisp, or even bread pudding. The variety of desserts makes sure that the Thanksgiving feast lingers long after the last bite of turkey has been eaten.

Thanksgiving side dishes are more than just supporting players, they tie the whole meal together. They tell the stories of family traditions, of recipes passed down through. In the end, it is important to remember the true meaning of Thanksgiving; being thankful and gathering with family.