As the holiday season approaches, many of us are gearing up to host our loved ones for a delicious Thanksgiving feast. And what better way to do that than with Ina Garten’s iconic recipes? The Barefoot Contessa herself has shared her favorite dishes over the years, and we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering recipes to make your Turkey Day celebration truly unforgettable.
From classic roasted turkey with herb butter to decadent pumpkin bread pudding with caramel sauce, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to impress your guests. And don’t worry if you’re short on time – many of these dishes can be made ahead of time or cooked in under an hour. So go ahead, put on your apron, and get ready to dish out a Thanksgiving spread that’s sure to become a new family tradition.
Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter
Elevate your Thanksgiving table with this simple yet impressive roasted turkey recipe, paired with a rich and flavorful herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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 butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for about 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Prepare a delicious side dish ahead of time with these make-ahead mashed potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe ensures creamy and flavorful results without the hassle.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for added flavor
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 the milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
3. Transfer the mashed potatoes to an airtight container or zip-top bag.
4. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months.
5. To reheat, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring every minute, until warm and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (boiling), 0-2 minutes (reheating)
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions: A Delicious Twist on a Holiday Favorite
This comforting casserole is a staple of many holiday meals, and our recipe adds an extra layer of crunch and flavor with crispy onions. It’s perfect for serving alongside turkey or as a side dish at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch green beans for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, cook sliced onions in butter until caramelized and crispy, stirring occasionally.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
5. Add cooked green beans and melted butter to the soup mixture. Mix well.
6. Pour the casserole mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with crispy onions and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cranberry Orange Sauce
This sweet and tangy cranberry orange sauce is a perfect addition to your holiday table. Made with fresh cranberries, oranges, and a hint of spice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (240ml) orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, water, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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 let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups (475ml) of sauce
Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce
Warm up with this delicious Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce! This autumnal dessert combines the comfort of bread pudding with the sweetness of caramel and the spice of pumpkin, perfect for a cozy evening or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add bread cubes, pumpkin puree, egg, and melted butter; toss until well coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with caramel sauce drizzled over the top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herb-Roasted Butternut Squash
Warm up with the sweet, comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash infused with fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, sage leaves, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the squash halves.
5. Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Gruyère
This classic comfort food gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky, savory flavor of pancetta for a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove sprouts from the oven and toss with cooked pancetta.
7. Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these creamy, crispy Parmesan smashed potatoes!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and dry the potatoes, then slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with melted butter until they’re evenly coated.
4. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes, making sure each one gets some cheesy love.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Maple-Roasted Carrots
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of maple syrup, creating a deliciously caramelized side dish. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (for an extra depth of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spread the carrot mixture out in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through cooking time.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Stuffing with Sausage and Herbs
Classic Stuffing with Sausage and Herbs Recipe
This savory stuffing recipe combines the flavors of sausage, herbs, and bread to create a delicious side dish perfect for holidays or special occasions. With its rich aroma and satisfying texture, this classic stuffing is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine the bread, melted butter, cooked sausage mixture, dried sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Apple and Pear Crisp
This delightful dessert combines the sweetness of apples and pears with a crunchy oat topping, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1-2 ripe Bartlett pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine apple and pear slices.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the melted butter to the oat mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the apple-pear mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
6. Top with the oat mixture, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
8. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows: A Sweet Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the fluffy, toasted goodness of marshmallows. Perfect for a comforting side dish or dessert!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the sweet potatoes with a mixture of granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, place the mini marshmallows on a separate baking sheet.
7. Toast the marshmallows in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
8. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and top with toasted marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Homemade Gravy with Pan Drippings
Turn leftover pan drippings into a rich and savory gravy to elevate your roasted meats or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups pan drippings (from roasting meat)
– 1 cup beef broth or stock
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and a splash of the pan drippings until smooth.
2. Gradually add in the remaining pan drippings, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
4. Add in the beef broth or stock and whisk to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pecan Pie Bars
These Pecan Pie Bars combine the richness of pecans with the gooey goodness of caramel, all wrapped up in a convenient bar form. Perfect for potlucks or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups pecan halves
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into prepared dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir in pecans until well coated.
4. Pour pecan mixture over crust; bake for 25-30 minutes or until caramel is bubbly.
5. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this aromatic and savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of rosemary with the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy cleanup.
4. Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake
Warm up with this seasonal twist on a classic cheesecake, infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined.
3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
6. Gradually add sugar, beating until combined.
7. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Cornbread with Honey Butter
Moist cornbread gets a sweet and tangy makeover with the addition of honey butter. This simple recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Honey butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and honey until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Honey Butter:
1. Mix softened butter with 2 tablespoons honey until smooth.
2. Spread on warm cornbread immediately after baking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Shallot and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your dinner party with this elegant tart featuring caramelized shallots and creamy goat cheese. The sweet and savory combination is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook shallots over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Spread goat cheese evenly over the center of the tart, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Arrange caramelized shallots on top of the goat cheese.
6. Fold pastry edges up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Chunk Cookies for Dessert
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these classic cookies packed with chunks of dark chocolate. Perfect for a dessert or snack, they’re easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chunks
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chunks and any optional add-ins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds this Thanksgiving with Ina Garten’s mouth-watering recipes. From classic dishes like roasted turkey and mashed potatoes to sweet treats like pumpkin bread pudding and pecan pie bars, these 20 delicious recipes are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead side dish or a show-stopping dessert, Ina Garten’s expert tips and tricks will guide you every step of the way. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
