Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 8 · Technique: Boiling and Roasting · Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
This Thanksgiving, elevate your meal with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, vibrant green bean almondine, and sweet maple-glazed Brussels sprouts, perfect for any holiday table.
Ah, Thanksgiving in New York City-there's something magical about the crisp air as the leaves turn brilliant shades of orange and gold. It's the season of gathering, gratitude, and of course, indulgent feasts. As I set out to create a memorable Thanksgiving experience in my little NYC kitchen, I turned my focus to the side dishes-the heart and soul of any holiday table. These recipes not only elevate your meal but also pay homage to the warmth of the season.
A Heartwarming Holiday Side Dish Selection
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadently creamy texture that elevates your Thanksgiving spread.
- Simple preparation steps that require minimal effort.
- Perfectly seasoned for a comforting, savory flavor.
- Can be paired with a variety of main dishes and sides.
- Leftovers make for delicious meals in the days following your feast.
Ingredients
Gather these essential ingredients for a delightful dish.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)
How to Make Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes and Garlic
In a large pot, place the Yukon Gold potatoes and garlic, covering them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Steam-Drain and Mash
Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot. Allow them to steam dry for a few minutes. This helps to achieve that fluffy consistency we all love. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter until melted and warm.
Step 3: Combine Cream Mixture with Potatoes
Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes while gradually adding the warm cream mixture. Whisk the mixture until it becomes glossy and creamy, then season with salt and pepper. If you like, stir in some chopped chives for added flavor and color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overboiling the potatoes can lead to a watery texture.
- Using cold cream will make the mashed potatoes gluey instead of smooth.
- Not seasoning enough can leave your potatoes bland-salt is key!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overboiling the potatoes can lead to a watery texture.
- Using cold cream may result in gluey potatoes instead of creamy.
- Not seasoning enough; salt is crucial for enhancing flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Choose Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture.
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Toast nuts for added depth and complexity in your dishes.
- Watch the Brussels sprouts closely while roasting for perfect caramelization.
- Season dishes at each step for maximum flavor.
Variations
- Substitute sweet potatoes for Yukon Gold in mashed potatoes.
- Add Parmesan cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
- Try pecans instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Incorporate crispy bacon pieces with the Brussels sprouts for added flavor.
- Use apple cider vinegar in place of balsamic for a tangy twist.
How to Serve
- Serve mashed potatoes with a pat of butter on top for a finishing touch.
- Garnish green bean almondine with additional lemon zest for brightness.
- Pair maple-glazed Brussels sprouts with roast turkey or ham.
- Offer a variety of side dishes on a large serving platter for a festive display.
- Serve alongside a rich gravy to complement all dishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance and store in the refrigerator.
- Storage: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. Mashed potatoes can be stored for up to 3 days; green beans and Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed within 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently warm leftovers in the oven, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive their moisture.
- Freezing: Not recommended for optimal texture and flavor.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through endless testing, I realized the power of great seasoning-each dish turned out better when salt and brightness from citrus were thoughtfully added. Cooking in NYC, I've also come to appreciate the benefits of fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially during the bountiful fall harvest season.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 8 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~220 calories · 4g protein · 32g carbs · 10g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Thanksgiving
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, place the Yukon Gold potatoes and garlic, covering them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot. Allow them to steam dry for a few minutes. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter until melted and warm.
- Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes while gradually adding the warm cream mixture. Whisk the mixture until it becomes glossy and creamy, then season with salt and pepper.
- If you like, stir in some chopped chives for added flavor and color.
Notes
FAQs
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making mashed potatoes?
Common mistakes include overboiling the potatoes, using cold cream (which can make the texture gluey), and not seasoning enough with salt to enhance the flavor.
How do I keep my green beans vibrant in color while cooking?
Blanching the green beans in salted boiling water and then shocking them in an ice bath helps retain their bright green color while keeping them tender-crisp.
Can I prepare these Thanksgiving side dishes a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare some of these dishes a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, but for the best quality, reheat them gently before serving.
