How to Pressure-Cook Quinoa in an Instant Pot So It’s Fluffy Every Time

Before you can make a healthy grain bowl for dinner like an Instagram fitness guru, you’ll need to learn how to successfully cook quinoa, preferably via the trendiest way possible (read: in an Instant Pot like the new Pioneer Woman Instant Pot, below). Pressure-cooking the pseudo-grain isn’t quite the same as steaming it via a stovetop, as it will require much less water than you’re used to. But, if you follow the directions, you’ll cook up fluffy quinoa in no time.

instant pot quinoa RECIPE

(Makes roughly 2 cups)

Recipe Notes:Instant Pot cooking times do not vary as long as you respect the water-to-grain ratio. The Instant Pot comes with a plastic measuring cup that we recommend using for this recipe as we’ve found it produces the best results. Keep in mind that Instant Pot is a Canadian company, so it uses a metric cup, or 160 milliliters. By comparison, an American measuring cup holds roughly 240 milliliters. Nevertheless, Instant Pot claims you can use American measuring cups just fine as long as you keep the ratios the same.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 1/4 cup water or broth, like mushroom

Directions:

1. Place quinoa in a fine mesh sieve. Rinse it under cold water until water runs clear. This removes the saponin (quinoa’s natural coating, which tastes bitter and soapy).

2. Transfer quinoa to the Instant Pot. Turn on the Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Stir frequently, until quinoa dries out completely and smells and looks toasted.

3. Add water or broth quickly but carefully as quinoa may pop slightly. Cancel setting, then press Rice pre-set. Cover with lid and lock, and allow quinoa to pressure-cook for the allotted time.

4. As soon as cooking time is complete, press the Cancel button, and move the lid’s steam valve to Quick Release. Once pressure has released, remove top and give quinoa a stir.

5. Transfer quinoa to a bowl and dress to your liking with ingredients like fine herbs, toasted nuts, dried and fresh fruit, and a vinaigrette. Say hello to your go-to quinoa for life.

Dying for more Instant Pot recipes? Follow Brit + Co on Pinterest!

(Recipe adapted from Instant Pot; photos via Brittany Griffin / Brit + Co)

Sure, turkey is all well and good. But, let's be honest… Thanksgiving side dishes are where it's at. Whether you're going with a traditional indulgent menu, trying to keep it semi-healthy, or throwing a totally paleo Thanksgiving dinner, the sides are what make the meal. That kind of pressure could be a stressor for some, but you have 54 Thanksgiving side dishes right here that are perfect for any type of Thanksgiving gathering. Keep reading and get your Pinterest board ready, because this supporting cast of sides is going to win you an award for best Thanksgiving hostess!

Brit + Co

Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes can be made pre-Turkey Day and simply reheated before meal time. Just add salt, pepper and a dash of nutmeg, and you’ve got amazing potato heaven. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Low-Carb Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs

It doesn’t matter what holiday it is, deviled eggs are always a requirement. Flavor with bacon and ranch to ensure that kids and adults will both devour them. (via Brit + Co)

Ron Lach / PEXELS

Baked Brie

Traditional Thanksgiving side dishes can take some serious time and effort, but this one doesn't call for much. Just wrap a brie wheel in store-bought pastry dough, and watch the magic happen. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Thanksgiving Cheese Plate

This DIY crescent roll cornucopia will eliminate the need for most Thanksgiving side dishes. Just make sure your feast has bottles of wine at the ready for the all-day snackers. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Triple Threat Potatoes

Why choose between baked, mashed, or fried potatoes when you can have all three in one? Technically, these potatoes could be an app or a side – either way, you need them in your life. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Skinny Butternut Squash Lasagna Cups

The great thing about this tart (aside from its deliciousness, of course) is that it can be made completely ahead of time. Not to mention it has all of your sides in one dish. (via Brit + Co)

Meredith Holser

Garlic Knots

Swap out your OG dinner rolls for something a bit more flavorful and less laborious. These garlic knots come together in about 20 minutes, plus are great Thanksgiving side dishes for scooping up gravy and mashed potatoes. (via Brit + Co)

The Girl on Bloor

Sausage and Mushroom Stuffed Acorn Squash

This versatile dish could serve as a light main or a hearty side. It’s filled with homemade turkey sausage, woodsy herbs, and mushrooms for an all-in-one earthy Thanksgiving treat. (via The Girl on Bloor)

Just a Little Bit of Bacon

Simple Turnip Gratin

Fuss-free side dishes are an absolute *must* when you’re serving a big crowd. This easy gratin is made with seasonal turnips and just a handful of other complementary ingredients. (via Just a Little Bit of Bacon)

The Roasted Root

Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta and Walnuts

If you’re looking for a healthy-but-sweet version of bruschetta, using sweet potatoes is your answer. They’re jam-packed with nutrients, flavor and all-around goodness that your guests will go nuts over. (via The Roasted Root)

Minimalist Baker

Garlicky Kale Salad With Crispy Chickpeas

Roasted garlic cloves and tandoori chickpeas are the stars of this dish, but it all comes together with the help of a bed of kale. The dish packs an unexpected hint of spice that goes perfectly with turkey and potatoes. (via Minimalist Baker)

Eat the Love

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Lose the added preservatives (and calories!) that are found in canned mushroom soup, and serve up this green bean casserole instead. The fresh veggies and herbs are way more flavorful and healthier than anything you’ll find in a can. (via Eat the Love)

Crowded Kitchen

Vegan Corn Casserole

Casseroles are the king of Thanksgiving side dishes. This one is made with corn, is totally creamy, and is 100% vegan! (via Crowded Kitchen)

Kitchen Treaty

Herbed Wild Rice and Quinoa Stuffing

This flavorful stuffing substitute is packed with fresh herbs, apples, cranberries, and pecans, making it a dish you’ll want to enjoy all throughout fall. And why not? It’s rich in protein and caters to almost any dietary restriction, so feel free to dig in! (via Kitchen Treaty)

Back to Her Roots

Balsamic Rainbow Roasted Beets

Balsamic glaze perfectly highlights the earthiness of roasted beets. Even the beet naysayers will find themselves attracted to this dish. (via Back to Her Roots)

The Awesome Green

Cumin Roasted Cauliflower with Black Lentils

Looking for a healthy Thanksgiving dinner side dish that isn’t a potato? This cumin roasted cauliflower with black lentils is just what you need! (via The Awesome Green)

Snixy Kitchen

Ginger Miso Acorn Squash With Toasted Pistachios

This Thanksgiving side stands on its own among all the traditional staples. It has a sweet and salty contrast that stuffing just doesn’t deliver. (via Snixy Kitchen)

Eat Within Your Means

Protein-Packed Vegan Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Buried inside these mashed potatoes are sneaky swirls of hidden cauliflower and silken tofu. But don’t be scared, you won’t taste anything other than garlicky, cheesy vegan goodness. (via Eat Within Your Means)

A Beautiful Plate

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Squash With Dried Cranberries

Crispy, caramelized and slightly bitter Brussels sprouts pair amazingly with sweet and creamy butternut squash, dried cranberries and Dijon vinaigrette. This dish is epic. (via A Beautiful Plate)

The Mighty Mrs.

Butternut Squash Orzo with Feta and Sage

If you’re not gorging on butternut squash this holiday season, what are you doing with your life? This massive casserole is enough to feed a small army so you can skip out on making anything else. (via The Mighty Mrs.)

Noshing With the Nolands

Roasted Cinnamon Little Potatoes and Pumpkin

These roasted baby potatoes are not your average spud. They’re crispy, sweet and perfectly seasoned, so you’ll probably want to make extra. (via Noshing With the Nolands)

Gimme Some Oven

Roasted Butternut Squash, Kale and Cranberry Couscous

This salad could basically be a meal in itself. It’s got hearty grains and loads of veggies, but it’s also huge on flavor. It’s festive enough for your Thanksgiving table, but you’ll want to put it on repeat for weeknight dinners all winter long. (via Gimme Some Oven)

Lands & Flavors

Sweet Pumpkin Buns

These pumpkin buns are pretty enough to be centerpieces. Smear with butter and maple syrup to enhance their sweetness. (via Lands & Flavors)

The Colorful Kitchen

Stuffing Muffins with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

The best part of Thanksgiving is mixing all of the foods on your plate together. Yes, this just makes the process all the faster. (via The Colorful Kitchen)

Dinner at the Zoo

Brown Sugar Delicata Squash

If you’ve never had Delicata squash, you’re missing out on so much sweet deliciousness. Let their flavor shine by intensifying them slightly with a sprinkling of brown sugar. (via Dinner at the Zoo)

Damn Delicious

Chorizo Cornbread Stuffing

This no-fuss make-ahead stuffing has just the right amount of kick. And if you’re serving this as a dressing rather than a stuffing, you can even make it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven 20 minutes before serving. (via Damn Delicious)

The Vintage Mixer

Kale and Collard Greens Gratin

Sturdy collard greens provide a base for a creamy sauce, breadcrumbs and crispy prosciutto. If this dish gets mixed up with the mashed potatoes on your plate, you won’t be sorry! (via The Vintage Mixer)

Today’s Creative Life

Slow Cooker Mexican Mac and Cheese

The added tomato and jalapeño really give this comfort food an added kick. And who doesn’t love macaroni and cheese leftovers? (via Today’s Creative Life)

Le Creme de la Crumb

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mushroom Quinoa

Keep the vegetarians at the table happy with this hearty make-ahead quinoa dish. Add whatever veggies you like but mushrooms are a *must.* (via Le Creme de la Crumb)

Jacquelynne Steves

Garlic and Butter Green Beans

Any recipe that involves a microwave on Thanksgiving is a blessing. Seriously. Simply make these ahead of time and pop them in the microwave for a few minutes before dinnertime and you’re set. (via Jacquelynne Steves)

Nerds With Knives

Balsamic Roasted Red Onions with Thyme

These tart onions serve as a great side for any meat, and you can also use them for breakfast the next morning. Omelets with onions and goat cheese, anyone? (via Nerds With Knives)

Certified Pastry Aficionado

Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

You can’t go wrong with classic mac and cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy and the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any holiday. (via Certified Pastry Aficionado)

Julie’s Eats & Treats

Crock Pot Bacon Green Beans

It’s not a true Thanksgiving spread without grandma’s green beans on the table. And bacon makes everything better, doesn’t it? (via Julie’s Eats & Treats)

How Sweet Eats

Cinnamon-Sugar Hasselback Sweet Potatoes

Oatmeal. Cookie. Crumble. If that topper doesn’t tempt you to give these sweet potatoes a try, we’re not sure what will. (via How Sweet Eats)

Pinch of Yum

Creamy Corn Pudding with Crispy Onions

With so many great alternatives to green bean casserole, you may find yourself with an extra can of fried onions on your hands. Show them off in whole new way atop this slightly sweet (but mostly savory) casserole. (via Pinch of Yum)

Half Baked Harvest

Kale and Wild Rice Casserole

Kale, mushrooms and onions mingle together ever-so-nicely in this Thanksgiving side dish. Assemble it days ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven about an hour before you sit down for dinner. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Food52

Thanksgiving Root Vegetable Pie

Tuck into this mashed-sweet-potato-topped pie to reveal layers of chunky roasted root veggies and sautéed mushrooms hiding underneath. It’ll be hard hold back from having seconds (or thirds). (via Food52)

The Hungry Hounds

Potato Goat Cheese Gratin

Crispy, creamy, cheesy and carby — what’s not to love about that? Switch up your standard potato preparation with this chic gratin. (via The Hungry Hounds)

Pinch of Yum

Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto

For a vegetarian-friendly side, simply simmer up this creamy mushroom and spinach risotto with vegetable broth. Whatever you do, don’t forget the cheese! (via Pinch of Yum)

Love and Garnish

Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad With Apples and Parmesan Crisps

This hot and cold salad features a tantalizing array of both sweet and savory elements. Plus, parmesan crisps are amazing on just about everything. (via Love and Garnish)

Give Recipe

No Yeast Dinner Rolls

When you're short on time to let bread proof, opt for making these super simple and easy rolls for one of your Thanksgiving side dishes. What else would you sop up that gravy on your plate with?! (via Give Recipe)

Martha Stewart

Cauliflower, Red Onion and Chestnut Tart

Just a small piece of this rich blue cheese bechamel tart will satisfy your taste buds while leaving plenty of room in your belly for more important things… like dessert. But don’t worry, we won’t tell the pumpkin pie if you’d rather have more of this tart. (via Martha Stewart)

Carlsbad Cravings

Dijon Maple Green Beans With Caramelized Pecans, Bacon and Feta

When you think of green beans on Thanksgiving, you probably imagine overcooked casserole. These fresh and crispy beans are far from that with a luxurious bite, thanks to bacon and feta. (via Carlsbad Cravings)

Bitter Sweet

Butternut Potato Puffs Thanksgiving Side Dish Idea

We couldn’t pass up this side based on its adorable name alone. Just squeeze seasoned potato and butternut squash puree through a large, star-topped piping bag and bake until golden brown all over. (via Bitter Sweet)

The Edgy Veg

Vegan Whole Roasted Cauliflower

This cauli dish is all-the-way juicy and zesty, making the perfect Thanksgiving side dish for a lil' dose of veggies. (via The Edgy Veg)

Kristeena Michelle

Red Wine Cremini Mushrooms

So… you need a last minute addition to your Thanksgiving spread, but everything’s already taken. These sautéed red wine mushrooms are quick and easy and you can be sure no one else will bring them. (via Kristeena Michelle)

SheKnows

Sangria Cranberry Sauce

This recipe definitely gets how we roll. It’s a perfect side dish to share with your wine-loving squad at Friendsgiving. (via SheKnows)

Spoon Fork Bacon

Potato Rings With Homemade Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

We imagine the whole “don’t play with your food” rule was set before these awesome potato rings were made. Though, maybe reserve the potato ring toss for after dinner. (via Spoon Fork Bacon)

Adventures in Cooking

Applesauce Mac and Cheese with Apple Sausage

Why leave applesauce all by its lonesome when you can have it buddy up with mac and cheese? While it may sound strange, apples and cheese totally go together. Pro tip: try mixing in some chicken-apple sausage to amp up the apple flavor even more. (via Adventures in Cooking)

Recipe Runner

Mashed Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese and Rosemary

You’ve made mashed potatoes over and over again. Switch things up this year with this sweet and savory butternut squash mash with goat cheese and rosemary. (via Recipe Runner)

Pinch of Yum

Roasted Sweet Potato, Wild Rice and Arugula Salad

Wild rice is chewy and nutty, and packs a punch with good-for-you fiber. Prep this salad ahead of time and mix in the arugula and dressing at the last minute. (via Pinch of Yum)

Feasting at Home

Rosemary Garlic Hasselback Potatoes

Potatoes are a serious Thanksgiving Day side. No pressure, but a lot of people are depending on you. These rosemary garlic potatoes only call for a few ingredients and can serve as the perfect low-calorie sub for french fries any day of the year. It’s a win-win. (via Feasting at Home)

Carlsbad Cravings

Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots

Pumpkin and butternut squash get all of the orange vegetable glory on Thanksgiving. It's time that carrots stood up and took their place at the head of the sides table once and for all. (via Carlsbad Cravings)

The Real Food Dietitians

Harvest Salad With Quinoa + Butternut Squash

This hearty salad has all the color and all the flavor you need to feel satisfied on Thanksgiving. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Which of these Thanksgiving side dishes tops your list for this year's table? Join our newsletter for more inspiration!

This post has been updated.

My best friends mean the world to me, and though I wish I could give them the world, this year, I just want to get them gifts that are as special as our friendship. Whether it’s a personalized pendant, a cute skincare set, or the lip shade they simply can’t stop talking about, I want them to know just how much I care about their companionship! Thus, I’ve curated the ultimate list of gifts for best friends to help you gift your besties something they’ll truly love, especially if it comes from you. These gifts are so good, I really want them for myself, too.

Our 40 favorite gifts for best friends:

Scroll on to see the absolute best gifts for best friends to give in 2024!

Amazon

1. Scent Beauty by Sabrina Carpenter Cherry Baby Eau de Parfum

Leave it to Sabrina Carpenter to influence my list of gifts for best friends. Her "Cherry Baby" scent carries sultry notes of vanilla, peony, cherries, and chocolate, which is the perfect aroma for a night out with the girls.

Summer Fridays

2. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

This lip balm is viral for a reason. Your besties' lips deserve all the instant moisture, color, and shine this tube provides. This brown sugar shade looks decadent AF, but you can also snag it in other fun 'flavors' like iced coffee and mint.

Urban Outfitters

3. Camp Snap Screen-Free Digital Camera

For the one that's always documenting the friend group's antics, they'll enjoy taking this unique, screen-free digicam on nights out, weekend trips, and cozy nights in! It captures film-style photos (without the time-consuming film photography process), and it can be used over and over again since it's rechargeable.

SeaVees

4. SeaVees Hayward Platform Shoes

Moccasin-style shoes are super popular this winter. I love how comfortable SeaVees' shoes are, so I might just have to share the love with my besties this holiday season... and snag a pair for myself so we can match, of course!

Dieux

5. Dieux Angel Face Cleanser + Moisturizer Bundle

Dieux is one of my go-to skincare brands for effective products that still take it easy on my sensitive skin. Their Baptism cleanser, part of this giftable duo, provides a nice clean without stripping any moisture from my skin. I also use their Instant Angel moisturizer religiously in the wintertime since things tend to get real dry. I'd say you can confidently gift this set to besties of any skin type.

Anthropologie

6. By Anthropologie Monogram Heart Locket Necklace

Personalized gifts will always feel special. Kick this gift idea up a notch by inserting a little pic of you and your BFF in the locket before wrapping and handing it over!

Urban Outfitters

7. Baggu Mini Nylon Shoulder Bag

I carry this Baggu bag just about everywhere I go. It's perfect for happy hours or dinners since it's small and not too much of a hassle to tow along, but don't let its size fool you: this baby can fit a lot. Your most stylish best friend will be wearing it the moment they open their gift!

Target

8. Jingle & Mingle 5 Days of Rosé Wine Set

You can never go wrong with rosé, baby! This gift set carries 5 personal-sized bottles of different varieties for them to sip on around the holidays.

Kulfi Beauty

9. Kulfi Beauty All Night Out Eye Set

This eye makeup set is complete with a bold eyeliner shade and a shimmery pot of eyeshadow. You get to choose the exact shades of each before purchasing, so this is truly one of the most fun personalized gift ideas. The set also comes with a funky pair of mismatched hair clips – so cute!

Dame

10. Dame Massage Oil Candle

This soothing candle melts down into a sweet-smelling massage oil that's easily dispensable, thanks to the pointed spout on the glass. This is a great gift for your single and partnered pals alike, whether they're using it to wind down themselves or for sexy time with their S.O.!

Life is Good

11. Life is Good 'I Deserve A Little Treat' Boxy Crusher Tee

Everyone deserves a little treat. Wrap up this awesome (and comfy!) tee alongside your bestie's favorite snack, sweet treat, or freshly-baked dessert to totally nail their gift this year!

Compartés

12. Compartés Pistachio Sea Salt Chocolate Truffles

These aesthetically-pleasing truffles could be the perfect sweet treat in question!

Nordstrom

13. OSEA Super Glow Body Set

I know anyone in my close friends circle would be happy to be gifted some nice skincare goodies. This luxe set from OSEA comes with a body wash, oil, and serum to keep skin looking and feeling happy!

Subscribe to our newsletter for even more holiday gift ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

There's no doubt that the turkey has an unfair advantage in the Thanksgiving popularity game. You bust out the big bird once a year, and all those delicious side dishes tend to take a back seat… until now! There's no match for these 30 whimsical Thanksgiving side dishes that are sure to steal the dinnertime spotlight.

Sarah Anderson

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Wedges

It doesn't get more fall than this. These bacon-wrapped sweet potato pieces are hearty, filling, and so tasty, you won't have any leftovers. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Hummus

Give your fam something to dip into before the main event. This pumpkin hummus is perfectly creamy and satiating. (via Brit + Co)

Brittany Griffin

Green Bean Casserole

These vegan and gluten-free green bean casseroles taste just like the real thing. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Spinach Artichoke Muffins

Two of our favorite comfort foods combine to create a side dish that's perfect for a down-home Thanksgiving. Creamy spinach artichoke dip makes these corn muffins rich and moist. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Triple Threat Potatoes

Why choose between baked, mashed, or fried potatoes when you can have all three in one? (via Brit + Co)

Bitter Sweet

Butternut Potato Puffs

We couldn't pass up this Thanksgiving side based on its adorable name alone! Just squeeze some seasoned potato-butternut squash puree through a large, star-topped piping bag, and bake them 'til they're golden brown all over. (via Bitter Sweet)

Fifteen Spatulas

Two-Bite Mac and Cheese Cups

Keep the kids from fighting over who gets more spoonfuls of mac and cheese by transforming the casserole into these bite-sized cups! You can thank your muffin pan for this (and other) savory munchies. (via Fifteen Spatulas)

Beyond Kimchee

Pumpkin Dinner Rolls

This whimsical Thanksgiving side dish is the number one spotlight stealer on our list, and you'll be happy to know it's so easy to make! Just slice your biscuit dough in eight segments, bake, and brush with melted butter for shine. Don't forget to finish with sliced pecan “stems." So cute! (via Beyond Kimchee)

Smitten Kitchen

Roasted Stuffed Onions

Not only do we recommend making these stuffing-stuffed onions, but we also dare you to say it three times fast without slipping up. ;) (via Smitten Kitchen)

SheKnows

Sangria Cranberry Sauce

You bet we're gonna give this sangria-spiked cranberry sauce a try at our Brit + Co Thanksgiving potluck! (via SheKnows)

Spoon Fork Bacon

Potato Rings with Homemade Buttermilk Ranch

We imagine the whole “don't play with your food" rule was set before these awesome potato rings were made. Though, maybe reserve the potato ring toss from across the dining table for Friendsgiving. (via Spoon Fork Bacon)

Smitten Kitchen

Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Biscuits

We're nuts about this creative concoction. A layer of bubbling marshmallow oozes through the center of these sweet potato muffins, which is sure to satisfy any mid-meal sweet tooth. (via Smitten Kitchen)

Adventures in Cooking

Applesauce Mac & Cheese

Why leave applesauce all by its lonesome when you can have it buddy up with mac and cheese? While it may sound strange, apples and cheese totally go together, so be sure to give it a try! Mix in some chicken-apple sausage to amp up the apple flavor even more. (via Adventures in Cooking)

Your Vegan Mom

Sweet Potato Tots

We love this sweet twist on classic tater tots. We'll also go ahead and say we wouldn't be opposed to dipping them in gravy during Thanksgiving meal time. (via Your Vegan Mom)

Food52

Acorn Squash Fondue

Fondue is such a fun way to enjoy a meal with family and friends, especially when it's housed in a squash. (via Food52)

Martha Stewart

Roasted Root Vegetable Pizza

Leave it to Martha to find an amazing way to make roasted root veggies irresistibly appealing. If you serve pizza at Thanksgiving dinner, you win. (via Martha Stewart)

Salt & Lavender

Whole Roasted Shallots

Shallots become sweet and caramelized after roasting in the oven. The addition of butter and tangy balsamic make this a worthy Thanksgiving side dish. (via Salt & Lavender)

Basically Cooking

Mashed Sweet Potato and Kale Puffs

Combine multiple sides into one dish with this recipe. It's finger-food friendly, so you can dig in while using your fork to scoop up plenty of turkey. (via Basically Cooking)

Culinary Ginger

Parmesan Risotto Stuffed Acorn Squash

Stuff acorn squash with Parmesan risotto to make this elegant Thanksgiving side dish. It works well as a vegetarian entree, too. (via Culinary Ginger)

Salt N Pepper Here

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Sometimes a salad is just what you need to counteract the heavy holiday food on the table. This one is perfect for colder weather, made with a blend of shaved broccoli and Brussels sprouts. (via Salt N Pepper Here)

Plated Cravings

Sauerkraut Mashed Potato Casserole

Liven up a tray of mashed potato casserole with some simple additions. Tangy sauerkraut and sweet apples bring dynamic flavor to each bite. (via Plated Cravings)

Sip + Sanity

Hasselback Sweet Potatoes With Pumpkin Seed Pesto Butter

Hasselback sweet potatoes are ideal for soaking up big flavors. These are topped with pumpkin seed pesto butter, along with fragrant basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. (via Sip + Sanity)

Delightful Mom Food

Garlic Parmesan Carrot Fries

Skip the glazed carrots and opt for these crunchy carrot “fries" instead. A coating of cheese, garlic, and herbs helps them crisp up in the oven! (via Delightful Mom Food)

Evolving Table

Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Cauliflower doesn't get enough love in the kitchen. When pureed and mixed with soft roasted garlic and plenty of olive oil, it's like the sophisticated cousin of mashed potatoes. (via Evolving Table)

Running to the Kitchen

Sweet Potato and Chickpea Fall Salad

Salads aren't just for summer. This hearty version, made with sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and maple tahini dressing, deserves a place on the holiday table. (via Running to the Kitchen)

Domestic Gothess

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

For really crispy mashed potatoes, cook them twice. First until they're tender; then, smash them flat, sprinkle with cheese, and finish cooking. (via Domestic Gothess)

Half Baked Harvest

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions

Did someone request a cheesy side dish that's not mac and cheese? Make this scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions side dish to satisfy their taste buds' desires. (via Half Baked Harvest)

The Girl on Bloor

Crustless Jalapeño Mini Quiches

These bite-sized quiches are the perfect savory starter that also have a nice, spicy kick to 'em. (via The Girl on Bloor)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Classic Deviled Eggs

Thanksgiving isn't complete without a platter of classic deviled eggs! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Pink Owl Kitchen

Cajun Potato Salad

Tell your dad's famous potato salad to move over, because there's an updated version in town that doesn't want to share the spotlight. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

For more Thanksgiving side dishes and delicious holiday recipes, follow us on Pinterest.

Additional reporting by Justina Huddleston, Jasmine Williams, and Meredith Holser.

Our favorite dancing queens (Meryl Streep included) might be returning to the big screen for a third encore of Mamma Mia! and we’re already rewatching the first two movie musicals in preparation.

In an interview with Deadline in May of 2023, Mamma Mia! franchise creator and producer Judy Craymer said a third movie musical is in "earliest stages." She also shared that she has come up with a way to bring Meryl Streep back again.

"I don't want to over-egg it," she said of the unofficial news, "but I know there's a trilogy there…and I do think Meryl should come back, and if the script is right, she would, I think, because she really loved playing Donna."

"Of course I want to do it," Streep said during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival (via Deadline). Sounds promising to us!

Is Mamma Mia 3 happening?

Universal Pictures

Yes, Mamma Mia 3 is in its early planning stages! Christine Baranski just told The Hollywood Reporter that she's met with producer Judy Kramer, and that Kramer has plans for the third movie. "She gave me the narrative plotline of how it’s going to happen," Baranski says. "That’s all I can say! But, it’s not like, 'Oh, I wish it could happen!' Judy Kramer makes things happen. She made number two happen, and it was a phenomenal hit. I wouldn’t put it past Judy Kramer to get everybody back together."

Universal Pictures

A third installation was first mentioned way back in 2020, during a Collider interview with Mamma Mia! star Amanda Seyfried. Seyfried said she was on board — and at the time, she thought the rest of the star-studded cast would be too.

"Listen, every single person in that movie would say yes in a heartbeat because we want to hang out with each other," Seyfried told Collider at the time. "That's what we talked about last time, like did we ever think that we'd end up here again on an Island in Croatia?"

When will Mamma Mia 3 come out?

Universal Pictures

We don't have an official answer about when to expect this highly anticipated sequel. The project is in the "earliest stages," according to creator and producer, Judy Craymer. Cher also revealed to Entertainment Weekly that everyone is "talking about it," but she doesn't "know when they're going to do it."

Has casting information been shared about Mamma Mia 3?

Jonathan Prime/Universal Studios

While nothing's been made official, Amanda Seyfried just said something that made my heart skip a beat. She told ABC News she loves Sabrina Carpenter's music and dropped this admission: "If Sabrina Carpenter wants to play my daughter, I’ll make it happen."

But before she admitted that, the actress said something else that made me raise my eyebrows. "Everybody says it’s gonna happen, but I mean, I haven’t seen a script."

Cher is also eager to return to the beloved franchise and is rooting for Meryl to make an appearance again. "I keep saying, 'Meryl, you've got to come back,'" she said (via Entertainment Weekly). She also said she's told her, "'It'll be fun. You'll have a good time. You'll be able to sing.'"

I don't know what it'll take, but hope someone gets a script in Amanda Seyfried, Cher, and Meryl Streep's hands ASAP!

What is the first Mamma Mia about?

Universal Pictures

The first film follows Donna (Streep) and Sophie (Seyfried) as mother and daughter living on a remote Greek island. When Sophie is about to marry Sky (Dominic Cooper), she sets out to learn who her real father is after discovering it could be one of three men (played by Pierce Brosnan, Stellan Skarsgard, and Colin Firth).

Who does the second Mamma Mia follow?

Universal Pictures / NBCUniversal

Mamma Mia 2takes viewers back to 1979, where young Donna (Lily James) embarks on a series of adventures throughout Europe following her Oxford University graduation. On her journeys, she makes the acquaintances of Harry, Bill and Sam – the latter whom she falls in love with. In the present day, pregnant Sophie dreams of renovating a taverna while reuniting with her mother's old friends and boyfriends on a Greek island island.

TBH, we’re pretty happy that Mamma Mia! is far from over, and we can’t wait to see what the franchise has in store for us next. Stay updated on all the latest entertainment news with Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.

There's nothing ~normal~ about how much we love Normal People's Paul Mescal & Daisy Edgar-Jones. While it turns out we're not getting a Normal People season 2 (yet), the two actors are starring in some of 2024's biggest blockbusters (Twisters and Gladiator II, namely), and we've been soaking up their presences ever since.

Paul recently exhibited his ongoing friendship with Daisy at the Gladiator II premiere in Los Angeles. While he approached Brittany Broski on the red carpet for an interview, he recognized her from her recent 'Royal Court' interview with Daisy:

"You were with Daisy!" he chimed in excitingly. We just love this power duo!

Enda Bowe/Hulu

Daisy Edgar-Jones also revealed that she's remained incredibly close to Paul Mescal after their time on Hulu's Normal People. "Paul is one of my lifetime best friends," she says. "He’s an incredibly grounded person and I am too, I think, so it’s nice to be able to have those touchstones and those people you can laugh about it with and be lighthearted with. We met when I was 20 and Paul was 22; I’m so excited to see where we’ll be at 32, 42, and what life will bring us."

But the coolest thing is that not only is Normal People special for Paul and Daisy, but they've also been able to see the effect of the show on its fans.

"The thing I love people saying the most is, 'It made me contact my ex,'" Daisy continues. "Especially when much older people say, 'I just wanted to reach out to the person I was with when I was 17 just to say you were a big part of my history and thanks for being part of who I am, the tapestry of my life.' And that I really love, because I’m a massive romantic."

Daisy recently revealed they bonded over their training for Twisters and Gladiator II.

"I did running lessons — isn’t that crazy?" she told Variety. "Actually, Paul [Mescal] and I were laughing about it, because he was training for 'Gladiator II' and I was training for 'Twisters,' and obviously he had to be huge and I was like, 'Don’t worry, I’m going to be right up there with you.'"

Let us know your favorite Normal People moment in the comments and check out 5 Leading Ladies We'd Love To See In A Paul Mescal Rom-Com.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.