Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones, sharing stories, and of course, indulging in a feast that warms the heart and soul. I can’t stress enough how crucial those side dishes are—they’re the unsung heroes of the holiday table! Imagine creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes that you didn’t have to hover over, thanks to your trusty crockpot. That’s where these amazing *crockpot sides for Thanksgiving* come in! They make your meal so much easier and more enjoyable, freeing you up to focus on what really matters—spending time with family and friends. Plus, let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dish that cooks itself while you enjoy a glass of wine or two? Trust me, you’ll want these flavors on your table this season!
Ingredients for Crockpot Sides for Thanksgiving
For these incredible crockpot sides, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that creamy, dreamy goodness that everyone will love!
- 2 lbs of peeled and chopped potatoes – Make sure to cut them into even pieces for consistent cooking!
- 1 cup of chicken broth – This adds flavor and moisture, making your potatoes extra delicious.
- 1 cup of cream cheese – Trust me, this is what gives the dish its rich and creamy texture!
- 1/2 cup of sour cream – For that delightful tang that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- 1/4 cup of butter – Because butter makes everything better, right?
- 1 tsp of garlic powder – A little garlic goes a long way in enhancing the flavors.
- 1 tsp of salt – Essential for bringing out all those yummy tastes.
- 1/2 tsp of black pepper – Just the right kick to balance the creaminess.
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to a mouthwatering side dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Prepare Crockpot Sides for Thanksgiving
Creating these delicious crockpot sides is as easy as pie—well, easier actually! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a creamy potato dish that practically cooks itself. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
First things first, you’ll want to peel and chop those potatoes. I usually go for a medium size, cutting them into even chunks—about 1 to 2 inches works well. This ensures they cook evenly and become perfectly tender.
Combining Ingredients in the Crockpot
Once your potatoes are prepped, toss them into the crockpot. Next, add in your chicken broth, cream cheese, sour cream, and butter. It might look a bit like a cozy potato party in there! Just make sure to spread everything out evenly so every bite ends up creamy and flavorful.
Seasoning and Mixing
Now, sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those tasty ingredients. This step is crucial, as it’s where the magic starts to happen!
Cooking Time and Serving Suggestions
Set your crockpot to low and let it work its magic for about 6 to 8 hours. Seriously, this is the easiest part! When the cooking time is up, give the potatoes a good stir and use a masher to get them nice and creamy. Serve them up hot, and watch your guests’ faces light up with joy! You might even want to add a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra touch of deliciousness.
Tips for Success
To ensure your crockpot sides turn out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure to cut your potatoes consistently; this helps them cook evenly and gives you that ideal creamy texture. If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in some shredded cheese or even crispy bacon bits right before serving. Yum! You can also experiment with different seasonings—try adding a pinch of paprika or some fresh herbs like chives for a fresh twist.
And here’s a great tip: you can prepare everything a day in advance! Just chop the potatoes and mix all the ingredients in the crockpot insert, then refrigerate overnight. On Thanksgiving day, pop it in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious side ready to impress your guests by mealtime. Easy peasy!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
When it comes to nutrition, it’s important to remember that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. While I strive to provide accurate information, the nutritional details shared are simply estimates and may not reflect your exact dish. Typically, for a serving of these delightful crockpot sides, you can expect around 350 calories, with about 22 grams of fat, 6 grams of protein, and 35 grams of carbohydrates. Always feel free to adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences, and enjoy your meal knowing it’s made with love!
FAQ About Crockpot Sides for Thanksgiving
Here are some common questions I often get about making these fabulous crockpot sides for Thanksgiving, along with my answers to help you navigate the cooking process!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend it! You can prep everything the night before. Just mix all the ingredients in the crockpot insert, cover it, and refrigerate. On Thanksgiving morning, pop it into the slow cooker, and let it do its thing while you focus on the turkey!
What can I add for extra flavor?
If you want to jazz things up a bit, consider adding some shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or even sautéed onions and garlic for a delicious twist. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also elevate the flavor profile, giving your dish that gourmet touch!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any extra crockpot sides in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if they seem a bit dry. They’ll still taste fantastic!
Can I freeze these crockpot sides?
Definitely! If you have leftovers or just want to make them ahead of time, feel free to freeze them. Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different, but still delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for crockpot sides for Thanksgiving is truly a game changer! Here’s why I think you’ll fall in love with it just like I have:
- Easy preparation – With minimal chopping and mixing, you can set it and forget it. Let your crockpot do all the hard work while you enjoy the festivities!
- Saves oven space – Thanksgiving can be hectic, and every inch of oven space counts. This dish frees up your oven for the turkey and other goodies!
- Delicious and creamy texture – The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a rich and smooth potato dish that’s bound to impress everyone at the table.
- Perfect for large gatherings – With a generous yield, this recipe is ideal for feeding a crowd, ensuring everyone gets a hearty serving of comfort.
Trust me, once you try these crockpot sides, they’ll become a staple at your Thanksgiving table for years to come!
Additional Serving Suggestions
To round out your Thanksgiving feast, you’ll want to pair these delicious crockpot sides with some classic favorites! Here are a few ideas that will complement those creamy potatoes beautifully:
- Perfectly roasted turkey – The star of the show! A juicy turkey will go hand-in-hand with those rich potatoes.
- Homemade gravy – Drizzle some savory gravy over the potatoes for an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love.
- Cranberry sauce – The sweet-tart contrast of cranberry sauce adds a refreshing touch to your plate.
- Fresh green salad – A crisp, green salad balances the richness of the dish and adds a pop of color.
- Stuffing – Don’t forget about that warm, herby stuffing—it’s a Thanksgiving must-have!
These combinations will ensure your Thanksgiving table is not just delicious but also a visual delight. Enjoy every bite of your holiday meal!
Imprimer
Crockpot Sides for Thanksgiving That Will Wow Your Guests
- Temps Total: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Easy and delicious crockpot sides for Thanksgiving.
Ingrédients
- 2 lbs of potatoes
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 cup of cream cheese
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of black pepper
Instructions
- Peel and chop the potatoes.
- Place the potatoes in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth, cream cheese, sour cream, and butter.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir and mash before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Can be made a day in advance and reheated.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 6-8 hours
- Catégorie: Side dish
- Méthode: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 400mg
- La graisse: 22g
- Graisses Saturées: 12g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 35g
- La fibre: 4g
- La protéine: 6g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 50mg
Mots-clés: crockpot sides for thanksgiving
