As soon as Halloween is over, our minds quickly switch to one thing: Thanksgiving dinner planning! Thanksgiving is a once-a-year affair (though it might feel like twice with all those delicious leftovers the next day). The holiday calls for a classic feast that includes everything from a perfectly roasted turkey to stuffing and a variety of potatoes smothered in gravy. And let’s not forget the desserts! With visions of pumpkin pie and pecan pie cheesecake dancing in our heads, it’s important to save some room—or maybe take a little nap before the second round of indulging. Get ready to make this Thanksgiving the most memorable one yet with these 30 classic recipes that will take center stage at your table.
On turkey duty this year? Whether it’s your first time roasting the bird or you’re a seasoned pro, we’ve gathered the essential tips you need—from seasoning to brining to knowing exactly how much to cook per person. Spoiler: using the best-ever turkey brine is the way to go to keep your bird tender and full of flavor.
Of course, while the turkey is often the main attraction, for many, it’s really all about the sides and stuffing. We’ve rounded up recipes for classic stuffing, green bean casserole, and the most indulgent mashed potatoes so that you can create the perfect balance of savory dishes to accompany your bird. Let’s just say that leftovers are going to make some of the best Thanksgiving sandwiches ever.
If you’re still hungry after dinner, make sure to leave room for our favorite Thanksgiving desserts. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on these sweet treats.
Plan the Perfect Thanksgiving Dinner
Whether you prefer sticking to traditional dishes like a perfectly roasted turkey and green bean casserole or experimenting with new takes on family favorites, our list of 30 must-try Thanksgiving recipes has got you covered. From appetizers to desserts, you’ll find everything you need to craft a feast-worthy meal that will be the talk of the table. Let’s dive in!
Sweet Potato Casserole
A classic Thanksgiving staple, this sweet potato casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Featuring buttery mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, this dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. This comforting side dish is sure to become a family favorite. get the recipe
Crispy Baked Boursin with Tangy Cranberry Sauce
This crispy, golden round of baked cheese paired with a tangy, ruby-red cranberry sauce makes the ideal holiday appetizer. The melty cheese with a crispy exterior is perfect for dipping, and both the cheese and the cranberry sauce can be prepped ahead of time. Arrange on a platter with crackers and crudités for a beautiful presentation. get the recipe
Carbonara Mashed Potatoes
Why settle for regular mashed potatoes when you can elevate them with a carbonara twist? These Yukon gold potatoes are combined with crispy pancetta, rich egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and plenty of black pepper for a dish that’s pure decadence. Pipe swirls of the mashed potatoes and bake until golden for an extra-special touch. get the recipe
Thanksgiving Cornucopia Cookies
For a fun dessert, these Thanksgiving Cornucopia Cookies are a must-have. Decorated with mini cornucopia (made from corn snacks), these sugar cookies are a great way to involve the whole family in the baking process. They’re easy to make—no chilling or rolling necessary—and are guaranteed to be a hit on the dessert table. get the recipe
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
This recipe is for anyone who prefers their sweet potato casserole without marshmallows. Instead, a buttery, brown sugar pecan topping takes center stage, giving this dish all the dessert-like sweetness you crave, with a nutty crunch. Get the Sweet Potato Casserole recipe.
Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized appetizers are the perfect combination of creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecans, all wrapped in buttery crescent rolls. They’re easy to make and always a favorite at holiday gatherings—they’ll disappear from your appetizer spread in no time. Get the Cranberry Brie Bites recipe.
Dry Brine Turkey
Want to ensure your turkey stays juicy and tender? Dry brining is the key. This easy technique infuses your bird with flavor and keeps it from drying out in the oven, giving you a succulent turkey every time. Get the Dry Brine Turkey recipe.
Green Bean Casserole
Classic green bean casserole is a Thanksgiving favorite, but we’ve ditched the canned mushroom soup for a homemade version that’s bursting with flavor. Fresh sautéed mushrooms and onions form the base of this dish, making it rich and delicious. Get the Green Bean Casserole recipe.
Easy Pumpkin Pie
No Thanksgiving dessert table is complete without pumpkin pie. This recipe includes all the tips you need for the perfect pie—from making your own pumpkin spice blend to ensuring a smooth, creamy filling. It’s a must-have for any Thanksgiving gathering. Get the Pumpkin Pie recipe.
Roasted Herb Turkey and Gravy
For those looking for a traditional roasted turkey, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With crispy skin and tender, juicy meat, this turkey is seasoned with herbs and paired with homemade gravy for the ultimate Thanksgiving centerpiece. Get The Recipe
Turkey Gravy
Gravy is an essential part of Thanksgiving. This easy, three-ingredient recipe is perfect for topping mashed potatoes, stuffing, and, of course, turkey. It’s rich, flavorful, and comes together in no time. Get The Recipe
Buttermilk Spoon Bread
This Buttermilk Spoon Bread is a cross between cornbread, soufflé, and dressing. It’s light, fluffy, and has a rich, creamy texture that will make it a favorite on your Thanksgiving table. Get The Recipe
Sweet and Tangy Roasted Pumpkin Salad
This roasted pumpkin salad is packed with fall flavors. Roasted pumpkin, leafy greens, and a tangy dressing come together to create a salad that’s the perfect light side for a heavy meal. It celebrates the seasonal bounty and adds a pop of color to your table. Get The Recipe
Roasted Turkey Breast
If you’re hosting a smaller Thanksgiving gathering or simply prefer white meat, roasted turkey breast is an excellent option. It’s quicker to cook than a whole bird but still results in juicy, tender meat with a crispy skin.
Recipe: Roasted Turkey Breast
Best Stuffing
This stuffing recipe is based on a classic family recipe and features leeks, celery, and fresh herbs. It’s gooey in the center and crispy on top, with all the comforting flavors you’d expect from a traditional stuffing. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to the boxed version.
Recipe: Best Stuffing
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble
This savory twist on sweet potato casserole features a ginger-spiced layer of creamy sweet potatoes topped with a crispy, nutty crumble and fresh herbs. It’s a savory take that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Green Bean Casserole (from Scratch)
Say goodbye to canned soup—this green bean casserole is made entirely from scratch. Featuring fresh green beans, crispy onions, and a homemade creamy mushroom sauce, this dish is a fresh take on a Thanksgiving classic.
Recipe: Green Bean Casserole
Homemade Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a must-have side, especially if you’ve got kids around the table. This version is insanely cheesy, creamy, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s comfort food at its finest and perfect for Thanksgiving.
Recipe: Homemade Mac and Cheese
Vegan Stuffing
This vegan stuffing is hearty and delicious, featuring crusty bread, fresh herbs, celery, mushrooms, and onions. Olive oil replaces butter, giving it a flavorful twist while keeping it entirely plant-based.
Recipe: Vegan Stuffing
Air Fryer Turkey Breast with Gravy
Cooking for a small crowd? An air fryer turkey breast is a game-changer. It’s quick to cook, resulting in perfectly juicy meat with minimal fuss. Plus, it comes with a simple, tasty gravy that pairs perfectly.
Get the Air Fryer Turkey Breast with Gravy recipe.
Apple-Chestnut Stuffing
This apple-chestnut stuffing fills your home with a warm, inviting scent. Roasted chestnuts add a rich, nutty flavor to this stuffing, making it a standout dish for your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Apple-Chestnut Stuffing recipe.
Spiced Pumpkin Pie
Give your pumpkin pie a twist with a pinch of black pepper. It adds an unexpected warmth that elevates the traditional flavors—just trust us on this one!
Get the Spiced Pumpkin Pie recipe.
Air Fryer Green Beans
Free up some oven space and make these green beans in the air fryer. They come out crispy and delicious, making them a fantastic side for your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Air Fryer Green Beans recipe.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Crisps
These roasted Brussels sprouts are simple yet elegant. Tossed in olive oil and finished with Parmesan crisps, they’re a perfect side that requires just five ingredients.
Get the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan Crisps recipe.
These recipes cover everything you need to create the ultimate Thanksgiving feast, from appetizers to desserts. Stick with the classics, try something new, or do a mix of both—whatever you decide, these dishes will ensure your holiday meal is one to remember.
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