5 Keto-Friendly Sides And Desserts For Thanksgiving

Try these easy, keto-friendly sides and desserts—just add turkey for a full Thanksgiving feast

- Lisa Turner

Thanksgiving’s tough on a keto diet: dinner rolls, dessert, and flour-thickened gravies are out of the question, and even some sides that rely on breadcrumb toppings or starchy vegetables are off limits. But with a few crafty swaps, you can make a low-carb meal that satisfies even the most restrictive diet.

Short for “ketogenic,” the keto diet is a low-carb, moderate-protein, high-fat diet designed to put the body into ketosis—a metabolic state in which the liver produces compounds called ketones, which the body uses instead of sugar for energy. On most keto plans, carbs are restricted to 10 percent of daily calories, proteins make up 20 percent, and the remaining 70 percent comes from fats.

What does that mean for your Thanksgiving table? Low-carb vegetables, grain-free swaps, and lots (and lots) of butter and cream.

Garlicky Mashed “Potatoes”

Serves 6

Keto-friendly cauliflower stands in for potatoes in this creamy, indulgent dish; barely cooked garlic adds a robust, pungent flavor. Top with Mushroom-Shallot Gravy, or stir in red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

2 medium heads cauliflower

½ cup chicken stock

6 large garlic cloves, chopped

¼ cup heavy whipping cream

3 Tbs. butter

2 Tbs. minced chives

1. Remove cores from cauliflower, trim ends from core, and chop core into small pieces. Chop florets into small pieces. Transfer to medium pot, and add chicken stock. Cover, and cook on medium until soft, 10–12 minutes. Stock should be mostly evaporated.

2. Add garlic cloves, cream, and butter, and cook 2 minutes longer, until mixture is hot and butter is melted. Mash mixture with potato masher, or transfer to a food processor and pulse to mix. Season to taste with salt and pepper.