Thanksgiving Side Dishes That Save the Day
The holidays tend to sneak up on us, and before you know it, Thanksgiving is just hours away. But showing up empty-handed or relying on store-bought options doesn’t have to be the solution. This curated list of 16 easy and quick side dishes ensures that you can whip up crowd-pleasing recipes in under an hour, with no need for fancy ingredients or special prep. From crispy potatoes to perfectly sautéed greens, these recipes are here to simplify your last-minute cooking and make your Thanksgiving table shine. Let’s dive into these delicious options!
1. Crispy Parmesan Potato Stacks
These beautiful, golden stacks of thinly sliced potatoes are brushed with butter and Parmesan, creating a crispy, show-stopping dish. A silicone pastry brush is recommended to evenly distribute the oil and ensure picture-perfect layers.
2. Microwave Garlicky Creamed Spinach
This quick recipe uses canned coconut cream for a luscious dairy-free option, but heavy cream works just as well for a traditional take. Either way, this creamy side is packed with garlicky goodness and ready in no time.
3. Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Lemon
Light, fresh, and zesty, this dish is made by slicing Brussels sprouts thin and tossing them with lemon juice for a quick, tangy side. A food processor with a slicing blade is a great tool to save prep time.
4. Creamed Corn
Velvety, rich, and oh-so-indulgent, creamed corn can also be turned into a casserole by adding extra cream, a sprinkle of cheese, and baking until golden.
5. Candied Yams
Perfectly sweet and full of fall flavors, candied yams add a touch of nostalgia to the table. Note: Grocery stores often confuse yams with sweet potatoes—this recipe uses sweet potatoes for that caramelized sweetness.
6. Green Beans with Shallots and Pancetta
Simple yet elegant, this dish balances crisp green beans with the savory richness of pancetta and the mild sweetness of shallots. For perfectly tender beans, start testing them for doneness after just two minutes of cooking.
7. Butternut Squash with Walnuts and Vanilla
This unique combination of roasted squash, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of vanilla makes for a beautifully fragrant side. Kabocha squash can substitute for butternut if preferred.
8. Garlic Roasted Potatoes
These halved potatoes are golden, crispy, and infused with garlic. Roasting them cut-side down ensures a caramelized texture without needing to flip them during cooking.
9. Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
A twist on the classic Caesar, this salad incorporates shaved Brussels sprouts and lemony breadcrumbs for added texture. Pre-shaved sprouts are a time-saver, or use a food processor for effortless slicing.
10. Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and fluffy, these mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple. Starting the potatoes in cold water ensures even cooking, preventing crunchy centers and overly mushy exteriors.
11. Butternut Squash with Brown Butter and Thyme
This stovetop recipe combines nutty brown butter with aromatic thyme for a quick yet flavorful dish. Pre-cut squash reduces prep time, making this ideal for last-minute planning.
12. Easy Sautéed Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is sautéed to perfection with hints of garlic, making it a healthy and colorful addition to your plate. Look for fresh, firm leaves to ensure maximum flavor.
13. Butter Swim Biscuits
These buttery, tender biscuits are baked directly in melted butter, creating a crispy outer crust and a soft, pillowy interior. Buttermilk or plain yogurt keeps the flavor rich and tangy.
14. Classic Glazed Carrots
A little brown sugar or maple syrup elevates these tender carrots with a glossy, sweet glaze. Substitute honey for an equally delightful version.
15. Southern "Fried" Cabbage
Cabbage is sautéed with a touch of sugar for balance, resulting in a sweet and savory side packed with comforting Southern flavors.
16. Cranberry Relish
This bright and tangy accompaniment blends cranberries, orange, and apples for a refreshing side. A grinder is preferred for the best texture, but a food processor works just fine.
Pro Tip
These recipes feature clever time-saving techniques like pre-shaved veggies, minimal prep, and stovetop options to limit oven use. As a result, you get a stress-free meal full of flavor and variety.
Conclusion
Whether you're scrambling to prepare for Thanksgiving or adding to a potluck spread, these sides are approachable, practical, and guaranteed to please. With dishes ranging from traditional classics like mashed potatoes to unique twists like Brussels sprouts Caesar salad, there’s a little something for everyone. Give these recipes a try and make this holiday feast one to remember! 🦃
Stay Tuned
Stay tuned for more holiday insights, including desserts that aren’t pie, roll recipes to steal the show, and answers to your Thanksgiving meal questions!
