23 Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas
As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself getting excited to plan the perfect holiday dinner. With so many delicious options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide what to cook. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 23 Thanksgiving dinner ideas to inspire your menu this year. From traditional dishes to modern twists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the table. So grab a pen and paper, and let’s start planning a feast to remember!
Classic Roast Turkey
One of the most iconic dishes of Thanksgiving, a classic roast turkey never fails to impress. Start by brining the turkey overnight to lock in moisture, then roast it to golden perfection. Serve with homemade gravy and cranberry sauce for a truly traditional meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
For a meat-free option that’s still bursting with flavor, try making vegetarian stuffed acorn squash. Fill the squash with a mixture of quinoa, roasted vegetables, and herbs, then bake until tender. This dish is not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without a generous serving of creamy garlic mashed potatoes. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, garlic, and milk until smooth and fluffy. Top with chopped chives for a pop of color and freshness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Cranberry Orange Relish
Add a burst of tangy sweetness to your Thanksgiving spread with homemade cranberry orange relish. Simply combine fresh cranberries, orange zest, sugar, and a splash of orange juice in a food processor until smooth. This vibrant condiment is the perfect accompaniment to roast turkey or ham.
Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up your guests with a bowl of velvety butternut squash soup as a starter for your Thanksgiving dinner. Roast butternut squash with onions and garlic until caramelized, then blend with vegetable broth until smooth. Finish with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for a touch of elegance.
Apple Sage Stuffing
Upgrade your Thanksgiving stuffing with the addition of sweet apples and fragrant sage. Sauté onions, celery, and apples in butter until soft, then mix with cubed bread, fresh herbs, and chicken broth. Bake until golden and crispy for a side dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Turn Brussels sprouts into a crave-worthy side dish by roasting them with crispy bacon and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Toss halved sprouts with rendered bacon fat, salt, and pepper, then roast until caramelized and tender. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory flavors.
Pecan Pie
Indulge your sweet tooth with a classic pecan pie for dessert at your Thanksgiving dinner. Whip up a buttery crust, then fill with a rich mixture of pecans, sugar, eggs, and corn syrup. Bake until set and golden brown, then serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent finish to your meal.
Green Bean Casserole
Put a twist on a classic Thanksgiving side dish with a homemade green bean casserole. Sauté green beans with onions, mushrooms, and garlic until tender, then mix with a creamy sauce made from scratch. Top with crispy fried onions and bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting and delicious addition to your menu.
Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots
Elevate simple roasted carrots with a sticky-sweet maple glaze that’s sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving dinner. Toss carrots with maple syrup, olive oil, and a pinch of cinnamon, then roast until caramelized and tender. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a dish that’s both savory and sweet.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Ditch the marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole and opt for a more sophisticated version this Thanksgiving. Roast sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Top with a crunchy pecan streusel for a decadent side dish that’s perfect for the holidays.
Cornbread Muffins
Serve up a basket of warm cornbread muffins at your Thanksgiving dinner for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish. Mix cornmeal with flour, sugar, and buttermilk, then bake until golden and fluffy. Serve with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey for a comforting addition to your holiday table.
Pumpkin Cheesecake
End your Thanksgiving dinner on a sweet note with a creamy pumpkin cheesecake that’s bursting with fall flavors. Mix cream cheese with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a splash of vanilla, then pour into a graham cracker crust. Bake until set, then chill until firm before serving with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Conclusion
As I plan my Thanksgiving dinner this year, I’m excited to incorporate some of these delicious ideas into my menu. From classic roast turkey to modern twists on traditional dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the table. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large feast, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and make for a memorable holiday celebration. So grab your apron and get cooking – it’s time to create a Thanksgiving dinner to remember!
