Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your menu! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newcomer, we’ve got you covered with these deliciously easy recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic roast turkey to sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie, we’re sharing our top 20 festive Thanksgiving recipes to help make your holiday cooking stress-free and enjoyable.
In this article, we’ll take you through a variety of mouth-watering dishes that are perfect for the big day. From savory main courses like turkey, sausage, and Brussels sprouts, to sweet treats like pumpkin cheesecake and pecan pie, there’s something for everyone on this list. And don’t worry if you’re short on time – we’ve included plenty of quick and easy recipes to help you get in and out of the kitchen in no time.
So go ahead, take a seat at the table, and let us guide you through the ultimate Thanksgiving cooking experience.
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Elevate your holiday table with a juicy roast turkey paired with a flavorful herb butter. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for special occasions and everyday meals alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, thyme, and garlic until well combined.
4. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast the turkey for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 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, featuring tender sweet potatoes, crunchy marshmallows, and a crispy pecan topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Stir in heavy cream and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows and chopped pecans.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Elevate this holiday classic by adding crispy onions on top of the creamy green bean and mushroom mixture. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 5 minutes, then shock in an ice bath. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and onion in butter until tender. Add milk, cream of mushroom soup, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange green beans in a single layer. Top with the mushroom mixture.
5. Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top. Cover with French-fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
A sweet and tangy condiment perfect for the holiday season, this homemade cranberry sauce is elevated by the brightness of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 2 tbsp (30g) freshly grated orange zest
– 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls from Scratch
Moist and flavorful dinner rolls are a staple of any meal. With this simple recipe, you can create warm, buttery goodness to complement your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into 8 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly into disk shapes.
8. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herb-Stuffed Cornbread Dressing
A savory twist on traditional cornbread dressing, this recipe combines the warmth of herbs with the comforting taste of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread crumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread crumbs, melted butter, parsley, thyme, scallions, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff the mixture into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or individual ramekins.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, cook bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
5. Remove Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with cooked bacon.
6. Season to taste and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
A seasonal favorite that’s sure to please, this pumpkin pie recipe is a classic twist on the traditional dessert. With its creamy whipped cream topping and warm spices, it’s the perfect treat for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 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
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with pumpkin mixture.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
6. Allow pie to cool completely before serving with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Maple-Glazed Carrots with Thyme Recipe
Sweet and savory, these maple-glazed carrots are infused with the warmth of thyme. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these tender and flavorful carrots are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil.
3. Add the sliced carrots and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle thyme and salt over the carrots; toss again to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the carrot slices in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Sausage and Apple Stuffing
This hearty stuffing combines the warmth of savory sausage with the sweetness of apples, perfect for a seasonal twist on traditional Thanksgiving fare. This recipe is easy to make and can be adjusted to suit your personal taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious work well)
– 2 cups stale bread, cubed
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chopped onion, garlic, and celery until softened.
4. Combine cooked sausage, apple mixture, bread cubes, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
5. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Apple Cider for a Crowd
Elevate your gatherings with this deliciously spiced apple cider recipe, perfect for parties and get-togethers. With its comforting blend of autumnal spices, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 gallons apple juice
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick (6-8 inches)
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple juice and water.
2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and add sliced lemon.
5. Serve hot in mugs or cups.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Parmesan
Elevate your potato game with this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, Parmesan cheese, and salt.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Create overlapping layers of potato slices, topping each layer with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
5. Top the final layer with remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the comforting warmth of roasted butternut squash. Serve it as a starter or main course for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: nutmeg, cumin, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
4. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor, along with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
5. Add vegetable broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg, cumin, or paprika, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Pecan Pie with a Flaky Crust
This classic Southern dessert gets a boost from a buttery, flaky crust that pairs perfectly with the rich, nutty filling. With just 10 ingredients and simple instructions, you’ll be enjoying a slice (or two) in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– 3/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the crust: Whisk flour and salt. Add butter, using a pastry blender or fingers until crumbly. Gradually add water, stirring with fork until dough forms.
3. Roll out crust on floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Transfer to 9-inch pie dish.
4. Prepare filling: Whisk sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in pecans.
5. Pour filling into crust-lined pie dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is set.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Herb Butter Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this rich and savory garlic herb butter turkey gravy, perfect for serving alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or warm bread.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups turkey drippings or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Gradually whisk in turkey drippings or chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooker Creamed Corn
Transform frozen corn into a rich and creamy side dish with this easy slow-cooker recipe. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or everyday meals, this comforting treat is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Add the frozen corn, heavy cream, butter, salt, black pepper, and paprika to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
3. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
A classic mac and cheese recipe gets a crunchy makeover by adding crispy breadcrumbs on top.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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 large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese, milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top and heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Herb Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple and flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of your favorite roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, parsley, or oregano)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy pumpkin cheesecake nestled on a crunchy gingersnap crust, perfect for fall gatherings and holidays.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap cookies, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crushed gingersnaps, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Summary
Get ready for a deliciously easy Thanksgiving with these 20 festive recipes! From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, and from creamy mashed potatoes to savory sausage and apple stuffing, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest, buttery dinner rolls, and spiced apple cider for a crowd. Plus, indulge in pumpkin pie with whipped cream, maple-glazed carrots, or pecan pie with a flaky crust. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to make your Thanksgiving unforgettable!
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