As the holiday season approaches, our thoughts turn to the classic Thanksgiving feast. While the turkey may be the centerpiece of the meal, it’s the delicious side dishes and desserts that really bring the party together. In this article, we’re excited to share 20 festive fun recipes to add some excitement to your Turkey Day celebrations.
From savory sliders to sweet treats, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up with some new flavors and ideas, there’s something here for everyone. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
Turkey and Cranberry Sliders
These bite-sized sliders are a perfect combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries, making them a great addition to your holiday gathering or party. This recipe is quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 small hamburger buns (or slider buns)
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped cranberries, breadcrumbs, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a patty shape.
4. Place patties onto prepared hamburger buns and top with lettuce, tomato, and cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (oven) or 6-8 minutes per side (skillet)
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
Elevate your fall gatherings with these rich and creamy Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars, infused with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into prepared dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
3. Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over baked crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Potato Marshmallow Casserole
Sweet Potato Marshmallow Casserole: A Classic Southern Delight
This sweet and savory casserole combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the fluffiness of marshmallows, topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just because!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 cups mini marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter; spread on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, mix marshmallows and vanilla extract.
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes and marshmallow mixture in a 9×13-inch dish.
6. Top with chopped pecans and salt to taste.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Sweeten up your veggie game with this simple and delicious recipe! Tender Brussels sprouts get a sweet and sticky makeover with a rich maple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the glazed sprouts in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, shaking the pan halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffing-Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe featuring earthy mushrooms filled with savory stuffing and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 cup bread-based stuffing mix
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together stuffing mix and softened butter until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the filling and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
7. Optional: Top with grated cheddar cheese during the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites: A Sweet and Savory Appetizer
These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tartness of fresh cranberries, perfect for a holiday party or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package of crackers or baguette slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, honey, and orange zest.
3. Cut the brie cheese into small cubes.
4. Arrange a few pieces of cheese on each cracker or baguette slice.
5. Top with a spoonful of the cranberry mixture.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crackers are toasted.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pecan Pie Brownies
Pecan Pie Brownies: A Decadent Twist on Classic Brownies
These rich and fudgy brownies combine the best of both worlds – the deep, chocolatey flavor of brownies and the nutty, caramel-like goodness of pecan pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, and flour.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Stir in chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the essence of herbs and spices to create a deliciously roasted turkey breast. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the meat.
4. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cider Sangria
Warm up with this autumnal twist on the classic Spanish cocktail. Apple cider and red wine meld together in perfect harmony, making it a perfect drink for crisp fall evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/4 cup triple sec
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine red wine and apple cider.
2. Add triple sec, brown sugar, and stir until dissolved.
3. Add sliced oranges and lemons to the pitcher.
4. Place cinnamon stick in the pitcher for added warmth and aroma.
5. Chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional citrus slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Cornbread Sausage Stuffing
This savory stuffing combines the warmth of cornbread with the richness of sausage and herbs, perfect for the holiday season. It’s a delicious twist on traditional bread-based stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 celery stalks, 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 (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, sausage mixture, sage, and poultry seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff loosely into a 9×13-inch baking dish or use as a topping for your favorite main course.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Dip with Cinnamon Chips
Warm up your holiday gatherings with this sweet and spicy dip that combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with crunchy cinnamon chips. Perfect for a party or as a snack to enjoy while decorating the tree.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 ounce) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup Cinnamon Chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and lightly set.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with Cinnamon Chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
A classic comfort food dish that combines the sweetness of green beans, the savory flavor of onions, and the creaminess of a crispy topping. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onions in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the cooked green bean mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with crispy onions (see below) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Crispy Onions:
1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and crispy.
3. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
Caramelized Onion and Bacon Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with this rich and savory recipe featuring caramelized onions and crispy bacon.
Caramelized Onion and Bacon Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet or Idaho potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and heavy cream.
5. Add the cooked bacon, caramelized onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix well.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cranberry Orange Relish
This sweet and tangy relish is a perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast, adding a burst of flavor to your turkey, ham, or even crackers. With its vibrant red color and zesty aroma, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a food processor, combine the cranberries, marmalade, orange zest, and orange juice. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. Add the honey and salt; process until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus processing time)
Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash
Warm up with this flavorful and aromatic roasted butternut squash dish, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of the squash with a blend of warming spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel, de-seed, and cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, toss the squash with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the squash mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Gravy with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your holiday meal with this simple and flavorful turkey gravy recipe featuring fresh herbs. This homemade gravy is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from cooking the turkey)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add turkey drippings, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer gravy for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling
A classic fall dessert gets a creamy twist with this pumpkin roll recipe, featuring a tangy cream cheese filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream cheese filling (recipe below)
Cream Cheese Filling:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness.
6. Spread cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner table with these soft, buttery, and flavorful garlic rolls that are sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup garlic butter (see below for recipe)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Garlic Butter Recipe:
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add melted butter, sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Brush with garlic butter and cut into desired shapes.
6. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll. Brush tops with beaten egg.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Harvest Salad with Pomegranate and Pecans
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this vibrant salad, featuring sweet pomegranate seeds, crunchy pecans, and a medley of fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and chopped pecans.
2. If using goat cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie
Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious pot pie that’s perfect for using up those extra holiday ingredients. This recipe is an easy and satisfying way to repurpose your leftovers and enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving all over again.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked turkey, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped herbs (parsley, thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mixed vegetables in butter until tender.
3. Add the diced turkey, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir until heated through.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Fill the pie crust with the turkey mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 festive and fun Thanksgiving recipes! From classic turkey dishes like Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast and Turkey Gravy with Fresh Herbs, to sweet treats like Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars and Pecan Pie Brownies, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in savory sides like Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Caramelized Onion and Bacon Mashed Potatoes, or try unique desserts like Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling and Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to make your Thanksgiving celebration a memorable one!
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