As the holiday season approaches, many of us start to think about our favorite Thanksgiving traditions. For some, it’s the family gatherings, while for others, it’s the delicious food that brings everyone together. And what’s more iconic than a classic Thanksgiving dinner? This year, why not try making some traditional recipes that will transport you back to a cozy fall evening with loved ones.
From savory dishes like roast turkey and creamy mashed potatoes, to sweet treats like pumpkin pie and pecan pie, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 classic Thanksgiving recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe!
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic roast turkey recipe, featuring a compound herb butter that adds an extra layer of savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 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 medium bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, thyme, rosemary, and garlic until well combined.
4. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 4-4 1/2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-4 1/2 hours
Classic Bread Stuffing
Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe
This traditional bread stuffing recipe is a staple of many holiday meals. With its rich flavors and soft texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, melted butter, sautéed mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
4. Add the chicken broth and mix until the bread is evenly moistened.
5. Pour the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food, creamy mashed potatoes are a staple side dish that pairs well with many meals. This recipe yields a rich and velvety mash with a hint of butter and cream.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for added flavor
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 the butter, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the milk or heavy cream, mashing until the potatoes reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for extra flavor.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday meals with this simple and delicious homemade cranberry sauce recipe. This sweet and tangy condiment is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, stuffing, and even using 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
– 1/2 teaspoon 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 salt.
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 before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Green Bean Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper. Stir well.
4. Combine cooked green bean mixture with the soup mixture; stir until coated.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
This classic Southern side dish combines sweet potatoes, brown sugar, marshmallows, and a crunchy pecan topping for a crowd-pleasing casserole perfect for holidays and gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, flour, salt, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with marshmallows and sprinkle with chopped pecans and brown sugar.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Traditional Pumpkin Pie
The quintessential Thanksgiving dessert, pumpkin pie is a staple of holiday gatherings. This traditional recipe yields a creamy, spiced, and perfectly sweet pie that’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 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, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Beat in the heavy cream and 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 (175°C) and bake an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls
Savor the aroma of freshly baked dinner rolls, infused with the richness of butter and a hint of warmth from the oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup warm water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add the melted butter and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired roll shapes.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Summary: This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts by roasting them to perfection, while crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor. Perfect as a side dish or addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. After the Brussels sprouts have roasted for 15 minutes, add the cooked bacon to the baking sheet and toss to combine.
6. Continue to roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the bacon is heated through and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cornbread Dressing
A Southern staple, cornbread dressing is a must-have side dish during the holidays. This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the savory flavors of onions, celery, and herbs to create a delicious accompaniment to your favorite roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 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 onion, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. Add crumbled cornbread, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in chicken broth and melted butter; stir until dressing is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory Apple Cider Glazed Ham recipe. Perfect for a crowd, this glazed ham is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, honey, garlic, mustard, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Place ham in a roasting pan and score the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
5. Brush glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Pecan Pie
A classic American dessert, pecan pie is a rich and nutty treat perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. With its gooey filling and crunchy pecans, this recipe is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups pecan halves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Stir in pecan halves and salt until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and pecans are golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Carrots
Elevate your roasted carrots with a flavorful twist! This simple recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the pungency of garlic and herbs, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together carrots, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the carrot mixture evenly.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Gravy
A rich and savory gravy is the perfect accompaniment to many classic dishes. This recipe yields a flavorful and velvety sauce that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup butter or oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
3. Gradually add the warmed beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent 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, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
6. Serve hot over your favorite dish.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s sure to become a family favorite! This recipe is easy to make and yields a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese dish with a golden-brown crust.
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 salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Moist and aromatic, this spiced pumpkin bread is perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion. With a blend of warm spices and the sweetness of pumpkin, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and chopped walnuts (if using). Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Maple Glazed Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes get a delicious twist with this simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of maple syrup. Perfect as a side dish or main course, these roasted sweet potatoes are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil.
4. Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the maple glaze all over the sweet potatoes, making sure to get some of the glaze in the cuts.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Cornbread
This moist and flavorful cornbread recipe is a staple for any gathering. Made with simple ingredients and a few easy steps, it’s perfect for accompanying your favorite soups, stews, or as a side dish to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for the fall season! Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash, which is then blended with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
5. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor with broth, coconut milk, onion, garlic, and cilantro (if using).
6. Blend until smooth, then season to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramel Apple Pie
This Caramel Apple Pie recipe combines the classic flavors of tender apples and flaky crust with a rich caramel topping, creating a truly indulgent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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 to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and top with second pie crust.
4. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits in the top crust for steam release.
5. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the pie.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to feast on classic Thanksgiving traditions with these mouth-watering recipes! From savory dishes like Roast Turkey with Herb Butter and Green Bean Casserole, to sweet treats like Pumpkin Pie and Pecan Pie, there’s something for everyone. Classic comfort foods like Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows, and Buttery Dinner Rolls are also included. Plus, don’t miss the opportunity to try new twists on old favorites, such as Maple Glazed Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Caramel Apple Pie. These 20 traditional Thanksgiving recipes are sure to become new family favorites!
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