Thanksgiving Day is a time for family, friends, and of course, food. While the Thanksgiving turkey may be the star of the show, it’s the side dishes that really make a traditional Thanksgiving dinner special.
While some of the best Thanksgiving side dishes like stuffing and mashed potatoes are a classic recipe for a reason, sometimes it’s nice to mix things up and try something new.
This Thanksgiving, impress your guests with these crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving side dish recipes. These delicious recipes can be enjoyed throughout the holiday season, not just on your Thanksgiving table.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or cooking your first Thanksgiving meal, you’re sure to find the
perfect side dish that will be become a new family favorite.
If you are looking for some desserts to enjoy after your Thanksgiving feast other than pumpkin pie, be sure to check out these Thanksgiving dessert recipes.
What Side Dishes Can I Make Ahead for Thanksgiving?
- Several easy side dishes can be prepared ahead of time to make your Thanksgiving cooking experience smoother.
- By making these delicious side dishes ahead of time, you’ll save valuable oven and stove top space on Thanksgiving day.
- Here are some popular make-ahead Thanksgiving side dishes:
- Make and mash the potatoes a day ahead, then store them in the refrigerator. Reheat with a bit of milk or cream before serving.
- Prepare the stuffing mixture, excluding any liquid components, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the liquid and bake on the day of serving.
- Homemade cranberry sauce can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Assemble the sweet potato casserole without topping it with marshmallows or streusel. Cover and refrigerate. Add the topping and bake on Thanksgiving day.
- Prepare the casserole without baking, cover, and refrigerate. Add the crispy onion topping and bake on the day of serving.
- Chop and season your vegetables, then store them in the refrigerator. Roast them on Thanksgiving day.
- For dishes like casseroles or gratins, you can often prepare the components in advance and assemble them before baking.
- Prepare the dough for rolls or biscuits and shape them. Refrigerate until ready to bake on Thanksgiving day.
Tips for Making Popular Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes
- Create a menu and plan your side dishes in advance. Consider the cooking times and oven space needed for each dish.
- Opt for make-ahead dishes to reduce last-minute stress. Prepare components or entire dishes in advance and reheat or assemble on the day.
- Chop, peel, and prep ingredients the day before to save time on Thanksgiving day.
- Utilize your slow cooker for dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and casseroles. The use of the slow cooker will keep dishes warm and free up oven space.
- If you’re hosting a potluck-style gathering, delegate some side dishes to family members and guests to share the workload.
- Ensure you have enough baking sheets, casserole dishes, and other essential tools for cooking and serving.
- Familiarize yourself with recipes beforehand and double-check ingredient lists to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Embrace fresh ingredients and fresh herbs for the freshest and most flavorful Thanksgiving recipes.
- If you’re trying a new recipe, consider testing it out a few weeks before Thanksgiving to avoid unexpected mishaps.
- Set timers and keep an eye on your dishes to prevent overcooking.
- While creativity is great, don’t over complicate your menu with too many elaborate dishes. Stick to a balance of new and traditional recipes.
Easy Thanksgiving Side Dishes
The Best Recipes for Thanksgiving Side Dishes
What are your favorite Thanksgiving side dishes?
FAQs Thanksgiving Side Dishes
The favorite Thanksgiving side dish can vary, but some universally loved options include creamy mashed potatoes, flavorful stuffing or dressing, tangy cranberry sauce, and comforting green bean casserole. The mix of these sides contribute to a festive and diverse Thanksgiving feast.