Continuing on the easy theme for my holiday meal this year, simple side dishes are on my menu. Since I’ll be hosting a smaller Thanksgiving, not all these will be prepared. But, I wanted to share an assortment of side dishes you can serve to spark ideas for your menu.
“If you are strapped for time like I usually am, I like quick but tasty recipes,” shares Paula Mullins (Bealeton, VA). “This is both and is always praised at Thanksgiving.”
Paula’s Sausage and Mushroom Stuffing is a quick and easy stuffing recipe to prepare when in a pinch.
Much of the seasoning comes from the herb stuffing mix, but sage sausage and fresh veggies amp up the flavor. I really like the texture fresh mushrooms add. Slightly different than cornbread stuffing/dressing and just as delicious.
I love how Jean Romero (Lewiston, ID) prepares her Rosie’s Sweet Potatoes. Cutting into chunks and not mashed, gives the potatoes a bit of extra texture.
“Thank you Aunt Brenda for this dish,” reveals Jean. “It has been a family Thanksgiving dish and will continue down the line with the next generation.”
A sweet sauce is poured over the chunky sweet potatoes. Made from butter, cream, brown sugar, and marshmallows the topping is amazing. If you have a sweet tooth, this side dish is right up your alley.
Creamed spinach is popular in my family. Barb Janisse’s (Camarillo, CA) Sensational Spinach puts an easy twist on a spinach side.
“This is a vegetable side dish that we have had in our family for many years,” explains Barb. “I love it and can eat it cold the next day!”
Sour cream helps keep the spinach from being dry and the soup mix adds a savory punch of onion flavor. Made with only four ingredients, this is a great side dish for any time of the year but is impressive enough for the holidays. This spinach is sensational.
Debbie Sue’s Fancy Mashed Potatoes are going to be a fabulous addition to your holiday table.
“These potatoes are so delicious,” thinks Debbie Sue. “They really taste like you fussed too.”
Add a couple of simple ingredients to your regular mashed potatoes creates a remarkable side dish. Heavy cream melts into the potatoes making them rich and silk.
There’s nothing better than cheese with potatoes. Swiss cheese folded in makes these nice and cheesy. The fat from the cream and cheese penetrates the potatoes giving them a silky texture.
Baked until golden brown, these fancy mashed potatoes are delish. You can take a shortcut and buy prepared mashed potatoes at the grocery store and jazz them up. These potatoes can also be made a day ahead.
“I’ve never found anyone who didn’t like it and I’ve shared this with so many friends, neighbors, and family members,” says Diana Perry about her Family Fav Crock Pot Corn Casserole.
Using the Crock Pot opens space in the crowded oven on Thanksgiving. The corn casserole turns out sweet and creamy with a hint of savory flavor from the seasoning. After one bite, I can see why this easy side dish is a family favorite.
Just because my holiday meal is going to be smaller and easier this year, it won’t lack in yumminess. If you’re looking to round out your menu, check out our Thanksgiving Table recipe collection. There’s something for everyone. Happy Pinching!