Because even your stuffing deserves good containment.
This year, we’re keeping things simple, tasty, and (of course) fully contained. These seven side dishes are easy enough to whip up without breaking a sweat, and each comes with a pun that’s… well, appropriately Underx.
1. Stay-Dry Stuffing Cups
Classic stuffing, portioned into muffin tins for a clean, crisp edge that holds up on the plate—no soggy middle, no sliding off the serving spoon. Bonus: easy to grab seconds without a scene.
How to: Spoon your favorite stuffing mix into greased muffin tins, press lightly, and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden. Serve warm for full containment glory.
2. Contain-Your-Cranberry Sauce
No one likes runaway cranberry juice. Thicken it just enough to keep it where it belongs—right on your plate, not in your mashed potatoes.
How to: Simmer cranberries with sugar, orange zest, and a touch of cornstarch or chia seeds to naturally set the sauce. Chill until firm but spoonable.
3. Full-Coverage Green Bean Casserole
This one’s about texture control—crispy on top, creamy underneath, zero chaos in between.
How to: Use fresh green beans (blanched and cooled), a homemade mushroom cream base, and panko fried onions for structure. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the top is locked and loaded.
4. Leak-Proof Mac & Cheese
Thick, baked, and gooey—but not a soupy mess. Balance your ratios for the perfect hold without losing the melt factor.
How to: Combine sharp cheddar, a little evaporated milk, and cooked pasta. Pour into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and parmesan, and bake 25 minutes until edges are crisp but center is creamy.
5. Odor-Control Sweet Potato Bake
Sweet and spiced, minus the marshmallow chaos. The cinnamon and nutmeg combo doubles as aromatherapy and flavor insurance.
How to: Mash roasted sweet potatoes with a little butter, maple syrup, and milk. Top with a pecan crumble, not marshmallows, for a controlled crunch.
6. Absorbent Dinner Rolls
Every good meal needs something to soak up the extras—responsibly, of course. These buttery pull-apart rolls are sturdy and reliable, much like your favorite Underx fit.
How to: Brush warm dinner rolls with melted butter and flaky salt. Serve in a basket lined with a towel to keep everything warm and moisture-balanced.
7. Secure-Seal Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy on top, smooth inside—these potatoes hold together instead of spreading into a puddle. The trick is butter discipline.
How to: Use russet potatoes, add warm milk and butter slowly, and mash just enough to smooth without overworking. Finish with a light sprinkle of garlic salt for consistency.
8. Full-Protection Gravy
Okay, technically not a “side,” but every hero needs backup. This gravy has thickness, control, and no leaks—just like we like it.
How to: Whisk turkey drippings with flour over medium heat until smooth. Add broth gradually, whisking until it reaches your ideal seal-strength. Serve immediately.
Because let’s face it: containment, coverage, and comfort shouldn’t stop at the dinner table.