10 Classic Thanksgiving Meal Recipes for Your Holiday Feast
We may earn a commission through all links on this website. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.The aroma of roasting turkey, the warmth of freshly baked pumpkin pie, and the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones – Thanksgiving is a holiday that’s all about savoring the flavors and memories of the season. And what’s at the heart of it all? The food, of course! As the big day approaches, we’re excited to share our favorite Thanksgiving recipes ideas that are sure to impress your family and friends.
From classic dishes with a twist to innovative sides and desserts, we’ve got you covered with a collection of mouthwatering recipes that will make your Turkey Day celebration truly unforgettable.
Herb Roasted Turkey
Herb Roasted Turkey is a classic centerpiece for any Thanksgiving table. This succulent bird is infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and butter, creating a mouthwatering flavor that will delight your guests. With a golden-brown skin and tender meat, it’s the perfect holiday dish that brings everyone together.
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). 2. Prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and patting it dry with paper towels. 3. In a bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (like thyme, rosemary, and sage), salt, and pepper. 4. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and spread half of the herb butter mixture under the skin, then rub the remaining mixture all over the outside of the turkey. 5. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and tie the legs together with kitchen twine. 6. Roast the turkey, basting occasionally with its juices, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 3 to 4 hours depending on the size of the bird. 7. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. 8. Serve and enjoy your perfectly roasted turkey!
Classic Stuffing with Sage
Classic Stuffing with Sage is a deliciously seasoned side dish that perfectly complements any Thanksgiving feast. Made with hearty bread, aromatic herbs, and a savory blend of spices, this stuffing is a timeless favorite at the holiday table. Its rich flavor, enhanced by the distinct taste of sage, brings warmth and comfort to your meal.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add diced onion and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender. 3. Add the chopped sage, thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring until fragrant. 4. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes with the sautéed mixture. 5. Slowly pour in chicken or vegetable broth, mixing until the bread is fully moistened but not soggy. 6. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. 7. Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown. Serve warm.
Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry Orange Relish is a vibrant and refreshing condiment that complements any Thanksgiving feast. Bursting with tart cranberries and zesty orange flavors, it adds a delightful contrast to savory dishes. This easy-to-make relish can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully by the time the holiday arrives.
1. Rinse 12 ounces of fresh cranberries and remove any stems or bruised berries. 2. In a food processor, combine the cranberries, the zest of one orange, and the juice of that orange. 3. Add 1 cup of sugar and blend until the mixture is finely chopped but not pureed. 4. Transfer the relish to a bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a creamy and flavorful side dish that elevates any Thanksgiving table. Infused with roasted garlic, these potatoes have a rich and aromatic taste that perfectly complements turkey and gravy. With their buttery texture and subtle hint of garlic, they are sure to become a family favorite.
1. Begin by peeling and cubing 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. 2. Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a teaspoon of salt. 3. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. 4. Meanwhile, roast 5 cloves of garlic in a small oven-safe dish drizzled with olive oil at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden and soft. 5. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. 6. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher, then add in the roasted garlic, 1/2 cup of butter, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. 7. Stir until smooth and creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. 8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Maple Glazed Carrots
Maple Glazed Carrots are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness. The carrots become tender as they absorb the rich maple syrup, creating a luscious glaze that enhances their natural flavor. This dish is not only visually appealing but also easy to prepare, ensuring it will be a hit with family and friends alike.
1. Begin by peeling and slicing 1 pound of fresh carrots into your desired shape. You can cut them into rounds, sticks, or diagonally for a fancy presentation. 2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. 3. Add the sliced carrots to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften. 4. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of maple syrup over the carrots, and season with salt and pepper to taste. 5. Continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the carrots are tender and well-coated in the glaze. 6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired, before serving.
Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic side dish that adds a touch of elegance to any Thanksgiving spread. This delightful recipe features crisp-tender green beans sautéed with slivered almonds and finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a burst of flavor. It’s a simple yet sophisticated addition that perfectly complements your holiday meal.
1. Begin by trimming the ends of 1 pound of fresh green beans and blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. 2. Drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. 3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat; add 1/2 cup of slivered almonds and toast them lightly until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. 4. Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss to combine, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. 5. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste, and serve warm.
Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is a creamy and velvety dish that perfectly captures the warmth of fall flavors. This soup, with its sweet and nutty undertones, is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. Paired with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of olive oil, it’s both comfort food and a festive treat.
1. Begin by peeling and cubing 1 large butternut squash. 2. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until soft. 3. Add the cubed squash, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. 4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender. 5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches. 6. Stir in 1 cup of coconut milk or heavy cream, and season with nutmeg or cinnamon if desired. 7. Serve warm, garnished with pumpkin seeds or a swirl of cream.
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Pumpkin pie is a quintessential dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With its rich, spiced filling and flaky crust, it is a staple on Thanksgiving tables across the country. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream, this delightful treat is both comforting and indulgent, making it a favorite among family and friends.
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). 2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. 3. Whisk the mixture until smooth and well combined. 4. Pour the filling into a prepared pie crust. 5. Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set. 6. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. 7. Serve with freshly whipped cream on top.
Pecan Pie with Chocolate Drizzle
Pecan pie with chocolate drizzle is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations. The sweet and nutty flavor of the pecans is beautifully complemented by the rich chocolate drizzle, making each bite a delicious treat. This indulgent pie is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished holiday favorite.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Prepare the pie crust by fitting it into a 9-inch pie dish and crimping the edges. 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of corn syrup, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of melted butter, 3 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until well blended. 4. Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans and pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. 5. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. 6. Allow the pie to cool completely. 7. For the chocolate drizzle, melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. 8. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled pie before serving. 9. Enjoy your delicious pecan pie with chocolate drizzle!
Apple Cider Mimosa
Apple Cider Mimosa is a delightful and festive drink perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations. This sparkling beverage combines the warmth of apple cider with the effervescence of champagne, creating a refreshing and flavorful toast for your holiday gathering. With its beautiful golden hue and hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, this mimosa is sure to impress your guests and elevate your Thanksgiving brunch.
1. In a large pitcher, combine 3 cups of apple cider with 1 cup of orange juice. 2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. 3. When ready to serve, fill champagne flutes halfway with the apple cider mixture. 4. Top each glass with chilled champagne or sparkling wine, and stir gently to combine. 5. Garnish with a thin slice of apple or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. 6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
