Feeling overwhelmed by Thanksgiving prep? You can have a great holiday meal without spending hours cooking. This article shows you how to make delicious, easy side dishes.
Discover quick and easy sides that add festive flavors to your table. These recipes are perfect for busy hosts. They're tasty and keep the holiday spirit alive. Ready to make your Thanksgiving prep easier and impress your guests?
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting classic that shine as one of the easy side dishes for Thanksgiving. They add a creamy and flavorful touch to your holiday table. This dish pairs well with turkey and other Thanksgiving staples, making every bite rich and satisfying.
To start, you'll need a few simple ingredients:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
4 cloves of garlic, peeled
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Follow these quick steps to create your mashed potatoes:
Place potatoes and garlic in a large pot with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes and garlic; return them to the pot.
Add the butter and heavy cream. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
These garlic mashed potatoes are not only a crowd-pleaser but also fit perfectly into your repertoire of quick holiday sides. With this foolproof recipe, you can enjoy delicious, homemade mashed potatoes without spending hours in the kitchen.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts add a crispy, healthy touch to your Thanksgiving table. They're a quick and easy side dish to make.
First, heat your oven to 400°F. Start with fresh Brussels sprouts, cutting off the ends and removing any loose leaves. Rinse them, then dry them well. Cut the sprouts in half for even roasting.
Put the halved sprouts in a big bowl. Toss them well with olive oil, making sure they're coated but not too wet. Sprinkle salt over them to bring out their flavor. Add a bit of balsamic vinegar for extra taste.
Put the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. This lets them roast evenly, not steam. Too many sprouts can make them steam instead of roast.
Roast the sprouts for 20-25 minutes, until they're brown and crispy. Halfway through, stir them to ensure even cooking.
When they're done, move the sprouts to a serving dish. This recipe brings out the sprouts' natural sweetness, making a vibrant, healthy dish for your Thanksgiving.
This recipe needs just a few ingredients and is easy to make. Roasted Brussels sprouts are a perfect example of quick, stress-free Thanksgiving sides.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy sweet potato fries are a tasty twist on traditional sweet potatoes. They're a great choice for quick holiday sides that are both tasty and healthier. Unlike deep-fried fries, these are baked, making them a great pick for simple Thanksgiving side dishes.
To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into thin, even matchsticks. Pat them dry with a paper towel to get that crispy texture.
Next, toss the sweet potato matchsticks in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. This adds a smoky flavor. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking. You'll get golden-brown, crispy fries that are perfect for your simple Thanksgiving side dishes.
For extra flavor, serve these fries with different dipping sauces. Garlic aioli is a classic, but try Greek yogurt with honey and cinnamon for a sweet and tangy mix. These fries are perfect for any holiday meal, big or small, adding warmth and joy to your table.
Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a tasty mix of green beans and crunchy almonds. It's a standout easy side dish for Thanksgiving that's both elegant and simple.
To make this fast Thanksgiving recipe, start by blanching green beans until they're tender but crisp. Then, toast sliced almonds until they're golden. Mix the green beans with the almonds and a bit of butter. Season with salt and pepper to finish.
This dish adds a bright green touch to your holiday table. It also offers a nice mix of textures. Here's how to make it:
Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then cool quickly in ice water.
In a skillet, melt butter and toast sliced almonds until golden brown.
Drain the green beans and add them to the skillet, tossing to combine with the almonds.
Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
Serve this classic side with your Thanksgiving feast. It will impress your guests with its elegance and simplicity. Green Bean Almondine is a quick and easy addition to any fast Thanksgiving recipes spread.
Quick Cornbread
This quick cornbread recipe is perfect for a busy Thanksgiving. It's great for a busy host looking for easy thanksgiving sides or anyone wanting a stress-free meal. It's sure to be a hit.
To keep your cornbread moist and tasty, try these tips:
Use a can of creamed corn for extra moisture and sweetness.
For a spicy twist, add finely chopped jalapeños to the batter.
Whole corn kernels add a nice texture that complements the bread.
These easy changes will make your stress-free thanksgiving sides menu stand out. Serve the quick cornbread with butter or honey. It's a delicious addition to your busy host thanksgiving sides.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a top choice for simple Thanksgiving sides. It's rich, creamy, and pairs well with turkey, ham, or roast beef. Its velvety texture and savory taste make it a hit, especially when time is short.
For quick holiday sides, creamed spinach is a great pick. It uses fresh spinach and common ingredients for a comforting yet elegant dish.
Here's a simple way to make it:
Prep the Spinach: Rinse fresh spinach leaves well and remove tough stems. Blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then cool in ice water. Drain and chop coarsely.
Sauté the Aromatics: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until they're translucent and fragrant.
Create the Cream Base: Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly. Whisk in milk and heavy cream slowly. Let it thicken into a smooth sauce.
Combine and Simmer: Fold chopped spinach into the cream sauce slowly. Make sure each leaf is coated. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer until the spinach is tender and flavors are well mixed.
And that's it – a delicious and easy creamed spinach dish. It's perfect for simple Thanksgiving sides and quick holiday dishes. Your family and guests will love every creamy bite!
Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Make your Thanksgiving table shine with Parmesan Roasted Carrots. This dish turns simple carrots into a gourmet delight. It's easy to make and looks great, perfect for hosts in a hurry.
Here's how to make this tasty side dish:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Peel and cut the carrots into even sticks.
Toss the carrot sticks in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan generously over the carrots.
Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and the cheese is golden brown.
This recipe is quick and brings together amazing flavors and textures. Add Parmesan Roasted Carrots to your Thanksgiving menu. Your guests will definitely want more.
Honey-Glazed Baby Carrots
Want to add a sweet touch to your Thanksgiving table? These honey-glazed baby carrots are perfect. They're quick to make and loved by all, making them a great choice for fast thanksgiving
recipes.
To start, blanch the baby carrots until they're tender. While they cook, mix up the glaze. It's just honey, butter, and a bit of salt.
Melt the butter in a skillet.
Add honey and salt to the melted butter, stirring until well combined.
Toss in the cooked baby carrots, ensuring each one is evenly coated with the glaze.
Cook for an additional few minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and the carrots are beautifully glossy.
This dish is ideal for last-minute thanksgiving sides that are full of flavor. Serve the carrots warm, topped with fresh parsley for a splash of color. It's perfect for any size gathering, impressing everyone with its taste.
Simple Cranberry Sauce
Thanksgiving is all about vibrant colors and delicious flavors. That's why Simple Cranberry Sauce is a must-have. It's fresh, zesty, and perfectly balances tart and sweet.
This recipe is easy to make with just a few ingredients:
Fresh cranberries
Sugar
Water
Optional: Orange zest, a cinnamon stick
Here's how to make it:
Combine cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir occasionally, cooking until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
For an extra twist, add a bit of orange zest or a cinnamon stick.
Let cool before serving.
This cranberry sauce is a quick holiday side that enhances your turkey. It's also an easy side dish for Thanksgiving, needing little prep and cooking time. Tailor it to your family's taste and make it a holiday favorite!
Garlic Parmesan Bread Rolls
Bread rolls are key for any Thanksgiving feast. These Garlic Parmesan Bread Rolls are tasty and simple to make. They're great for busy hosts who want easy, delicious sides.
To start, you'll need:
1 cup warm water
2 teaspoons sugar
2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons melted butter
First, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it's foamy.
Then, mix flour and salt in another bowl. Add olive oil to the yeast mix and slowly add dry ingredients until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it's smooth. For a busy host, you can prep these rolls ahead. Shape the dough into rolls, place on a baking sheet, and cover. Let them rise for 30 minutes, then refrigerate until baking day.
On Thanksgiving, bake the rolls at 375°F for 15-20 minutes. They should be golden brown. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with garlic and Parmesan, and enjoy. These rolls will be a hit and make your Thanksgiving sides easy.
Stuffing Muffins
If you’re looking for something unique this Thanksgiving, stuffing muffins are perfect. They offer a creative twist on traditional stuffing and make portion control easy. These muffins have a crispy exterior and a moist interior. They pack all the classic stuffing flavors like sage, onion, and celery into a handy muffin form.
This recipe is great for those in a hurry. It's part of the quick thanksgiving recipes you need for a stress-free holiday. Here's how to make them:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a muffin tin well to avoid sticking.
In a large bowl, combine cubed bread, sautéed onions, celery, and herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley.
Add chicken or vegetable broth until the bread is moist. Mix in some beaten eggs for binding.
Spoon the mixture into the muffin tins, pressing down lightly.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
These stuffing muffins are great as last-minute thanksgiving sides. They offer flavor and convenience. Their portability makes them perfect for holiday gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a taste of tradition in every bite.
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash
The sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash is a holiday favorite. Add a touch of maple syrup for a delicious side dish. It's sure to impress at your Thanksgiving table.
To start, peel and cube your butternut squash. Make sure the pieces are uniform for even roasting. Spread them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup.
Then, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Roast the squash at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes. This will make the edges caramelized and the centers tender.
The result is a sweet and savory mix that goes great with turkey and other festive dishes. It's one of the best fast Thanksgiving recipes for busy hosts.
Maple roasted butternut squash is a hit with guests. Its rich flavor means you don't have to spend hours cooking. It's perfect for a full spread or a few simple side dishes.
Sautéed Garlic Mushrooms
Make your Thanksgiving table shine with sautéed garlic mushrooms. They add a rich umami flavor that's easy to make. It's perfect for the busy host who needs quick, tasty sides.
To get the mushrooms golden without them getting soggy, follow these steps:
Choose fresh, firm mushrooms. Cremini or button mushrooms are great for this.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Add minced garlic and sauté until it smells great, about 30 seconds.
Put the mushrooms in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. This lets each mushroom get a good sear.
Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are golden brown, stirring now and then.
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
This dish is a hit with roasted turkey and other Thanksgiving classics. It's a top choice for busy host Thanksgiving sides that are easy and tasty. Wow your guests with ease and flavor!
Cheddar and Chive Biscuits
Looking for quick holiday sides that are tasty and easy to make? Cheddar and Chive Biscuits are perfect. They're a great stress-free side for Thanksgiving. Plus, they have a delicious mix of cheesy and herby flavors.
Here's a simple way to make these delectable biscuits:
Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 425°F to get started.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Add butter: Cut 1/2 cup of cold, unsalted butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to combine until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Incorporate flavors: Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives.
Form the dough: Pour in 3/4 cup of cold milk and gently mix until a soft dough forms.
Shape the biscuits: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round and use a biscuit cutter to cut out individual biscuits.
Bake: Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
These Cheddar and Chive Biscuits are not only quick holiday sides but also perfect for mopping up gravy and adding a special touch to your holiday meal. Their flaky, buttery texture paired with the savory notes of cheddar and chive will leave your guests craving more. Enjoy this stress-free Thanksgiving side and make your holiday prep a breeze!
Lemon Herb Roasted Asparagus
Lemon herb roasted asparagus is a delightful and fresh option for Thanksgiving. It adds a pop of green to your table and brings refreshing flavors. The lemon zest and fresh herbs balance out, keeping the asparagus crunchy.
Preparing this dish is easy, perfect for busy hosts.
Start by cutting off the woody ends of the asparagus.
Then, mix olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley.
Spread the asparagus out on a baking sheet, making sure they don't overlap.
Roast the asparagus at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until tender.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This adds brightness and brings all the flavors together. This dish is not only healthy but also impressive, requiring little effort.
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