Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table with loved ones, and what could be easier than using a crockpot to whip up delicious sides? These crockpot Thanksgiving sides are not just convenient—they’re a game changer! I remember my first Thanksgiving as the designated cook; I was overwhelmed until I discovered how much easier it was to let my trusty crockpot do the work. These recipes are unique and packed with flavor, allowing you to spend more time with family while still serving up hearty, satisfying dishes that everyone will rave about. Trust me, you’ll want these on your holiday menu!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating these delightful crockpot Thanksgiving sides! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups of diced potatoes: I love using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture. Make sure to dice them evenly for consistent cooking!
- 1 cup of chopped onions: Yellow onions work best here, adding a sweet, savory flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- 1 cup of shredded cheese: Feel free to go bold with sharp cheddar or keep it mild with Monterey Jack. Cheese makes everything better, right?
- 1/2 cup of sour cream: This adds a rich creaminess—don’t skimp on it! You can adjust this to your liking, but I love the tang it brings.
- 1/4 cup of butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. This adds a wonderful richness to the flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors. I recommend starting with a pinch and adjusting as you go.
- 2 cups of green beans: Fresh or frozen green beans work great here. They add a nice crunch and a pop of color to the dish!
- 1 cup of chicken broth: This is the secret to keeping everything moist and flavorful as it cooks. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option!
How to Prepare Crockpot Thanksgiving Sides
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation! It’s super simple and totally rewarding. Here’s how I do it:
- First, layer the diced potatoes and chopped onions in the bottom of your crockpot. This creates a flavorful base that cooks beautifully!
- Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese, dollop the sour cream, and add the butter on top. Trust me, this combination is heavenly!
- Now, season it generously with salt and pepper. I like to start with a pinch of each and adjust later if needed. It’s all about enhancing those flavors!
- Pour the chicken broth over everything. This will keep the mixture moist and add depth to the dish as it cooks.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6 hours. This low-and-slow method allows all those flavors to meld wonderfully.
- In the last hour of cooking, gently stir in the green beans. They only need about an hour to cook, so this timing is key for that perfect crunch!
And that’s it! You’ll have a warm, comforting side dish ready to impress your guests just in time for dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation: With minimal chopping and just one pot to clean, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner!
- Flavorful combination: The creamy potatoes, savory cheese, and fresh green beans come together in a way that’s downright delicious.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings: This dish is not just a side; it’s a crowd-pleaser that complements your turkey and stuffing perfectly.
- Vegetarian-friendly options: With simple swaps like vegetable broth, everyone at the table can enjoy this comforting dish.
- Hands-off cooking: Set it and forget it! You can focus on other dishes while this beauty cooks away in the background.
Tips for Success
To make sure your crockpot Thanksgiving sides turn out absolutely perfect, here are some of my top tips that I swear by:
- Adjust the seasoning: Always taste before serving! I like to sneak a little taste about halfway through cooking. If it needs a bit more salt or pepper, you can adjust right then.
- Fresh vs. frozen ingredients: While I love the convenience of frozen green beans, fresh ones offer a brighter flavor and crunch. If possible, go fresh for that special holiday touch!
- Layering is key: Make sure to layer your ingredients properly. Starting with the potatoes and onions creates a solid base that cooks evenly, while cheese and sour cream on top keep everything nice and creamy.
- Presentation matters: When serving, I like to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to add a pop of color and a fresh taste. It makes the dish look extra inviting!
- Don’t rush the cooking: Remember, low and slow is the name of the game! Cooking on low for the full 6 hours really allows those flavors to meld together beautifully—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up these crockpot Thanksgiving sides! Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Cheese swap: While I’m a fan of cheddar, you could try using gouda for a smoky flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. The cheese you choose can really change the vibe of the dish!
- Herb infusion: Add some fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for an aromatic touch. Just toss in a few sprigs during the last hour of cooking for a fragrant boost!
- Spice it up: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. It’s a subtle way to elevate the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Veggie overload: Feel free to throw in other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or even corn for added color and nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking times to ensure everything is tender!
- Different broth: Swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth or even a mushroom broth for a richer flavor profile, especially if you’re keeping things vegetarian.
These variations can help you tailor the dish to your family’s tastes, making your Thanksgiving feast even more memorable!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious crockpot Thanksgiving side ready to go, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more amazing! Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside this comforting dish:
- Roasted Turkey: You can’t go wrong with the classic! The savory flavors of turkey complement the creamy potatoes beautifully. Don’t forget the gravy!
- Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce adds a lovely contrast to the richness of the potatoes and cheese. It’s the perfect balance of flavors on your plate!
- Stuffing: Whether you prefer a traditional bread stuffing or a wild rice blend, this dish pairs wonderfully with stuffing for that ultimate Thanksgiving experience.
- Glazed Carrots: For a pop of color and sweetness, serve up some glazed carrots. Their bright flavor works wonderfully with the savory elements on your table.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can lighten up the meal and add some crunch. Think mixed greens, walnuts, and a sprinkle of feta!
- Bread Rolls: Don’t forget about warm, fluffy bread rolls! They’re perfect for soaking up any extra gravy or sauce from your turkey and sides.
Mix and match these options based on your family’s favorites, and you’ll have a Thanksgiving spread that’s just as delightful as it is delicious!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of our delicious crockpot Thanksgiving sides can help you enjoy them even more! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup). Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a comforting balance of nutrients. Perfect for your Thanksgiving feast!
FAQ Section
Can I make these crockpot Thanksgiving sides ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything the day before and just pop it in the crockpot the morning of Thanksgiving. Just keep in mind to adjust your cooking time if the ingredients are cold from the fridge.
What if I don’t have a crockpot?
No worries! You can easily adapt this recipe to a stovetop or oven method. Just use a large pot on the stove and simmer it slowly, or transfer everything to a baking dish and cover it with foil in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until everything is cooked through.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Definitely! Sweet potatoes would add a nice sweetness and pair wonderfully with the cheese and sour cream. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit less time to become tender.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist when serving again!
What other crockpot Thanksgiving sides can I make?
The possibilities are endless! Consider making creamy corn, mashed potatoes, or even a warm apple crisp. The crockpot is perfect for keeping dishes warm and freeing up your oven for that turkey!
Crockpot Thanksgiving Sides That Will Delight Your Guests
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy crockpot recipes for Thanksgiving sides.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of diced potatoes
- 1 cup of chopped onions
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 cups of green beans
- 1 cup of chicken broth
Instructions
- Layer diced potatoes and chopped onions in the crockpot.
- Add cheese, sour cream, and butter on top.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour chicken broth over the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Add green beans in the last hour of cooking.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- For a creamier texture, add more sour cream.
- Use fresh or frozen green beans.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: crockpot thanksgiving sides
