Thanksgiving is synonymous with a hearty feast, and classic sides play a vital role in creating a memorable meal. From savory to sweet, these traditional dishes complement the main attraction—turkey! Here are some beloved Thanksgiving side dishes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Classic Turkey Day Sides
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a staple at any Thanksgiving table. To make them ultra-creamy, use a combination of butter, heavy cream, and sour cream. Start by peeling and cubing about 5 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well). Boil them in salted water until tender, then drain and return to the pot. Add ½ cup of warm heavy cream, ½ cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of unsalted butter, and mash until smooth. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. For an extra touch, stir in roasted garlic or chives.
2. Savory Stuffing
Stuffing (or dressing) is a Thanksgiving classic that varies by region and family tradition. For a delicious homemade version, start by cubing a loaf of rustic bread and toasting it in the oven until golden. In a skillet, sauté onions, celery, and carrots in butter until soft. Add herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley, and combine with the toasted bread. Moisten the mixture with broth (chicken or vegetable) until it reaches your desired consistency. Bake in a casserole dish until the top is crispy and golden, about 30 minutes.
3. Green Bean Casserole
This retro dish has become a Thanksgiving staple thanks to its creamy texture and crispy topping. Start by blanching 1 pound of fresh green beans until bright green and tender-crisp, then drain. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup of milk, and some soy sauce. Fold in the green beans and transfer to a baking dish. Top with crispy fried onions and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden. For a twist, add cooked mushrooms or sautéed garlic.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potatoes offer a beautiful contrast to the savory flavors of Thanksgiving. To make a sweet potato casserole, peel and boil 4 large sweet potatoes until tender. Mash them with ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of milk, ¼ cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Spread the mixture in a baking dish, and top with a crumbly mixture of brown sugar, flour, butter, and chopped pecans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until golden and set.
5. Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a must-have on the Thanksgiving table, providing a tart contrast to the rich flavors of the meal. For a homemade version, combine 1 bag of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. For a twist, add orange zest, cinnamon, or chopped walnuts for added texture. Let it cool before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These delicious little veggies have become a favorite side dish for many. For perfect roasted Brussels sprouts, trim and halve 2 pounds of Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy and caramelized. For added flavor, sprinkle with balsamic glaze or toss in some cooked bacon before serving.
7. Cornbread
Cornbread is a traditional side that pairs beautifully with turkey and gravy. For a simple recipe, mix together 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of flour, ½ cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, whisk 1 cup of milk, ¼ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 eggs. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed, then pour into a greased baking dish. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm with honey butter.
8. Pumpkin Soup
For a warm and inviting start to your Thanksgiving meal, consider serving a velvety pumpkin soup. Sauté chopped onions, garlic, and ginger in olive oil until fragrant, then add 2 cups of pumpkin puree (fresh or canned), 4 cups of vegetable broth, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, then blend until smooth. Stir in a splash of cream for richness and serve with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for garnish.
9. Macaroni and Cheese
For a comforting twist, add a macaroni and cheese dish to your spread. Cook 1 pound of elbow macaroni and drain. In a saucepan, melt ¼ cup of butter and whisk in ¼ cup of flour to create a roux. Slowly add 3 cups of milk, stirring until thickened. Mix in 3 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar works well) until melted and creamy. Combine the cheese sauce with the pasta, pour into a baking dish, and top with breadcrumbs and additional cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
10. Glazed Carrots
These sweet and savory glazed carrots are a simple yet elegant side. Slice 1 pound of carrots into sticks and blanch them in boiling water until tender-crisp. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add ¼ cup of brown sugar, a pinch of salt, and a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Add the cooked carrots and toss to coat until glazed. Cook for a few minutes until caramelized, then serve warm.
Thanksgiving is all about tradition and family, and these classic sides add a wonderful variety of flavors and textures to your meal. Each dish complements the turkey beautifully, making your Thanksgiving feast not only satisfying but also a cherished gathering for all. Enjoy creating these dishes and the memories they bring!
