Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your menu! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, we’ve got you covered with these 20 delicious and festive Thanksgiving recipes. From classic dishes like roast turkey and mashed potatoes to sweet treats like pumpkin pie and pecan pie bars, our collection has something for everyone.
In this special issue, we’ll be sharing our favorite recipes for a stress-free and satisfying holiday meal. From savory main courses to side dishes that will become new family traditions, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! Our collection includes everything from classic pumpkin pie to creative twists on old favorites.
So go ahead and get started planning your Thanksgiving menu today! In our next article, we’ll be sharing recipe after recipe, each one carefully tested and perfected for maximum flavor and ease of preparation. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for shortcuts or a culinary enthusiast seeking inspiration, we’ve got the perfect recipes to make your holiday meal truly unforgettable.
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter Recipe
Elevate your holiday feast with this show-stopping roast turkey recipe, infused with the savory flavors of herbs and butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
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 softened butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
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.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and add the chicken broth to the bottom of the pan.
7. Roast the turkey for about 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 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 as a side dish or as a base for other recipes, these creamy garlic mashed potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.
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
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Place 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 potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, garlic, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth.
3. Gradually add heavy cream or half-and-half, mashing until desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday meals with this simple and flavorful homemade cranberry sauce recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and tangy condiment that’s perfect for accompanying turkey, stuffing, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange segments, and salt.
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.
5. Refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Savory Sausage and Herb Stuffing
Add a delicious twist to your holiday meals with this savory sausage and herb stuffing recipe. Perfect for pairing with roasted meats or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 pound savory sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, melted butter, chicken broth, milk, cooked sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, and parsley.
4. Mix well to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping: A classic Southern dessert that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunch and flavor of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in melted butter, heavy cream, and eggs until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with pecan halves, spreading evenly to cover the surface.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until casserole is set and pecans are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions Recipe
This comforting casserole combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy onions for a satisfying side dish perfect for holidays or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions until tender; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté sliced onion in butter until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, and black pepper.
6. Combine cooked green beans, mushroom mixture, and soup mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle French-fried onions on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls
Warm up any dinner with these tender, buttery rolls that are sure to become a family favorite.
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
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and mix until a smooth dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until elastic.
6. 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.
7. Punch down the dough and divide into 8-10 equal pieces.
8. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
9. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts and the smoky goodness of bacon, resulting in a deliciously well-balanced side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon pieces in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove from heat and add cooked bacon to the roasted Brussels sprouts.
7. Toss to combine and season with red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this classic pumpkin pie recipe, topped with a dollop of creamy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour pumpkin mixture into pie crust.
6. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
7. Allow pie to cool completely before serving with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrots
Sweeten up your side dishes with this simple recipe for Maple Glazed Carrots!
Ingredients:
• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley or thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange carrot slices in a single layer.
6. Roast in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
• Use high-quality pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Adjust cooking time based on your desired level of caramelization.
Cornbread Dressing with Sage
This classic Southern side dish gets a savory twist with the addition of fragrant sage and crispy cornbread. Perfect for your next holiday gathering, this recipe combines the best of both worlds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and sage in butter until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cider Gravy
Elevate your fall-inspired dishes with this rich and tangy Apple Cider Gravy, perfect for pork chops, mashed sweet potatoes, or roasted Brussels sprouts. This simple recipe captures the essence of autumn in a single, savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider and flour. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add butter, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the gravy has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and use immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
A comforting classic gets a crunchy twist with this Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs recipe! This creamy pasta dish topped with crispy breadcrumbs is perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
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 cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
As the weather cools down, warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup made from roasted butternut squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, 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
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast the squash for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the roasted squash into a blender or food processor, along with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
6. Add the broth and blend until smooth.
7. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half and blend to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (roasting) + 10-15 minutes (blending)
Pecan Pie Bars
These gooey, nutty bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a shortbread crust and a pecan filling infused with maple syrup, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
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 melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together corn syrup, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans.
5. Pour the pecan mixture over the shortbread crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake
This spiced pumpkin cheesecake is a perfect blend of seasonal flavors, combining the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the creaminess of a classic cheesecake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Prepare cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Honey Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday table with this classic honey glazed ham recipe, featuring a sticky and sweet glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and black pepper.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours
Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms
This hearty pilaf combines nutty wild rice with earthy mushrooms and a hint of herbs, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), 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 large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the wild rice, water or broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese in this elegant tart. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Roll the puff pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the softened butter evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Arrange the caramelized onions on top of the butter.
7. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the onions.
8. Fold the edges of the pastry up to form a crust and press gently to seal.
9. Brush the crust with a little water and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate Pecan Pie
Treat your taste buds to a decadent dessert that combines the smoothness of chocolate with the crunch of pecans. This classic pie is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Stir in pecans and chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a delicious and festive Thanksgiving with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic roast turkey to savory sausage stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes to sweet potato casserole, and from pumpkin pie to spiced pumpkin cheesecake, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to impress your family and friends. So why wait? Start planning your Thanksgiving menu today!
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