Easy Thanksgiving Sides Everyone Will Love

Why I Love These Easy Thanksgiving Sides

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, but let’s be honest prepping the feast can get overwhelming fast. That’s why I’ve built a collection of go-to side dishes that are simple, flavorful, and 100% stress-free. These recipes are my secret weapon for hosting without the meltdown.

I usually whip these up when I need reliable, make-ahead dishes that still taste like I spent all day in the kitchen. Whether I’m hosting a crowd or just bringing a dish to a Friendsgiving, these sides always deliver.

If you’re looking for Thanksgiving sides that are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and still steal the show, you’re in the right place.

🥘 Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 (per dish)

🛒 Ingredients List

These recipes use pantry-friendly ingredients and simple prep. Below are the stars of the show:

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: lemon zest or slivered almonds

2. Savory Sweet Potato Mash

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

  Cut the Hassle, Keep the Flavor

  From quick weeknight dinners to weekend feasts, this tool helps every step of the way.

  Learn More Here

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt to taste

• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

3. Cranberry Orange Relish (No-Cook!)

• 2 cups fresh cranberries

• 1 orange, peeled and chopped

• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

• Optional: pinch of cinnamon

4. Creamy Herb Corn Bake

• 1 can sweet corn (drained)

• 1 can creamed corn

  Make Sunday Meal Prep Feel Like Self-Care

  From ages 30 to 70, anyone can feel more in control with the right tools.

  Learn More Here

• 2 eggs

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 4–5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.

2. Drain and plunge into ice water to stop the cooking.

3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

4. Add green beans, toss to coat, and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional toppings.

2. Savory Sweet Potato Mash

1. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.

2. Drain and return to the pot. Add olive oil, paprika, salt, and milk.

   Designed for Real Life Cooking

   From quick breakfasts to Sunday dinners, this item adapts to your routine effortlessly.

   Learn More Here

3. Mash until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.

3. Cranberry Orange Relish

1. In a food processor, pulse cranberries and orange until finely chopped.

2. Add sugar and optional cinnamon. Pulse again and chill for 1 hour before serving.

4. Creamy Herb Corn Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.

2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.

3. Pour into the dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until set and golden on top.

🌟 Pro Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Sides

• Make Ahead: The cranberry relish and sweet potato mash can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving.

• Variations: Add bacon to the green beans, maple syrup to the mash, or jalapeños to the corn bake for a flavor twist.

• Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers. Most sides keep well in the fridge for 3 – 4 days.

• Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain texture avoid microwaving green beans!

🧡 A Personal Note

These dishes never fail to impress, even when I’m short on time or juggling too many tasks in the kitchen. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and absolutely holiday-worthy everything you want in Thanksgiving side dishes. I hope they become staples at your table, too!

❓ FAQ  Easy Thanksgiving Sides

1. Can I make these sides ahead of time?
Yes! Most of these can be prepped a day ahead and reheated before serving.

2. What’s the best way to reheat green beans?
Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to keep them crisp and flavorful.

3. Are these recipes gluten-free?
Yes, all four sides are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check packaged ingredients.

4. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain them well before cooking.

5. How can I make the corn bake dairy-free?
Use plant-based sour cream and cheese, or simply skip the cheese and increase the herbs.

6. What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?
Butternut squash works great similar texture and sweetness.

Easy Thanksgiving Sides Everyone Will Love