Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes & Place Cards
Happy Thanksgiving Eve, friends!
As we prepare for tomorrow’s festivities, I’m thrilled to share two Thanksgiving essentials to elevate your celebration: a crowd-pleasing sweet potato side dish and charming handmade place cards that add a personal touch to your table while keeping the little ones entertained.
Thanksgiving is all about gathering together, sharing a meal, and celebrating gratitude. While the turkey often takes center stage, side dishes and thoughtful details bring warmth and personality to the table. Let’s dive into these two ideas that are sure to make your holiday even more special.
Smashed Sweet Potatoes with Apples
This Barefoot Contessa-inspired recipe is a favorite in our family. With creamy sweet potatoes and a caramelized apple topping, it’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Not only is it delicious, but it also makes the house smell incredible as it bakes.
Ingredients:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 lbs. sweet potatoes (about 6 large)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (I love using Simply Orange for its vibrant flavor!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or substitute with half & half)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Apple Topping:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 McIntosh or Macoun apples, peeled, cored, and cut into eighths
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Scrub the sweet potatoes and pierce them several times with a fork. While the original recipe calls for baking them for about an hour, I often microwave them for faster results. Once they’re fork-tender, let them cool for about 15 minutes before slicing them open. Scoop the insides into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. - Combine the Ingredients
To the sweet potatoes, add orange juice, cream, melted butter, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are just combined. The goal is to achieve a slightly chunky texture rather than a completely smooth purée. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. - Prepare the Apple Topping
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the apple slices and sprinkle them with brown sugar. Cook for 5–10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized. Arrange the apple slices on top of the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish. - Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 20–30 minutes, or until heated through. The topping will infuse the dish with even more flavor as it bakes. Be sure to sneak a little taste before serving – quality control, of course!
Pro Tip: This recipe freezes well. Divide the sweet potato mixture into two smaller casserole dishes and freeze one for another time. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you need a comforting side dish in a pinch.
Thanksgiving Place Cards: A Creative Craft for Kids
Once the food is under control, it’s time to think about your table setup. A beautifully set table creates a welcoming atmosphere for guests, and place cards are a simple way to make everyone feel special.
Why Use Place Cards?
Even if your family doesn’t follow strict seating arrangements, place cards add a touch of elegance to any gathering. They show thoughtfulness and make each guest feel honored. Plus, crafting them is a great way to keep kids entertained while you’re busy in the kitchen.
Turkey Thumbprint Place Cards
These adorable turkey thumbprint place cards are a hit every year! Not only are they easy to make, but they also bring a personal and whimsical touch to the table.
What You’ll Need:
- Cardstock or sturdy paper for the place cards
- Washable paint in various colors (brown for the body, and red, orange, and yellow for feathers)
- White paint pen or white-out pen (for the eyes)
- Black marker (for pupils, legs, and details)
- Red tissue paper or construction paper (for the turkey’s wattle)
- Optional: Glitter or metallic markers for extra sparkle
How to Make Them:
- Prepare the Place Cards
Cut and fold the cardstock into tent-style cards or your desired shape. You can write each guest’s name on the cards beforehand or leave space to add names after the turkeys are made. - Create the Thumbprint Turkeys
Dip each child’s thumb into brown paint and press it onto the card to form the turkey’s body. Use the tips of their fingers dipped in red, orange, and yellow paint to create rows of colorful feathers around the body. - Add the Details
Once the paint is dry, use a white paint pen to add eyes to the turkey. Add tiny black dots for pupils and draw legs with a black marker. For the turkey’s wattle, cut a small piece of red tissue paper and glue it below the face. - Add Some Sparkle
If you’re feeling extra festive, let the kids sprinkle glitter onto the feathers while the paint is still wet. You can also use metallic markers to add decorative touches.
A Beautiful Addition to Your Table
These handmade place cards look adorable alongside any Thanksgiving table setting. Whether your decor leans casual or formal, they’re a fun and personal way to welcome your guests.
A few years ago, we brought these place cards to my mother-in-law’s Thanksgiving dinner. Her table, set with fine china, crystal, and fresh flowers, looked even more charming with the kids’ creations scattered throughout. It’s a memory we cherish, and it reminds me of the joy of blending tradition with creativity.
A Day to Be Thankful
Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food – it’s about the people we share it with and the memories we create together. Whether you’re gathering with family, friends, or both, take a moment to reflect on what you’re thankful for this year.
I hope these ideas inspire you to add a little extra warmth and joy to your holiday celebration. From my family to yours, wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and delicious food.
I’d Love to Hear from You!
What’s your favorite Thanksgiving side dish or table decoration? Do you have a family tradition that makes the holiday special? Share your thoughts in the comments – I love hearing from you!
Happy Thanksgiving!
