Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones and indulge in delicious food. However, if you’re following a keto diet, finding suitable side dishes can be a bit challenging. But fear not! I’ve got you covered with some mouthwatering keto-friendly sides that will complement your Thanksgiving feast perfectly.
One classic Thanksgiving side that can easily be made keto-friendly is cauliflower mash. Swap out the starchy potatoes for steamed cauliflower florets, which can be mashed with butter, cream, and garlic to create a creamy and flavorful alternative. You won’t even miss the carbs!
Another fantastic option is roasted Brussels sprouts. These little green gems are packed with nutrients and offer a satisfying crunch when cooked properly. Toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast them until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges. It’s a simple yet impressive side dish that everyone will love.
Keto Sides for Thanksgiving
Low Carb Green Bean Casserole
When it comes to Thanksgiving, green bean casserole is a classic side dish that many people look forward to. Luckily, there’s a way to enjoy this tasty dish while sticking to your keto lifestyle. Instead of using the traditional cream of mushroom soup and fried onions, you can make a low carb version that is just as delicious.
To create a keto-friendly green bean casserole, start by swapping out the canned soup with a homemade sauce made from heavy cream, chicken broth, and spices like garlic powder and onion powder. You can also use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for the crispy topping. And let’s not forget about those crunchy fried onions – you can easily make your own by thinly slicing onions and frying them in coconut oil until golden brown.
Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Parmesan
Mashed potatoes are often a staple at Thanksgiving dinner, but they’re definitely not keto-friendly. Thankfully, cauliflower makes for an excellent substitute that still provides that creamy texture we all love. By incorporating garlic and parmesan into your cauliflower mash, you’ll elevate the flavors and create a side dish that will impress even those who aren’t following a keto diet.
To make this delectable dish, simply steam or boil cauliflower florets until tender. Then transfer them to a food processor along with minced garlic cloves, grated parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. The result? A velvety cauliflower mash that pairs perfectly with turkey or any other main course on your Thanksgiving table.
Creamy Cauliflower Mash
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
If you’re looking to add some cheesy goodness to your Thanksgiving spread, consider making a delicious and nutritious cheesy broccoli casserole. This keto-friendly side dish combines tender broccoli florets with a creamy, cheesy sauce that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table. To make this dish, start by steaming or blanching the broccoli until it’s crisp-tender. In a separate pan, melt some butter and whisk in heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Combine the sauce with the cooked broccoli in a baking dish and top it off with additional shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy crust. Bake it in the oven until bubbly and golden brown. The result is a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving main course.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans
For those who enjoy nutty flavors and crispy textures, roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans are an excellent addition to your keto Thanksgiving menu. To create this delectable side dish, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise. Toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.