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Home » Recipe Articles

Traditional Thanksgiving dishes to anchor your holiday spread

Published: Nov 23, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving isn’t just a meal — it’s a collection of time-honored dishes that bring everyone together. These classic Thanksgiving recipes from Parallel Plates strike the perfect balance between tradition and ease, from juicy brined turkeys to rich, creamy mashed potatoes and warm, spiced pumpkin pie. Whether you’re planning a familiar spread or refreshing your menu, these staples are the foundation of a holiday that feels both meaningful and effortless.

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.

A maple Dijon chicken sheet pan dinner pairs a sweet, tangy glaze with roasted veggies and bacon, simplifying Thanksgiving prep with bold, crowd-pleasing flavors.
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.

Broccoli cheddar mac and cheese, ready in 20 minutes, brings creamy comfort to the Thanksgiving table, making it a hit with guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

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 vegan turkey roast made from chickpeas and seitan creates an affordable, quick-to-make centerpiece, adding a thoughtful plant-based option to Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Turkey Roast

Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries

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

Cranberry sauce made with dried cranberries balances the richness of Thanksgiving dishes with its tangy, refreshing flavor—a classic side that completes the meal.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cranberries

Vegan Stuffing

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

Vegan stuffing uses wholesome ingredients to deliver a flavorful Thanksgiving side that complements any dish while catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

A close up photo of fresh cranberry sauce placed in a white bowl with spoon, oranges and fresh cranberries in the background.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fresh or frozen cranberry sauce adds tangy brightness to Thanksgiving and Christmas spreads, offering a simple way to balance heartier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cranberry Sauce

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, featuring garlic and a creamy texture, save time while bringing a flavorful, comforting side to your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole

Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole on plates.
Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Twice-baked sweet potato casserole with pecans provides festive individual portions, making it a practical and well-loved addition to Thanksgiving feasts.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Sweet Potato Casserole

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 infused with rosemary, thyme, and sage delivers moist, tender meat, perfect as the centerpiece for a memorable Thanksgiving dinner.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Brined Turkey

Get the Full List of Traditional Thanksgiving Dishes

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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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