Sides For Fried Turkey

So, you’ve decided to deep-fry a turkey. First of all, kudos to you—you’re basically a backyard superhero now, wielding a giant pot of bubbling oil like a culinary Thor. But let’s be real: that crispy, golden bird is only half the victory. The real magic happens on the sides. You can’t just plop a fried turkey on a plate and call it a day. That’s like showing up to a party in a tuxedo with no pants. So, let’s talk about the sides for fried turkey, the unsung heroes of your feast.

The Golden Rule: Keep it Simple, Smart Friend

Fried turkey is rich, smoky, and a little bit extra—like a friend who brings a karaoke machine to a picnic. You don’t want sides that compete with it; you want sides that complement it. Think of them as the backup dancers to a rock star: supportive, tasty, and never trying to steal the microphone. The best sides are fresh, tangy, or creamy, because they cut through all that glorious, fried goodness.

Here’s the thing: your oven is probably free while you’re frying outside (unless you’re an overachiever with multiple turkeys). So, use that oven for sides that can be made ahead. Because nobody wants to be a stressed-out turkey juggler—that’s a job for a circus clown, not a home chef.

Mac and Cheese: The Universal Diplomat

Let’s start with a classic that never, ever fails: mac and cheese. It’s the side dish that everyone agrees on, like the “we’ll always be friends” song from a cheesy 80s movie. But here’s the twist: make it a little smoky. Add some smoked gouda or a pinch of chipotle powder. That tiny kick will make your mac whisper, “Hey, I belong with that fried turkey over there.”

Pro tip: bake it until the top is golden and crispy. Those crunchy bits are like the crunchy edges of a fried turkey’s skin, just in noodle form. It’s comforting, it’s gooey, and it’s the side dish equivalent of a warm hug from a really cheesy friend.

Don’t Forget the Crunch: Coleslaw

Now, you might be thinking, “Coleslaw? With fried turkey? That’s like wearing flip-flops to a formal dinner.” But hear me out: coleslaw is the cool, crisp hero this meal needs. The acidic, tangy dressing cuts through the fatty richness of the turkey like a sharp knife through butter. Go for a vinegar-based slaw, not that gloopy mayonnaise kind (save that for the burgers).

15+ Side Dishes for Turkey - Bite-Sized Bash

Throw in some shredded carrots, a handful of sliced almonds, and maybe a little cranberry or apple for sweetness. It’s like a tiny, crunchy salad that says, “I’ve got your back, fried buddy.” Plus, it’s ready in 10 minutes, which means you can spend more time not setting off the smoke alarm.

Cornbread: The Sweet, Buttery Best Friend

If fried turkey is the star of the show, then cornbread is the loyal sidekick who always has your back. It’s sweet, it’s buttery, and it’s perfect for sopping up any stray juices or sauce on your plate. Make it from scratch if you have the energy, or buy a mix—no judgment here. I’m a firm believer that a box of Jiffy can be elevated to gourmet status with a little honey and a pinch of salt.

Here’s the secret: warm it up and slather it with honey butter. It’s like a little golden cloud of happiness. Serve it alongside your turkey, and you’ll feel like you’re at a state fair—but with better napkins and less chance of losing a shoe.

The Green That Steals the Show: Green Beans with Almonds

Let’s talk about a side that’s actually healthy, but doesn’t taste like punishment: green beans with toasted almonds. Steam them or blanch them until they’re bright green and snappy. Then toss them in a pan with olive oil, garlic, and slivered almonds. The almonds add a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the turkey’s crispy skin.

What Are Some Good Side Dishes For a Deep Fried Turkey? - The Healthy Apron

You can even add a squeeze of lemon at the end. It’s like a little zesty wake-up call for your taste buds. This side dish is the friend who says, “You ate a whole fried turkey? Cool, let’s go for a walk.” It keeps things balanced and prevents food coma (or at least delays it).

Sweet Potatoes: The “I’m Also Fried” Cousin

Since you’re already deep-frying a turkey, why not double down and make sweet potato fries? They’re like the rebellious younger cousin of the turkey who shows up to the party with purple hair and a skateboard. Toss them in a little cinnamon, smoked paprika, and salt, then roast them until they’re crispy. The sweetness plays off the smoky, savory turkey perfectly.

Don’t want to fire up the oven? Boil and mash them with a splash of maple syrup and a dash of cayenne pepper. It’s sweet, spicy, and creamy—basically the side dish equivalent of a hug from a warm blanket. Your guests will think you’re a culinary genius, and you can just nod and smile.

One More Trick: Cranberry Sauce (Yes, Really)

I know, I know—cranberry sauce is the “obvious” choice. But here’s the game-changer: make it from scratch with a whole orange and a cinnamon stick. The tartness and slight bitterness of fresh cranberries cut through the fried turkey’s richness like a sharp little ninja. It’s a vital acid that wakes up everything on the plate.

What to Serve With Turkey: 47 Best Side Dishes - Simply Meat Smoking

If you’re feeling fancy, add a splash of bourbon or a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’s not just for show; it’s for balance. You’ll be surprised how a single spoonful of homemade cranberry sauce can make your fried turkey taste even better. And nobody needs to know you added bourbon—that’s your secret.

Dessert? No, More Sides

Let’s be honest: after all these sides, dessert might be overkill. But if you insist, grab a simple peach cobbler or a slice of pecan pie. They’re sweet, nutty, and echo the flavors of the turkey’s seasoning. Or just buy a tub of vanilla ice cream and pretend it counts. I won’t tell.

Here’s the real takeaway: the perfect sides for fried turkey aren’t about being fancy. They’re about being thoughtful—choosing flavors that balance, contrast, and comfort. You’ve already conquered the dangerous art of deep-frying a bird (and maybe singed a few arm hairs). Give yourself a pat on the back. Then, load up that plate with mac and cheese, coleslaw, and a mountain of sweet potatoes.

So go ahead, friend. Fry that turkey with confidence. Surround it with sides that make it shine. And when you sit down to eat, remember: you’ve created a feast that’s equal parts bravery and butter. That’s something to smile about. Now, pass the cornbread—you’ve earned it.