Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and of course, delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or contributing to a potluck, these Thanksgiving cooking recipes are sure to impress your guests and make your holiday feast memorable. From classic turkey and stuffing to creative sides and decadent desserts, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a Thanksgiving spread that will have everyone asking for seconds!
1. Classic Roast Turkey with Herbs
Ingredients:
- Whole turkey
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and sage)
- Garlic
- Butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Season the turkey generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out.
- Stuff the cavity with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon slices for extra flavor.
- Rub the turkey with softened butter or olive oil, then place it breast-side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (75°C).
- Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
Roast turkey is a Thanksgiving classic that’s rich in protein and essential nutrients. Fresh herbs and garlic add flavor without extra calories, making it a healthy and satisfying main dish for your holiday feast.
2. Traditional Sage Stuffing
Ingredients:
- Bread cubes (such as white or whole wheat)
- Onion
- Celery
- Fresh sage
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- In a skillet, sauté diced onion and celery in butter or olive oil until softened.
- Add chopped fresh sage to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
- In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with bread cubes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gradually pour chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture until moistened, stirring gently to combine.
- Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy on top.
Nutritional Benefits:
Traditional sage stuffing is a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with roast turkey. Celery adds crunch and fiber, while fresh sage lends an earthy aroma and taste. Enjoy this classic Thanksgiving recipe as a delicious addition to your holiday table.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
- Potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold)
- Butter or olive oil
- Milk (dairy-free if needed)
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh chives (for garnish)
Preparation:
- Peel and dice potatoes, then boil in salted water until tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork until smooth.
- Stir in butter or olive oil, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until creamy and well combined.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, then transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh chives.
Nutritional Benefits:
Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, while butter or olive oil adds richness and flavor. Enjoy this indulgent side dish as a cozy addition to your holiday meal.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients:
- Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Maple syrup
- Salt and pepper
- Toasted pecans (optional)
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim and halve Brussels sprouts, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
- In a small saucepan, simmer balsamic vinegar and maple syrup until reduced and syrupy.
- Drizzle the roasted Brussels sprouts with the balsamic glaze and sprinkle with toasted pecans, if desired, before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, while balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness. Enjoy this delicious vegetable dish as a colorful addition to your holiday spread.
5. Cranberry Orange Relish
Ingredients:
- Fresh cranberries
- Orange
- Sugar or maple syrup
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
Preparation:
- In a food processor, pulse fresh cranberries until finely chopped.
- Transfer chopped cranberries to a bowl and stir in grated orange zest and juice, sugar or maple syrup, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Cover and refrigerate the cranberry orange relish for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutritional Benefits:
Cranberry orange relish is a vibrant and tangy condiment that adds brightness to your Thanksgiving meal. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, while orange zest and juice provide vitamin C and citrusy flavor. Enjoy this homemade relish as a refreshing accompaniment to your holiday dishes.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
Ingredients:
- Sweet potatoes
- Brown sugar
- Butter or coconut oil
- Milk (dairy-free if needed)
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Salt
- Pecans
- Flour (or gluten-free flour)
- Maple syrup
Preparation:
- Peel and dice sweet potatoes, then boil in salted water until tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and mash with brown sugar, butter or coconut oil, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture in a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix together chopped pecans, flour (or gluten-free flour), melted butter or coconut oil, and maple syrup until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake the sweet potato casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
Sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel is a decadent and irresistible Thanksgiving dessert. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and fiber, while pecans add crunch and healthy fats. Enjoy this indulgent dish as a deliciously sweet ending to your holiday meal.
7. Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Ingredients:
- Turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley)
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels, then rub with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
- Chop fresh herbs and garlic, then sprinkle over the turkey breast, pressing gently to adhere.
- Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (75°C).
- Let the turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
Herb-roasted turkey breast is a flavorful and succulent alternative to a whole turkey for Thanksgiving. Fresh herbs and garlic infuse the turkey breast with aromatic flavor, while olive oil helps keep it moist and tender. Enjoy this juicy and delicious main dish as the centerpiece of your holiday table.
8. Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
Ingredients:
- Cornbread, cubed
- Sausage (pork or turkey)
- Onion
- Celery
- Apple
- Fresh sage
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Cook sausage in a skillet until browned and crumbled, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onion, celery, and chopped apple in butter or olive oil until softened.
- Add chopped fresh sage to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
- In a large bowl, combine cornbread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and enough chicken or vegetable broth to moisten the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Nutritional Benefits:
Cornbread stuffing with sausage and apples is a savory and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Cornbread adds texture and sweetness, while sausage and apples provide a delicious contrast of flavors. Enjoy this hearty stuffing as a flavorful accompaniment to your holiday meal.
9. Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
Ingredients:
- Carrots, peeled and trimmed
- Olive oil
- Maple syrup
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic
- Thyme
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss peeled and trimmed carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
- In a small saucepan, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and fresh thyme.
- Drizzle the maple glaze over the roasted carrots and toss to coat evenly.
- Return the carrots to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
Nutritional Benefits:
Maple glazed roasted carrots are a sweet and savory side dish that’s bursting with flavor. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and fiber, while maple syrup adds natural sweetness and depth. Enjoy this vibrant and delicious vegetable dish as a festive addition to your Thanksgiving table.
10. Apple Cranberry Crisp
Ingredients:
- Apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- Fresh cranberries
- Sugar or maple syrup
- Lemon juice
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Flour (or gluten-free flour)
- Rolled oats
- Brown sugar
- Butter or coconut oil
- Salt
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss sliced apples, fresh cranberries, sugar or maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Transfer the fruit mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, melted butter or coconut oil, and a pinch of salt until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the fruit mixture.
- Bake the apple cranberry crisp in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the fruit is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Let the crisp cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
Apple cranberry crisp is a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Apples and cranberries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, while the oat topping adds crunch and fiber. Enjoy this deliciously fruity and satisfying dessert as the perfect ending to your holiday meal.
11. Garlic Herb Mashed Cauliflower
Ingredients:
- Cauliflower
- Garlic
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme and parsley)
- Butter or olive oil
- Milk (dairy-free if needed)
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Steam cauliflower florets until tender, then transfer to a food processor.
- Add minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, butter or olive oil, milk, salt, and pepper to the food processor.
- Pulse until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, then transfer mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl and garnish with additional fresh herbs.
Nutritional Benefits:
Garlic herb mashed cauliflower is a flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Cauliflower is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy option for those watching their intake. Enjoy this creamy and delicious side dish as a lighter addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
12. Green Bean Almondine
Ingredients:
- Green beans, trimmed
- Butter or olive oil
- Garlic
- Sliced almonds
- Lemon zest
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Blanch green beans in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. 2. In a skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. 3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. 4. Add blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic-infused butter or oil. 5. Cook the green beans for 3-4 minutes, or until crisp-tender and bright green. 6. Meanwhile, toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet until golden brown and fragrant. 7. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in toasted almonds, lemon zest, and lemon juice. 8. Season the green beans with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer to a serving platter.
Nutritional Benefits:
Green bean almondine is a simple yet elegant side dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, while almonds add crunch and healthy fats. Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious vegetable dish as a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
13. Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Ingredients:
- Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Canned pumpkin puree
- Eggs
- Brown sugar
- Pumpkin pie spice
- Salt
- Evaporated milk (or coconut milk)
- Whipped cream (for serving)
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out pie crust and transfer to a pie dish, crimping the edges as desired.
- In a large bowl, whisk together canned pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and evaporated milk until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake the pumpkin pie in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool completely before serving with whipped cream.
Nutritional Benefits:
Pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert that’s rich, creamy, and full of warm spices. Pumpkin is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, while the pie crust adds buttery goodness. Enjoy a slice of this iconic dessert topped with whipped cream for a taste of fall flavor.
14. Herb-Roasted Acorn Squash Rings
Ingredients:
- Acorn squash, sliced into rings
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme and rosemary)
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange acorn squash rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the squash rings and season with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the squash rings in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized around the edges.
- Serve the herb-roasted acorn squash rings as a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
Nutritional Benefits:
Herb-roasted acorn squash rings are a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Acorn squash is rich in vitamins and fiber, while fresh herbs and garlic add aromatic flavor. Enjoy this colorful and nutritious vegetable dish as a festive addition to your holiday table.
15. Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria
Ingredients:
- Apple cider
- Cranberry juice
- Red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- Brandy
- Apples, sliced
- Oranges, sliced
- Fresh cranberries
- Cinnamon sticks
Preparation:
- In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, cranberry juice, red wine, brandy, sliced apples, sliced oranges, fresh cranberries, and cinnamon sticks.
- Stir to combine and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until chilled and flavors are melded.
- Serve cranberry apple cider sangria over ice, garnished with additional fruit and cinnamon sticks.
Nutritional Benefits:
Cranberry apple cider sangria is a festive and flavorful drink that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Apple cider and cranberry juice provide sweet-tart flavor, while red wine and brandy add depth and warmth. Enjoy this seasonal sangria as a refreshing and festive addition to your holiday celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I prepare these Thanksgiving recipes in advance?
- Yes, many of these recipes can be prepared in advance to save time on Thanksgiving day. You can make dishes such as stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pie crusts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake or assemble.
2. How long will leftovers last?
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
3. Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions or preferences?
- Absolutely! Feel free to make substitutions or modifications to these recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences. You can use gluten-free flour, dairy-free milk, or vegan butter as needed, and adjust seasonings to taste.
4. How can I ensure my turkey is cooked properly?
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone to check for doneness.
5. Can I make these recipes kid-friendly?
- Yes, many of these recipes can be adapted to suit the tastes of children. You can adjust seasonings, portion sizes, or presentation to make them more appealing to kids. Additionally, involving children in the cooking process can make mealtime more fun and interactive.
6. Are these recipes budget-friendly?
- Yes, these Thanksgiving recipes are designed to be affordable and accessible. You can find ingredients at most grocery stores without breaking the bank, and many dishes can be made with pantry staples or inexpensive produce.
7. Can I adjust the serving sizes of these recipes?
- Yes, you can easily adjust the serving sizes of these recipes to suit your needs. Whether you’re cooking for a small family gathering or a large crowd, you can scale the recipes up or down accordingly.
With these mouthwatering Thanksgiving recipes and helpful FAQs, you’re ready to create a holiday feast that will delight your guests and make memories to cherish for years to come. From classic turkey and stuffing to creative sides and indulgent desserts, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. So gather your loved ones, give thanks, and savor the delicious flavors of the season