As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, many of us start to think about our favorite holiday: Thanksgiving. While it’s a time for family, friends, and tradition, let’s be honest – the real focus of the day is on the food. And what better way to celebrate than with a classic menu that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? From savory main courses to sweet treats, we’ve rounded up 20 traditional Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the most iconic dishes of the season. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping turkey or a comforting side dish, we’ve got you covered with recipes that are easy to make and even easier to love.
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter Recipe
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the classic flavors of roasted turkey with the richness of herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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 the turkey 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
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday table with this easy-to-make homemade cranberry sauce recipe. This tangy and sweet condiment is perfect for pairing with 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 orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, 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.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt.
5. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Classic Green Bean Casserole
A timeless holiday side dish that combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy french-fried onions. This comforting casserole is a staple at many family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 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
– 2 cups french-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
4. Add cream of mushroom soup, milk, pepper, and salt; stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked green beans and mushroom sauce; pour into 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with french-fried onions.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until onions are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this simple recipe that yields a rich and creamy side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 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 butter, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re mostly smooth.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream or whole milk, stirring until the potatoes reach your desired level of creaminess.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Traditional Bread Stuffing
A traditional bread stuffing recipe that’s perfect for your next holiday gathering or family dinner. This savory blend of bread, vegetables, and spices is a timeless favorite that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and celery in melted butter until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed vegetable mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth and toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
This sweet and savory casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fluffy texture of marshmallows, creating a unique and irresistible dessert.
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 cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup marshmallows, mini or regular
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Stir in marshmallows, heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Homemade Gravy
Elevate your meals with a rich and savory homemade gravy that’s surprisingly easy to make. This simple recipe uses just a few ingredients and requires minimal cooking time, making it perfect for busy home cooks.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls
These soft, fluffy dinner rolls are infused with the rich flavor of butter and perfect for accompanying your favorite meals.
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
– 1/2 cup 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. Add warm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into 8-10 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
8. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll.
9. Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Perfect for fall gatherings or Thanksgiving celebrations, this classic pumpkin pie recipe is a timeless treat that’s sure to please. This easy-to-make dessert combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of sugar and cream.
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
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Beat in the eggs until smooth.
4. Roll out the pie crust and fill with the 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 the filling is set.
6. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving with whipped cream.
Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Beat the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form. Serve chilled over the pumpkin pie.
Apple Pie with Cinnamon
Classic Apple Pie with Cinnamon Recipe
This timeless dessert combines tender apples, flaky crust, and a hint of warm cinnamon, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out one pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with melted butter.
4. Roll out second pie crust and use to cover the filling. Crimp edges to seal.
5. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pecan Pie
Classic Pecan Pie Recipe
Cornbread Dressing
Classic Cornbread Dressing Recipe
This homemade cornbread dressing recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the savory flavors of herbs and spices, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. With its crispy texture and rich aroma, this side dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the celery, onion, and bell pepper in butter until tender.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring until the dressing reaches desired consistency.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A classic combination of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe brings out the best in both Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
5. Remove the sprouts from the oven and toss with the cooked bacon pieces.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Glazed Carrots with Honey
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots while adding a hint of honey’s warmth. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for salads, yogurt parfaits, or grain bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the glaze over the carrots and stir to coat.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a deliciously comforting bowl of roasted butternut squash soup. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and 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 sage or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the 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 for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
6. Add the chopped onion, garlic, broth, and heavy cream (if using). Blend until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This classic recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With its creamy bechamel sauce, al dente pasta, and golden-brown crust, this dish is sure to satisfy any mac and cheese craving.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Deviled Eggs
These creamy, savory deviled eggs are a crowd-pleasing favorite at any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious treats that are perfect for parties, picnics, or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the egg whites in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
4. Add the mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish to the bowl and mix until smooth.
5. Season the yolk mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
7. Sprinkle with paprika or chopped chives if desired.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These deviled eggs are served cold.
Spiced Roasted Nuts
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe for Spiced Roasted Nuts, perfect for munching on while watching a movie or as a healthy addition to your lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans, hazelnuts)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the nut mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple-Glazed Ham
Perfect for holidays or special occasions, this maple-glazed ham is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With just the right balance of sweet and savory, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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 smooth.
3. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush with the glaze.
5. Sprinkle cloves and cinnamon evenly over the top of the ham.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 4-6 pound ham.
Warm Mulled Cider
Warm Mulled Cider Recipe
Get cozy with this classic wintertime drink that’s perfect for cold weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. This recipe combines the sweetness of apple cider with warm spices to create a delicious and comforting beverage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar (optional)
– 1/2 lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it warm for 10-15 minutes, or until the spices have infused into the cider.
4. Taste and add brown sugar if desired to balance out the sweetness.
5. Strain the cider into mugs or a large serving pitcher.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a slice of lemon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Thanksgiving with these 20 classic traditional recipes. From savory dishes like Roast Turkey with Herb Butter and Classic Green Bean Casserole, to sweet treats like Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream and Pecan Pie, this collection has something for everyone. Also included are comforting sides like Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Buttery Dinner Rolls, as well as delightful desserts like Apple Pie with Cinnamon and Maple- Glazed Ham. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to make your Thanksgiving celebration unforgettable.
