Discover 21 best easy-made recipes for Thanksgiving celebration, offering delicious, nutritious, and simple options to make your holiday meal unforgettable.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. However, preparing a Thanksgiving feast can be daunting, especially if you’re short on time or experience. The good news is that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to create a memorable meal. In this guide, we’ll explore 21 best easy-made recipes for Thanksgiving celebration that are not only simple to prepare but also full of flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving or looking for new dishes to add to your menu, these recipes will help you create a stress-free and satisfying holiday meal.
#1. Classic Roast Turkey
No Thanksgiving is complete without a roast turkey. This easy recipe ensures a moist and flavorful bird without requiring hours of preparation.
Ingredients:
- Whole turkey
- Butter
- Garlic
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
- Salt and pepper
Preparation Tips:
- Prep Ahead: Season the turkey the night before to enhance flavor.
- Even Cooking: Roast the turkey on a rack to ensure even cooking and a crisp skin.
- Let it Rest: Allow the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving to keep it juicy.
#2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple, and this recipe delivers rich, creamy potatoes with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- Yukon gold potatoes
- Butter
- Heavy cream or milk
- Salt and pepper
Preparation Tips:
- Quick Peel: Boil the potatoes with the skins on, then peel them easily after cooking.
- Perfect Texture: Use a potato masher or ricer for smooth, lump-free potatoes.
- Flavor Boost: Add roasted garlic or cream cheese for extra richness.
#3. Easy Cranberry Sauce
Homemade cranberry sauce is a breeze with this simple recipe that balances sweet and tart flavors.
Ingredients:
- Fresh cranberries
- Sugar
- Orange juice
- Zest of one orange
Preparation Tips:
- Quick Prep: Simmer all ingredients together until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Make Ahead: Cranberry sauce can be made days in advance, saving you time on Thanksgiving Day.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
#4. Garlic Green Beans
These garlic green beans are a fresh and healthy side dish that complements any Thanksgiving spread.
Ingredients:
- Fresh green beans
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Preparation Tips:
- Blanch First: Blanch green beans in boiling water for a few minutes, then transfer to ice water to keep them crisp.
- Quick Sauté: Sauté with garlic in olive oil just before serving.
- Bright Finish: A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright, fresh flavor.
#5. Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet potato casserole is topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, making it a crowd-pleaser at any Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients:
- Sweet potatoes
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Pecans
- Mini marshmallows (optional)
Preparation Tips:
- Pre-cook Potatoes: Boil or bake sweet potatoes until tender, then mash.
- Streusel Topping: Mix butter, brown sugar, and chopped pecans for a crunchy topping.
- Optional Marshmallows: Add marshmallows for a classic touch, broiling until golden.
#6. Herb-Infused Gravy
Gravy is essential for a Thanksgiving meal, and this herb-infused version adds depth of flavor to your turkey and mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
- Turkey drippings
- Flour
- Chicken or turkey broth
- Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary)
- Salt and pepper
Preparation Tips:
- Smooth Gravy: Whisk flour into the turkey drippings to avoid lumps.
- Flavor Boost: Add fresh herbs to the gravy for a more aromatic flavor.
- Consistency Control: Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.
#7. Classic Stuffing
This easy stuffing recipe is packed with flavor and can be prepared in advance, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu.
Ingredients:
- Bread cubes (preferably day-old)
- Onion
- Celery
- Chicken broth
- Fresh herbs (sage, parsley, thyme)
- Butter
Preparation Tips:
- Pre-Bake Bread: Toast bread cubes before mixing to prevent sogginess.
- Flavorful Base: Sauté onions and celery in butter before adding to the bread.
- Customize: Add sausage, apples, or cranberries for extra flavor.
#8. Simple Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is a must for Thanksgiving dessert, and this simple recipe guarantees a perfectly spiced, creamy filling with a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
- Canned pumpkin puree
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Eggs
- Pumpkin pie spice
- Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Preparation Tips:
- Blind Bake Crust: Pre-bake the pie crust slightly to avoid a soggy bottom.
- Spice Mix: Use pre-made pumpkin pie spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the pie cool completely before slicing for the best texture.
#9. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a simple yet delicious side dish that adds a touch of green to your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients:
- Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Balsamic vinegar (optional)
Preparation Tips:
- Even Cooking: Halve the sprouts for even roasting.
- High Heat: Roast at a high temperature for a crispy exterior and tender interior.
- Flavor Twist: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy finish.
#10. Buttery Dinner Rolls
These soft and buttery dinner rolls are easy to make and perfect for soaking up gravy or spreading with butter.
Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour
- Yeast
- Sugar
- Butter
- Milk
Preparation Tips:
- Knead Well: Knead the dough until smooth and elastic for the best texture.
- First Rise: Let the dough rise until doubled in size before shaping into rolls.
- Buttery Finish: Brush with melted butter before baking for a golden crust.
#11. Maple-Glazed Carrots
These maple-glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving meal and are incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- Carrots
- Maple syrup
- Butter
- Salt and pepper
Preparation Tips:
- Uniform Size: Cut carrots into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Simple Glaze: Simmer carrots in butter and maple syrup until tender.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for added color.
#12. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, cheesy side dish that’s sure to be a hit with your Thanksgiving guests.
Ingredients:
- Potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
- Heavy cream
- Cheddar cheese
- Garlic
- Nutmeg
Preparation Tips:
- Thin Slices: Slice potatoes thinly and evenly for the best texture.
- Layer Wisely: Layer potatoes with cheese and garlic, pouring cream over the top.
- Golden Top: Bake until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
#13. Pecan Pie Bars
If you’re looking for an easier alternative to traditional pecan pie, these pecan pie bars are a great option.
Ingredients:
- Shortbread crust (flour, butter, sugar)
- Pecans
- Corn syrup
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
Preparation Tips:
- Press Crust Firmly: Press the shortbread crust firmly into the baking dish to prevent crumbling.
- Rich Filling: Mix the pecan filling until well combined, then pour over the crust.
- Cool Completely: Allow bars to cool before cutting for clean slices.
#14. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy spinach and artichoke dip is a perfect appetizer to keep your guests satisfied while the turkey finishes cooking.
Ingredients:
- Fresh spinach
- Canned artichoke hearts
- Cream cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
Preparation Tips:
- Drain Well: Ensure artichokes and spinach are well-drained to avoid a watery dip.
- Creamy Base: Mix cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients.
- Serve Warm: Bake until bubbly and serve with bread or crackers.
#15. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that pairs well with turkey and gravy, offering a slightly sweet and crumbly texture.
Recipes:
- Cornmeal
- Flour
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Buttermilk
Preparation Tips:
- Cast Iron: Bake in a cast-iron skillet for a crispy crust.
- Moist Texture: Use buttermilk for a moist and tender cornbread.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a touch of sugar for sweetness or mix in jalapeños for a savory kick.
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#16. Apple Crisp
Apple crisp is an easy dessert that highlights the flavors of fall, with tender apples and a crunchy oat topping.
Recipes:
- Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Oats
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
- Butter
Preparation Tips:
- Apple Prep: Peel and slice apples evenly for uniform cooking.
- Crispy Topping: Mix oats, butter, and sugar for a crumbly topping.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Top with vanilla ice cream for a perfect finish.
#17. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
For a lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, garlic mashed cauliflower offers a creamy, flavorful side dish.
Recipes:
- Cauliflower
- Garlic
- Butter
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
Preparation Tips:
- Steam Until Soft: Steam cauliflower until very tender before mashing.
- Blend for Creaminess: Use a food processor for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Garlic Flavor: Sauté garlic in butter before blending for a richer taste.
#18. Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This creamy baked macaroni and cheese is a comforting side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Recipes:
- Elbow macaroni
- Cheddar cheese
- Milk
- Butter
- Bread crumbs
Preparation Tips:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook the pasta slightly less than fully tender to prevent overcooking in the oven.
- Cheesy Sauce: Make a roux with butter and flour, then whisk in milk and cheese for a creamy sauce.
- Crispy Topping: Sprinkle with bread crumbs and bake until golden.
#19. Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash is a simple and nutritious side dish that adds vibrant color and natural sweetness to your Thanksgiving meal.
Recipes:
- Butternut squash
- Olive oil
- Cinnamon
- Salt and pepper
Preparation Tips:
- Uniform Cubes: Cut squash into even cubes for consistent roasting.
- Simple Seasoning: Toss with olive oil, cinnamon, and seasoning before roasting.
- High Heat: Roast at a high temperature for caramelized edges and tender centers.
#20. Pumpkin Cheesecake
Pumpkin cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with the indulgence of cheesecake.
Recipes:
- Cream cheese
- Pumpkin puree
- Graham cracker crust
- Sugar
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves)
Preparation Tips:
- Smooth Batter: Beat cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients.
- Avoid Cracks: Bake in a water bath to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for several hours to set before slicing.
#21. Sausage and Apple Stuffing
For a twist on traditional stuffing, this sausage and apple stuffing adds a savory and sweet combination that’s sure to impress.
Recipes:
- Italian sausage
- Apples (Granny Smith)
- Bread cubes
- Onion
- Celery
Preparation Tips:
- Cook Sausage First: Brown sausage before adding it to the stuffing mixture.
- Sweet and Savory: Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the richness of the sausage.
- Moisture Control: Add broth gradually to reach the desired stuffing consistency.
Simplified Thanksgiving Feasts
Many home cooks have found that incorporating these easy-made recipes into their Thanksgiving celebrations has transformed their holiday experience. For instance, one family shared how simplifying their menu with these recipes allowed them to spend more time enjoying the day with loved ones, rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Another cook mentioned that using easy recipes helped them confidently host Thanksgiving for the first time, with rave reviews from their guests.
These success stories highlight that a delicious Thanksgiving feast doesn’t require complicated recipes or hours of prep time. By focusing on simple, flavorful dishes, you can create a memorable and stress-free holiday celebration that your guests will love.
Savor Every Moment.
Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy good food and great company without the stress of complicated recipes. These 21 best easy-made recipes for Thanksgiving celebration offer the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, allowing you to create a delicious holiday feast with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a first-time host, these dishes will help you deliver a memorable meal that your family and friends will love. Remember, the most important part of Thanksgiving is the time spent together, so keep it simple, enjoy the process, and savor every moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prepare these dishes ahead of time?
Many of these recipes, like cranberry sauce, stuffing, and casseroles, can be prepared a day or two in advance and reheated on Thanksgiving Day. This helps reduce stress and kitchen time on the holiday itself.
What are some tips for cooking a Thanksgiving meal in a small kitchen?
Focus on recipes that can be made on the stovetop or in the slow cooker to free up oven space. Also, stagger the cooking times for dishes that need to go in the oven.
How can I adjust these recipes for a smaller gathering?
You can easily halve or quarter most of these recipes to suit a smaller group. Leftovers can also be repurposed for meals in the days following Thanksgiving.
Are there vegetarian options among these recipes?
Yes, recipes like garlic green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, and maple-glazed carrots are vegetarian-friendly. You can also make vegetarian stuffing by omitting sausage or using a plant-based alternative.
What’s the best way to keep food warm while waiting to serve?
Use a low oven (around 200°F) to keep dishes warm without drying them out. You can also use slow cookers on the warm setting or insulated containers.
