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12 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Side Dishes That Save You Time #HolidayAppetizers #sharpaspirant

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Recipes in this Video

11 recipes

Ingredients

  • potatoes
  • butter
  • heavy cream
  • milk
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • garlic
  • chives
  • sour cream
  • cream cheese

Instructions

  1. 1Peel and cut potatoes into even chunks.
  2. 2Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  3. 3Add salt to the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
  4. 4Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  5. 5Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  6. 6Add butter, heavy cream, and milk to the potatoes.
  7. 7Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
  8. 8Stir in salt, black pepper, and garlic until well combined.
  9. 9Mix in chives, sour cream, and cream cheese for extra flavor.
  10. 10Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  11. 11Transfer the mashed potatoes to a baking dish.
  12. 12Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  13. 13When ready to serve, preheat oven to 350°F.
  14. 14Remove plastic wrap and bake for 30-40 minutes until heated through.

Ingredient Alternatives

heavy cream

Healthier: Greek yogurt

Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

sour cream

Healthier: plain yogurt

Cheaper: cream cheese

Plain yogurt provides similar tang with fewer calories.

Also Known As

Creamy Mashed PotatoesMake-Ahead Potatoes
vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of bread (about 10 cups, cubed)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup onion, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. 3Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. 4In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. 5Pour the broth over the bread mixture and stir until the bread is evenly moistened.
  6. 6If using, add the beaten eggs and mix well to combine.
  7. 7Fold in the chopped parsley for added flavor.
  8. 8Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish.
  9. 9Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  10. 10Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  11. 11Serve warm as a side dish.

Equipment

large skilletlarge bowlbaking dishmixing spoonmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons

Sweet potato casserole is a traditional American dish often served during Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings. Its origins can be traced back to the Southern United States, where sweet potatoes are a staple crop. The dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich ingredients, creating a comforting side that complements savory main courses.

Ingredients

  • sweet potatoes
  • butter
  • brown sugar
  • milk
  • eggs
  • vanilla extract
  • cinnamon
  • marshmallows

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Peel and chop sweet potatoes, then boil until tender.
  3. 3Drain and mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl.
  4. 4Mix in butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
  5. 5Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  6. 6Top with marshmallows or alternative topping of choice.
  7. 7Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and topping is golden brown.

Ingredient Alternatives

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is a healthier fat alternative.

brown sugar

Healthier: honey

Cheaper: white sugar

Honey offers a natural sweetness.

marshmallows

Healthier: toasted nuts

Cheaper: coconut flakes

Nuts add crunch and nutrition.

Techniques

boiledbaked

Equipment

potbaking dishmixing bowlmixer
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairynuts

Also Known As

Sweet Potato BakeSweet Potato Pie
veganplant-basedgluten-freenut-free

Cranberry sauce has its roots in Native American cuisine, where cranberries were used both as a food source and for medicinal purposes. It became a staple at Thanksgiving dinners in the United States, symbolizing the harvest and the blending of cultures. Today, it is enjoyed not only during the holidays but also as a tangy accompaniment to various dishes, with many families passing down their unique recipes.

Ingredients

  • fresh cranberries
  • sugar
  • water
  • orange juice
  • orange zest
  • cinnamon
  • nutmeg
  • salt
  • vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
  2. 2Combine cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
  3. 3Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
  4. 4Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
  5. 5Stir in orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  6. 6Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
  7. 7Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Ingredient Alternatives

sugar

Healthier: honey

Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey adds sweetness with fewer calories.

fresh cranberries

Healthier: dried cranberries

Cheaper: frozen cranberries

Dried cranberries are more accessible and have a longer shelf life.

Techniques

simmeringmixing

Equipment

saucepanmeasuring cupsspoonserving dish
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Cranberry RelishCranberry Chutney
veganplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a popular side dish in American cuisine, often served during the fall and winter months. They are celebrated for their nutty flavor and crispy texture when roasted, making them a favorite at holiday gatherings and family dinners. This dish highlights the versatility of Brussels sprouts, which can be enjoyed in various ways, including sautéed or steamed, but roasting enhances their natural sweetness.

Ingredients

  • Brussels sprouts
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • pepper
  • garlic
  • balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow leaves.
  3. 3Cut the Brussels sprouts in half.
  4. 4In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  5. 5Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  6. 6Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  7. 7Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is healthier, while canola oil is more budget-friendly.

Brussels sprouts

Cheaper: cabbage

Cabbage is a more affordable alternative with a similar texture.

Techniques

roasted

Equipment

baking sheetmixing bowloven
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Corn pudding is a traditional dish in American cuisine, particularly popular in the Southern United States. It is often served as a side dish during family gatherings, holidays, and celebrations. The dish showcases the use of corn, a staple ingredient in many American recipes, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the region. Its creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a comforting addition to any meal.

Ingredients

  • corn
  • milk
  • eggs
  • sugar
  • butter
  • salt
  • baking powder

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a mixing bowl, combine corn, milk, and eggs.
  3. 3Add sugar, melted butter, salt, and baking powder to the mixture.
  4. 4Stir until well combined and smooth.
  5. 5Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  6. 6Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set and golden on top.
  7. 7Let cool slightly before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

milk

Healthier: almond milk

Cheaper: soy milk

Lower in calories and dairy-free.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Healthier fat option and often cheaper.

Techniques

mixingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking dishwhiskoven
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairyeggs

Also Known As

Corn CustardCorn Soufflé
vegetariangluten-free

Glazed carrots are a popular side dish in American cuisine, often served during holiday meals and family gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. 2Add the carrots to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
  3. 3Stir in the brown sugar, water, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon (if using).
  4. 4Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  5. 5Cover the skillet and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
  6. 6Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high.
  7. 7Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens and coats the carrots.
  8. 8Remove from heat and serve warm.

Equipment

large skilletmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonspeelercutting boardknife
vegetariangluten-free

Pumpkin soup is a beloved dish in France, especially during the fall when pumpkins are in season. It is often enjoyed as a comforting starter or main course, showcasing the rich flavors of autumn. This dish reflects the French culinary tradition of using seasonal ingredients and is commonly served in homes and restaurants alike.

Ingredients

  • pumpkin
  • onion
  • garlic
  • vegetable broth
  • cream
  • salt
  • pepper
  • nutmeg

Instructions

  1. 1Peel and chop the pumpkin into cubes.
  2. 2Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
  3. 3In a pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
  4. 4Add the pumpkin cubes and stir for a few minutes.
  5. 5Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  6. 6Reduce heat and simmer until the pumpkin is tender.
  7. 7Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender.
  8. 8Stir in the cream and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  9. 9Heat gently before serving.
  10. 10Garnish with pumpkin seeds or herbs if desired.

Ingredient Alternatives

cream

Healthier: coconut milk

Cheaper: milk

Coconut milk is lower in calories and adds a unique flavor.

vegetable broth

Healthier: homemade vegetable stock

Cheaper: water

Homemade stock is more nutritious and flavorful.

Techniques

sautéingblending

Equipment

potblenderknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairy

Also Known As

Soupe de Potiron

Macaroni and Cheese, often called 'Mac and Cheese', has roots in early American cuisine, influenced by European pasta dishes. It became popular as a comforting, affordable meal during the Great Depression, symbolizing home-cooked simplicity. Today, it enjoys global variations, from gourmet versions with truffle oil to vegan adaptations, making it a beloved dish across cultures.

Ingredients

  • elbow macaroni
  • cheddar cheese
  • milk
  • butter
  • flour
  • bread crumbs
  • mustard
  • black pepper
  • salt
  • onion powder
  • garlic powder
  • paprika
  • cayenne pepper
  • cream cheese

Instructions

  1. 1Boil water in a large pot and add elbow macaroni; cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. 2Drain the macaroni and set aside.
  3. 3In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat until bubbling.
  4. 4Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  5. 5Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  6. 6Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. 7Add mustard, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder; mix well.
  8. 8Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  9. 9Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle bread crumbs on top.
  10. 10Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until golden and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
  11. 11Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

cheddar cheese

Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while processed cheese is often less expensive.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthier fats while margarine is a budget-friendly alternative.

milk

Healthier: almond milk

Cheaper: water + cornstarch

Almond milk is lower in calories, and a cornstarch mixture can mimic creaminess.

elbow macaroni

Healthier: whole wheat pasta

Cheaper: generic pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber while generic options are often cheaper.

Techniques

boilingbakingwhisking

Equipment

large potwhiskbaking dishsaucepan
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairygluten

Also Known As

Mac and CheeseMacaroni Cheese
vegetarianplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-free

Ingredients

  • 2 medium acorn squashes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
  3. 3Brush the cut sides of the squashes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
  4. 4Place the squashes cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. 5Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
  6. 6While the squashes are baking, mix together the cinnamon, brown sugar, pecans, and cranberries in a bowl.
  7. 7Once the squashes are tender, remove them from the oven and carefully flip them over.
  8. 8Spoon the cinnamon mixture into the hollowed-out center of each squash half.
  9. 9Return the squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the topping is bubbly and golden.
  10. 10Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Equipment

baking sheetparchment papermixing bowlknifescooper

Dinner rolls are a staple in American cuisine, often served as a side dish during family meals and special occasions. Their soft texture and buttery flavor complement a variety of dishes, making them a beloved addition to the dinner table. The tradition of serving rolls dates back centuries, evolving from European bread-making practices to become a quintessential part of American dining.

Ingredients

  • all-purpose flour
  • yeast
  • sugar
  • salt
  • milk
  • butter
  • eggs

Instructions

  1. 1Activate yeast in warm milk with sugar.
  2. 2Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
  3. 3Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs to the flour.
  4. 4Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
  5. 5Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
  6. 6Shape into rolls and place in a baking dish.
  7. 7Let rolls rise again until puffy.
  8. 8Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown.
  9. 9Brush with melted butter before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

all-purpose flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Whole wheat flour provides more fiber and nutrients.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier with unsaturated fats, while margarine can be more budget-friendly.

Techniques

mixingkneadingrisingbaking

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking dishovenwhiskrolling pin
glutendairyeggs

Also Known As

Bread RollsSoft Rolls

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