As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us are thinking not only about our traditional holiday gatherings with family, but also about how to make this year’s celebration even more special. That’s where Friendsgiving comes in – a wonderful way to bring your closest friends together and create new memories around the table. And what’s a party without delicious food? In this article, we’ll share 20 easy and mouthwatering recipes perfect for feeding a crowd. From classic comfort dishes like creamy mac and cheese and roasted turkey breast to sweet treats like pumpkin pie and pecan pie bars, you’ll find everything you need to make your Friendsgiving celebration one to remember.
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Herbs
A flavorful and tender turkey breast recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This slow cooker dish is infused with the aromatic flavors of herbs and spices, making it a great option for a stress-free meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
3. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker and brush the herb mixture evenly over the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with the rich flavor of garlic and cream cheese. This recipe combines the comfort of classic mashed potatoes with the sophistication of a creamy, cheesy twist.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
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, cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Green Bean Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy green beans with a creamy, cheesy twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, salt, and shredded cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle crushed crackers on top of casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Stuffing with Sage and Sausage
Classic Stuffing with Sage and Sausage
This traditional recipe combines tender bread, savory sausage, and fragrant sage for a deliciously comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the garlic, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the bread cubes to the skillet and toss to combine with the sausage mixture.
5. Pour in the melted butter and toss until the bread is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake, covered, for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Orange Sauce
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your holiday dishes with this easy and delicious Cranberry Orange Sauce recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, and honey.
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.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
This sweet and tangy sauce is perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream, or as a glaze for poultry or pork. You can also use it as a dip for cheese and crackers or as a filling for cakes and muffins. Enjoy!
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Maple Glaze
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Maple Glaze
Summary: Sweet potatoes get a sweet and sticky makeover when topped with a maple glaze. This easy recipe adds a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, mix maple syrup with a pinch of salt and pepper to create the glaze.
6. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and brush with the maple glaze.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
No-Knead Dinner Rolls
These tender and flavorful rolls require minimal effort, but yield a big payoff. With just five ingredients and no kneading required, you’ll be enjoying warm, freshly baked dinner rolls in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour (optional)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Add the whole wheat flour, if using.
3. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the lukewarm water.
4. Add the sugar and gently stir the mixture with a fork until it forms a shaggy dough.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Gently shape the dough into 8-10 rolls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roast a medley of flavors into a single pan, as crispy Brussels sprouts meet smoky bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Add the garlic to the same pan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan in a single layer, cut side down.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the sprouts and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Place the skillet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and caramelized.
8. Remove from the oven and toss with cooked bacon.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs mixed with grated cheddar cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a deliciously comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Chicken or vegetable broth (about 4 cups)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” and melt butter in the Instant Pot. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add squash, cumin, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in broth, making sure the squash is covered.
4. Close the lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and press “Manual” mode for 10-12 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes at high pressure, plus natural release time.
Pumpkin Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
This classic pumpkin pie recipe is a seasonal favorite, topped with a crunchy graham cracker crust that adds a delightful texture to the creamy filling. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Beat in eggs until smooth.
6. Pour filling into prepared crust.
7. 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.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Carrots
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional roasted carrots, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with a hint of spice and a pop of color. Perfect as a side dish or add to your favorite fall-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons apple cider
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together apple cider, honey, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss to coat with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the carrots and toss again to combine.
6. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts
Elevate your gatherings with this sweet and savory baked brie, perfect for parties or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Place the softened brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the brie, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the honey.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the walnuts and brie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly puffed.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
A classic party favorite that’s easy to make and always a hit! This creamy dip combines the richness of artichokes with the earthy flavor of spinach.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cornbread Casserole with Cheese
A twist on classic cornbread, this casserole combines the warm, comforting flavors of cornbread with melted cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornbread mix, milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Pour batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the batter.
5. Mix breadcrumbs with salt and pepper to taste; sprinkle over cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick and Easy Gravy
Elevate your meal with this simple yet flavorful gravy recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 1 cup chicken or beef broth, warmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually pour in the warmed broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Pecan Pie Bars
Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Rich, gooey pecan pie filling on a shortbread crust, cut into bars for an easy and impressive dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press the crust mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir in chopped pecans.
5. Pour the pecan pie filling over the crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Recipe
Transform cauliflower into a savory, cheesy masterpiece with this Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, toss garlic cloves with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Remove cauliflower from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
As the cold winter nights set in, a warm and aromatic Spiced Mulled Wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fire. This recipe combines the rich flavors of red wine with the spices and sweetness of winter.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the spices are fragrant and the wine is warm (about 10 minutes).
3. Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and add the sliced lemon.
5. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon sticks or citrus slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (heating) + 30 minutes (steeping)
Chocolate Pecan Cobbler
This luscious dessert combines the classic flavors of chocolate and pecans with a crumbly cobbler crust, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and eggs; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to host a Friendsgiving feast with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes includes turkey breast, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, dinner rolls, Brussels sprouts, mac and cheese, butternut squash soup, pumpkin pie, apple cider glazed carrots, brie, spinach dip, cornbread casserole, quick gravy, pecan pie bars, roasted cauliflower, and spiced mulled wine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Friendsgiving one to remember!
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