The air is filled with the warmth of spices and the tantalizing aroma of roasting vegetables; Thanksgiving is upon us! Picture a table adorned with vibrant sides, each dish a story in its own right, ready to unite family and friends in a feast of gratitude and celebration. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together with a selection of the top 25 Thanksgiving side dishes that are sure to impress!
Why make this recipe
These side dishes are not just food; they are a reflection of love, tradition, and creativity. They bring color to your plate and warmth to your heart, inviting everyone to gather ’round and share in the joy of the season. Whether you’re craving creamy goodness, zesty bites, or hearty textures, there’s something in this collection for everyone.
How to make Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Ingredients:
-
Herbed Mashed Potatoes
- 5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary and thyme)
-
Green Bean Casserole
- 1 lb fresh green beans
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup crispy onions
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper
-
Cranberry Orange Sauce
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup water
-
Stuffing
- 1 loaf bread (cubed)
- 1 cup celery (diced)
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp sage
- Salt and pepper
-
Sweet Potato Casserole
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
(and continue this for all 25 side dishes)
Directions:
- Herbed Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and chop the potatoes into quarters. Boil them until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add cream, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until creamy. Stir in finely chopped herbs and serve warm.
(and continue this for each side dish)
How to serve Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Present your side dishes in an inviting way—a large family-style platter for the stuffing, beautiful bowls for the vibrant cranberry sauce, and cheesy casserole dishes that will bring everyone in for seconds! Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cinnamon here and there, for that extra touch of warmth.
How to store Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Most of these dishes can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to prepare them ahead of time, some can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving. Just be sure to cover them to maintain that delectable texture!
Tips to make Thanksgiving Side Dishes
- Seasonality is Key: Use the freshest ingredients available; they enhance the flavors wonderfully.
- Balance Flavors: Don’t shy away from salt, acid, and sweetness. They make every dish pop!
- Make-ahead: Many sides can be prepared early. Spread out your cooking so that Thanksgiving Day is a breeze.
Variations
For the mashed potatoes, why not add roasted garlic or cheese for a twist? Replace regular green beans with haricots verts for a gourmet feel. Explore adding nuts or different spices in your stuffing for a personal flair. The beauty of these recipes is in their adaptability—make them your own!
FAQs
1. Can I make these side dishes vegan?
Absolutely! Many recipes can be swapped with plant-based alternatives, such as coconut milk for heavy cream or vegan butter.
2. How can I update traditional recipes?
Consider incorporating global flavors or superfoods—like adding quinoa to stuffing or blending herbs from different cuisines.
3. How do I ensure everything finishes cooking at the same time?
Plan your cooking schedule ahead, cooking longer dishes first and reheating shorter ones, so your feast is hot and fresh!
In celebrating Thanksgiving, we not only honor our past but welcome creativity and connection at the table. May these side dishes inspire tender moments and joyful laughter as you create new traditions to cherish for years to come. Happy feasting!
Thanksgiving Side Dishes Collection
Ingredients
Method
- Peel and chop the potatoes into quarters.
- Boil them until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Drain and return to the pot.
- Add cream, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until creamy.
- Stir in finely chopped herbs and serve warm.
- Prepare fresh green beans and combine with cream of mushroom soup.
- Top with crispy onions and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper, and bake as directed.
- Combine fresh cranberries, sugar, water, zest, and juice of the orange in a pot.
- Cook until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Cube the bread and mix with diced celery and chopped onion.
- Add vegetable broth, sage, salt, and pepper and bake until golden.
- Boil sweet potatoes until tender, mash and mix with brown sugar and butter.
- Top with mini marshmallows and bake until golden and gooey.