11 Thanksgiving Menu Recipes (2024)

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Turkey

The roast turkey is the quintessential main dish for Thanksgiving feasts. Remember that no matter what you choose to make, the key to a successful dinner is having a turkey large enough to feed everybody – and to have some leftovers for yourself.

This roast turkey recipe includes directions for defrosting, stuffing, trussing, seasoning, and roasting. It also gives instructions on how to bake the turkey if you prefer to leave it unstuffed.

02 of 11

Stuffings and Dressings

Stuffing and dressing are alike but not the same. The main difference is that stuffing is cooked inside the bird and dressing is cooked and served separately. But this distinction is less strict nowadays with the growing preference for cooking turkeys with no stuffing inside (increasing information about food safety shows how stuffing inside the turkey can soak in uncooked poultry juices contaminated with salmonella). Stay on the safe side and cook this beautiful side, well, on the side:

This fragrant, moist bread dressing is a Thanksgiving classic. You can add chopped nuts, raisins, diced apples, or dried cranberries depending on your preferences.

03 of 11

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes and gravy are one of the favorite combinations on Thanksgiving plates. Butter and milk help with the creamy texture but feel free to replace them with dairy-free beverages and margarine if there are dietary needs at your table.

04 of 11

Turkey Gravy

For many, the gravy is as important as the turkey. Our suggestions are quick and simple, letting the main flavors shine. Your gravy should be thick and as flavorful as your roast this recipe does exactly that. This classic Southern turkey gravy is rich and delicious. Pan drippings from turkey (or chicken) provide the flavor.

05 of 11

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce has a lot of variations, and can easily take on citrus flavoring, liqueur, or spices without losing its character. Our cranberry recipe offers quick and flavorful preparations that complement your turkey roast or ham.

06 of 11

Sweet Potato Casserole

A traditional side dish for many, this sweet potato casserole is an incredibly delicious choice. It's the perfect cross between a side and a dessert. The sweetness of the potatoes and the crunchiness of the pecan topping make a great accompaniment to savory turkey and gravy.

07 of 11

Green Bean Supreme

A nice change from the traditional green bean casserole is this green bean dish made with sour cream, cheese, and a variety of herbs. Made with cream of mushroom soup, this dish can be made with fresh or frozen green beans for an easy prep.

08 of 11

Salads

Salads have taken over holiday tables and the options are so numerous and flavorful that it's hard just to pick a few that best complement your mains. We suggest making this Moroccan beetroot salad recipe with cooked beets over a bed of spinach and topping it with a creamy garlic and cumin yogurt dressing; the fresh mint and cilantro give the dish a Moroccan flare.

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Southern-Style Butter Yeast Rolls

Even if your dinner menu is already a bounty of dishes, rolls have a key part to play in Thanksgiving dinner. They are a beautiful and soft vehicle to clean your plate!

10 of 11

Old-Fashioned Apple Pie

Homemade apple pie is a staple on Thanksgiving tables. Make our classic apple pie with cinnamon and nutmeg to perfume tart apples. You can serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

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Classic Autumn Pumpkin Pie

Like apple pie, pumpkin pie is a dessert you absolutely can't skip. Most people have one slice of each! This classic pumpkin pie contains just the right blend of spices and creaminess; sprinkle cinnamon before serving, or whip some cream to top it.