As the holiday season approaches, many of us are already thinking about our Thanksgiving dinner plans. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a small, intimate meal with loved ones, the key to a successful and delicious feast is in the recipes. From classic dishes like roast turkey and mashed potatoes, to creative twists on traditional favorites, we’ve got you covered with 20 festive Thanksgiving dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll take you through some of the most mouthwatering and easy-to-make recipes for your Thanksgiving table. From savory sides like green bean casserole and roasted Brussels sprouts, to sweet treats like pumpkin pie and pecan pie, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Elevate your holiday meal with this timeless recipe for a succulent roast turkey paired with a flavorful herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 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 lemon zest.
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 for about 3-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform your mashed potatoes into a decadent side dish with the addition of rich garlic butter and cream! This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with the garlic, butter, and salt and pepper to taste. Mash until smooth.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream while mashing, adjusting the consistency to your liking.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows: A Classic Holiday Side Dish
This sweet and savory casserole is a staple of many holiday meals, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fluffy texture of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows.
6. Drizzle melted butter over marshmallows.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday gatherings with a sweet and tangy homemade cranberry sauce that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
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 orange juice.
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.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Elevate the classic green bean casserole with a crunchy topping of caramelized onions, perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, black pepper, and salt. Stir in cooked green beans and caramelized onions.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese and french-fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Herb-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the best in Brussels sprouts. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy side or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 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, garlic, thyme, and rosemary until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage
This recipe combines the comfort of cornbread stuffing with the savory flavor of sausage, perfect for your next family gathering or holiday meal. With its crispy crust and flavorful filling, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cornbread, cooked sausage, melted butter, chopped onion, garlic, and poultry seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
This traditional pumpkin pie recipe is a seasonal staple, perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering. With a flaky crust and creamy filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of pumpkin puree
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 3 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the pie crust.
6. 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.
7. Allow the pie to cool before topping with whipped cream.
Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
Beat the heavy cream and sugar together until stiff peaks form. Top your cooled pumpkin pie with this creamy delight!
Maple-Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of maple syrup. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, these glazed carrots are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch sticks
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, butter, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot sticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple and Sage Stuffed Pork Loin
Elevate your pork loin game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the sweetness of apples with the earthiness of sage. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sage leaves, onion, and garlic.
3. Lay the pork loin flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff the apple and sage mixture inside the loin, dividing it evenly.
4. Drizzle the outside with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast the pork loin in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes depending on the size of your pork loin
Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. Roasted butternut squash adds natural sweetness, while onions, garlic, and creamy coconut milk create a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: nutmeg, cumin, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
3. Add roasted squash, broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Season to taste, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this comforting baked dish featuring a crispy breadcrumb topping. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus Recipe
Elevate your asparagus game with this rich and savory side dish that combines the natural sweetness of fresh asparagus with the pungency of roasted garlic and the creaminess of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
6. Meanwhile, toss garlic cloves with olive oil and season with salt.
7. Spread garlic on a separate baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
8. Remove asparagus from oven and sprinkle with roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese.
9. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake
As the weather cools down, warm up with this spiced pumpkin cheesecake that combines the comfort of fall spices with the creaminess of a classic cheesecake. This recipe is perfect for a Thanksgiving or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, pumpkin, and vanilla. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until set. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
A classic summer side dish gets a flavorful boost with this simple recipe that combines tender corn with a rich and aromatic herb butter. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, chives, and garlic until well combined.
3. Brush the herb butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place corn on the cob on the grill or in the oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan Pie with Bourbon Caramel
This classic pecan pie recipe gets a boozy boost from the addition of bourbon-infused caramel, taking the traditional dessert to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup bourbon (such as Maker’s Mark or Jack Daniel’s)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in pecan halves and bourbon caramel (see below).
4. Pour mixture into a pre-baked pie crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow pie to cool before serving.
Bourbon Caramel:
1. Combine heavy cream, sugar, and bourbon in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Roasted Sweet Corn Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted corn with tangy lime juice, crunchy red bell peppers, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss corn kernels with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted corn, red bell pepper, avocado, and lime juice. Mix well to combine.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if using.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (roasting the corn)
Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries
This hearty pilaf combines nutty wild rice with sweet and tangy cranberries, perfect for a cozy fall or winter meal. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the wild rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Dinner Rolls
Elevate your mealtime with these soft and fluffy homemade dinner rolls, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying warm, fresh-baked rolls in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast
– 1 cup of warm water (about 105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface 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 about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into desired roll forms.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey Gravy with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your holiday meal with this simple yet flavorful turkey gravy recipe, featuring fresh herbs like thyme and sage. Perfect for pairing with roasted turkey or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups turkey drippings (or chicken broth)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in turkey drippings or chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Stir in chopped thyme and sage, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious and festive Thanksgiving dinner! This collection of 20 recipes offers a variety of dishes to please both classic and adventurous palates. From timeless favorites like roast turkey with herb butter and green bean casserole, to sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and spiced pumpkin cheesecake, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to inspire your holiday cooking.
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