The Thanksgiving holiday is upon us, and everyone is gearing up for a delicious meal. That meal could be cooked by the chefs in the family, slaving away for days to make sure it's perfect.  It could be cooked by someone else who knows how to cook and heated on Turkey Day, or it could be served up in a restaurant.

Why Side Dishes Make Thanksgiving Special

No matter where you get your Thanksgiving meal, the thing that makes it perfect is the side dishes. For most people, you're going to have meat, whether it is turkey or ham, or a different type of protein. But it's the sides that make Thanksgiving Dinner.

We did a little research to find out about favorite sides. First, we asked you, and then we scanned through other local social media posts to find out everyone's favorite Thanksgiving side dishes.

From potato dishes in every form to the perfect plate of vegetables, these are the side dishes Amarillo residents have to have on their Thanksgiving table.

The Top 12 Thanksgiving Sides That Amarillo Loves

From creamy mashed potatoes to sweet and savory casseroles, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and buttery rolls, each dish brings something unique to the table. Some families have traditions that go back generations, while others like to experiment with new recipes each year. It’s the combination of flavors and memories that make Thanksgiving truly special.

Gallery Credit: Lori Crofford

Traditions and Giving Thanks

Thanksgiving is a day of food, football, naps, and the most important part, being thankful. For most, it's a day of gathering around a table with your family, friends, and drunk uncle Frank. For others, it is volunteering and serving Thanksgiving dinner to those less fortunate. No matter how you celebrate Thanksgiving, make sure you give thanks.

Enjoy all your Thanksgiving sides, and we are thankful for you.

5 Tips to Keep You and the unpredictable Uncle out of the Emergency Room This Thanksgiving Meal

When the holidays arrive, things can get frantic and accidents become more common. Take care this holiday season and take these simple precautions to simplify the stress of an ER visit.

Gallery Credit: JD Knight

Thanksgiving 101: How To Keep Your Dogs Safe

This Thanksgiving make sure to keep your pets safe! From food they can and can NOT eat, to house safety tips and more, here’s how you can keep your dogs safe this Thanksgiving.

Gallery Credit: Canva