It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Thanksgiving! A day to gather with loved ones, share a delicious meal, and express gratitude for all the good things in life. And what better way to do that than with a feast fit for a king (or queen)? This year, why not try something new and exciting on your menu? From classic dishes like roast turkey and mashed potatoes to innovative twists like maple-glazed ham and spiced pumpkin cheesecake, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll count down our top 20 festive Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these mouthwatering dishes will guide you through the cooking process with ease. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Impress your guests with this timeless recipe for a moist and flavorful roast turkey, elevated by a savory herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 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 butter, thyme, sage, and garlic until well combined.
4. Stuff the turkey cavity with the herb butter, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender potatoes with a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, heavy cream, and garlic.
3. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe
Sweet potatoes meet marshmallows in this sweet and savory casserole that’s perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the sweet potato mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. If using pecans, sprinkle them over the marshmallows.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the casserole is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
This iconic American side dish combines tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions for a comforting and flavorful accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes, then shock in ice water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked green beans in an even layer. Pour soup mixture over the green beans. Top with crispy onions and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Elevate your holiday meals with this tangy and sweet homemade cranberry sauce infused with the brightness of orange zest. This simple recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 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 juice, and orange zest.
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 slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Savory Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
A delicious twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the savory flavors of sausage and herbs with the natural sweetness of apples. Perfect for a holiday feast or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, bread, apple, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls with Honey Glaze
These tender and buttery dinner rolls are elevated to a new level with a drizzle of warm honey glaze, perfect for accompanying your favorite meals or as a snack.
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
– Honey glaze: 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons heavy cream
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. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough; shape into 8-10 rolls.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While still warm, drizzle with honey glaze (mix equal parts honey and heavy cream).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
This beloved dessert is a staple of many fall celebrations. With its rich pumpkin flavor and creamy whipped topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup 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 topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium 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 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.
Whipped Cream Topping:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Beat cream and sugar together until stiff peaks form. Top cooled pie with whipped cream and serve.
Apple Pie with Cinnamon Streusel Topping
Experience the warmth of a traditional apple pie infused with the cozy flavors of cinnamon and sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– Cinnamon Streusel Topping (see below)
– 1 tbsp milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add sugar, eggs, and sliced apples to the mixture. Mix until just combined.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place in a 9-inch pie dish and trim edges to fit.
5. Spread Cinnamon Streusel Topping evenly over the pie crust.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour.
2. Add 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces. Use your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Mix in 1 tbsp milk to form a sticky dough.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe brings out the best in Brussels sprouts by pairing them with crispy bacon and a hint of sweetness. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this side dish is 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 tablespoon brown sugar
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 sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with cooked bacon.
7. If desired, sprinkle brown sugar on top and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread Casserole with Cheese
This cornbread casserole combines the classic Southern staple with melted cheddar cheese for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, and sugar. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herb-Roasted Carrots with Thyme
Elevate your vegetable side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe, where sweet carrots are paired with the savory essence of thyme. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch thick sticks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, garlic, and thyme until well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple-Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sticky and sweet maple-glazed ham, paired with the tropical flavors of pineapple. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 pineapple, sliced into rings
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on top of the ham.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your ham.
Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries and Pecans
This hearty pilaf combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweet-tartness of cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cranberries and toasted pecans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the mixture is fragrant.
5. Fluff the cooked wild rice with a fork and add to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Parmesan
Elevate your potato game with this rich and creamy scalloped potato dish, topped with the savory goodness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, mix softened butter and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Create a layer of potatoes in the prepared dish, followed by a layer of cream mixture. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then dot the top layer with remaining cream mixture.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
This seasonal dessert combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all on a crunchy gingersnap crust. Perfect for fall gatherings and holiday parties.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap cookies, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crushed gingersnap cookies and sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix well.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying baked macaroni and cheese recipe, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. This classic dish gets an extra layer of flavor and texture from the addition of crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the macaroni mixture.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pecan Pie with Chocolate Drizzle
Experience the perfect blend of nutty goodness and velvety chocolate in this show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Chocolate Drizzle:
+ 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
+ 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Stir in pecan halves.
5. Roll out pie crust and fill with pecan mixture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
7. Allow pie to cool completely before drizzling with chocolate.
Chocolate Drizzle:
1. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
2. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
3. Drizzle over cooled pecan pie.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made by roasting butternut squash to bring out its natural sweetness, then blending it with aromatics and spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast for 45 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor with onion, garlic, and broth.
6. Blend until smooth, then season to taste.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
8. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes + blending time
Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter and herbs with the savory taste of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme until well combined.
4. Rub the herb butter mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a delicious and festive Thanksgiving with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic dishes like roast turkey with herb butter and creamy mashed potatoes to sweet treats like pumpkin pie and pecan pie, this collection has something for everyone. Enjoy savory options like green bean casserole with crispy onions and roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, or go sweet with maple-glazed ham with pineapple and spiced pumpkin cheesecake with gingersnap crust. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner or some unique twists to add to your holiday menu, these recipes are sure to please.
