3 Thanksgiving Side Dishes – Easy & Affordable Sides
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us find ourselves in a whirlwind of meal planning and preparation. If you’re looking for easy Thanksgiving side dishes that won’t break the bank or your spirit, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’ve got three delectable recipes that are not only budget-friendly but also guaranteed to impress your family and friends. From classic flavors to unique twists, these side dishes will elevate your Thanksgiving feast to new heights.
Why These Sides Are So Popular
Thanksgiving side dishes hold a special place in the celebration, often stealing the spotlight from the turkey. With rich flavors and comforting textures, these sides can bring warmth and joy to the table. Whether you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving or you’re a seasoned pro, these recipes are as easy as pie! What’s more, they are crowd-pleasers that resonate with traditions while offering something new. So gear up to create a Thanksgiving experience that everyone will cherish!
Ingredients
For each of these three side dishes, I’ve kept the ingredient lists simple and accessible. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Garlic Butter Green Beans
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish
2. Cranberry Orange Sauce
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for added creaminess)
Instructions
Let’s whip up these best Thanksgiving side dishes together!
Garlic Butter Green Beans
- Boil the Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 4-5 minutes until tender but crisp.
- Sauté Garlic: In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Combine: Drain the green beans and add them to the pan with the garlic butter. Toss to coat, season with salt and pepper, and serve with lemon wedges.
Cranberry Orange Sauce
- Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Cool and Serve: Optional: Add cinnamon for an extra kick. Let the sauce cool before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Boil Potatoes: Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add heavy cream, butter, and optional sour cream. Mash until desired consistency is reached.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips and Variations
- For Vegan Green Beans: Replace butter with olive oil and add some crushed red pepper for a kick!
- Sweeten the Cranberry Sauce: For an extra touch of sweetness, add chopped pecans or orange segments.
- Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes: Consider infusing your mashed potatoes with fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for extra depth of flavor.
These easy Thanksgiving side dishes are perfect for busy hosts looking to create a memorable feast without the stress.
Conclusion
Are you ready to wow your guests with these delicious and affordable Thanksgiving side dishes? Whether it’s the garlicky green beans, the tangy cranberry sauce, or the creamy mashed potatoes, you can’t go wrong. Try them out this holiday season and let us know how they turned out! Happy Thanksgiving, and happy cooking! 🦃🍂