When it comes to picking the star of your Thanksgiving table, there’s a lot to consider. From deciding between fresh or frozen to figuring out how much turkey you’ll need, and whether to brine or not, let’s dive into the Thanksgiving recipes ideas!
Thanksgiving is that delightful time of year when we gather around the table, eat way too much, and enjoy the company of loved ones.
Whether you’ve got the whole fam coming over or you’re having a small get-together, one thing is clear: you need a stellar menu to impress.
From classic roast turkey to jazzed-up sides like Balsamic-Roasted Brussels Sprouts, there’s something here for everyone.
I’ve spent countless hours sifting through recipes, testing them in my kitchen, and picking out the absolute best dishes for you.
These 20+ Thanksgiving recipe ideas will not only wow your guests but are also easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Who said holiday cooking had to be stressful? You’ll find everything from savory Slow Cooker Mushroom Potatoes to a rich Miso-Butter Spatchcocked Turkey.
Remember, Thanksgiving is all about making memories, having fun, and, of course, indulging in fantastic food.
So put on your apron, grab that whisk, and get ready to create a menu that’s nothing short of legendary.
20+ Thanksgiving Recipes Ideas
Fresh vs. Frozen
Alright, first things first—let’s talk fresh vs. frozen.
Fresh turkeys are never chilled below 26°F, which keeps them moist and flavorful. They’re convenient because you don’t have to worry about defrosting them for days.
Frozen turkeys, on the other hand, are usually cheaper.
They can be stored for months, making them a practical choice if you’re planning ahead.
Just remember, defrosting can take days—you’ll need about 24 hours of thawing in the fridge for every 5 pounds of turkey.
So, if you’re last-minute like me, fresh might be your best bet. If you’re a planning master, go with frozen and save some cash.
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Turkey Sizes and Servings
How much turkey do you actually need? Let’s break it down.
A good rule of thumb is 1.5 pounds of turkey per person if you want leftovers—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t?
If you’re feeding a smaller crowd and want to avoid the big bird hassle, go with a turkey breast instead.
They’re easier to handle and cook faster.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Small gathering (4-6 people): 8-9 pound turkey
- Medium crowd (8-10 people): 12-14 pound turkey
- Big group (12-15 people): 18-20 pound turkey
Remember, the size of the turkey also affects the cooking time.
Generally, it’s 15 minutes per pound at 325°F for an unstuffed bird. So set your timers and get that gravy ready!
To Brine or Not to Brine
Ah, the age-old question—to brine or not to brine.
Brining your turkey means soaking it in a saltwater solution, which helps it stay juicy and adds flavor.
You can go with a wet brine, like the mouth-watering maple-sage brine.
Just soak your turkey for 12-24 hours in the fridge.
Not into the wet mess? Try a dry brine—rubbing the turkey with salt and letting it sit in the fridge for 24-72 hours. Easier and less hassle.
If you’re looking for an extra special option, how about a turkey roulade?
This involves butterflying the breast, brining it, stuffing it with herbs, and then rolling it up before roasting.
Or for a smoky twist, smoked turkey is another great option.
In short, brining makes a difference. If you’ve got the time and fridge space, go for it.
If not, you’ll still have a delicious bird with a good rub and proper cooking. Happy Thanksgiving!
Classic Bread Stuffing
Let’s start with the good ol’ classic bread stuffing. You can’t go wrong here.
Picture this: cubed bread, chopped onions, celery, and sage all mixed together and baked to golden perfection.
The smell alone will make your taste buds dance.
You can use white bread, whole-grain, or even sourdough.
Feel free to add some sausage for extra flavor.
Cook the sausage first, then toss it in with the rest.
Don’t forget a hearty broth—chicken or vegetable works great.
I love making this dish because it’s simple, yet so tasty.
Cornbread Stuffing Creativity
If you want to switch things up, try cornbread stuffing.
Cornbread adds that sweet-savory vibe that’s a real crowd-pleaser.
One favorite of mine is cornbread and ham stuffing with caramelized apples and fennel.
The ham’s saltiness mixed with the apples’ sweetness and the unique flavor of fennel is pure magic.
Another great variation is cranberry cornmeal dressing.
The cranberries add a tangy twist, making each bite exciting.
You can even use a cornbread stuffing mix to save prep time.
Just add in some of your favorite stuffing extras like onions and sage.
Exciting Add-Ins
Why stick to just the basics?
Let’s throw in some exciting add-ins.
Consider whiskey-soaked cranberries or spicy chorizo to lift your stuffing game.
How about adding roasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture?
One of my go-to combos is sausage, onion, and sage.
These three ingredients together are a stuffing trifecta of flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add some poblano chile peppers for a subtle kick.
The key here is to mix and match your favorite flavors and textures.
Mashed Potatoes with a Twist
Mashed potatoes are great, but let’s jazz them up!
I love adding roasted garlic for a richer, bolder taste.
Imagine creamy potatoes with a hint of garlic—it’s mouth-watering.
Another favorite is mixing in cream cheese or sour cream instead of regular milk.
The extra creaminess makes them velvety smooth.
Wanna go wild? Try some horseradish for a zesty kick. It’s unexpected, but trust me, it works.
For those who like a crunch, top with crispy bacon bits or fried onions. It’s like a mini baked potato in each bite!
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Green Bean Casserole Goes Gourmet
Green bean casserole is an old standby, but it can be so much more.
Swap the canned soup for homemade mushroom sauce. It’s fresher and tastes unbelievable.
Add in some caramelized onions for a sweet and savory touch.
And don’t forget the gruyere cheese—it melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor.
For a crunchier topping, I like using panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of butter.
It’s crispy and golden, perfect for this upgraded classic.
Vegan friends, fear not! A vegan green bean casserole with cashew cream is just as tasty.
Sweet Treats: Yams and More
Sweet potatoes often get turned into casseroles, but there are so many possibilities!
My go-to is sweet potato pie—it’s like dessert masquerading as a side dish.
Add some spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor.
How about maple-glazed yams with a sprinkle of pecans?
The sweet and crunchy combo is heavenly.
I sometimes make sweet potato fries seasoned with paprika and garlic powder.
They’re addictive and a great change from the usual.
Salads That Steal the Show
Who says salad has to be boring?
I love a good Brussels sprouts slaw.
It’s crunchy, fresh, and a little tangy with a lemon vinaigrette.
Or try a cranberry and goat cheese salad.
The tart cranberries and creamy goat cheese are a match made in heaven.
For something heartier, a roasted vegetable salad with root veggies and a balsamic glaze is warm and comforting.
These salads are not just fillers—they’re stars on their own!
These are my favorite ways to bring fresh flavors and excitement to the Thanksgiving table.
The Royal Roast Turkey
Who can imagine Thanksgiving without a succulent, golden-brown turkey?
I know I can’t.
My all-time favorite is a Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter.
The garlic herb butter seeps into the meat, making it juicy and flavorful.
For those who prefer a stress-free cooking day, a Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is ideal.
It’s tender, juicy, and features the crispiest skin.
You can pair it with gravy made from the drippings for an extra kick.
Another showstopper is the Roast Butterflied Leg of Lamb.
Though a bit tricky to cook, the secret lies in seasoning it generously and ensuring even cooking.
This dish could make you the talk of the Thanksgiving table!
Vegetarian and Vegan Variations
Not everyone at the table eats meat, and that’s completely okay!
One of my favorite vegetarian dishes is Butternut Squash Pasta.
It’s a perfect fit for the season, with its creamy squash sauce, fresh sage, and crunchy walnut garnish.
A real vegan delight would be Stuffed Acorn Squash.
Filled with quinoa, cranberries, and nuts, it’s both hearty and delicious.
Lastly, consider Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze.
It’s not just a side dish anymore.
The combination of the sweet balsamic glaze with the crispy sprouts will leave everyone asking for more.
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From Biscuits to Rolls
I love a good variety of breads, and biscuits and rolls are on the top of my list.
Biscuits can be light and flaky, perfect for soaking up gravy.
They can also have a twist, like adding pumpkin or herbs for extra flavor.
My favorite? Pumpkin Biscuits made in an air fryer. They’re tender, slightly sweet, and super easy to make.
On the other hand, dinner rolls are classics that everyone loves.
They’re soft, buttery, and can be torn apart easily.
Whether it’s traditional Parker House rolls or part-bulgur rolls with flaky salt, you can’t go wrong.
The Glory of Cornbread
Cornbread holds a special place in my heart (and my stomach).
It’s a Southern staple and adds a bit of sweetness to the table.
You can serve it plain, or jazz it up with bits of jalapeno, cheese, or even some honey butter.
Cornbread stuffing is another treat. Imagine your favorite cornbread mixed with herbs, sausage, and broth, baked to perfection.
It’s savory, slightly sweet, and a must-have side dish.
Whether as a slice on the side or mixed into your stuffing, cornbread brings a lovely texture and flavor to Thanksgiving dinner.
Classic Pumpkin Pie
Ah, the classic pumpkin pie. It’s the star of the Thanksgiving table, right after the turkey.
This pie blends creamy pumpkin with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
I love how the rich, smooth filling comes together with the flaky, buttery crust.
It’s a comforting dessert that just screams “Thanksgiving.” For a twist, top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
The Great Pecan Pie
Pecan pie is another must-have.
Those crunchy, caramelized pecans set in a gooey, sugary filling make my heart happy.
A bit of bourbon or chocolate can take this pie to the next level.
Plus, it’s a fantastic option for guests who aren’t crazy about pumpkin.
Whether you prefer it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, pecan pie hits the spot every time.
Appealing Apple Delights
Apple desserts bring that sweet-tart flavor to the table.
Apple pie is a classic, with its layers of spiced apples and tender, flaky crust.
For something different, I recommend an Apple and Squash Crisp or a Cinnamon-Apple Cake.
These can be prepared ahead of time and are perfect for feeding a crowd.
Don’t forget to serve them warm with some ice cream or caramel sauce drizzled on top.
Cheesecake and Beyond
Cheesecake fans, rejoice! Pumpkin cheesecake combines the best of both worlds – creamy cheesecake goodness with the warmth of pumpkin pie spices.
It’s a showstopper dessert that always gets rave reviews.
If you want to mix things up, consider a Pumpkin Ice Cream Roll or even mini cheesecakes.
These desserts are rich, satisfying, and provide a nice break from the usual pies.
Phew, now I’m hungry. Thanksgiving is truly a dessert lover’s dream, and I can’t wait to dig into all these delicious treats.
Turkey Innovation
Forget the standard roast turkey; let’s talk spatchcocking. Ever tried it?
Spatchcocking (or butterflying) involves removing the backbone and flattening the bird. It cooks faster and more evenly.
Try a maple-glazed spatchcock turkey.
Trust me, the sweet and smoky flavor is out of this world! Plus, you get crispy skin all over.
Smoked turkey is another stellar option. If you’ve got a smoker, use apple wood chips.
The apple scent seeps into the turkey, giving it a fabulous fruity essence.
Pair it with fresh herbs like sage and rosemary for an aromatic feast. Your guests will be lining up for seconds!
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Sides With a Surprise
Let’s jazz up those sides!
Traditional garlic mashed potatoes are great, but why not mix it up with some roasted garlic and fennel mashed potatoes?
The fennel adds a mild, sweet anise flavor that makes the dish stand out.
Now, how about a twist on sweet potato casserole?
Top your sweet potatoes with pomegranate seeds and crushed pecans.
The seeds add a juicy pop that’s both tart and sweet. It’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth.
Another must-try is Weight Watchers Onion Gravy.
It’s a lighter option but packed with flavor, especially with fresh rosemary.
Serve it over mashed potatoes or turkey, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised how much everyone loves it.
So, there you have it. Turkey and sides like you’ve never seen before!
Gluten-Free Goodness
Let’s talk gluten-free options.
Yes, you can still feast without the wheat!
There are plenty of gluten-free recipes that will make your Thanksgiving table shine without the gluten gloom.
For starters, how about some crisp asparagus tossed in olive oil, lemon zest, and parmesan cheese?
It’s not just gluten-free; it’s finger-licking good! Another great option is roasted Brussels sprouts.
The trick is to get them just right—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
And don’t forget about salads. An Apple Walnut Salad with fresh apples, crunchy walnuts, and a light vinaigrette can be the perfect appetizer.
Also, slow-cooker bread rolls made with gluten-free flour can replace traditional dinner rolls without sacrificing taste.
Marvelous Meat-Free Options
Now, for my fellow vegetarians and vegans.
No meat? No problem! There are so many flavorful dishes to enjoy.
First up, let’s get green with a Broccoli, Date, and Pistachio Salad.
This one’s a textural rollercoaster—crisp broccoli, chewy dates, and crunchy pistachios. Just yum.
And don’t miss out on roasted veggies like Pumpkin Stuffed with Wild Rice and Cranberries.
The sweet and savory combo is a hit every time.
If you’re looking for a main dish to replace the turkey, try a basic whole roasted cauliflower.
It’s savory, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress.
Lastly, I can’t leave out the grand finale: vegan pumpkin pie.
You won’t even miss the eggs and dairy.
These recipes ensure everyone at the table has something delicious to eat without feeling like they’re missing out.
Table Setting Tips
First things first, you’ve got to set the stage. Start with a nice tablecloth or runner—nothing too flashy, just something to make the table cozy.
If you can find a design with leaves or pumpkins, even better!
Plates, silverware, and napkins should be arranged neatly.
I like to go for layers, like a charger plate under your dinner plate for a touch of fancy.
Cloth napkins look great and are better for the planet.
Folding them in fun shapes can make a big difference too.
Centerpieces are a must.
Think seasonal flowers or a bowl of pinecones.
Just make sure they’re low enough that people can see over them. Scatter a few mini pumpkins or candles around for extra flair.
Naming cards? Totally optional.
But if you’ve got a big family, they can avoid the “Where do I sit?” chaos. Just grab some cardstock and a nice pen.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your table looks amazing, let’s talk about serving your fabulous dishes.
Aim for a buffet style if you’re feeding a crowd.
It keeps things casual and easy. Line up the food in the kitchen or on a separate table.
For the star of the show, roast turkey, carve it in the kitchen and arrange the slices on a platter.
Add some herbs or cranberries around it for garnish.
Keep gravy warm in a small slow cooker.
Nobody likes cold gravy.
Same goes for mashed potatoes—serving them in a pretty dish with a pat of butter on top makes them look extra tasty.
Consider serving side dishes in matching or complementary serveware.
It gives a cohesive look.
Label items either with small tags or markers if you have guests with dietary restrictions—this small step goes a long way.
Make sure you have appropriate serving utensils for each dish.
Nothing ruins the magic faster than having to use a soup spoon to scoop stuffing.
There you go, a foolproof plan to make your Thanksgiving dinner not just delicious, but a feast for the eyes too!
