As the holiday season approaches, many of us are scrambling to come up with the perfect menu for our annual Friendsgiving celebration. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! With these 20 simple and delicious recipes, you’ll be sure to impress your friends and family with a spread that’s both tasty and easy to make.
From classic comfort foods like mashed potatoes and stuffing, to sweet treats like pumpkin pie and chocolate pecan pie, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and stress-free, so you can focus on what really matters – enjoying quality time with your loved ones.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these recipes, highlighting the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making them a success. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of Friendsgiving cooking!
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with the rich flavor of roasted garlic! This recipe combines creamy Yukon golds with caramelized roasted garlic, perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
3. Boil potatoes in large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and return to pot.
4. Add roasted garlic, butter, and cream/milk to the potatoes. Mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Herb Butter Turkey Breast
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful turkey breast with a rich herb butter crust. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend dinner, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, thyme, and garlic until well combined.
3. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over the turkey breast.
5. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Orange Sauce
A sweet and tangy condiment perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, French toast, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, honey, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Bean Casserole
This iconic American side dish is a staple of holiday gatherings and family dinners alike. With its creamy sauce, crispy fried onions, and tender green beans, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook green beans until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.
4. Combine cooked green beans, butter, and sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows: A Classic Thanksgiving Side Dish
This sweet and savory casserole is a staple at many holiday tables, and for good reason. The combination of tender sweet potatoes, crunchy marshmallows, and crispy pecans is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the melted butter and mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with marshmallows and pecans.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Stuffing with Sage
A traditional Thanksgiving staple, this classic stuffing recipe combines the warmth of sage with the comfort of bread and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion, celery, and garlic until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread, melted butter, sautéed vegetables, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the chicken broth and mix until the bread is evenly moistened.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful carrots that combine the richness of parmesan cheese and the pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or a quick appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread carrot mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the carrots and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
This recipe adds a touch of sweetness to the classic roasted Brussels sprouts, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The maple glaze brings out the natural sweetness in the sprouts while adding a depth of flavor from the mustard and vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the glaze until evenly coated.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is a twist on the traditional macaroni and cheese, with the addition of heavy cream for an extra-rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Add cooked macaroni, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce and stir until combined.
9. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Satisfy your autumn cravings with this timeless pumpkin pie recipe, topped with a dollop of creamy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
For the pie:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 3 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the whipped cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with pumpkin mixture.
5. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow the pie to cool completely before topping with whipped cream.
7. In a large bowl, beat heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cornbread Muffins with Honey Butter
These moist and crumbly cornbread muffins are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups, stews, or as a side dish for any meal. The sweet and tangy honey butter takes them to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and buttermilk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. While the muffins are still warm, spread honey butter on top (recipe below).
Honey Butter Recipe:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix until smooth and spread on warm muffins.
Apple Cider Gravy
Apple Cider Gravy Recipe
Elevate your holiday meals with this rich and flavorful Apple Cider Gravy, perfect for serving over roasted meats or as a dipping sauce. This sweet and tangy gravy is made with simple ingredients and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually pour in the apple cider, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
5. Remove from heat and stir in salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve warm over roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or as a dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Baked Ham with Pineapple Glaze
This classic recipe combines the rich flavor of baked ham with the sweet and tangy goodness of pineapple, creating a perfect main dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, scored with a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure to get it into the crevices.
5. Top with chopped fresh pineapple and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Summary: This recipe brings together the warm, comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash and aromatic spices to create a velvety soup perfect for chilly fall and winter days.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss squash with olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the squash mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, puree roasted squash with vegetable broth until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or croutons if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive Spinach and Artichoke Dip. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and aromatic breadsticks infused with the rich flavors of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) package of pizza dough
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut into 8-10 equal strips.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto each breadstick.
4. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the garlic-infused breadsticks.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each stick.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chocolate Pecan Pie
Experience the perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and nutty crunch with this indulgent pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, and heavy cream until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped pecans and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
5. Pour filling into a pre-baked pie crust and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm Up with Spiced Mulled Wine
As the weather cools down, a glass of spiced mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up and relax. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon brandy (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the wine, sliced orange, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
2. Add the brown sugar and water to the pot, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has warmed through.
5. Strain the mulled wine into individual cups or a serving pitcher.
6. Add brandy, if using, and stir well.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your warm and cozy Spiced Mulled Wine!
Autumn Harvest Salad
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this vibrant salad, featuring a mix of roasted autumn vegetables and fresh greens. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, kale, spinach)
– 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss squash, carrots, and red onion with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted vegetables, and crumbled goat cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes Recipe
Summary: These bite-sized pumpkin cheesecakes are the perfect fall treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a graham cracker crust and a creamy pumpkin filling, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into mini muffin tin cups.
4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until well combined.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared muffin tin cups.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a delicious Friendsgiving celebration with these simple and easy recipes. From classic dishes like roasted turkey breast, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie to creative twists like cranberry orange sauce, maple glazed Brussels sprouts, and chocolate pecan pie, there’s something for everyone. These mouthwatering recipes are perfect for a cozy gathering with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for comforting sides or decadent desserts, these Friendsgiving recipes are sure to impress.
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