20 Microwave-Friendly Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

When leaves start to turn and there's a hint of pumpkin-spice-everything in the air, our minds zoom straight to Thanksgiving. But wait — reality check! Remember the juggling act in the kitchen? The Olympic-level coordination of oven, stove, and counter space? Before you have a panic attack, pause and glance over at your kitchen’s unsung hero: your trusty microwave.

Yes, the microwave! More than just a reheating tool, this appliance is your secret weapon for a hassle-free Thanksgiving. Here's why:

1. Speed: Most microwave recipes cut cooking time by more than half compared to conventional methods. This means you can get your dishes on the table faster and enjoy more quality time with your loved ones.

2. Efficiency: The compact nature of the microwave ensures that you're using less energy than firing up your stove or oven. An eco-friendly and budget-friendly choice!

3. Space-saving: With oven space at a premium during Thanksgiving, using the microwave frees up crucial real estate, ensuring your turkey and pies get the undivided attention they deserve.

This Thanksgiving, while we're surrounded by tradition, it's also an opportunity to sprinkle in some modern magic. Why stick to traditional methods when many Thanksgiving dishes are just as delicious when cooked in the microwave? Who knows — one of these speedy sides or desserts could be the unexpected star of your holiday.

Cook, serve, and store all in the same dish

We all know that when it comes to Thanksgiving, there's not just the food to think about, but the dreaded cleanup! The big dinner typically ends with a precarious pile-up of delicate plates and casserole dishes with baked-on bits in the sink, lingering for the host to take care of. But with Anyday’s all-in-one features, you’ll save time cooking, make less dishes, and store leftovers for later—all in the same dish.

• Cook sides in the microwave: Save cooking time and oven space by making Thanksgiving sides in the microwave. The silicone-lined rim keeps moisture inside of the dish, keeping your food flavorful and moist until the turkey’s ready for carving. Rather go the ‘traditional’ route? Anyday dishes are also oven-safe up to 500°F.
• Serve in the same dish: With Anyday, you don’t have to transfer finished sides into serving bowls! Simply serve straight in the dish after cooking. The frosted glass offers a sleek and modern look, perfect for the dressed-up Thanksgiving table.
• Store leftovers: After the dinner’s done, there’s no mad dash to transfer leftovers to a ton of mis-matched plastic (which you don’t want to reheat in anyway!). Simply pop on the lid and store in the fridge for later. When you’re ready for the first round of leftovers, transfer to the microwave and reheat.

The best Anyday dishes for Thanksgiving sides

With the oven occupied by the turkey, you can look to microwave to whip up the rest of the menu. From moist and flavorful stuffing to foolproof gravy, using the right dish can make all the difference:

• Stuffings and Casseroles: Consider using Square Dishes for microwave stuffings and casseroles! Their square shape and wide, flat base ensures even cooking. Plus, they offer more surface area for toasty toppings! Transfer the dishes to a 500°F oven until golden brown and bubbly.
• Mashed Potatoes, Vegetables, and Sides: To cook moist, flavorful sides in the microwave, you’ll want to use Large Deep or Extra Large Dishes. Steam multiple servings of potatoes, carrots, and green beans all in one go, and then transform them into your favorite sides all in the same dish.
• Sauces and Gravies: Depending on your group size, gravies are best served in the Medium Deep Dish. Have a smaller crowd? A Small Dish works, too! When the gravy gets cold, just pop it back in the microwave for few seconds to warm up.
• Desserts: The Large Shallow Dish is ideal for making an oven-free pumpkin pie! Once the pie is cooled, just pop the lid on and store in the fridge until ready to serve. If you want to mix up your dessert selection, use Square dishes to make dessert bars and cookies.

This Thanksgiving, while we're surrounded by tradition, it's also an opportunity to sprinkle in some modern magic. Why stick to traditional methods when many Thanksgiving dishes are just as delicious when cooked in the microwave? Who knows — one of these speedy sides or desserts could be the unexpected star of your holiday. Ready to cook? Get the recipes for every Thanksgiving dish made in the microwave: