As the holiday season approaches, thoughts turn to family gatherings, festive decorations, and, of course, a mouth-watering feast. Thanksgiving is all about coming together with loved ones to celebrate gratitude and indulge in delectable dishes that satisfy both taste buds and bellies. When it comes to planning the perfect menu for your Turkey Day celebration, there’s no shortage of traditional favorites and modern twists to consider. From classic roast turkey and creamy mashed potatoes to sweet potato casserole and pumpkin pie, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the most popular Thanksgiving dishes, with some unexpected surprises along the way. So, get ready to feast your eyes and taste buds with these delicious crowd-pleasers!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
This recipe yields a perfectly roasted turkey with a deliciously savory herb butter that’s sure to impress your holiday guests. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful timing, you’ll be rewarded with a golden-brown, juicy bird.
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 for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
A rich and savory side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, these creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a delicious twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 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, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
This sweet and tangy cranberry sauce is a perfect addition to your holiday table. The bright citrus flavor of the orange zest adds a delightful twist to this classic condiment.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 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, sugar, water, orange juice, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over 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. Stir in the grated orange zest.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Savory Sausage and Herb Stuffing
Savory Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional stuffing, incorporating savory sausage and fresh herbs for added flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the cooked sausage to the bread mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: You can also cook this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply combine all ingredients, cover, and cook on low for 2-3 hours.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
This sweet and savory casserole is a staple of many holiday tables, featuring tender sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan crust. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Stir in heavy cream, whole milk, and beaten eggs until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the casserole.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the pecans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
A comforting, easy-to-make side dish perfect for the holidays or any gathering. This recipe combines green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions for a deliciously addictive casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup French-fried onions
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Pour mixture over green beans and onions; stir to combine.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with French-fried onions and cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls with Honey Glaze
These soft and fluffy dinner rolls are elevated by a rich buttery flavor and sweet honey glaze, perfect for accompanying your favorite meals. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time.
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
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey glaze ingredients:
+ 2 tablespoons honey
+ 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough on prepared baking sheet, shaping into 8-10 rolls.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. While still warm, brush with honey glaze (mix equal parts honey and powdered sugar).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your veggie game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that pairs the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. Meanwhile, cook diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
7. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with cooked bacon, Parmesan cheese (if using), and season to taste.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
A traditional Thanksgiving dessert that’s sure to please, this classic pumpkin pie recipe is easy to make and pairs perfectly with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup 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)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with pumpkin mixture.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
6. Allow pie to cool completely before serving.
7. To make whipped cream, beat heavy cream and a pinch of sugar until stiff peaks form.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious homemade pumpkin pie with whipped cream!
Apple Cinnamon Streusel Pie
This classic pie combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples, topped with a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for any season, this recipe yields a deliciously flaky and flavorful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup streusel topping (see below)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill pie crust with apple mixture and top with streusel topping.
5. Brush edges of crust with beaten egg for glaze.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Maple Glazed Carrots with Thyme
A classic combination of sweet and savory flavors, these maple glazed carrots with thyme are a perfect side dish for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and elegant accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the glazed carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Dressing with Sage
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory and aromatic cornbread dressing, infused with the earthy flavor of sage.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 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 in melted butter until tender.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in chicken broth and stir until the dressing is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs Recipe Summary: This classic comfort food dish gets a crunchy twist by adding crispy breadcrumbs on top of the creamy macaroni and cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
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 saucepan, whisk together milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with melted butter and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Roasted Butternut Squash
Add a delicious twist to roasted butternut squash with the warm flavors of herbs and spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the squash mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spiced Mulled Cider
As the temperatures drop, a steaming mug of spiced mulled cider is just what you need to cozy up by the fireplace. This classic winter drink combines the sweetness of apple cider with the warmth of spices, perfect for cold nights and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it mulled for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the spices and add brown sugar to taste, if desired.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional slices of orange and cinnamon sticks, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pecan Pie with Bourbon Drizzle
This classic pecan pie gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of a bourbon drizzle, perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
For the pie:
– 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 melted butter
For the bourbon drizzle:
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Stir in melted butter and pecan halves until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a pre-baked pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set.
5. Allow the pie to cool completely before drizzling with bourbon syrup (mix bourbon and powdered sugar together).
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Gravy
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Gravy Recipe
A savory and aromatic gravy perfect for roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 heads of garlic, separated into cloves
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread garlic mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until garlic is tender and caramelized.
5. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
6. Add flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
7. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously.
8. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
9. Stir in roasted garlic, chopped rosemary, and heavy cream.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Creamed Corn
Add a creamy twist to your favorite corn recipe with this simple slow cooker version. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Add the corn, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips:
– You can adjust the amount of cream to your liking, but be careful not to overdo it, as it can make the corn too soggy.
– For an extra rich flavor, add some grated cheddar cheese (optional).
Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Tart
This savory tart is a perfect combination of sweet caramelized onions, earthy mushrooms, and flaky pastry. It’s a great appetizer or side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions and mushrooms in olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Roll pastry onto a rolling pin, then place it on the prepared baking sheet. Spread onion-mushroom mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
6. Fold edges of pastry up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush pastry with balsamic vinegar and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust: A seasonal twist on a classic dessert, this pumpkin cheesecake is 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
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix crushed gingersnap cookies, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Make the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until combined.
4. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 mouthwatering recipes for the ultimate Thanksgiving feast! From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with pecan topping, and from savory sausage and herb stuffing to pumpkin pie with whipped cream. This collection of crowd-pleasing dishes offers something for everyone – whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!