Whether it’s Thanksgiving and you want to create a gourmet feast for all your loved ones or you’re simply in the mood to prepare an unforgettable meal just because, the sides for smoked turkey play a bigger role than you might think.
Sure, the smoked turkey itself is going to be the star of the show. But the smoked turkey sides are the supporting cast that tie the entire dinner table together. That’s why we’re here to help you figure out what to serve with smoked turkey.
From sweet to savory, light to hearty, we’ve got so many great sides to go with smoked turkey below. Here are some of our personal favorites:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted root vegetables
- Cornbread stuffing
- Brussels sprouts with bacon
- Wild rice pilaf
- Cranberry sauce with orange zest
- Mac and cheese
- Grilled asparagus with lemon
- Baked sweet potato casserole
- Honey-glazed carrots
There’s plenty more where those came from, so keep reading to discover the most tantalizing smoked turkey sides. We’ll even share tips on pulling off a memorable meal, including sourcing the best smoked turkey online here at Mahogany Smoked Meats.
We’ve been slow-smoking meats to perfection for well over a century. You can leave the heavy lifting to us and simply warm the turkey once it arrives at your doorstep. This way you can guarantee perfection while spending more time relaxing with loved ones.
Once you experience the Mahogany Smoked Meats difference, you’ll never go back to preparing meals the old way. Order today and learn more about what to serve with smoked turkey below!
What to Serve With Smoked Turkey: Our Favorite Smoked Turkey Sides for Summer, Winter, or Any Season in Between!
Just like with the sides for pork chops, it’s far too easy to overlook the role of sides with smoked turkey. But imagine being served a plate with just turkey on it - boring!
On the other hand, the best sides with smoked turkey can create a symphony of flavors that elevates the smoked turkey itself, helping you create a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Here’s what to serve with smoked turkey if you’re looking for inspiration.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Nothing says Thanksgiving like smoked turkey paired with creamy mashed potatoes. This is a rich, comforting base to balance the deep, smoky flavors of turkey.
The butter and cream in mashed potatoes can soak up all the flavorful turkey juices or gravy. Their velvety texture contrasts nicely with the meat’s smokiness, making them a go-to classic. Add roasted garlic or a dollop of sour cream to give your mashed potatoes a flavorful kick.
Roasted Root Vegetables
A colorful mix of sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips roasted with olive oil, salt, and rosemary brings both sweetness and earthiness to your plate.
The caramelization from roasting brings out the natural sugars in the veggies, pairing perfectly with smoked turkey’s savory notes. Toss your veggies with a bit of honey or balsamic glaze just before serving to really elevate that natural sweetness and give them an irresistible sheen.
Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing adds a hearty, Southern twist to smoked turkey that screams Thanksgiving - it’s great year-round for that matter, though.
The sweet and crumbly texture of the cornbread can be combined with savory sausage, onions, and celery to complement the turkey’s smokiness for a delightful medley of flavors in every bite. Try toasting the cornbread before mixing it with the stuffing for a crispier, more flavorful texture.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
The charred, slightly bitter taste of roasted brussels sprouts harmonizes beautifully with the richness of crispy bacon.
Together, this side packs both smokiness and savory flavor to create the perfect companion for smoked turkey. Toss in some dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness to balance the salty bacon.
Cranberry Sauce With Orange Zest
The tart, bright taste of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of smoked turkey, while the orange zest adds a refreshing citrus twist that makes the dish feel even more special.
While not a traditional “side,” it’s still a wonderful way to enhance smoked turkey. Add a splash of Grand Marnier or brandy to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor that ties the whole meal together.
Wild Rice Pilaf
Need a bit more substance on your plate? Look no further. The nutty flavor of wild rice combined with cranberries, pecans, and fresh herbs creates a hearty yet light side that complements smoked turkey's bold flavors.
It’s an earthy, filling option that brings both the texture and taste of the meal up a notch. Use chicken or turkey broth instead of water to cook your wild rice for a deeper, richer flavor.
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon
Grilled asparagus with a light squeeze of lemon provides a bright, crisp contrast to the richness of smoked turkey. The charred edges of the asparagus mimic the turkey’s smokiness, while the lemon keeps the dish light and fresh.
Drizzle the asparagus with a bit of melted butter or sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top - bon appétit!
Mac and Cheese
Let’s face it…there’s never a bad time for rich and creamy mac and cheese! This crowd-pleaser provides a comforting counterpoint to smoked turkey’s savory, smoky flavor.
You really can’t go wrong with choosing this as one of your smoked turkey sides. The gooey cheese sauce and tender pasta are an indulgent, satisfying pairing with turkey.
Don’t waste your time with box mac and cheese, either. You and your guests deserve better. If you’re wondering what to serve with smoked turkey, try a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for depth and complexity.
Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
Speaking of cheese, sautéed green beans with garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan bring a light, flavorful side to your turkey dinner.
The crispness of the green beans contrasts with the tender turkey, while the garlic and Parmesan add layers of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Throw in some toasted almonds for a satisfying crunch and extra nuttiness.
Honey-Glazed Carrots
Sweet honey-glazed carrots contrast delightfully with the savory, smoky turkey. The carrots, roasted to caramelized perfection, bring out their natural sweetness, while the honey adds a touch of luxury to the dish.
If it feels like something is missing, you can add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal note that pairs well with both the turkey and the sweetness of the carrots.
Baked Sweet Potato Casserole
Want to really go out with your sides for smoked turkey? Create this decadent side dish with marshmallows or pecans for a rich, sweet element to your turkey dinner.
The creamy texture of the sweet potatoes and the crunchy, caramelized topping provide an unforgettable contrast to smoked turkey. You can even throw a savory twist into the mix with cinnamon and cayenne pepper.
Apple and Walnut Salad
A crisp, refreshing apple and walnut salad brings a light touch to the richness of smoked turkey. The sweetness of the apples pairs wonderfully with the turkey, while the crunchy walnuts add texture and depth.
You can tie it all together by dressing the salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the turkey. It’ll be a healthy hit!
Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini
Roasted cauliflower has a slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with a smoky turkey. Drizzle some tahini sauce over the top for an exotic touch to your meal, that adds flavor complexity to the plate. Sprinkle pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and sweetness for the cherry on top.
Coleslaw with Apple Cider Vinegar
A tangy, crunchy coleslaw with apple cider vinegar provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the heavier elements of a smoked turkey meal. The vinegar’s acidity balances the smokiness and richness of the turkey. Thinly sliced apples or fennel can add extra crunch and sweetness to the coleslaw.
Potato Gratin
Cheesy potato gratin is one of the most decadent, creamy sides for smoked turkey. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes in a rich, flavorful sauce offer a luxurious texture and flavor while serving as the perfect contrast to smoked turkey.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or fresh thyme to the sauce for an aromatic depth of flavor. You can’t go wrong with this one!
Herbed Dinner Rolls
When in doubt, these are our favorite smoked turkey sides. Soft, fluffy, and simple. We prefer rolls with rosemary, thyme, or sage to bring a fragrant and comforting element to the meal.
They’re perfect for soaking up gravy or making turkey sandwiches with leftovers. Make sure you warm them before serving and offer some herbed butter for an extra layer of enjoyment.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
If you’re wondering what to serve with smoked turkey in summer, this is our go-to. The slightly charred kernels slathered with butter and a sprinkle of salt bring a sweet, smoky balance to the turkey. Sprinkle the corn with smoked paprika or grated cheese for extra flavor.
Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables like cucumbers, beets, or onions provide a tangy, crunchy contrast to the richness of smoked turkey. The acidity cuts through the smokiness to refresh the palate between bites. Just make sure you’re creating a medley of flavors so it’s not too boring.
Butternut Squash Soup
For those in need of cozy, fall-themed sides for smoked turkey, butternut squash soup is a no-brainer. It offers a creamy, slightly sweet complement to smoked turkey.
The earthy, rich flavor of the squash pairs beautifully with the smoky notes of the turkey. Garnish the soup with a drizzle of cream and toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and flavor. The presentation is reason enough to include this as one of your smoked turkey sides!
Spicy Mustard Greens
Last, but certainly not least, on our list of the best sides for smoked turkey: mustard greens sautéed with garlic and a hint of spice.
This side has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that balances the savory richness of the turkey. Their slight bitterness is offset by the smoky, spicy seasoning. A splash of vinegar or hot sauce can brighten the dish even further.
Tips on Pulling Off the Ultimate Smoked Turkey Meal
There you have it, all our favorite smoked turkey sides! Now that you know what to serve smoked turkey you can head to the store and stock up on ingredients.
Before we wrap things up, though, here are some more tips on tying everything together for a meal that will have the entire dinner table raving and ready for seconds.
Choosing Sides Based on Season
We’ve given you some great advice on what to serve with smoked turkey, but it’s not as simple as closing your eyes and picking three at random. If you’re serious about putting together an unforgettable spread, you should be more thoughtful in picking your sides with smoked turkey.
Lighter, fresher sides like grilled corn, cucumber salad, and coleslaw are great for those wondering what to serve with smoked turkey in summer. They’re refreshing and seasonal.
On the other hand, heartier, warming dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and butternut squash soup pair perfectly with the smoky, savory flavors of smoked turkey in winter weather.
Balancing Flavors: Sweet, Savory, and Smoky
You can also think about the symphony of flavors you’re hoping to create in choosing the best sides for smoked turkey. A well-rounded meal includes a cornucopia of flavors: sweet, savory, and smoky on a single plate.
Turkey already brings smokiness, so you’ll want to feature sides with smoked turkey that contrast and enhance this element. Sweet dishes like honey-glazed carrots, apple slaw, or a cranberry sauce with orange zest offer a bright, fruity contrast that cuts through the richness of the turkey.
As far as savory sides that go with smoked turkey, mac and cheese, garlic green beans, and wild rice pilaf all add depth and umami to the meal. Combining these flavors guarantees a well-rounded plate that hits all the right notes.
Reheating Smoked Turkey to Make the Most of Every Ounce
We know you came here wondering what sides go with smoked turkey, but you should start thinking ahead to the leftover smoked turkey recipes you’ll use as well.
We suggest the stovetop or oven to reheat your turkey without drying it out. You can also add a splash of broth or water to prevent the meat from drying out. Wrapping the turkey in foil or using a lid helps to retain moisture while it warms.
You can repurpose your leftovers into fresh dishes like turkey salad, tacos, or casseroles, giving you even more value out of your smoked turkey.
Avoid the Hassle of Preparing a Smoked Turkey With the Help of Mahogany Smoked Meats!
Even if you nail it with the best sides for smoked turkey, you still need to make sure the turkey itself is to die for. Easier said than done, of course. There’s a fine line between perfection and dry turkey that’s difficult to chew - and impossible to enjoy.
But what if we told you that you didn’t have to bother doing the heavy lifting this holiday season? You can leave it to the experts at Mahogany Smoked Meats.
With more than 100 years of experience, we’ve perfected the art of slow-smoking turkey so that it melts in your mouth, giving way to tantalizing flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
We’re not just saying that, either. We’re the only smokehouse in the nation that uses mahogany lumber, so all our meats are truly one-of-a-kind. That goes for all the different cuts in our catalog, including but not limited to:
- Buy smoked pork chops
- Buy smoked bacon
- Buy Canadian bacon
- Buy bone in ham
- Smoked sausages
- Smoked boneless ham for sale online
- Ham steaks for sale
You can simply warm the bird per the instructions - we recommend preheating the oven to 325'F, covering the turkey, and heating for 10 min per pound.
It’s really that easy. No need to stress about getting that smoked turkey crispy skin. You can spend time focusing on what to serve with smoked turkey, or spending time with loved ones, or just kicking back and relaxing.
Learn more about how long to let a turkey rest or how to reheat smoked turkey in our blog. We have other resources too, including:
- How long is turkey good in the fridge
- What does turkey taste like
- How to cook bone in ham
- How to cook a smoked ham steak
- How to reheat pork chops
Otherwise, set yourself up for dinner success by ordering your smoked turkey online at Mahogany Smoked Meats today. Simplify meal time and guarantee results!
Parting Thoughts on What to Serve With Smoked Turkey in Summer or Winter
Even though the smoked turkey is the entree, it’s not the only thing you need to put thought and care into. The smoked turkey sides are of equal importance, if not more so!
Fortunately, you know what to serve with smoked turkey in summer or winter now so you can curate an unforgettable meal for all your loved ones, be it a Thanksgiving spread or just because.
From light, refreshing salads to rich, savory dishes like mashed potatoes or mac and cheese, the goal is to create balance and contrast across the plate. But of course, it all starts with the turkey itself - which is why you should set yourself up for success by ordering from us.
Unparalleled flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the convenience of simply warming the turkey and enjoying it. What more could you ask for? Taste the difference 100 years of tradition can make!
