22 Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because it’s all about gathering with loved ones and enjoying delicious food. If you’re looking for some new recipe ideas to spice up your Thanksgiving spread this year, you’re in the right place! I’ve put together a list of 22 mouthwatering dishes that are sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for seconds. From traditional favorites to creative twists on classic dishes, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up a feast!

Roast Turkey

One of the stars of the Thanksgiving table, a perfectly roasted turkey is a must-have for any holiday feast. I like to brine my turkey overnight to ensure that it stays juicy and flavorful. Then, I stuff the cavity with aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs before roasting it to golden perfection. Don’t forget to baste the turkey with butter throughout the cooking process to keep it moist and delicious.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that everyone loves. I like to use Yukon Gold potatoes for a rich and velvety texture. After boiling and mashing the potatoes, I stir in plenty of butter, cream, and seasonings to taste. For a fun twist, try adding roasted garlic or fresh herbs to your mashed potatoes for extra flavor.

Cranberry Sauce

No Thanksgiving table is complete without a tangy and sweet cranberry sauce to complement the savory dishes. I like to make my own cranberry sauce by simmering fresh cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and a touch of cinnamon. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it. It’s the perfect accompaniment to turkey and stuffing.

Stuffing

Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, this savory side dish is a Thanksgiving essential. I like to make a classic herb stuffing with plenty of onions, celery, and poultry seasoning. To add some extra flavor and texture, I mix in diced apples, dried cranberries, or nuts. Bake the stuffing in a casserole dish until it’s golden brown and crispy on top.

Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a beloved Thanksgiving side dish that’s both comforting and delicious. I like to make my own creamy mushroom sauce using fresh mushrooms, onions, and garlic. After blanching the green beans, I combine them with the mushroom sauce and top the casserole with crispy fried onions before baking it until bubbly and golden.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a sweet and savory side dish that’s sure to please a crowd. I like to roast my sweet potatoes until they’re caramelized and tender before mashing them with butter and spices. For the topping, I mix together brown sugar, pecans, and oats for a crunchy and sweet finish. Bake the casserole until the topping is golden and the sweet potatoes are heated through.

Pumpkin Pie

No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a slice of rich and creamy pumpkin pie. I like to make my own pie crust from scratch using butter, flour, and a pinch of salt. For the filling, I mix together pumpkin puree, eggs, cream, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Bake the pie until it’s set and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert.

Apple Pie

Another quintessential Thanksgiving dessert, apple pie is a comforting and timeless treat. I like to use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor profile. After tossing the apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, I pile them into a flaky pie crust and top it with a lattice or crumb topping. Bake the pie until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.

Butternut Squash Soup

A warm and comforting bowl of butternut squash soup is the perfect starter for your Thanksgiving meal. I like to roast the squash with onions, garlic, and spices until it’s caramelized and fragrant. Then, I puree the mixture with vegetable broth and cream for a silky smooth texture. Serve the soup with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of sour cream for a touch of sweetness.

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that’s perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. I like to roast my Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar until they’re crispy and caramelized. For a fun twist, try adding bacon, cranberries, or nuts to your Brussels sprouts for extra flavor and texture. They’re a delicious side dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. I like to make my cornbread from scratch using cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and a touch of honey. Bake the cornbread in a cast-iron skillet until it’s golden brown and crispy on the edges. Serve it warm with butter and honey for a sweet and savory treat that pairs perfectly with your holiday meal.

Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is a rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. I like to make my own pie crust using butter, flour, and a pinch of salt. For the filling, I mix together eggs, sugar, corn syrup, and plenty of pecans for a sweet and nutty flavor. Bake the pie until the filling is set and the pecans are toasted, then serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are a simple and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. I like to toss a mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, herbs, and spices before roasting them in the oven. The high heat caramelizes the vegetables and brings out their natural sweetness, making them a delicious addition to your holiday table.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a time to come together with loved ones and enjoy a delicious meal that’s full of warmth and flavor. I hope these recipe ideas inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and try something new this holiday season. From classic dishes like roast turkey and mashed potatoes to creative twists like butternut squash soup and pecan pie, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to cook up a feast that will make this Thanksgiving one to remember. Happy cooking!