Thanksgiving dinner shouldn’t feel like running a marathon; it should be fun and scrumptious! These easy Thanksgiving recipes are perfect for those who want to impress without sweating over a hot stove. From turkey alternatives to delightful sides, we’ve got some simple ideas that even your Aunt Edna would approve of. Plus, if you’re missing an ingredient, no worries! We’ll throw in some handy substitutions that won’t leave you diving into a delivery app. Let’s whip up a feast!
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Nothing says comfort like a bowl of creamy garlic mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving, bringing warmth and flavor to your table. Imagine fluffy potatoes, whipped to perfection, with a hint of garlic and a pat of butter melting right on top. It’s a side dish that everyone will love!
Making these mashed potatoes is super easy. Start with some good-quality potatoes. Russets are great for a fluffy texture, but Yukon Golds add a nice buttery flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even mix in some sweet potatoes for a twist!
Don’t forget the garlic! You can roast it for a sweeter flavor or use fresh for a bit of a kick. And if you’re out of butter, olive oil or even cream cheese can work wonders. Just remember, the key is to taste as you go!
Now, let’s get to the recipe so you can whip these up for your Thanksgiving feast!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or roasted for a sweeter taste)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can poke them with a fork to check.
- While the potatoes are cooking, sauté the minced garlic in butter (or olive oil) over low heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the garlic mixture, milk, and season with salt and pepper.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk and seasoning to your liking.
- Serve hot, topped with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of parsley if you like. Enjoy!
Classic Stuffing with Sage
Classic stuffing with sage is a must-have for any Thanksgiving table. This dish is warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. The golden-brown crust on top gives way to soft, savory bread mixed with herbs. Sage is the star here, adding a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen and makes everyone feel at home.
Making stuffing is easier than it looks. You can use day-old bread, which is perfect for soaking up all those tasty juices. If you don’t have sage, don’t worry! Thyme or rosemary can step in and do a great job too. And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some nuts or dried fruit for a fun twist.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff. Here’s how to whip up this classic dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 10 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (optional)
- 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion. Sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, sage, salt, pepper, and thyme. If you’re using sausage, add it in now.
- Pour the broth over the bread mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The bread should be moist but not soggy.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffing!
Cranberry Orange Sauce
Cranberry orange sauce is a classic Thanksgiving side that adds a burst of flavor to your holiday feast. The vibrant red of the cranberries paired with the bright orange zest creates a beautiful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. This sauce is sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy to make, making it a must-have on your Thanksgiving table.
Making cranberry orange sauce is a breeze. You just need a few simple ingredients, and you can whip it up in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh cranberries, which are in season during the fall. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, frozen ones work just as well. Just remember to thaw them first!
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can switch things up. Instead of orange juice, try using apple juice for a different flavor profile. You can also throw in some chopped nuts for added crunch or even a splash of bourbon for a little kick. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so fun!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or bad berries.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the orange zest and cinnamon, if using. If you want to add walnuts, toss them in now.
- Remove from heat and let it cool. The sauce will thicken more as it cools.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic side dish that brings a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving table. The vibrant green beans are perfectly cooked, offering a crisp texture that pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of toasted almonds. A squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing zing, making it a delightful addition to your feast.
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also visually appealing. The green beans are often served on a beautiful platter, garnished with slivers of almonds and a slice of lemon. It’s a simple way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Now, let’s talk ingredients. You’ll need fresh green beans, sliced almonds, butter, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. If you’re out of butter, feel free to swap it with olive oil for a lighter option. And if you don’t have almonds, walnuts or pecans can work just as well. Just remember, no one will judge you if you sneak a few extra almonds for yourself while cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Toast the Almonds: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (or heat the olive oil). Add the sliced almonds and toast them for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them; they can go from golden to burnt in a flash!
- Combine: Add the drained green beans to the skillet with the toasted almonds. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with salt. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve: Transfer the green beans to a serving dish. Garnish with extra almonds and a lemon wedge if you like. Enjoy your fancy side dish!
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Nothing says Thanksgiving like a slice of pumpkin pie topped with fluffy whipped cream. This classic dessert is a must-have on any holiday table. The rich, spiced pumpkin filling paired with a buttery crust creates the perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
For those who might be wondering, you can totally swap out the pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree if you’re feeling adventurous. And if you’re out of eggs, a mashed banana or a bit of applesauce can work wonders as a substitute. Just remember, baking is all about having fun and experimenting!
Now, let’s get to the good stuff. Here’s how to whip up this delightful pumpkin pie:
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, slowly stir in the evaporated milk until everything is smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the pie crust. Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the pie cool before serving. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra touch!
Enjoy your delicious pumpkin pie! It’s sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering.
Savory Herb Roasted Turkey
Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table, and what better centerpiece than a beautifully roasted turkey? This savory herb roasted turkey is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The turkey in the image looks golden brown and perfectly cooked, surrounded by fresh herbs and garnishes. It’s sitting proudly on a festive table, ready to be carved. The warm ambiance of the setting, complete with candles and seasonal decorations, adds to the inviting feel of the meal.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Here’s how you can make this delicious turkey at home. If you don’t have all the ingredients, don’t worry! You can easily swap some out. For instance, if you’re out of rosemary, thyme works just as well. And if you can’t find fresh herbs, dried ones will do the trick!
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 onion, quartered
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Carefully loosen the skin over the breast and rub the herb mixture under the skin and all over the turkey.
- Stuff the cavity with the lemon and onion quarters.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
- Roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound, basting occasionally with the pan juices. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Once done, let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This helps keep it juicy!
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.
Maple Glazed Carrots
Maple glazed carrots are a delightful side dish that brings a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving table. These vibrant orange beauties not only look great but also taste amazing. The combination of maple syrup and fresh carrots creates a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
To make these carrots, you’ll want to start with fresh, tender carrots. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen carrots work too, but they might not have the same crunch. The maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor even more. You can also swap maple syrup for honey or agave if you prefer.
Cooking these carrots is a breeze. Just toss them in a pan, add your glaze, and let them simmer until they’re tender. It’s a quick process that leaves you with a dish that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, they pair perfectly with turkey or ham, making them a must-have for your holiday feast.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey for a different twist)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Pour in the maple syrup and season with salt and pepper. Stir to coat the carrots.
- Cover the skillet and let the carrots simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender.
- Remove the lid and let the glaze thicken for a couple of minutes if desired.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.