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Home » Recipe Collections

35 Thanksgiving Recipes So Good, You’ll Wish You Made Them Last Year

Published: Nov 15, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving recipes aren't just about tradition—they're your ticket to impressing every guest with diverse mains, great sides, crowd-pleasing classics, and sweet treats that everyone will be talking about. This list has you covered whether you're aiming for a show-stopping centerpiece, unforgettable sides, or desserts so good they steal the spotlight. You’ll find flavors that make the holiday feast feel fresh, while still hitting those comforting, nostalgic notes that make Thanksgiving special. So if you're ready to outdo last year's spread, this is the guide you need.

A close-up image of Smoked Turkey Breast.
Smoked Turkey Breast. Photo Credit: xoxoBella.

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, flavored with rosemary, thyme, and sage, is a must-try for Thanksgiving. This recipe ensures a tender, juicy turkey that is both flavorful and easy to prepare, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Brined Turkey

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

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

Slow cooker apple cider brined turkey breast is a simple and fuss-free way to prepare Thanksgiving turkey. With a perfect balance of moisture and autumn flavors, it’s an impressive yet easy recipe for your holiday meal.
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 brings a unique twist to the Thanksgiving table with its tangy-sweet glaze. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet cherries adds a memorable touch to your holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Tart Cherry Cranberry Glazed Turkey

Smoked Turkey Breast

Smoked Turkey Breast. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Smoking turkey breast with wood chips or pellets results in a juicy, flavorful turkey for your Thanksgiving meal. It’s an effortless way to add depth to the traditional turkey experience, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Turkey Breast

Vegan Turkey Roast

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

This budget-friendly turkey roast made from chickpeas and seitan is an easy and hearty main for your Thanksgiving spread. It’s a satisfying, plant-based alternative that brings a homemade touch to your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Turkey Roast

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 is a vibrant addition to your Thanksgiving table. This dish’s balance of flavors and textures makes it the perfect side or main to complement your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Sheet Pan Turkey Breast Dinner

Sheet Pan Turkey Breast Dinner. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

For a hassle-free Thanksgiving meal, this sheet pan turkey breast dinner combines all the flavors you love with minimal prep time. It’s a stress-free option that guarantees a delicious, classic holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Turkey Breast Dinner

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage-stuffed mushrooms are a quick and flavorful appetizer that will impress your Thanksgiving guests. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time, making them a perfect option for any holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Lemon Greek Potatoes

Lemon Greek Potatoes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Lemon Greek potatoes bring a burst of tanginess to your Thanksgiving dinner. With minimal prep, they complement the richness of traditional dishes, offering a refreshing side for your holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce

A close up view of cranberry sauce in white bowl, with a spoon and oranges in the background.
Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Transform canned cranberry sauce into a flavorful side dish with just five ingredients. This simple recipe brings classic Thanksgiving flavors together, saving you time while still delivering a satisfying side.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries

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

Dried cranberries make this homemade cranberry sauce the perfect complement to Thanksgiving turkey. It’s a simple, make-ahead dish that adds a sweet and tart contrast to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries

Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower

A close up view of whole roasted cauliflower.
Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gochujang cauliflower offers a unique Korean-inspired dish for your Thanksgiving potluck. With its tangy and spicy flavors, this meatless dish stands out as an exciting and bold main or side option.
Get the Recipe: Whole Roasted Gochujang Cauliflower

Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

An angled shot of savory sweet potato casserole served in a baking dish.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sweet potato casserole with honey walnut topping offers a comforting side for Thanksgiving. The blend of garlic-seasoned sweet potatoes with a crunchy walnut topping creates a savory and memorable dish.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Stuffing

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

This stuffing, made with wholesome ingredients, delivers a flavorful and hearty addition to your Thanksgiving meal. It’s a thoughtful side dish that brings comfort and depth to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of a cooked gouda mac and cheese in a baking pan.
Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked gouda mac and cheese is a creamy, rich dish that cooks in just 45 minutes. This crowd-pleasing side offers a cozy, comforting option for Thanksgiving, perfect for anyone craving a cheesy side.
Get the Recipe: Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Squash Casserole with Stuffing

An image of Squash Casserole in a baking dish.
Squash Casserole with Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted yellow squash with hatch chiles and mushroom soup creates a flavorful casserole that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Prepare it ahead of time for an easy, stress-free side that will wow your guests.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A close up view of three stuffed acorn squash placed in a serving plate.
Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed acorn squash with quinoa is a sweet and savory main dish that captures the essence of autumn. Easy to prepare, it’s a filling and satisfying option for a Meatless Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Shepherd's Pie

Close up view of vegan shepherd's pie in a white baking dish.
Shepherd's Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan shepherd’s pie with lentils, mushrooms, and mashed potatoes is a hearty, flavorful main dish for your Thanksgiving potluck. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that offers a delicious alternative to traditional meat-filled dishes.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd's Pie

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

An image of a white plate with a serving of cheesy green bean casserole with a fork on the side, and the casserole behind it.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This cheesy green bean casserole is ready in just 30 minutes and makes a savory addition to your Thanksgiving table. It’s a quick, flavorful side that’s sure to be a hit with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

Easy Mushroom Gravy

CLose-up image of a laddle filled with easy mushroom gravy.
Easy Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Mushroom gravy is the perfect sauce to complement your Thanksgiving spread. It’s easy to prepare in advance, making it a stress-free addition that brings a savory touch to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mushroom Gravy

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.

Brussels sprouts roasted with bacon, pecans, and cranberries bring a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving potluck. With minimal prep, it’s a quick side that pairs beautifully with turkey.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans and Cranberries

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.

Gouda and cream cheese corn casserole is a rich, cheesy dish that’s simple to prepare and complements any Thanksgiving meal. It’s a crowd-pleasing option that can be made ahead for a stress-free holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Gouda and Cream Cheese Corn

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots With Honey

Top view of glazed carrots with honey in a bowl.
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots With Honey. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Glazed carrots, made in the air fryer, are a quick and easy side dish that adds color and flavor to your Thanksgiving table. These naturally sweet carrots are the perfect no-fuss addition to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots With Honey

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Twice-baked potato casserole with bacon, potatoes, and cheddar cheese is a hearty, comforting side for Thanksgiving. Prepping it ahead of time makes this dish a low-stress, crowd-pleasing option for your potluck.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

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.

Copycat broccoli cheddar mac and cheese is a comforting dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes. This rich, cheesy pasta is a great choice when you need a quick, satisfying side for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes)

A close up image of cheesy potatoes in a casserole, garnished with parsley.
Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cheesy potatoes made with real baked potatoes and a chive-infused cream sauce are a quick and creamy side dish. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy addition to your Thanksgiving meal that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes)

Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese

An image of corn casserole with cream cheese, ready to be served.
Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Corn casserole with cream cheese combines fresh, frozen, or canned corn for a quick and creamy side. It’s an easy dish to prepare that’s perfect for Thanksgiving potlucks or family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese

Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

A close up view of a cooked asparagus casserole in a baking dish.
Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Asparagus casserole with breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese is a simple yet rich dish for Thanksgiving. Ready in 45 minutes, this quick casserole is the perfect way to add some variety to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

A close up view of spaghetti squash lasagna placed in a baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spaghetti squash lasagna layers ricotta, mozzarella, and herbs into a satisfying meatless meal. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a great Thanksgiving alternative to traditional lasagna that’s lighter but still filling.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Spaghetti Squash Casserole

An image of spaghetti squash casserole with a serving missing from the lower right side of the baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spaghetti squash casserole is a cheesy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy Thanksgiving meals. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s a veggie-forward option that delivers comforting, savory flavors.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Pumpkin Blondies

Close-up image of a batch of cooked White Chocolate Pretzel Pumpkin Blondies arranged on a tray.
Pumpkin Blondies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Pumpkin blondies with pretzels and white chocolate offer a festive treat that captures fall’s best flavors. These easy-to-make bars are the perfect dessert for Thanksgiving potlucks or family meals.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Blondies

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 no-bake pecan pie cheesecake requires just 30 minutes of prep time. It’s an easy yet impressive Thanksgiving dessert that saves time while still offering a satisfying, sweet end to your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Spiced Pumpkin Pie

Spiced Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Spiced pumpkin pie is a creamy, dairy-free dessert that brings the comforting flavors of fall to your Thanksgiving table. It’s a perfect dessert for anyone craving the warmth of pumpkin this holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Pecan Pie

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

Pumpkin pecan pie is a hybrid dessert with a creamy pumpkin layer topped with caramelized pecans. Make it ahead and freeze it for a convenient yet impressive dessert for your Thanksgiving celebration.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie

Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Close-up image of maple pecan pie bar.
Maple Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Maple pecan pie bars with a shortbread crust are a sweet addition to your Thanksgiving potluck. Prepare them ahead of time for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dessert that celebrates fall’s best flavors.
Get the Recipe: Maple Pecan Pie Bars

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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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