10 Delicious 30-Minute Thanksgiving Side Dishes for Busy Hosts

Thanksgiving is all about gathering and enjoying time with loved ones, but who has the time for lengthy side dish prep? This collection of 30-minute sides is perfect for busy hosts looking to whip up delicious accompaniments without the stress. From vibrant salads to hearty casseroles, these quick recipes will make your holiday table shine without eating into your valuable time.

Savory Garlic Mashed Potatoes With A Twist

These garlic mashed potatoes are a must-have for your Thanksgiving table. With a hint of cream cheese and fresh chives, they bring a delightful twist to a classic dish. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy hosts!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add minced garlic, cream cheese, milk, and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Season and Serve: Stir in salt, pepper, and chives. Serve warm, and enjoy this tasty twist on a classic!

Crispy Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts For A Sweet Crunch

These crispy maple-glazed Brussels sprouts are a perfect side for your Thanksgiving feast. They bring a sweet crunch that everyone will love, and they’re super quick to make. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a dish that looks and tastes amazing!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sprouts are crispy and caramelized.
5. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet crunch!

Flavor-Packed Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans

This sweet potato casserole is a must-have for your Thanksgiving table. It’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor, thanks to the crunchy pecans and toasted marshmallows on top. Your guests will love it, and you’ll love how easy it is!

Ingredients

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup pecans, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
4. Remove from the oven and sprinkle mini marshmallows and chopped pecans on top.
5. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.

Crunchy Broccoli Salad With A Creamy Dressing

This crunchy broccoli salad is a perfect side for your Thanksgiving feast. It’s quick to whip up and adds a fresh touch to your table. With a creamy dressing that ties it all together, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cherry tomatoes, raisins, and sunflower seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss well to coat. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Classic Cornbread With A Buttery Finish

This classic cornbread is a must-have for your Thanksgiving table. It’s quick to whip up and pairs perfectly with all your favorite dishes. With a buttery finish, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let it cool slightly, then serve warm with extra butter on top.

Classic Macaroni And Cheese With A Creamy Twist

This macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 30 minutes. With a creamy twist, it’s the perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving feast. Everyone will love the cheesy goodness!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens, then stir in the cheeses until melted.
4. Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni and mix well. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Savory Mushroom Risotto For A Luxurious Touch

This mushroom risotto is a quick and fancy side that will impress your guests. Creamy and rich, it pairs perfectly with turkey or any main dish. Plus, you can whip it up in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable broth in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Arborio rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
5. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more.
6. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Delicious Herb-Roasted Baby Potatoes For A Crispy Delight

These herb-roasted baby potatoes are a quick and tasty side dish that everyone will love. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs for a crispy finish. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table!

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and halve the baby potatoes, then place them in a large bowl.
3. Add olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
4. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.

Sweet And Savory Glazed Carrots For A Colorful Side

These sweet and savory glazed carrots are a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. They are quick to make and add a bright pop of color to your spread. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this tasty side in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound baby carrots
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the baby carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and honey, coating the carrots evenly. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the carrots are tender and glazed.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cheesy Spinach And Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms

These cheesy spinach and artichoke stuffed mushrooms are a hit at any gathering! They’re quick to whip up and packed with flavor, making them perfect for busy hosts. Your guests will love these tasty bites!

Ingredients

• 16 large mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix together the spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.