Introduction

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering friends and family around the table, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories. The meal is often centered around a beautifully roasted turkey, but the side dishes can truly make or break the experience. When cooking for a crowd, you want sides that complement the main course while being hearty enough to satisfy a variety of tastes.

From creamy casseroles to roasted vegetables, the right mix of Thanksgiving side dishes can elevate your feast. The following recipes are designed not only to feed a group but also to showcase seasonal ingredients and provide a beautiful array of flavors and textures. Let's dive into some mouth-watering options that celebrate the spirit of the holiday.

Ingredients

5 lbs russet potatoes
These starchy potatoes are perfect for mashing, providing a fluffy and creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with gravy.
1 cup whole milk
Whole milk adds creaminess to the mashed potatoes, balancing the starchiness while enhancing flavor.
1 cup sour cream
Sour cream contributes a tangy richness, making the mash velvety and adding depth to the final palatability.
1/2 cup unsalted butter
Butter enriches the dish, giving it a luscious mouthfeel and a comforting, indulgent flavor.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Cheddar adds a savory sharpness, complementing the creamy base while offering a delightful gooey texture.
1 cup green beans (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
Green beans introduce a crisp freshness that contrasts beautifully with richer dishes on your Thanksgiving spread.
1/2 cup sliced almonds
Almonds provide a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the green beans while making the dish more visually appealing.
2 tbsp olive oil
Olive oil is key for roasting; it promotes browning and adds a subtle layer of flavor while keeping vegetables moist.
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Balsamic vinegar helps to elevate the roasted vegetables, adding brightness and balancing the earthiness of the dish.
1 cup cranberry sauce
Cranberry sauce provides a sweet-tart contrast to savory flavors, making it a welcome addition to every Thanksgiving plate.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the mashed potatoes.

Begin by peeling and cubing the russet potatoes, then place them in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Cooking the potatoes in cold water ensures they cook evenly. Once tender, drain and return them to the pot to steam off excess moisture before proceeding to mash. This step is vital to avoid watery mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Mash the potatoes and mix in dairy.

Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth. Gradually mix in the warm milk, sour cream, and butter until creamy. Adding the warm milk helps incorporate it more easily, and the sour cream adds richness. Be careful not to overmix; you want silky potatoes, not gummy ones. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Incorporate cheddar and adjust consistency.

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the warm potatoes. If the mashed potatoes feel too thick, you can add a splash more milk for desired creaminess. This step enhances flavor while achieving the perfect texture for creamy mashed potatoes that everyone will love.

Step 4: Prepare the green beans.

While the mashed potatoes are being prepared, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated. Roasting green beans brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a wonderful texture. The oven's heat will also help create a slight caramelization, intensifying the flavor.

Step 5: Roast the green beans.

Spread the prepared green beans onto a baking sheet in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. When they remain crisp-tender and bright green, they are done. Add the sliced almonds halfway through roasting to ensure they toast without burning. This adds a lovely crunch that makes the dish more exciting.

Step 6: Combine green beans and finish with balsamic vinegar.

Once out of the oven, immediately drizzle the roasted green beans with balsamic vinegar, tossing to combine. This step brightens the dish and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Roasting and then finishing with vinegar creates a balanced side with a pop of acidity that cuts through richer flavors on the table.

Step 7: Plate and serve the dishes.

Transfer the mashed potatoes to a large serving bowl and top with a pat of butter if desired for a beautiful presentation. Arrange the roasted green beans alongside them. Ensuring all side dishes are well-placed and garnished can elevate the Thanksgiving meal experience. Serve alongside turkey and cranberry sauce, ensuring every guest can experience the perfect bite.

Thanksgiving Side Dishes For A Crowd step photo

Crispy Almond-Topped Green Beans

The crispy almond topping on these green beans adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with their tender texture. Roasting them ensures they’re not only vibrant in color but bursting with flavor. The slight nuttiness of the almonds complements the natural sweetness of the green beans, making them an irresistible addition to your Thanksgiving feast.

Lusciously Creamy Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

These cheddar mashed potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, creamy and rich with a savory kick. The addition of sour cream and cheddar cheese creates a luxurious texture that pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy. Whipping in warm milk ensures they remain fluffy, making these mashed potatoes a standout side dish at your holiday dinner.

Balancing Tartness with Sweetness

The combination of tangy cranberry sauce with the rich, buttery mashed potatoes creates a taste experience that’s indispensable on Thanksgiving. The tartness from cranberries acts as a palate cleanser, enhancing the overall enjoyment of a hearty meal. A spoonful of cranberry sauce helps balance the creamy and savory elements beautifully on each plate.

FAQs

What if the mashed potatoes are too thick?

If the mashed potatoes are too thick, gradually add a bit more warm milk until you reach your desired creaminess.

How can I scale the recipe for a smaller gathering?

You can easily halve the quantities listed here to serve fewer people, ensuring that you adjust seasonings accordingly.

What to do if the green beans are overcooked?

If the green beans are overcooked, consider adding a splash of cold water to help them regain their color and crunch, but they might not be salvageable.

What can I do to enhance the flavor of the mashed potatoes further?

You can infuse the milk with garlic or herbs before adding it to the potatoes for an extra flavor dimension.

Can I make the green beans ahead of time?

It’s best to roast the green beans fresh. However, you can prep them by trimming and tossing with oil beforehand.

How can I add more richness to the green beans?

To add more richness, consider incorporating crispy bacon or pancetta to the green beans before roasting.

Conclusion

Crafting the perfect Thanksgiving spread can feel like a major task, yet with the right preparations, it transforms into a joyous celebration. The recipes highlighted here blend seasonal flavors and textures, creating memorable side dishes that complement your main course perfectly.

Embracing these Thanksgiving sides means delighting in the seasonal bounty and creating a meal that generations can appreciate. Don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on these recipes, and most importantly, enjoy the time spent around the table with loved ones.

Recipe Card