# Thanksgiving is Approaching: A Guide to Side Dishes
Thanksgiving is a season for uniting with family, expressing thankfulness, and savoring a grand meal. While the turkey tends to be the highlight, the side dishes are what genuinely make the celebration unforgettable. With an array of choices to consider, choosing what to make can feel daunting. Here are six crucial Thanksgiving side dishes guaranteed to wow your guests and enhance your holiday dining experience.
## The Six Crucial Thanksgiving Side Dishes
### 1. Macaroni and Cheese
This popular macaroni and cheese dish may take some time to prepare, but the luxurious, creamy flavor is absolutely worthwhile. It encapsulates the essence of Thanksgiving—luxury and coziness.
### 2. Green Bean Casserole
Begin your Thanksgiving celebration on a healthy note. This green bean casserole includes crisp beans and an indulgent mushroom sauce, complemented by umami taste from soy sauce and parmesan. Finished with crispy onion toppings, it’s a dish that could stand alone as a meal.
### 3. Velveeta Macaroni and Cheese
A timeless classic, Velveeta macaroni and cheese is rich and creamy, making it essential for any Thanksgiving gathering. Its shiny finish and robust taste make it hard to resist.
### 4. Homemade Bread Rolls
While stuffing is essential, fresh bread rolls bring a lovely element to the table. Soft, garlic butter-brushed rolls straight from the oven are an ideal pair for your Thanksgiving meal.
### 5. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
For those passionate about mashed potatoes, this recipe is the ultimate in comfort food. Smooth, creamy, and buttery, these mashed potatoes are crafted from basic ingredients, perfected through method.
### 6. Traditional Stuffing
Stuffing enthusiasts will be delighted! This recipe, which can be prepared in a slow cooker, is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. The toasted bread contributes a pleasing texture, making it suitable for breakfast leftovers.
## Can Thanksgiving Be Complete Without Potatoes?
Potatoes are a cherished staple, offering numerous possibilities for Thanksgiving preparation. From creamy mashed potatoes to crispy roasted varieties, they can easily take center stage.
### Potato Options
– **Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes:** Extra creamy and quick to whip up.
– **Cheesy Potato Bites:** Mashed potatoes filled with cheese and deep-fried for a crispy finish.
– **Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes:** Delightfully crispy without stealing oven space.
## Stuffings
Stuffing is another key side dish that provides warmth and comfort at the table. Here are some variations to explore:
– **Mushroom Rosemary Thyme Stuffing:** A traditional recipe with a unique twist.
– **Instant Pot Mushroom and Onion Stuffing:** Fast and flavorful.
– **Lemongrass Stuffing:** An original recipe with a Vietnamese flair.
## Vegetable Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Adding vegetables to your Thanksgiving menu introduces color and nutrition. Consider these selections:
– **Roasted Honeynut Squash:** Sweet and nutty, topped with Greek yogurt and honeyed walnuts.
– **Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts:** Tender yet crispy, ideal for a festive gathering.
– **Miso Dijon Green Bean Mushroom Salad:** A fresh alternative to the classic casserole.
## Bread and Biscuit Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Freshly baked bread and biscuits provide a warm, inviting atmosphere. Options include:
– **Milk Bread:** Soft and airy, perfect with butter.
– **Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks:** A favorite among guests that complements any offering.
– **Small Batch Buttermilk Biscuits:** Light, fluffy, and with a crispy base.
## Salad and Salad-Adjacent Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Salads offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors typical of Thanksgiving. Think about:
– **Broccoli Salad:** Crisp and fulfilling, with almonds and cranberries.
– **Quinoa Salad with Hazelnuts and Apple:** Nutty and robust, perfect for the autumn season.
– **Fattoush Salad:** A light, vibrant dish featuring crispy pitas and a tangy dressing.
## Mac and Cheese Variations
Mac and cheese is a cherished side that can be customized in numerous styles:
– **Pumpkin Mac and Cheese:** A seasonal variation that brings a cheerful flair.
– **Creamy Spicy Hatch Green