Steven Johnson the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® was
wondering who eats what for Thanksgiving Dinner. So, after a bit of research here is just what
he found.
Thanksgiving is a meal steeped in tradition, and side
dishes are often the stars of the table. Here’s a countdown of the most beloved
side dishes across American households, along with recipes for the top three.
We’ll also take a quick look at other Thanksgiving main dish options for those
considering an alternative to turkey.
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes, often topped with gravy, are an
American classic. They pair well with nearly any main dish and can be adjusted
to fit all tastes.
Recipe: Classic Mashed Potatoes
·
Ingredients: 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2
cup butter; 1 cup milk; salt and pepper to taste.
·
Instructions: Boil potatoes until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain,
then mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Stuffing
Thanksgiving stuffing, traditionally made with bread,
herbs, and aromatics, is a must-have side with many regional variations.
Recipe: Herb and Sausage Stuffing
·
Ingredients: 10 cups cubed stale bread; 1 pound sausage, crumbled; 1
onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 tsp sage; 1
tsp thyme; 2 cups chicken broth; salt and pepper.
·
Instructions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Sauté sausage, onion, and celery.
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients, then bake in a greased dish for 30-40
minutes.
3. Sweet Potato Casserole
This dish balances sweet and savory, often with marshmallow
or pecan toppings for a rich and satisfying addition to the Thanksgiving table.
Recipe: Pecan-Topped Sweet Potato Casserole
·
Ingredients: 4 large sweet potatoes, boiled and mashed; 1/2 cup brown
sugar; 1/4 cup butter; 1 tsp vanilla; 1/2 cup chopped pecans.
·
Instructions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix sweet potatoes, brown sugar,
butter, and vanilla. Top with pecans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Other Popular Thanksgiving Sides
4.
Green Bean Casserole – This creamy, crunchy casserole topped with fried onions
has become an American staple since its creation in the 1950s.
5.
Cranberry Sauce – Whether jellied or homemade with fresh cranberries, this
tangy side adds a burst of flavor that balances richer dishes.
6.
Roasted Brussels
Sprouts – Popular for their hearty flavor and
caramelized edges, Brussels sprouts are now a trendy addition to Thanksgiving
spreads.
7.
Macaroni and Cheese – For households with Southern roots, mac ‘n’ cheese is
often a go-to comfort dish, with extra cheese making it a creamy favorite.
8.
Cornbread – Cornbread’s sweet and savory flavor complements many
Thanksgiving dishes, especially in the South.
9.
Glazed Carrots – With a light sweetness and colorful appeal, glazed
carrots are a simple yet festive addition.
10.
Roasted Root
Vegetables – Featuring earthy flavors and
seasonal ingredients like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, roasted root
vegetables make for a healthy, rustic side.
Alternatives to Turkey
While turkey is traditional, some households opt for other
main dishes. Alternatives include:
·
Ham: Ham has grown in popularity as a Thanksgiving choice,
especially for those who prefer a milder, saltier flavor over turkey’s rich
profile.
·
Prime Rib or Roast
Beef: For a heartier, more luxurious
option, roast beef or prime rib are favorites for those wanting a break from
poultry.
·
Salmon: For a lighter, health-conscious alternative, salmon
brings a fresh, mild taste and aligns with growing consumer demand for seafood
at holiday meals.
Foodservice
Solutions® team is here to help you drive top line sales and bottom-line
profits. Are you looking a customer ahead?
Visit GrocerantGuru.com for more information
or contact: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us Remember success
does leave clues and we just may the clue you need to propel your continued
success.
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