Elevate Your Feast: Must-Try Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Wow Your Guests!

Quick Overview Section:

Recipe Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 from readers)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: Serves 4
Calories: 250 kcal (approx.)

Introduction

Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey; it’s an occasion to gather, indulge, and celebrate cherished traditions! One of my favorite ways to elevate the Thanksgiving Feast is through the side dishes, which can be just as memorable as the main event. Today, I’m excited to share a collection of must-try side dishes that are not only delicious but also cater to various dietary preferences, making them healthy, vegan, and gluten-free! With an open heart and these delightful recipes, you’ll have everyone raving about your Thanksgiving spread!

Ingredients List

For Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: Chopped chives for garnish

For Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Crumbled bacon or nuts for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil Potatoes: In a large pot, add the diced Yukon gold potatoes and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return to the pot. Mash the potatoes until smooth.
3. Add Ingredients: Stir in the butter, heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until creamy and combined.
4. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped chives, and enjoy!

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Sprouts: In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Bake: Spread the sprouts on a Baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until they are crispy and caramelized, turning halfway through for even cooking.
4. Serve: Top with crumbled bacon or nuts if desired, and serve warm.

Tips and Tricks Section

• Mashed Potato Variation: For a healthier version, substitute half of the potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb option.
• Brussels Sprout Enhancements: Make the dish even richer by adding balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick before Baking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Calories: 250 kcal
Macronutrients:
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Micronutrients:
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 200 mg

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Calories: 150 kcal
Macronutrients:
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Micronutrients:
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 100 mg

Recipe Notes:

• Substitutions: For dairy-free mashed potatoes, try coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair these sides with your main dishes like turkey or a vegetarian roast for a festive feast.

FAQs

1. How can I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Can I make these dishes ahead of time? Yes! Mashed potatoes can be made a day in advance and reheated, while Brussels sprouts can be prepped and baked just before serving.
3. What’s a good vegan substitute for butter? Use coconut oil or a vegan buttery spread.
4. How do I reheat mashed potatoes? Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or in the microwave, stirring often.
5. Can I make Brussels sprouts in advance? Yes! Prepare and toss with oil, then roast them just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Please Give Us Your Feedback

If you try these delectable side dishes, please leave a comment below, rate the recipes, or share your experience on social media! Your feedback helps us create more delicious content, and we love hearing from our readers!

Recipe Card: Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• Yukon gold potatoes: 2 lbs
• Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
• Garlic: 4 cloves (minced)
• Salt: to taste
• Black pepper: to taste
• Chopped chives: for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender.
2. Drain and mash in the pot.
3. Stir in butter, cream, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve garnished with chives.

Recipe Card: Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• Brussels sprouts: 1 lb (halved)
• Olive oil: 1/4 cup
• Pure maple syrup: 1/4 cup
• Salt: to taste
• Pepper: to taste
• Crumbled bacon or nuts: for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sprouts in olive oil, syrup, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes until crispy.
4. Serve warm with toppings of your choice.

Enjoy your feast and happy Thanksgiving!