Martha Stewart Thanksgiving Side Dishes You Need to Try

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, the excitement for Thanksgiving grows. This holiday is more than just a meal. It’s a time to come together with family and friends, celebrating the season’s bounty. The side dishes are key, carefully made to enhance the main course and please everyone’s taste.

Martha Stewart is known for her amazing Thanksgiving recipes. Her side dishes mix classic tastes with new ideas, impressing your guests. When you serve these dishes, the aroma and beauty will wow your guests.

Key Takeaways

  • Martha Stewart’s Thanksgiving side dishes are renowned for their perfect balance of classic and contemporary flavors.
  • Her recipes emphasize the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-saving techniques to ensure a stress-free hosting experience.
  • From roasted vegetables to creamy casseroles, Stewart’s side dishes are designed to complement the main course while standing out on their own.
  • These side dishes offer a variety of make-ahead options, allowing you to enjoy the holiday without being confined to the kitchen.
  • By incorporating Martha Stewart’s Thanksgiving side dish recipes, you can elevate your holiday feast and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Essential Martha Stewart Thanksgiving Side Dishes for Your Holiday Table

Martha Stewart’s side dishes are key for a perfect Thanksgiving feast. They mix traditional favorites with unique twists. Martha’s tips make hosting a holiday stress-free.

Traditional Favorites with a Stewart Twist

Martha’s take on classic sides adds depth with unexpected ingredients. Her Herb-Infused Stuffing and Creamy Sweet Potato Casserole are great examples. The pecan streusel topping in the sweet potato casserole is a highlight.

Time-Saving Prep Tips from Martha’s Kitchen

Martha’s kitchen hacks save time on Thanksgiving prep. She shows how to chop veggies fast and use appliances like food processors. Her make-ahead recipes also help hosts get a head start.

Make-Ahead Options for Stress-Free Hosting

Martha’s make-ahead side dishes are a key part of her strategy. Recipes like Mashed Potatoes with Cream and Chives and Classic Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest can be made days ahead. This makes hosting smooth and lets you enjoy the holiday.

Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze

Elevate your Thanksgiving table with Martha Stewart’s signature roasted Brussels sprouts. This delightful vegetable side dish boasts a harmonious balance of savory and sweet flavors that will delight your guests.

Begin by selecting fresh, firm Brussels sprouts. Halve them lengthwise, then toss them in a generous amount of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast the Brussels sprouts in a hot oven, around 400°F, until they develop a crispy exterior and a tender, caramelized interior – typically 20-25 minutes.

In the final minutes of roasting, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy maple glaze. The combination of maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of Dijon mustard creates a mouthwatering coating that clings to the roasted vegetables, elevating them to new heights of flavor.

Once the Brussels sprouts are caramelized and the glaze has thickened, remove them from the oven and serve immediately. This roasted Brussels sprouts with maple glaze dish makes for a delightful vegetable side dish that perfectly complements your Thanksgiving feast.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

“The perfect balance of sweet and savory, these roasted Brussels sprouts with maple glaze are a must-try addition to your Thanksgiving menu.”

For a truly impressive presentation, consider arranging the roasted Brussels sprouts on a large platter and drizzling the maple glaze over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a few fresh thyme leaves for an extra touch of elegance.

IngredientQuantity
Brussels sprouts, halved1 lb
Olive oil2 tbsp
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper1/2 tsp
Maple syrup2 tbsp
Balsamic vinegar1 tbsp
Dijon mustard1 tsp

Creamy Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Thanksgiving isn’t complete without a delicious sweet potato casserole. Martha Stewart’s recipe has a creamy sweet potato base. It’s topped with a crunchy pecan streusel that elevates this classic dish.

Selecting the Best Sweet Potatoes

Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth-skinned. Look for ones that are deep orange or reddish-orange. These are sweeter and more flavorful.

Avoid soft, wrinkled, or green-spotted potatoes. They can make the dish taste bitter.

Mastering the Pecan Streusel

The perfect pecan topping is sweet, salty, and crunchy. Mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter. It should be wet sand-like.

Spread this mixture over the sweet potato filling. Bake until it’s golden brown and crispy. The Food Network’s Sweet Potato Casserole recipe has over 500 five-star ratings. People love the topping.

IngredientAmount
Sweet Potatoes3 pounds, peeled and cubed
Butter1/2 cup (1 stick), softened
Milk1/2 cup
Brown Sugar1/2 cup
Eggs2
Cinnamon1 teaspoon
Nutmeg1/2 teaspoon
Pecans, chopped1 cup
Flour1/2 cup

“The recipe has been praised for not being overly sweet, with complimenting comments about the outstanding topping.”

Classic Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

Make your Thanksgiving feast special with Martha Stewart’s cranberry sauce recipe. It adds a fresh orange zest twist. This homemade sauce is a holiday table essential, balancing tart and sweet perfectly with your turkey and sides.

Martha’s secret is the orange zest, which adds a bright citrus flavor to the cranberries. Cooking the cranberries until they burst makes the sauce smooth and jam-like. It’s sure to wow your guests.

To make this cranberry sauce recipe, you need just a few things: fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. It’s easy to prepare ahead, letting the flavors mix before serving.

  1. In a medium saucepan, mix the cranberries, sugar, and water.
  2. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring now and then.
  3. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. This takes about 10 to 12 minutes.
  4. Take the saucepan off the heat and add the orange zest.
  5. Let the homemade cranberry sauce cool completely before serving or refrigerating.

This classic cranberry sauce can be made up to 5 days ahead. It’s a stress-free option for Thanksgiving. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a perfect mix of tart cranberries and bright orange zest.

Cranberry Sauce

“Cranberry sauce is a must-have on my Thanksgiving table. Martha’s recipe with orange zest takes it to the next level.”

Green Bean Casserole with Homemade Mushroom Sauce

Martha Stewart’s green bean casserole is a Thanksgiving favorite. She uses fresh green beans and mushrooms for better taste and texture. This makes the dish stand out.

Fresh vs. Canned Ingredients

The secret to Stewart’s casserole is the homemade mushroom sauce. It’s made by sautéing fresh mushrooms, garlic, and herbs in a creamy base. This gives the sauce a rich, savory flavor that goes well with the green beans.

This is different from the canned cream of mushroom soup used in many recipes.

Crispy Onion Topping Techniques

The dish also has a crispy onion topping. Stewart slices onions thinly, coats them in seasoned flour, and fries them until golden. This topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy casserole.

This homemade topping makes the dish a true showstopper on your Thanksgiving table.

Whether it’s for a holiday potluck or a family dinner, Martha Stewart’s green bean casserole is a hit. It impresses everyone with its homemade mushroom sauce and crispy onion topping.

green bean casserole

Martha’s Signature Herb-Infused Stuffing Recipe

Thanksgiving is all about comfort food. Martha Stewart’s stuffing recipe is a true showstopper. It blends aromatic herbs with crusty bread for a flavorful side dish.

The secret to Martha’s herb-infused stuffing is in the ingredients. She uses fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley. These are sautéed with onions and celery in butter to release their full aroma and flavor.

Then, the herb mixture is tossed with day-old bread cubes. It’s moistened with chicken or vegetable broth. This creates a perfectly moist and flavorful stuffing.

Martha’s Thanksgiving stuffing recipe stands out for its texture. It’s baked to perfection, with a crispy top and a moist, tender interior. This creates a delightful mouthfeel that complements the rich, savory flavors.

herb-infused stuffing

Martha Stewart’s herb-infused stuffing recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for a large Thanksgiving feast or to add a special touch to your holiday menu. With its tantalizing aroma and irresistible flavor, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.

Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Cream and Chives

Make your Thanksgiving table shine with Martha Stewart’s buttery mashed potatoes. The secret to success is choosing the right potatoes and getting the texture just right. Stewart recommends using starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold. These potatoes become creamy when mashed.

Potato Selection Guide

Choosing the right potatoes is key for mashed potatoes. Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are best. They become smooth when mashed. Stay away from waxy potatoes, as they can make the mash gritty.

Texture Perfection Tips

For the creamiest potatoes, Stewart suggests using a ricer or food mill. This method breaks down the potatoes without making them tough. Also, warm the milk and cream before adding them. This makes the mash rich and smooth.

Don’t forget to add fresh chives on top. They add a hint of onion flavor and a splash of color.

IngredientQuantity
Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes4 lbs, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
Unsalted Butter4 tbsp
Whole Milk2 tbsp
Heavy Cream1/2 cup
Fresh Chives, minced2 tbsp
Salt and Pepperto taste

“For the creamiest mashed potatoes, use a ricer or food mill to get the perfect texture.”

Follow Martha Stewart’s tips for the best mashed potatoes. Choose the right potatoes and get the texture just right. These buttery, chive-infused potatoes will be a hit at your Thanksgiving feast.

Homemade Parker House Dinner Rolls

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with Martha Stewart’s classic parker house rolls. These soft, buttery homemade dinner rolls are a must-have on the holiday table. They offer a delightful accompaniment to your Turkey Day spread.

Stewart’s signature recipe uses a rich, yeast-based dough. It’s shaped into small rounds, folded, and baked to golden-brown perfection. The trick is the multiple brushings of melted butter. This creates a glossy sheen and enhances the flavor of these thanksgiving bread beauties.

The best part? These parker house rolls can be prepared in advance. This allows you to enjoy a stress-free hosting experience. Simply reheat them just before serving. This fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that will have your guests reaching for seconds.

IngredientQuantity
All-purpose flour4 cups
Granulated sugar2 tablespoons
Active dry yeast2 1/4 teaspoons
Warm milk1 cup
Unsalted butter, melted1/2 cup
Egg, lightly beaten1
Kosher salt1 teaspoon

Embrace the art of homemade bread-making this Thanksgiving. Delight your loved ones with Martha Stewart’s irresistible parker house rolls. The combination of buttery goodness and a soft, pillowy texture will have everyone coming back for more.

Conclusion

Martha Stewart’s Thanksgiving side dish recipes mix tradition with innovation. They make your holiday meal unforgettable. Try her cranberry sauce with orange zest or the modern twist on green bean casserole. Her recipes ensure your table looks great and tastes amazing.

Stewart’s recipes use fresh ingredients and offer make-ahead and time-saving tips. This makes hosting easy, so you can enjoy the holiday with your guests. It’s all about making your Thanksgiving special.

Looking to change up your Thanksgiving menu or add new dishes? Martha Stewart’s recipes are perfect. They include roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potato casserole with pecans. Each dish combines tradition with a modern twist, making your feast unforgettable.

Let Martha Stewart’s recipes help you create a memorable Thanksgiving. Enjoy the flavors of the season and the company of your loved ones. Your Thanksgiving will be a celebration to remember.

FAQ

What are some of Martha Stewart’s essential Thanksgiving side dishes?

Martha Stewart’s must-have Thanksgiving sides include roasted Brussels sprouts with maple glaze. There’s also creamy sweet potato casserole with pecans on top. Classic cranberry sauce with orange zest is a favorite, along with green bean casserole with homemade mushroom sauce.Herb-infused stuffing, buttery mashed potatoes with cream and chives, and homemade Parker House dinner rolls round out the list.

How does Martha Stewart’s approach to Thanksgiving side dishes differ from traditional recipes?

Martha Stewart’s recipes add a twist to traditional dishes. She uses fresh, quality ingredients and smart shortcuts. This makes hosting Thanksgiving easier and more enjoyable.

What are the benefits of Martha Stewart’s make-ahead Thanksgiving side dish options?

Martha Stewart’s recipes often let you prepare dishes ahead of time. This means less stress on the big day. You can reheat them just before serving, ensuring a smooth celebration.

How does Martha Stewart’s roasted Brussels sprouts recipe stand out?

Martha Stewart’s Brussels sprouts recipe is special because of its maple glaze. This glaze makes the sprouts sweet and savory, creating a delicious flavor.

What makes Martha Stewart’s sweet potato casserole unique?

Martha Stewart’s sweet potato casserole is unique because of its creamy base and crunchy pecan streusel. This mix of textures and flavors is perfect.

How does Martha Stewart’s cranberry sauce recipe differ from traditional versions?

Martha Stewart’s cranberry sauce recipe is special because of the fresh orange zest. It adds a bright, citrusy taste that pairs well with the tart cranberries.

What sets Martha Stewart’s green bean casserole apart?

Martha Stewart’s green bean casserole is different because of its homemade mushroom sauce. It uses fresh ingredients and has a crispy onion topping for extra texture.

What are the key elements of Martha Stewart’s signature herb-infused stuffing recipe?

Martha Stewart’s stuffing recipe combines herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley with crusty bread cubes. It’s moistened with broth, making it flavorful and diverse in texture.

How does Martha Stewart’s mashed potato recipe ensure the perfect texture?

Martha Stewart’s mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy thanks to the right potatoes and tools. Using a ricer or food mill helps. Warm milk and cream also make them perfect.

What makes Martha Stewart’s Parker House dinner rolls a standout Thanksgiving side?

Martha Stewart’s Parker House dinner rolls are special because of their rich, buttery dough. They’re shaped, folded, and baked until golden. Brushed with melted butter, they’re both glossy and flavorful.