Roast turkey and mashed potatoes tend to take center stage every Thanksgiving, but why not mix up your menu this year and try something new? While Thanksgiving staples may have a permanent seat on your holiday cooking lineup, that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun playing around with new side dishes. Here are a few dishes that you’re bound to love:

1. Smashed Potatoes

A unique take on a classic Thanksgiving favorite, smashed potatoes are a buttery, crispy dream — perfectly crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. Simply boil as many baby potatoes as your heart desires, smash them flat once fork tender, and pop them in the oven. Quick to prep, easy to make, and most importantly, incredibly tasty. If you’ve never experienced the joys of smashed potatoes, they are sure to become your new favorite. Check out this simple recipe from Cookie + Kate.

2. Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Still want to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving but in a new and refreshing way? This tangy, spicy cranberry jalapeno dip is a soon-to-be-staple your guests have probably never heard of. It starts with a creamy base and then is piled high with a flavorful mixture of chopped cranberries and jalapenos. Try this recipe from Mel’s Kitchen Cafe to switch things up this holiday season.

3. Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread is a tried and true dish loved by many, and something to be enjoyed all year round, but why not add a twist to it this Thanksgiving? These cornbread muffins from Bon Appetit’s Test Kitchen are filled with fresh corn kernels which impart a subtle sweetness, making them the perfect complement to any savory dish. 

4. Mac and Cheese

You know you’ve grown up when you realize mac and cheese is so much more than the stuff that comes in the blue box. Now is the perfect time to elevate your typical mac and cheese with this baked version from The Chunky Chef. This recipe uses two kinds of fresh cheeses, taking the flavor profile to the next level, and can be enjoyed by adults and children alike. 

5. Pumpkin Risotto

There will never be a holiday season without the classic pumpkin, since it’s probably one of the most versatile gourds you can find at the grocery store. From savory dishes to delectable desserts, pumpkin can truly be transformed into whatever you’d like it to be. Try it out in this creamy pumpkin risotto, paired with a goat cheese and cranberry topping, for the perfect elegant side dish. 

Looking for fun things to do after your big holiday feast? Check out a few ways you can make the most of Coastal Point’s various amenities.