Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and the pressure is on to decide what to bring to the family feast. If your culinary plans were leaning towards serving Stove Top until a last-minute switch by a sister-in-law (sigh) or if you suddenly realized that your elaborate dish requires days of preparation, you've come to the right place for inspiration.
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The beauty of Thanksgiving lies in its diverse and delicious side dishes; there's no one-size-fits-all. Some savor sweet potatoes, others crave mac and cheese, while some simply need a basket of rolls to complete the feast. Even if you decide to experiment with a new dish, it might become a cherished holiday tradition for years to come. Just remember, the only thing you should avoid bringing to Thanksgiving is a competitive turkey. Unless, of course, it's a Tofurkey for dietary reasons – trying to outshine someone's main dish rarely wins you friends. The best Thanksgiving spreads offer something for everyone.
Thanksgiving is a time for sharing, and having leftovers is part of the tradition. While it's considerate to contribute a dish, it's also wise to bring along some Tupperware. Leftovers make excellent future lunches, helping you save money for holiday gifts and reduce waste. If your dish disappears by the end of the night, consider it a triumph.
Here are some quick and easy ideas that won't require an abundance of time or kitchen appliances.
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Super Cheesy Mac and Cheese
This dish is an immediate crowd-pleaser, beloved by kids and secretly enjoyed by every adult at your dining table. Courtesy of FiveHeartHome, this recipe features freshly grated extra-sharp cheddar and requires just 10 minutes on the stovetop. Gather whole milk, macaroni (or experiment with shells for extra flair), cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and consider spicing it up with a dash of garlic powder and dry mustard powder for added zest.
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Elevated Mashed Potatoes
When another family member claims mashed potatoes, you can still add your own special twist (perhaps a sprinkle of cheese and bacon for extra flavor). Alternatively, you can follow this straightforward recipe from Real Simple. All you'll require for this velvety one-pot delight are 4 pounds of yellow potatoes, 4 cups of half-and-half, unsalted butter, sour cream, and a pinch of kosher salt. It couldn't be simpler.
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Sweet and Salty Carrots
Carrots don't have to be a total bore. (And honestly, pro tip: Eating some vegetables and making them a big part of your Thanksgiving dish will make you feel a lot better Friday morning.) This recipe from Deliciously Sprinkled utilizes an Instant Pot, but if you don't have one yet, you can improvise by cooking them in a regular pot. You'll need butter, salt, brown sugar, and cinnamon to make this very flavorful dish.
Thyme Scalloped Potatoes
Potatoes don't just have to be mashed, you know. These scalloped potatoes, which can be made in just an Instant Pot (or a pressure cooker), will be a total crowd-pleaser. The recipe, which comes from Joanie Simon, will take just 40 minutes to assemble and cook. You'll need white cheddar, heavy cream, vegetable broth, dried thyme, a few simple spices, and, of course, potatoes.