20 Thanksgiving Recipes That Will Make Your Family Beg for Seconds

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Thanksgiving Recipes

Turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie – these classic dishes make Thanksgiving one of the most delicious holidays. You’ll find recipes for all your favorite Thanksgiving foods, from the main course to sides and desserts, to help you create a perfect feast. Whether you’re cooking for a big family gathering or a small group of friends, there’s something for everyone.

Looking to try something new this year? You’ll also discover creative twists on traditional recipes that will wow your guests. From roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze to cranberry sauce with a hint of orange, these tasty ideas will add extra flavor to your Thanksgiving table. Get ready to start planning your menu and make this year’s holiday meal one to remember.

Roast Turkey

Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious roast turkey:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • Fresh herbs (thyme, sage, rosemary)
  • 2-3 cups chicken stock

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

  2. Rub the softened butter all over the turkey’s skin. Season generously with salt and pepper.

  3. Stuff the turkey cavity with onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and fresh herbs.

  4. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour 2 cups of stock into the pan.

  5. Roast for 30 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F.

  6. Continue roasting, basting every 30 minutes. Add more stock if the pan dries out.

  7. Cook until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F.

  8. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Your turkey should be golden brown and juicy. Enjoy your homemade roast turkey with your favorite side dishes!

Stuffing

Here’s a simple stuffing recipe for your Thanksgiving table:

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf day-old white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 onions, diced
  • 4 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes.

  3. Melt butter in a large skillet. Add onions and celery, cooking until soft.

  4. In a big bowl, mix toasted bread, cooked veggies, and herbs.

  5. Pour in broth and eggs. Stir gently until everything is moist.

  6. Season with salt and pepper.

  7. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

  8. Bake for 45 minutes or until top is golden brown.

Your homemade stuffing will be a hit! It’s crispy on top and soft inside. You can add extras like sausage or apples if you want to mix things up.

Mashed Potatoes

You’ll need:

  • 4 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to make them:

  1. Peel and cut potatoes into chunks.

  2. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.

  3. Drain potatoes and return to pot.

  4. Warm milk and butter in a small saucepan.

  5. Mash potatoes with a potato masher or ricer.

  6. Slowly mix in warm milk and butter.

  7. Season with salt and pepper.

  8. Whip potatoes until creamy and smooth.

Your mashed potatoes are ready to serve! They’ll be fluffy, rich, and perfect for your Thanksgiving table.

Gravy

You’ll need:

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups turkey drippings or broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Let’s make some delicious gravy!

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about a minute until it’s lightly browned.

Slowly pour in the turkey drippings or broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking as the gravy simmers and thickens, about 5-10 minutes.

Add salt and pepper to taste. Your gravy is ready to serve! Pour it into a gravy boat and enjoy with your turkey and mashed potatoes.

For extra flavor, try adding:

  • A splash of white wine
  • Some fresh herbs like thyme or sage
  • A dash of Worcestershire sauce

Remember, your gravy will thicken as it cools. If it gets too thick, just whisk in a little more broth or water.

Cranberry Sauce

Ready to make your own cranberry sauce this Thanksgiving? Here’s a simple recipe you can whip up in no time!

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 orange, zested and juiced (optional)

Directions:

  1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or bad berries.

  2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

  3. Add cranberries to the pan and bring to a gentle boil.

  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will pop as they cook.

  5. If using, add orange zest and juice for extra flavor.

  6. Remove from heat when the sauce reaches your desired thickness. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

  7. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving or storing in the fridge.

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Your homemade cranberry sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also make it ahead and freeze it for up to two months!

Green Bean Casserole

Here’s a tasty recipe for Green Bean Casserole that you can make for Thanksgiving:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup French-fried onions
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the green beans, soup, milk, half the onions, cheese, and pepper in a large bowl.

  3. Pour the mixture into a 2-quart baking dish.

  4. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly.

  5. Sprinkle the remaining onions on top.

  6. Bake for 5 more minutes until onions are golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Your family will love this creamy, crunchy side dish!

Sweet Potato Casserole

Here’s a yummy sweet potato casserole recipe for your Thanksgiving feast!

Ingredients:

  • 4 large sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup evaporated milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Topping:

  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

  1. Peel and cut sweet potatoes. Boil until tender, about 15 minutes.

  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  3. Mash the cooked sweet potatoes in a large bowl.

  4. Mix in brown sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon.

  5. Pour the mixture into your baking dish.

  6. In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and softened butter until crumbly. Add pecans.

  7. Sprinkle the topping over the sweet potato mixture.

  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious sweet potato casserole!

Pumpkin Pie

Get ready to bake a delicious pumpkin pie! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 9-inch pie crust
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Mix the pumpkin, condensed milk, eggs, spices, and salt in a large bowl until smooth.

  3. Pour the mixture into your pie crust.

  4. Bake for 15 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35-40 more minutes.

  5. Your pie is done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

  6. Let it cool and enjoy your homemade pumpkin pie!

You can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra yumminess. Happy baking!

Dinner Rolls

Here’s a simple recipe for delicious Thanksgiving dinner rolls:

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 1 egg

Directions:

  1. Mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.

  2. Add melted butter, warm milk, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.

  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes.

  4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.

  5. Punch down the dough and shape into 12 rolls.

  6. Put rolls in a greased baking pan. Let rise for 30 minutes.

  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

  9. Brush with melted butter and serve warm.

These rolls are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table!

Brussels Sprouts

You’ll love this easy Brussels sprouts recipe for Thanksgiving! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.

  3. In a bowl, toss the sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

  4. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.

  5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.

  6. They’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Your Brussels sprouts will come out perfectly caramelized and delicious. The garlic adds a wonderful flavor that your guests will love. This simple side dish is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table!

Macaroni And Cheese

Ready to make a creamy, comforting mac and cheese for Thanksgiving? Here’s what you’ll need:

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• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Now let’s get cooking!

  1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux.

  3. Slowly whisk in the milk. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens.

  4. Add the cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts.

  5. Mix in the cooked macaroni until well coated.

  6. Pour into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.

  7. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Your homemade mac and cheese is ready to serve! This creamy, cheesy side dish will be a hit at your Thanksgiving table.

Cornbread

Ready to make some delicious cornbread for Thanksgiving? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 large egg

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.

  2. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

  3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, and egg.

  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix!

  5. Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly.

  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The top should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

  7. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting into squares.

Your homemade cornbread is now ready to serve! It’s perfect alongside your turkey and other Thanksgiving dishes. Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of this classic side dish.

Pecan Pie

Get ready to bake a delicious pecan pie for your Thanksgiving feast! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 unbaked pie crust
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves

Now let’s make this sweet treat!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

  3. Spread the pecan halves evenly in the pie crust.

  4. Pour the egg mixture over the pecans.

  5. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

  6. Let the pie cool completely before serving.

Your pecan pie will be a hit at the Thanksgiving table! The gooey filling and crunchy pecans create a perfect texture combo. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra yumminess.

Candied Yams

Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious candied yams:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Now let’s make these tasty yams:

  1. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick pieces.

  2. Boil the slices in water for 5-10 minutes until just tender. Drain well.

  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.

  4. Arrange the sweet potato slices in the dish.

  5. In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt.

  6. Pour this sweet mixture over the potatoes, making sure they’re evenly coated.

  7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

  8. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the yams are soft and caramelized.

Your candied yams are ready to serve! They’ll be a hit at your Thanksgiving table.

Turkey Brine

Here’s a tasty turkey brine recipe to make your Thanksgiving bird extra juicy and flavorful!

Ingredients:

  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 orange, peeled
  • 1 lemon, peeled
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon peppercorns
  • 4 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme

Directions:

  1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt and sugar, stirring until dissolved.

  2. Add orange and lemon peels, bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Let it return to a boil, then remove from heat.

  3. Pour in the remaining cold water and let the brine cool completely.

  4. Place your thawed turkey in a large container or brining bag. Pour the cooled brine over the turkey, making sure it’s fully covered.

  5. Refrigerate for 16-24 hours before cooking.

  6. Before roasting, remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry. Discard the used brine.

Your turkey is now ready for your favorite roasting recipe! The brine will help keep it moist and add a subtle, delicious flavor.

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Apple Pie

Here’s a delicious apple pie recipe for your Thanksgiving feast:

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups sliced Granny Smith apples
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 egg white
  • 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Mix the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice in a large bowl.

  3. Pour the apple mixture into the bottom crust. Dot with butter.

  4. Cover with the top crust, seal the edges, and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

  5. Brush the top crust with beaten egg white for a golden finish.

  6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

  7. Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Your family and friends will love this classic Thanksgiving treat!

Butternut Squash Soup

You’ll love this warm and cozy butternut squash soup for Thanksgiving! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pumpkin seeds and mascarpone for topping

Directions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.

  2. Add squash and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until squash is tender.

  3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.

  4. Stir in cream and season with salt and pepper.

  5. Serve hot, topped with pumpkin seeds and a dollop of mascarpone if you like.

This easy recipe is perfect for busy Thanksgiving prep. You can make it ahead and reheat when ready to serve. Enjoy your creamy, delicious soup!

Corn On The Cob

You’ll love this simple yet tasty corn on the cob recipe for Thanksgiving! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 6 ears of fresh corn
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Husk the corn and remove all the silks.

  2. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.

  3. Add the corn to the boiling water and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.

  4. While the corn cooks, mix the softened butter with Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

  5. Remove the corn from the water and pat dry with paper towels.

  6. Spread the flavored butter mixture over each ear of corn.

  7. For extra flavor, you can grill the buttered corn for 2-3 minutes on each side.

  8. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving corn on the cob!

This recipe is easy to make and will be a hit with your guests. The Parmesan and garlic add a lovely twist to the classic corn on the cob.

Glazed Carrots

Get ready to make a tasty side dish for your Thanksgiving feast! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 4-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Put the carrots in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover them by 1 inch.

  2. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and let the carrots simmer for 8-10 minutes until they’re tender.

  3. Drain the carrots and set them aside in a bowl.

  4. In the same pan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the brown sugar and honey, stirring until they’re well mixed.

  5. Put the carrots back in the pan and toss them gently to coat them with the sweet glaze.

  6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the carrots are glazed and heated through.

  7. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Your glazed carrots are now ready to serve! They’ll add a sweet and colorful touch to your Thanksgiving table.

Creamed Corn

You’ll love this creamy, comforting side dish for your Thanksgiving table! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups frozen corn kernels
  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Put all ingredients in a saucepan over low heat.

  2. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. Uncover and stir well. Cook for another 10-15 minutes until everything is hot and well combined.

  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

  5. For a smoother texture, blend 1-2 cups in a blender, then stir it back into the pot.

Your creamed corn is ready to serve! It’s rich, sweet, and sure to be a hit with your guests.