50 Best Thanksgiving Recipes & Menu Ideas

Serve a magnificent feast with the help of these Thanksgiving recipes!

From dips to casseroles to the big bird itself, I have your entire menu covered.

Our Best Thanksgiving Recipes Your Family Will Love

Planning a Thanksgiving dinner is no easy feat. There’s so much to think about and often a lot of mouths to feed.

That’s why I’ve rounded up my favorite Thanksgiving recipes!

So use this list to pick a couple of starters, some tasty sides, a juicy turkey recipe, and something sweet to cap it all off.

Easy peasy!

1. Easy, No-Fuss Thanksgiving Turkey

There’s nothing quite like a classic Thanksgiving turkey to bring the family together.

If you’ve never cooked a turkey before or are just looking for tips, you’re in luck! 

This recipe provides easy-to-follow steps to help make your meal unforgettable. No dry poultry here, thank you! 

2. Easiest Turkey Brine

Want to know a chef’s secret to the perfect bird? It’s all in the brine!

This recipe features oranges, lemon, and herbs & spices, infusing your turkey with a beautiful balance of flavors.

It also locks in moisture during cooking and even helps produce juicy pan drippings. 

This nifty little trick is guaranteed to take your dinner to new heights. 

3. Stuffed Turkey Breast

Don’t want to cook an entire bird this year? Then check out this gorgeous stuffed turkey breast recipe.

It cooks much faster than a whole turkey and has flavor rolled right in the middle.

For Thanksgiving, I think the mix of cream cheese, spinach, herbs, and bacon is ideal. But feel free to add nuts and cranberries!

4. Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

If you’ve ever been to Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, then you know their famous sweet potato casserole is something to write home about. 

Sweet and buttery with just a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, this comforting side is one for any occasion! 

But it’s especially welcome on turkey day!

5. Loaded Cauliflower Casserole  

This loaded cauliflower casserole might just be the perfect dish! 

Filled with crisp bacon, onion-y chives, and three different kinds of cheese – how could you go wrong? 

It’s indulgent, for sure. But since it uses cauliflower instead of spuds, we can all pretend it’s healthy.

And hey, it’s Thanksgiving, right? The calories don’t count! 

6. Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

I like to have a few things ready for snacking before the main event. And these cookies are just the ticket.

Just imagine how thrilled your friends and family will be to see a platter of these waiting when they arrive.

They’re soft, spiced, and topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting. Delish!

7. Baked Apples  

Here’s another fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth during the holidays.

Baked apples are actually pretty healthy. Though they are stuffed with a heavenly mix of brown sugar and warm, fragrant spices.

Add some oats for texture, and get ready to dig in!

8. Baked Brie Cranberry in Bread Bowl

I should preface this one with a warning: serve this before or during your Thanksgiving feast, and people might forget about all the other food.

I mean, it’s not just baked Brie with tangy-sweet cranberry sauce.

Oh, no. It’s gooey baked Brie with tangy-sweet cranberry sauce served right in a bread bowl!

Does it get any better than that?

9. Grilled Turkey Tenderloin with Brown Sugar and Whole Grain Mustard

Looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to whole birds, beef, or pork that won’t break the bank? You just found it! 

This recipe features succulent turkey meat with a sweet-tangy marinade and sauce.

You’ll be surprised at just how straightforward this dish is! All you’ll need to do is marinate the meat, pop it on the grill, and voila.

10. Parmesan Rosemary Potato Stacks

I have a small confession: as much as I love the big roast in the middle of the table, I much prefer a whole slew of sides.

And these Parmesan and rosemary potato stacks are my newest obsession.

You’ll need a mandolin to get the spuds thin and even. From there, you just need to season them with rosemary, salt, pepper, and Parmesan.

Bake them in muffin tins with butter, and they’re all set.

11. Paula Deen’s Squash Casserole

Sticking with the sides: here’s another I know you’ll enjoy.

Paula Deen sure knows how to make a feast! And this casserole with squash, cheeses, and a buttery crumble on top couldn’t be easier.

I love the crispy top and the sunny summer squash. But you could use zucchini or even pumpkin if you prefer.

12. Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry and Quinoa Salad

Love ’em or hate ’em, Brussels sprouts always make an appearance during the holidays.

I happen to love them in any shape and form. But if you need to sway a few haters, try this shaved Brussels recipe.

Between the protein-packed quinoa, chewy dried cranberries, chopped pecans, shallots, and zippy dressing, you might even forget the sprouts are there!

13. Pumpkin Bread Pudding 

This cozy, indulgent dessert will make your Thanksgiving feast extra memorable.

Combining pillowy, pumpkin-spiced bread pudding with plump raisins and crunchy almonds makes one heck of a treat!

A perfect blend of sweet and spiced flavors, this dreamy dessert will have everyone begging for seconds. 

14. Maple Walnut Sweet Potato Skins

Forget stuffed peppers! These maple and walnut stuffed sweet potato skins are where it’s at!

They’re twice-baked, but nothing like the OG spuds with sour cream and cheese.

Instead, they’re packed with a blend of Greek yogurt, warm spices, maple syrup, brown sugar, and chopped nuts. WOW!

15. Pumpkin Cobbler 

Take everything you love about pumpkin pie, then add a crumbly, warm crust.

That’s what you get with this stunning pumpkin cobbler recipe.

Use boxed cake mix to make it in a flash, and serve it with plenty of vanilla ice cream. Delish!

16. Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Whipping up something delicious yet healthy for Thanksgiving is easy with this simple recipe!

Say hello to Air Fryer turkey breasts.

They’re nutritious, easy to make, and have all the satisfying flavors of a Thanksgiving turkey. 

Best of all, the Air Fryer takes care of everything, so you’ll still have time for more cooking and hosting duties.

17. Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Don’t get me wrong: I love sweet potato casserole. But it can be a little…well…mushy.

So if you’re anything like me and crave all those amazing flavors with a bit of added texture, this is the dish to try.

Just look at it! Those crispy, caramelized edges are calling your name!

18. The Pioneer Woman’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

This dish is a creamy combination of mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and bacon.

Everything about it screams comfort food!

Plus, it pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy, as well as other traditional Thanksgiving sides.

19. The Best Healthy Turkey Chili

Keep your diet in check, and enjoy your favorite holiday flavors with this turkey chili recipe.

Complete with protein (turkey), vegetables (tomatoes & corn), and even carbs (beans), one bowl is a full meal on its own.

It’s proof that you don’t have to give up flavor just to be healthy! 

20. Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole

Paula Deen’s signature sweet potato casserole has been tantalizing taste buds for years. And now, it can be yours.

Featuring buttery whipped sweet potatoes and a fluffy-crunchy marshmallow and pecan topping, it’s heaven-sent.

21. The Best Classic Turkey Stuffing

Don’t worry, I didn’t forget about the stuffing!

It’s one of the most popular Thanksgiving sides, so this one is non-negotiable. The only thing to decide is if you want it with sausage or not.

I think it works well with the turkey, but that’s up to you.

This recipe goes without, and it’s delightful.

22. Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole

Have you ever tried that delicious hash brown casserole from Cracker Barrel? 

The one with potatoes, cheese, and sour cream, and served with their platters and biscuits & gravy? 

Well, now you don’t need to make a trip to the restaurant if the craving hits. 

With my easy-to-follow copycat recipe, you can whip up your own version at home. 

23. Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecan and Goat Cheese

I think that picture alone is enough to encourage you to make this recipe.

The carrots look tender and caramelized, the goat cheese looks creamy, and the pecans are undoubtedly sweet and crunchy.

This is one elegant side dish. And it’s so good, everyone will want a second helping.

24. Buffalo Chicken Dip

A merry mix of cheeses, shredded chicken, and hot sauce, this dip is utter bliss.

This classic comfort food-turned-dip is ridiculously creamy and cheesy! And the hot sauce gives it just enough bold flavor to keep things interesting. 

Serve this as a fun appetizer before dinner, and it’ll be gone in a flash.

25. Apple, Brie, and Caramelized Onion Tart  

Sweet and savory is a winning combination. So this tart with apples, brie, and caramelized onions definitely fits the bill. 

It may look fancy, but I promise it’s a breeze to make.

Sure, the onions take a little time. But you’ll use frozen puff pastry to keep things simple.

26. Cajun Turkey

Looking to spice up your turkey this Thanksgiving? Cajun is key! 

The recipe’s formula makes a blend of smoky, savory, and spicy flavors sure to tickle your taste buds.

The balance of spices brings out the classic tastes of a traditional turkey while also giving it a unique twist.

From its tender, juicy meat to its crisp golden brown skin, this Cajun turkey recipe truly has it all.

27. Pumpkin Risotto with Goat Cheese

Give this risotto recipe a whirl if you need a vegetarian alternative to turkey.

It’s bright and beautiful, and the pumpkin flavor shines in every bite.

Top it with dried cranberries for even more color and a little goat cheese for a touch of tangy creaminess.

28. Ina Garten Mac and Cheese

I was going to say: if you’re feeding kids this Thanksgiving, you have to include a dish of mac and cheese.

But let’s be honest; we grown-ups love it just as much as the kids!

And it’ll pair well with the turkey and cranberry sauce! So make a big batch – you’ll need it.

29. Pumpkin Dump Cake

You don’t have to be an experienced baker in order to whip up this impressive dessert!

With layers of cinnamon pumpkin cake, chopped pecans, and toffee bits, this has a delightful blend of aromas, textures, and flavors.

Plus, it’s so easy to make, you can do it with your eyes closed. 

30. Easy Homemade Pumpkin Ice Cream  

There’s nothing like ice cream for a special treat – especially when it has the flavors of Thanksgiving! 

This homemade pumpkin ice cream is definitely one dessert you don’t want to miss out on. 

Flavored with pumpkin, warm spices, and bits of Biscoff cookies, this sweet treat is simply divine.

31. Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese & Pomegranates

One of my favorite things about Thanksgiving and holiday cooking is all the colors.

So many dishes include bright, fresh fruits and veggies, so the table is like a vibrant fall-inspired rainbow.

And it doesn’t get more colorful (or delicious) than this orange squash and red pomegranate side!

32. Cranberry Almond Slaw with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Crunchy slaw is a terrific BBQ side we all love. But it’s just as yummy on your turkey day table.

This recipe keeps it super festive with a tangy maple and mustard dressing, plus cabbage, red onion, cranberries, and almonds.

You’ll love the added texture and how the zippy flavors mix with the rich turkey.

33. Smoky Bacon Wrapped Turkey for Thanksgiving

You can’t go wrong with this bacon-wrapped turkey for an out-of-the-ordinary Thanksgiving dinner!

It’s an entire turkey wrapped in bacon, then oven-roasted to perfection.

Apart from the presentation, the bacon also adds a smoky, salty flavor to the bird.

It’s great for balancing out the sweetness of traditional Thanksgiving sides.

34. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

I had to include another sprout recipe because it’s my mission to make people fall in love with them.

So if that shredded sprout salad didn’t do it for you, maybe this will.

It’s crispy, salty, meaty, and to die for. Trust me, this recipe is a must-make.

35. Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast

Juicy baked turkey breast enveloped in a fragrant sauce of honey and cranberries.

Need I say more?

Okay, this one is a fantastic way to serve cranberry sauce and turkey in one. And that bold color is sure to turn heads.

36. Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole 

This recipe is for anyone serving ham instead of turkey. Because, to be honest, I’m not sure this one will fit with the big bird.

But if you’re a fan of pineapple on pizza, you’ll go gaga for this with a thick slice of ham.

37. Incredibly Easy French Onion Soup Casserole 

This twist on the traditional French onion soup is easy to make and will add an exciting new flavor to your holiday meal. 

Fall-apart onions, crusty bread, and lots and lots of cheese come together in perfect harmony.

And it’s way simpler to whip up than a bunch of individual portions.

38. Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole

I’ve served this casserole at countless holiday dinners – and it’s a certified hit! 

Combining corn muffin mix, corn kernels, creamed corn, and cheese makes a phenomenal spoonful.

It’s perfect for special occasions, but it’s also simple enough for even the most novice cook.

39. Thanksgiving Turkey Burgers

One bite of this Thanksgiving turkey burger will make your family sing. And it’s a fun way to enjoy turkey day flavors without the hassle. 

It’s all your favorite Thanksgiving fixin’s, but in burger form.

Serve it with sweet potato fries for a super casual family feast.

40. Sweet Potato Pie

Nothing completes a delicious Thanksgiving dinner like a warm sweet potato pie. 

Rich, luscious sweet potato filling hugged by a flaky crust – this pie has it all. 

Whether you serve it as a side dish or dessert, this pie won’t disappoint.

41. Mock Apple Pie 

For anyone needing a budget dessert, might I suggest this mock apple pie?

Heck, even if you’re not on a budget, I highly recommend trying it out just to see everyone’s reaction.

Because believe it or not, there’s no apple in this pie!

42. Crock Pot Turkey Breast

Nothing’s worse than taking a bite of dry or tasteless turkey. What a total Thanksgiving buzz kill!

But don’t worry; this recipe is designed to give you melt-in-your-mouth juicy turkey deliciousness every time.

And it’s a ‘set it and forget’ kinda meal. So that’s a double win!

43. Pumpkin Pie  

Nothing captures the sweetness of fall and Thanksgiving quite as well as pumpkin pie.

The scent of freshly-baked pumpkin pie wafting through the kitchen is pure heaven.

With its warm, buttery crust and creamy pumpkin filling, one bite will transport your senses straight to paradise.

44. Baked Turkey Wings

Forget chicken wings and make this fun twist on Thanksgiving turkey.

They’re perfectly crisp on the outside and super juicy on the inside. Plus, they’re ideal for small gatherings when a whole bird would just be a waste.

45. Sweet Potato Pecan Pie

Can’t decide what pie to make this year? Why not combine 2 faves into one mega pie?

It has a flaky pastry crust, which can be store-bought to save time.

Then in the middle, you’ll find a layer of yummy sweet potato filling topped with sticky-crunchy pecan pie goodness.

How can you top that? Oh, right, with ice cream!

46. Apple Brown Betty

Try this crispy apple dessert if you want something sweet and fruity but want to make something other than a pie.

It’s like a crumble-topped pie, but there’s no pastry case. Instead, it’s baked like a cobbler, with spiced fruit on the bottom.

Serve it with ice cream or whipped cream, and dig in!

47. Broccoli Rice Casserole from Scratch

This mouthwatering dish combines rice, broccoli, and cheese to make the most addictive casserole.

It’s hearty, rich, creamy, and secretly healthy, thanks to the broccoli!

You’ll also love that it comes together quickly – perfect if you’re pressed for time. 

48. Apple Butternut Squash Casserole

Salty, meaty, fruity, crisp, and fun, this is the ultimate casserole side dish.

It’s got all the best elements of Thanksgiving, minus the turkey. And it’s all baked in one dish, saving you time and energy.

Leave the bacon off if you need it veggie-friendly. But you might need to add extra salt in that case.

49. Pumpkin Fluff Dip 

On the hunt for the perfect fall dip to wow your friends and family? The search is over!

This pumpkin fluff dip is the perfect combination of sweet and creamy. 

A mix of vanilla pudding, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice, this dip is the stuff.

It’s easy to make, tastes like autumn in a bowl, and will never fail to impress.

50. French’s Green Bean Casserole

If you love classic green bean casserole but dread making it, this one’s for you. 

All you’ll need here are a couple of canned goods, French fried onions, and some cheese!

And the result is one utterly satisfying casserole. While not 100% made from scratch, it definitely tastes homemade.