Thanksgiving dinner is all about comforting side dishes, and spinach is an easy way to add something fresh, flavorful, and colorful to your holiday table. From creamy spinach casseroles and cheesy baked dishes to garlic butter spinach and elegant spinach salads, there are plenty of delicious ways to serve this versatile vegetable.

If you’re looking for easy Thanksgiving spinach side dishes, this collection has something for every type of holiday menu. These recipes pair beautifully with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, dinner rolls, and roasted vegetables.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving for a crowd or preparing a cozy family dinner, these 21 Thanksgiving spinach recipes are simple, comforting, and perfect for the holiday table.

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1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spinach

Creamy garlic Parmesan spinach is one of the easiest ways to turn fresh spinach into an impressive Thanksgiving side dish. The combination of garlic, cream, Parmesan, and tender spinach creates a rich and comforting flavor.

Ingredients

• 10 oz fresh spinach
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
3. Add spinach in batches and cook until wilted.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir.
5. Add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until creamy.
7. Serve warm.

Tip

Add a little extra Parmesan on top before serving for a beautiful holiday presentation.

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2. Cheesy Spinach Casserole

This cheesy spinach casserole is creamy, bubbly, and perfect for a Thanksgiving buffet. It can also be assembled ahead of time.

Ingredients

• 12 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 4 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Combine spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
7. Broil briefly if you want a golden top.

Tip

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.

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3. Garlic Butter Spinach

When you want a quick Thanksgiving side dish, garlic butter spinach is an excellent choice.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh spinach
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a skillet.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly.
3. Add spinach.
4. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Finish with lemon juice.
7. Serve immediately.

Tip

Don’t overcook the spinach. It should remain bright and tender.

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4. Spinach Artichoke Dip Casserole

Turn everyone’s favorite spinach-artichoke flavors into a warm Thanksgiving side dish.

Ingredients

• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 cup chopped artichoke hearts
• 4 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup mozzarella
• ½ cup Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. Sprinkle additional mozzarella over the top.
5. Bake for 25 minutes.
6. Serve hot and creamy.

Tip

Serve with toasted bread or crackers if you want to turn it into an appetizer-style side.

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5. Creamed Spinach

Classic creamed spinach is a Thanksgiving favorite because it’s rich, silky, and incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh spinach
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 cup milk
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Wilt spinach in a skillet and set aside.
2. Melt butter in the same pan.
3. Whisk in flour.
4. Slowly add milk while whisking.
5. Add cream and simmer until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in garlic and Parmesan.
7. Add spinach and season.
8. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Tip

A pinch of nutmeg gives traditional creamed spinach a wonderful flavor.

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6. Spinach and Mushroom Sauté

Earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach make a simple but flavorful Thanksgiving side.

Ingredients

• 10 oz spinach
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until golden.
3. Add garlic and thyme.
4. Add spinach.
5. Cook until wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Finish with lemon juice.

Tip

Use cremini mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.

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7. Parmesan Spinach Gratin

A spinach gratin adds a sophisticated touch to the Thanksgiving table while remaining easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan
• ½ cup mozzarella
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Wilt spinach and squeeze out excess moisture.
3. Mix spinach with cream, garlic, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer to a baking dish.
5. Top with mozzarella and breadcrumbs.
6. Dot with butter.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.

Tip

Place the casserole under the broiler for the final minute or two for an extra-crispy topping.

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8. Spinach with Bacon and Garlic

Crispy bacon adds smoky flavor to tender spinach, making this a crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving side.

Ingredients

• 10 oz fresh spinach
• 4 slices bacon
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp butter
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Cook bacon until crisp.
2. Remove bacon and crumble.
3. Reserve a little of the bacon fat.
4. Add garlic and butter.
5. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Stir in crumbled bacon.
7. Add lemon juice and pepper.

Tip

For a lighter version, use turkey bacon or reduce the amount of bacon.

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9. Cream Cheese Spinach Bake

Cream cheese makes this spinach side dish incredibly rich and creamy.

Ingredients

• 12 oz frozen spinach, thawed
• 6 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup shredded cheddar
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, and seasonings.
3. Fold in cheddar and Parmesan.
4. Spread into a greased baking dish.
5. Bake for about 25 minutes.
6. Serve warm.

Tip

Let the cream cheese soften before mixing so the casserole becomes smooth.

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10. Spinach and Feta Salad

For a lighter Thanksgiving side, try a fresh spinach salad with feta, cranberries, and nuts.

Ingredients

• 6 cups baby spinach
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup crumbled feta
• ½ cup pecans
• ¼ cup sliced red onion

Simple Dressing

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Add spinach to a large salad bowl.
2. Add cranberries, feta, pecans, and red onion.
3. Whisk dressing ingredients together.
4. Drizzle over the salad.
5. Toss just before serving.

Tip

Toast the pecans for a richer, nuttier flavor.

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11. Spinach and Ricotta Bake

Ricotta adds a creamy, slightly sweet flavor to this comforting spinach casserole.

Ingredients

• 10 oz spinach
• 1 cup ricotta
• ½ cup Parmesan
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Wilt spinach and remove excess moisture.
3. Combine spinach with ricotta, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and seasoning.
4. Spread into a baking dish.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tip

Add mozzarella on top for an extra-cheesy version.

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12. Lemon Garlic Spinach

Lemon and garlic brighten up spinach and make a great contrast to rich Thanksgiving dishes.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh spinach
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
2. Add garlic.
3. Add spinach and toss until wilted.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add lemon juice and zest.
6. Toss and serve.

Tip

This recipe is especially good alongside rich turkey gravy and creamy mashed potatoes.

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13. Spinach and Parmesan Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms can work as either a side dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

• 16 large mushrooms
• 6 oz spinach
• ½ cup cream cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Remove mushroom stems.
3. Cook spinach with garlic.
4. Mix spinach with cream cheese and Parmesan.
5. Fill mushroom caps.
6. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 18–20 minutes.

Tip

Prepare the mushrooms several hours ahead and bake just before dinner.

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14. Spinach with Brown Butter and Sage

Brown butter and fresh sage create a warm, nutty flavor that feels perfect for fall.

Ingredients

• 10 oz spinach
• 4 tbsp butter
• 6 fresh sage leaves
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a skillet.
2. Add sage leaves.
3. Cook until the butter becomes fragrant and lightly browned.
4. Add spinach.
5. Toss until wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Finish with Parmesan.

Tip

Watch the butter carefully because it can go from browned to burnt quickly.

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15. Spinach Corn Casserole

Spinach and sweet corn create a colorful Thanksgiving side dish.

Ingredients

• 10 oz spinach
• 2 cups corn
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup shredded cheddar
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Combine spinach and corn.
3. Add sour cream, cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer to a casserole dish.
5. Top with additional cheddar.
6. Bake for 25 minutes.

Tip

Frozen corn works perfectly for this recipe.

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16. Spinach and Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes and spinach make a colorful and cozy combination for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked mashed sweet potato
• 8 oz spinach
• ½ cup cream cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Wilt spinach and squeeze dry.
3. Combine sweet potatoes, spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, and seasonings.
4. Spread into a baking dish.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
6. Serve warm.

Tip

Add toasted pecans on top for extra crunch.

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17. Crispy Spinach Parmesan Bake

This recipe combines tender spinach with a golden, crispy Parmesan topping.

Ingredients

• 10 oz spinach
• ½ cup Parmesan
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup mozzarella
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Wilt spinach and drain well.
3. Mix spinach with garlic, mozzarella, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer to a baking dish.
5. Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and melted butter.
6. Sprinkle over spinach.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes.

Tip

Panko breadcrumbs create an especially crunchy topping.

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18. Warm Spinach Cranberry Salad

Cranberries give this spinach side dish a festive Thanksgiving flavor.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup pecans
• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp maple syrup

Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a skillet.
2. Add cranberries and pecans.
3. Cook briefly.
4. Add spinach and toss until slightly wilted.
5. Add balsamic vinegar and maple syrup.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl.
7. Top with goat cheese.

Tip

Serve immediately while the spinach is warm.

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19. Spinach and Potato Casserole

Potatoes and spinach come together in a hearty side dish that’s ideal for a large Thanksgiving dinner.

Ingredients

• 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes
• 8 oz spinach
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• ½ cup cream
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper
• ¼ cup Parmesan

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Wilt spinach and drain.
3. Layer potatoes and spinach in a greased baking dish.
4. Pour cream over the layers.
5. Add garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Top with cheddar and Parmesan.
7. Cover and bake until potatoes are tender.
8. Uncover and bake until golden.

Tip

Slice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.

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20. Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Bake

This holiday casserole combines spinach, artichokes, cheese, and garlic in one delicious dish.

Ingredients

• 10 oz spinach
• 1 cup chopped artichoke hearts
• 4 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mozzarella
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix all ingredients together.
3. Spread into a greased casserole dish.
4. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
6. Serve hot.

Tip

A little red pepper flakes adds a pleasant kick.

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21. Ultimate Thanksgiving Spinach Casserole

If you want one impressive spinach dish for the holiday table, this creamy spinach casserole is a great choice.

Ingredients

• 12 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 4 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Combine spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, garlic, onion powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Spread into a greased baking dish.
5. Mix panko with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and golden.
8. Let it rest for several minutes before serving.

Tip

This is an excellent make-ahead Thanksgiving side. Assemble it earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake before dinner.

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How to Make the Best Thanksgiving Spinach Side Dishes

Spinach cooks quickly, so a few simple techniques can make a big difference.

1. Remove Excess Water

If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible. Too much moisture can make casseroles watery.

2. Don’t Overcook Fresh Spinach

Fresh spinach only needs a few minutes to wilt. Overcooking can make it lose its vibrant color and become mushy.

3. Add Garlic

Garlic pairs beautifully with spinach and works especially well in Thanksgiving recipes.

4. Use Cheese Strategically

Parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, goat cheese, and feta all pair wonderfully with spinach.

5. Add Texture

Breadcrumbs, toasted pecans, walnuts, crispy bacon, or fried onions can give creamy spinach dishes a delicious crunchy contrast.

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What to Serve With Thanksgiving Spinach

These spinach dishes pair especially well with:

• Roast turkey
• Turkey breast
• Honey-glazed ham
• Stuffing
• Mashed potatoes
• Sweet potato casserole
• Turkey gravy
• Cranberry sauce
• Green bean casserole
• Roasted carrots
• Brussels sprouts
• Dinner rolls
• Corn casserole
• Mac and cheese

For a balanced Thanksgiving plate, combine one creamy spinach dish with roasted vegetables, a potato side, stuffing, and turkey.

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Fresh Spinach vs. Frozen Spinach

Both work well for Thanksgiving recipes.

Fresh Spinach

Best for:

• Sautéed spinach
• Spinach salads
• Garlic butter spinach
• Lemon spinach
• Mushroom spinach

Frozen Spinach

Best for:

• Casseroles
• Creamed spinach
• Spinach-artichoke dishes
• Cheesy spinach bakes
• Gratin

Frozen spinach is especially convenient when you’re cooking several Thanksgiving dishes at once.

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Can You Make Thanksgiving Spinach Side Dishes Ahead?

Yes. Many spinach casseroles can be prepared ahead of time.

For casseroles, prepare the recipe according to the instructions but wait to bake it. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.

For fresh sautéed spinach, it’s usually best to cook it close to serving time because it takes only a few minutes.

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Can You Freeze Spinach Side Dishes?

Creamy spinach casseroles can often be frozen, although the texture may change slightly after thawing.

For best results:

1. Cool the dish completely.
2. Store it in a freezer-safe container.
3. Thaw in the refrigerator.
4. Reheat until hot.
5. Add fresh cheese or breadcrumbs on top if needed.

Fresh spinach salads and simple sautéed spinach are generally better made fresh.

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Easy Thanksgiving Spinach Flavor Combinations

Flavor Combination	Best For
Garlic + Parmesan	Creamy spinach
Spinach + Artichoke	Holiday casserole
Spinach + Mushroom	Sautéed side
Spinach + Bacon	Savory skillet
Spinach + Cranberry	Thanksgiving salad
Spinach + Feta	Fresh salad
Spinach + Sweet Potato	Cozy casserole
Spinach + Sage + Brown Butter	Elegant holiday side
Spinach + Lemon + Garlic	Light side dish
Spinach + Cheddar	Cheesy casserole

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best spinach side dish for Thanksgiving?

Creamed spinach, cheesy spinach casserole, spinach gratin, and spinach-artichoke casserole are excellent choices for Thanksgiving because they are comforting and pair well with turkey.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes. Frozen spinach works particularly well in casseroles and creamy recipes. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.

How do I make spinach taste better?

Garlic, butter, Parmesan, cream, lemon, mushrooms, bacon, and herbs can all add excellent flavor to spinach.

Can I prepare spinach casserole the day before Thanksgiving?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

What cheese goes best with spinach?

Parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, feta, goat cheese, and Gruyère are all delicious with spinach.

How do I keep spinach from becoming watery?

For frozen spinach, squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly. For fresh spinach, avoid adding too much liquid and don’t overcook it.

What herbs go well with spinach?

Sage, thyme, parsley, rosemary, basil, and oregano can all work well depending on the recipe.

Is spinach a good Thanksgiving side dish?

Absolutely. Spinach provides a fresh green component that balances heavier holiday foods such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, and creamy casseroles.

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Final Thoughts

These 21 easy Thanksgiving spinach side dishes make it simple to add a delicious green vegetable to your holiday menu. Whether you prefer creamy spinach casserole, garlic butter spinach, cheesy spinach gratin, spinach and mushrooms, or a fresh cranberry-feta salad, there’s an option for every Thanksgiving table.

For a classic holiday menu, try Creamed Spinach, Cheesy Spinach Casserole, or Spinach Parmesan Gratin. If you prefer something lighter, Lemon Garlic Spinach or Spinach Cranberry Salad is a wonderful choice.

And if you’re feeding a crowd, the Ultimate Thanksgiving Spinach Casserole is an easy make-ahead option that can go straight into the oven before dinner.