The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a deliciously festive Thanksgiving feast? Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just looking for some inspiration for your own family gathering, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic roast turkey and savory sausage stuffing to creamy pumpkin pie and caramelized onion tart, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Get ready to dig in and start planning your dream menu with these tried-and-true recipes, featuring a mix of traditional favorites and modern twists. Whether you’re looking for comfort food classics or innovative new ideas, we’ve got the perfect Thanksgiving spread to make your holiday season merry and bright.
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
This classic roast turkey recipe is a timeless favorite, elevated by the rich flavor of herb butter. With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– 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, garlic, thyme, and sage 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 roast for 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform your mashed potatoes into a rich and flavorful side dish with this simple recipe that combines the creaminess of butter, milk, and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 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. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or whole milk, stirring until the potatoes are mashed to your desired consistency.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Elevate your holiday meals with this simple and flavorful homemade cranberry sauce infused with the warmth of orange zest. This recipe is perfect for serving alongside roasted meats, as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or as a gift in a jar.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
• 2 tbsp grated orange zest
• 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Add the water and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of sauce
Savory Sausage and Herb Stuffing
This recipe combines the flavors of savory sausage, fresh herbs, and toasted bread to create a delicious side dish perfect for holidays or special occasions. This stuffing is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 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. Add butter, onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, and sage to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture and bread cubes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions Recipe
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy onions for a satisfying side dish perfect for holidays or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions, divided
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine green beans and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, whisk together milk and cream of mushroom soup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange green beans in an even layer. Pour the creamy sauce over the green beans.
5. Sprinkle 1/4 cup french-fried onions on top of the casserole.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the onions and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
A classic Southern side dish gets a crunchy twist with this sweet potato casserole topped with a nutty pecan mixture. Perfect for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream and mix well.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans with 1 tablespoon of sugar.
6. Sprinkle pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato casserole.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rich and Creamy Pumpkin Pie
This classic pumpkin pie recipe gets a luxurious twist with the addition of heavy cream and a touch of spice, resulting in a creamy and aromatic dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in heavy cream and eggs until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour filling into pie crust.
6. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) and bake an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Roasted Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots. This maple-glazed roasted carrot recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle maple syrup over the carrots, ensuring each piece is coated.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb-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 goodness of bacon and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a show-stopping side at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 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, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Top the Brussels sprouts with diced bacon, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits
These tender, flaky biscuits are a staple of Southern cooking, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying warm, buttery goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow-Cooker Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meals with this easy and flavorful slow-cooker turkey gravy recipe. This rich and savory condiment is perfect for accompanying roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup turkey drippings (from cooking turkey)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together flour, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. Gradually add turkey drippings, whisking until smooth.
3. Add chicken broth and butter; stir to combine.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Spiced Apple Cider
Warm up with a cup of this aromatic spiced apple cider, perfect for the fall season. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple juice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple juice and water.
2. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain the cider into mugs to serve.
6. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 2 cups of spiced apple cider
Cornbread with Honey Butter
Warm up with a slice of classic cornbread topped with a sweet and tangy honey butter! This comforting combination is perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals.
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and satisfying baked macaroni and cheese recipe, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
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, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumb mixture (see below).
8. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Breadcrumb Topping:
1. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and olive oil until well combined.
2. Sprinkle evenly over macaroni mixture before baking.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a perfect blend of fall flavors, with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, onions, and garlic. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs, such as parsley or sage, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
5. Add the roasted squash, broth, and heavy cream (if using) to the pot. Purée the mixture with an immersion blender or regular blender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pecan Pie with Bourbon Whipped Cream
This rich and nutty pecan pie is elevated by a creamy bourbon whipped cream, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its gooey filling and crunchy pecans, this pie is sure to impress.
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 unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in pecan halves and salt.
5. Pour filling into a pre-baked pie crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Bourbon Whipped Cream:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add bourbon whiskey (optional) and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Serve whipped cream over cooled pecan pie.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner table with these savory and aromatic Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls. Perfect as a side dish or used to mop up sauces, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– 4-5 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add olive oil, garlic powder, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Gradually add flour, kneading dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth.
5. Place dough on a floured surface and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down dough and shape into rolls. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the nutty goodness of wild rice with the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 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, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the wild rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Serve the mushroom mixture over the cooked wild rice.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
A sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese, perfectly balanced in a buttery pastry crust. This tart is perfect as an appetizer or side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Spread cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the onions.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over filling to form a crust. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Place tart on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Cheesecake, featuring a crunchy gingersnap crust and creamy pumpkin-infused cheesecake filling.
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 salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crushed gingersnap cookies, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
3. Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to feast! This collection of 20 delicious Thanksgiving recipes has something for everyone. From classic roast turkey with herb butter to creamy garlic mashed potatoes and savory sausage and herb stuffing, these dishes are sure to please. Don’t forget the sweet treats, like rich and creamy pumpkin pie and pecan pie with bourbon whipped cream. There’s even a few veggie-friendly options, such as roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and caramelized onion and Gruyère tart. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up, this list has everything you need for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration.
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