As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s time to start thinking about the most important meal of the year: Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you’re hosting a gathering of friends and family or just want to treat yourself to a festive feast, there are countless delicious recipes to try.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 21 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to become new favorites at your holiday table. From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with marshmallow topping, and from creamy garlic mashed potatoes to roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, there’s something for everyone. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into the best Thanksgiving dinner recipes around!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter Recipe
Elevate your holiday meal with a deliciously moist and flavorful roast turkey, paired with a rich herb butter that adds an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, sage, thyme, or rosemary)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with aromatics like onion, carrot, and celery.
5. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for approximately 4-4 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the comfort of potatoes with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 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, and mash until smooth.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or half-and-half, mashing until the potatoes reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Add a touch of homemade flavor to your holiday meals with this simple and delicious cranberry sauce recipe. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s perfect for topping turkey, yogurt, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup (15ml) 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 water.
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.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
A classic Thanksgiving side dish gets a crispy twist! This Green Bean Casserole recipe combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crunchy fried onions for a deliciously satisfying side.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans in boiling water until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine cooked green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
5. Add sautéed onion mixture to the bowl and stir well.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping Recipe
Summary:
This sweet potato casserole is a twist on the classic, topped with a fluffy marshmallow topping and perfect for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Marshmallow topping (recipe below)
Marshmallow Topping:
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and heavy cream. Mix well.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While casserole is baking, prepare marshmallow topping by melting butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
7. Add mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir until coated.
8. Remove casserole from oven and top with marshmallow mixture. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Traditional Bread Stuffing
Traditional Bread Stuffing Recipe
A classic Thanksgiving staple, this traditional bread stuffing recipe is a perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast. Made with tender bread, savory herbs, and juicy turkey broth, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion, celery, and garlic in melted butter until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread, sautéed mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls
A classic comfort food, these buttery dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and utterly delicious. Perfect for serving alongside your favorite meals or as a snack on their own.
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 (100°F to 110°F)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles, balls).
7. Brush tops with melted butter and egg wash.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A delicious and easy side dish that brings out the best in Brussels sprouts, thanks to the smoky flavor of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
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 they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the sprouts out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Arrange bacon pieces among the sprouts, making sure they’re not overlapping.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and caramelized, and the bacon is crispy.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Perfectly spiced and creamy, this pumpkin pie is a classic dessert for the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of pumpkin puree
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
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 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.
6. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.
7. To make whipped cream, beat heavy cream and sugar in a bowl until stiff peaks form.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Pecan Pie
This pie combines the warmth of cinnamon with the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of apples, creating a delightful dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Arrange the apple mixture on top of the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle pecan halves over the apple mixture.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the pecans and apples.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with these sweet and sticky maple glazed carrots! This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, perfectly balanced by the rich flavor of pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread carrot mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While carrots are roasting, mix maple syrup with a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
6. After carrots have roasted for 15-17 minutes, brush them with the maple glaze and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sticky and glazed.
Cooking Time: 22-27 minutes
Cornbread with Honey Butter
Perfect as a side dish or a snack, this cornbread recipe combines the classic flavors of corn and butter with the sweetness of honey. The addition of honey butter takes it to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey, for serving (about 2-3 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While cornbread is still warm, spread with honey butter (mix equal parts softened butter and honey).
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for any occasion. A creamy blend of macaroni, cheese, and spices baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy roasted butternut squash soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a chilly fall day. The sweetness of the roasted squash pairs perfectly with a hint of nutmeg and allspice.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened. Add cumin, nutmeg, and allspice; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add roasted squash, broth, and heavy cream (if using) to the pot. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the tender turkey breast infused with the aromatic essence of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey breast and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
4. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the breast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Orange Relish
This refreshing relish is a perfect accompaniment to your holiday meals, adding a burst of citrusy flavor to your turkey, ham, or even crackers. With its sweet and tangy combination, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cranberries, marmalade, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Mix until the cranberries are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This relish is best served chilled.
Savory Sausage Stuffing
This hearty stuffing recipe combines the rich flavors of sausage, breadcrumbs, and vegetables for a savory twist on traditional holiday fare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stale bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, bread, cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan Pie Bars
These bars combine the richness of pecans with the gooey goodness of caramel to create a dessert that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
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, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Top with chopped pecans and caramel sauce.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Transform cauliflower into a savory delight with this simple and flavorful recipe. With the perfect balance of pungent garlic, nutty parmesan, and caramelized sweetness, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the roasted cauliflower and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake
This Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake combines the warmth of autumn spices with the creaminess of cheesecake, making it a perfect dessert for Thanksgiving or fall gatherings. The pumpkin puree adds natural sweetness and a delicious twist to this classic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, spices, and salt. Mix well.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture into prepared pan.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Sweet and savory, this Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple is a classic holiday dish that’s sure to please. A sticky honey glaze and sweet pineapple rings add a delicious twist to the traditional ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cups pineapple rings
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on top of the ham, slightly overlapping each other.
6. Place the pan in the oven and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Conclusion
Get ready to feast on Thanksgiving with these delicious recipes! From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with marshmallow topping, and from creamy garlic mashed potatoes to roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to save room for pumpkin pie with whipped cream or apple cinnamon pecan pie. This collection of 21 recipes features a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet, that are sure to make your Thanksgiving dinner a memorable one.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
