Take mashed potatoescan you imagine a tablescape without them?

Cranberry sauce, gravy, roasted root veggies, and pumpkin pie are also mandatory.

But forget the stuffingthe hero of Thanksgiving dinnerand there will be a price to pay.

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Grace Elkus

Call it the sleeper sidesee if we care.

It’s pretty easy to make, too.

We present our six favorite stuffing recipes for Thanksgiving.

Sourdough and Sage Stuffing

Roland Bello

Just in case, peruse our collection ofrecipes for leftover stuffing.)

Classic Stuffing

Think of this simple stuffing recipe as your blank canvas.

Use your standard white sandwich bread or swap it for rustic sourdough, seeded rye, or torn challah.

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Anna Williams

(Yes, like!)

Sourdough and Sage Stuffing

The sourdough bread in this stuffing recipe gives it a deliciously toasty tang.

For a heartier dish, add bacon bits, pecan pieces, and fresh thyme.

Fig and Pine Nut Stuffing

There are mashed potatoes to make and birds to roast!

Enter this speedy sage-apple stuffing, which only takes 20 minutes of hands-on time.

Fig and Pine Nut Stuffing

These flavors are perfect for celebrating fall.

Stuffing With Sausage and Raisins

Jose Picayo

Cover with buttered foil for the first 20 minutes to ensure every bite has a bit of crave-worthy crust.

Don’t forget to add the leeks, which lend a smooth, earthy aroma.

Even the celery-onion-bell pepper mixture is made savory by cooking it in the leftover sausage drippings.

Butternut Squash and Sausage Stuffing

Greg Dupree

Poultry seasoning continues the trend, while fresh parsley and sage even it all out.

Warm and filling, this irresistible side dish will accompany your bird perfectly.