10 Actual Quick & Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes To Make Ahead

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. But the holiday season can also bring a fair share of stress, especially when you’re trying to whip up a feast that will impress your loved ones. This year, why not make things a little easier on yourself? Down below, I rounded up 10 actual quick and easy Thanksgiving side dish recipes that you can make ahead of time, so you can spend more time enjoying the holiday and less time in the kitchen.

How to Make Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

Each recipe in this roundup is designed to be as simple as possible, with straightforward ingredients and minimal prep work, and no diet involved here. I know that Thanksgiving can be overwhelming, so I’ve included some quick steps and make ahead tips for each dish to ensure you can prepare everything with ease. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy dinner, these recipes will help you create a delicious spread without the stress.

From creamy mashed cauliflower to savory stuffing muffins, these dishes are not only tasty but also incredibly convenient. Imagine having all your side dishes prepped and ready to go before the big day even starts. With these recipes, you can achieve just that. They are perfect for busy cooks who want to deliver a memorable meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday filled with good food and great company. Get ready to impress your guests with these delicious, no-fuss dishes that are sure to become new holiday favorites.

Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower | Ahead of Thyme – Quick Steps: Steam + Saute Garlic + Puree. Make Ahead Tip: Steam and mash the cauliflower up to 3 days before. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or butter to restore creaminess.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon | A Family Feast – Quick Steps: Halve + Drizzle with Olive Oil + Sprinkle with Bacon + Roast. Make Ahead Tip: Partially cook them on the day you plan to serve, then finish roasting them in the oven just before serving.

3. Green Bean Almondine | The Modern Proper – Quick Steps: Toast Almonds + Saute Green Beans + Stir in Garlic. Make Ahead Tip: This recipe is easy to prepare in about 10 minutes, no make-ahead needed.

4. Cranberry Orange Relish | Comfort of Cooking – Quick Steps: Zest Orange + Pulse Cranberries. Make Ahead Tip: Make the relish up to three days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. It will allow the flavors to meld and improve.

5. Sweet Potato Casserole | Pinch of Yum – Quick Steps: Make Sweet Potato Mash + Pour into Casserole Dish + Make Topping. Make Ahead Tip: Prepare the sweet potato mixture and the topping a day ahead, but keep them separate. Store in the fridge. Assemble and bake on the day.

6. Stuffing Muffins | Chew Out Loud – Quick Steps: Saute + Bake. Make Ahead Tip: Prepare the stuffing mixture and portion it into a muffin tin a day ahead. Cover and store in the fridge. Bake on the day until golden and crisp.

7. Parmesan Roasted Carrots | Your Home Based Mom – Quick Steps: Peel & Cut Carrots + Drizzle With Butter & Garlic + Roast + Top with Parmesan Cheese + Roast. Make Ahead Tip: Peel and cut the carrots a day before. Store in water in the fridge. Toss with oil, salt, and parmesan, then roast on the day.

8. Creamy Spinach Gratin | Skinnytaste – Quick Steps: Saute + Top + Bake. Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the gratin a day ahead. Cover and store in the fridge. Bake on the day until bubbly and golden.

9. Balsamic Glazed Pearl Onions | Martha Stewart – Quick Steps: Boil + Simmer + Add Vinegar. Make Ahead Tip: Peel and cook the onions with the balsamic glaze a day before. Store in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

10. Broccoli Cheese Casserole | Cookies and Cups – Quick Steps: Combine + Pour into Casserole Dish + Top + Bake. Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole a day in advance except for crackers. Store in the fridge. Top and bake on the day until the cheese is melted and the top is golden.

If you loved these holiday recipes, check out these:

• 8 Cookie Recipes Perfect For Holidays
• 10 Holiday Recipes That Don’t Taste Low Carb
• 25 Quick & Easy Pumpkin Recipes
• Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

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