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Home » Recipe Collections

38 Classic Thanksgiving Recipes You’ve Been Missing Out On All These Years

Published: Nov 16, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Classic Thanksgiving recipes are the heart of any holiday gathering, combining tradition with flavors that bring everyone together. Whether you love the time-tested favorites or are ready for a new take on old classics, these dishes mix the familiar with fresh ideas that work perfectly for Thanksgiving. From simple sides to show-stopping mains, you’ll find plenty of recipes that feel like home, with just the right touch to keep things interesting. No matter what you’re craving, these recipes will help you put together a meal everyone will remember.

Sliced slow-cooker apple cider brined turkey breast with knife on a cutting board.
Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Thanksgiving Roasted Turkey

Thanksgiving Roasted Turkey. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Roasted turkey with fresh herbs and green apples requires minimal work while delivering moist, flavorful results for a Thanksgiving centerpiece. The herbs and apples provide a fresh, aromatic profile that makes this turkey a perfect main course for your holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Roasted Turkey

Smoked Turkey Breast

Smoked Turkey Breast. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Smoked turkey breast enhances the classic Thanksgiving dish with rich, layered flavors and a juicy finish, prepared with minimal effort. This dish delivers an unforgettable smoky flavor that makes it a standout at your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Turkey Breast

Boneless Turkey Breast

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast on a plate with gravy, stuffing, mashed potatoes and a roll.
Boneless Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow cooker boneless turkey breast with gravy is a convenient and flavorful option for small Thanksgiving gatherings or weeknight meals. This dish requires little prep time and is perfect for those looking for a quick, yet satisfying, main course.
Get the Recipe: Boneless Turkey Breast

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker apple cider brined turkey breast brings autumn-inspired flavors to a moist, tender dish that fits seamlessly into any Thanksgiving celebration. Using a slow cooker ensures this turkey comes out perfectly tender and flavorful, perfect for a stress-free holiday.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

Tart Cherry Cranberry Glazed Turkey

Tart Cherry Cranberry Glazed Turkey. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cherry cranberry glazed turkey features a sweet-tart glaze that adds a festive flair to the Thanksgiving table. This dish pairs wonderfully with traditional sides and adds an elegant touch to your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Tart Cherry Cranberry Glazed Turkey

Buttermilk Brined Turkey

A buttermilk brined roasted surrounded by festive holiday side dishes.
Buttermilk Brined Turkey. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Buttermilk brined turkey is infused with rosemary, thyme, and sage, delivering a moist and flavorful main course that shines as a Thanksgiving centerpiece. The buttermilk brine ensures the turkey remains tender, making it a crowd-pleaser for your holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Brined Turkey

Vegan Turkey Roast

Vegan Turkey Roast in a glass baking dish on a countertop, garnished with herbs.
Vegan Turkey Roast. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A budget-friendly vegan turkey roast, crafted with chickpeas and seitan, uses pantry staples for a satisfying and holiday-appropriate main course. This vegan option ensures that everyone can enjoy a festive meal, regardless of dietary preferences.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Turkey Roast

Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

A serving of Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan in a plate.
Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Maple Dijon chicken sheet pan dinner combines a sweet, tangy glaze, crispy bacon, and roasted veggies, delivering an effortless yet flavorful option for Thanksgiving. It’s a one-pan dish that cuts down on cleanup while offering a mouthwatering main course.
Get the Recipe: Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This easy copycat Panera broccoli cheddar mac and cheese comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick and comforting addition to any Thanksgiving dinner table. It’s a creamy, cheesy side that will be a hit with guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes with a slice of butter and a golden spoon.
Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot mashed potatoes, made with garlic and creamy ingredients, are a time-saving and flavorful side that enhances the Thanksgiving table. The pressure cooker cuts down on cooking time, making this an easy and efficient side dish for the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Vegan Stuffing

An overhead view of skillet with stuffing and a fork and spoon in it.
Vegan Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan stuffing recipe, packed with wholesome ingredients, adds a plant-based touch to your Thanksgiving spread. It's a simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with turkey or any of your other Thanksgiving dishes.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries

Close up of cranberry sauce made with dried cranberries.
Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Made with dried cranberries, this simple cranberry sauce recipe is a classic side dish that complements the Thanksgiving feast beautifully. It adds a burst of tangy freshness to balance the richness of the other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries

Top view of Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, pecans, and cranberries combine simplicity with bold flavors, making them a perfect Thanksgiving side. The crispy bacon and sweet cranberries provide a dynamic contrast that elevates this veggie dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Close-up image of cripsy vegan roasted potatoes.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crispy vegan roasted potatoes with lemon-thyme dressing are a simple yet bold-flavored Thanksgiving side that balances heavier dishes. Their crispy texture and fresh herb dressing make them a satisfying addition to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Every bite of this cheesy cauliflower casserole is bursting with flavor, making it a memorable addition to Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings. This dish combines cheese and cauliflower for a rich, creamy side that pairs well with turkey or ham.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Butternut squash with wild rice, walnuts, and pomegranate seeds brings seasonal flair to the Thanksgiving menu. This dish can be served as a side or main, offering a nutrient-packed and festive option for your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Broccoli Casserole with Crackers

Someone serving broccoli casserole.
Broccoli Casserole with Crackers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Broccoli casserole with a cheesy, crunchy topping is easy to prepare and disappears quickly, making it a hit during Thanksgiving. The combination of melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs makes this side dish a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Crackers

Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole

Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Transform Thanksgiving leftovers into a layered casserole, combining turkey, stuffing, and sides for a dish that captures the spirit of the holiday all over again. This recipe is perfect for reusing leftovers and offers a second round of holiday enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole

Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Roasted Brussels sprouts with pancetta, feta, and pomegranate create a flavorful Thanksgiving side dish that quickly becomes a table favorite. The balance of savory pancetta and sweet pomegranate makes this a festive and flavorful option.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Wild rice casserole with mushrooms and mozzarella is a hearty, crowd-pleasing side that pairs well with Thanksgiving favorites. It adds depth and texture to the holiday table, making it a go-to side dish.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer sweet potato casserole stacks, topped with a crunchy layer and served with sour cream, make for a quick and easy Thanksgiving side. The air fryer gives them a crispy texture without the extra fat, making them a convenient and tasty side dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and cheesy hashbrown casserole brings hearty comfort to the table, whether served for breakfast, dinner, or a Thanksgiving potluck. This casserole is rich, filling, and guaranteed to be a hit during the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Bacon Wrapped Sausage Stuffing

Bacon Wrapped Sausage Stuffing with a slice cut out of it showing the stuffing with sausage meat throughout.
Bacon Wrapped Sausage Stuffing. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

Leftover stuffing transforms into a savory appetizer with sausage, bacon, and stuffing bites, perfect for post-Thanksgiving meals or gatherings. This recipe is a clever way to use up leftovers while creating a new crowd-pleasing dish.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Sausage Stuffing

One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

One pot gouda cand cream cheese corn in a bowl.
One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

One-pot gouda and cream cheese corn casserole blends rich, creamy flavors, making it a standout side at any Thanksgiving feast. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a perfect complement to your holiday dishes.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole

Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Twice-baked sweet potato casserole, topped with pecans, serves as an individual side dish perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or potlucks. The combination of sweet potatoes and pecans gives it a festive touch that guests will love.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole

The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Overhead image of best broccoli salad with creamy dressin on a bowl.
The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Broccoli salad with bacon, cranberries, and a creamy dressing adds a refreshing mix of textures and flavors to balance heavier Thanksgiving dishes. It’s a bright, crunchy side that offers a contrast to the richness of other holiday foods.
Get the Recipe: The Best Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic

A bowl of Super Crispy Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts With Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic.
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Air fryer Brussels sprouts with balsamic reduction, feta, and pomegranate offer a crispy, tangy side that complements the Thanksgiving spread. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the sprouts.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic

Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole being served.
Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Golden-brown potato casserole with creamy sauce and melted cheese is an affordable, easy-to-make side dish that pairs perfectly with Thanksgiving classics. It’s a creamy, cheesy option that makes a perfect addition to any holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak

Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Cranberry cream cheese stuffed flank steak balances festive sweetness with savory filling, creating an impressive yet easy Thanksgiving entrée. The combination of cranberry and cheese adds a rich layer of flavor to the beef.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak

Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing

Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chestnut stuffing with cornbread cubes, sausage, mushrooms, and herbs provides a hearty, flavorful side that stands out in any Thanksgiving spread. The chestnuts bring a depth of flavor that makes this stuffing unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken pot pie casserole, with flaky puff pastry over a creamy filling, is a comforting choice for busy nights and a hit at Thanksgiving celebrations. It’s a hearty dish that can easily be made ahead, offering convenience and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet potato casserole with a cinnamon base, pecans, and marshmallow topping brings a nostalgic charm to Thanksgiving, often disappearing faster than the turkey. The sweet and crunchy topping adds a layer of sweetness to complement the tender sweet potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

Creamy Mushroom Kale Turkey Soup

Creamy Mushroom Kale Turkey Soup. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Creamy mushroom kale turkey soup repurposes Thanksgiving leftovers into a flavorful dish, blending turkey, garlic, and white wine for a cozy meal. It’s a warm, satisfying way to reuse holiday leftovers and create a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Kale Turkey Soup

Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese

Close-up of green beans with cranberries, bacon, and goat cheese in a black plate.
Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Green beans with cranberries, bacon, and goat cheese deliver a balance of flavors that enhances any Thanksgiving table. The tangy goat cheese and crispy bacon provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon and Goat cheese

No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A close up view of pecan pie cheesecake slice on a white plate, with a fork on the side.
No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This five-ingredient no-bake pecan pie cheesecake requires only 30 minutes of active prep. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving when you need an effortless but impressive dessert to finish off the meal, offering the rich flavors of pecan pie in cheesecake form.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Easy Apple Pie

A close-up photo of a sliced apple pie with graham cracker crust on a white plate, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 
Easy Apple Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Classic apple pie flavors meet a graham cracker crust in this simple-to-make dessert. It pairs nicely with a hot beverage and adds a touch of nostalgia to any Thanksgiving or holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Pie

Spiced Pumpkin Pie

Spiced Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This spiced pumpkin pie brings the familiar, comforting flavors of fall without dairy or eggs. Creamy and perfectly spiced, it’s an easy dessert to share at Thanksgiving or to enjoy any autumn day.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Pecan Pie

Pumpkin Pecan Pie. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Pumpkin pecan pie features a creamy pumpkin layer topped with caramelized pecans in a flaky crust. This hybrid dessert is easy to make ahead and can be frozen, making it a dream dessert for Thanksgiving celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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