Thanksgiving Dinner Menu

    Thanksgiving Dinner Menu

    Planning Thanksgiving dinner is easier when the menu is organized by course. This Thanksgiving menu brings together a few reliable recipes for appetizers, soups, salads, main dishes, sides, breads, desserts, and drinks—plus a practical timeline for getting everything to the table.

    You can keep your holiday meal traditional with Honey Glazed Turkey, choose Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, or serve Puerto Rican Pernil as a flavorful alternative. Browse a few favorites below, then follow the links to our full Thanksgiving appetizer, side-dish, and dessert collections when you want more options.

    Build a Thanksgiving Menu That Works for Your Gathering

    • Start with the main: Choose turkey, ham, or pernil; offer a second main only if the guest count and appetite justify it.
    • Pick complementary sides: Add a potato dish, one or two vegetables, and cranberry sauce. Bread rounds out the table.
    • Keep starters manageable: Two appetizers often suffice when a generous dinner follows.
    • Choose different desserts: A pecan or apple treat plus a chocolate option gives guests variety.
    • Ask about dietary needs: Review ingredient lists and allergen concerns before serving.

    Thanksgiving Cooking Timeline

    One to Two Weeks Before

    • Confirm your guest count, choose the main dish, and decide which recipes guests may bring.
    • List oven temperatures, cooking times, and serving dishes for each recipe, then shop for pantry ingredients.
    • For a frozen whole turkey, plan on roughly 24 hours of refrigerator thawing for every 4–5 pounds at 40°F or below; see the official FoodSafety.gov turkey chart.

    Two or Three Days Before

    • Shop for perishable ingredients, prepare cranberry sauce when appropriate, and wash and organize serving dishes.
    • Make a cooking schedule backward from your serving time, including when the oven is needed for the main dish and sides.

    The Day Before

    • Prepare desserts that can be safely stored overnight, following each recipe’s specific instructions.
    • Complete safe make-ahead steps for soups, dips, and sides; keep perishable items refrigerated.
    • Set the table, prepare beverage service, and confirm the cooking order.

    On Thanksgiving Day

    • Use a food thermometer; turkey and other poultry must reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Follow the specific recipe for the ham or pernil.
    • Finish vegetables and warm bread around the main dish’s resting or finishing time.
    • Serve appetizers in smaller portions and refrigerate perishable leftovers within two hours.

    Table of contents

    Thanksgiving Appetizers

    A couple of small starters welcome guests without taking over the meal. Pair something warm and creamy with one savory bite.

    Cranberry Baked Brie

    Total Time: 20 minutes
    This Cranberry Baked Brie is my little slice of holiday heaven and ready in 20 minutes! The chipotle cranberry sauce gives it just the right kick, and it’s perfect with sliced apples and pecans.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-1 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-1-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.37 from 11 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Bacon

    Total Time: 35 minutes
    Every tray of Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Bacon comes out bubbling and golden, filled with a warm, cheesy center and just the right amount of crunch from toasted crackers.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-2 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-2-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 1 vote

    Get The Recipe

    Goat Cheese Crostini

    Total Time: 35 minutes
    This Goat Cheese Crostini with Walnuts and Honey recipe makes a delicious appetizer. Sweet honey and earthy walnuts balancing the creamy tang of fresh goat cheese in this simple crostini recipe and ready in 35 minutes!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-3 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-3-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.25 from 87 votes

    Get The Recipe

    See more holiday starters in our Thanksgiving Appetizers roundup.

    Thanksgiving Soups

    For a smaller Thanksgiving gathering, a warm bowl of soup makes a cozy first course. For larger feasts with plenty of appetizers, sides, and main dishes, soup is usually optional.

    Beer Cheese Soup

    Total Time: 30 minutes
    Transform a cold day into a gourmet experience with this German Beer Cheese Soup recipe, artfully combining velvety cheddar and rich German beer for a sumptuous, creamy feast.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-4 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-4-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.44 from 569 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Minestrone Soup

    Total Time: 1 hour
    Warm up on a cool day with this Italian Minestrone Soup recipe. It’s packed with fresh vegetables and pasta, and everyone will love it!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-5 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-5-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 6 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Vegan Sweet Potato Soup

    Total Time: 25 minutes
    Experience the magic of our Vegan Sweet Potato Soup! With its rich spices and wholesome ingredients, it’s the ideal quick-fix for a hungry family, bringing creamy comfort to your table in 25 minutes.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-6 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-6-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.85 from 20 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Looking for other soups? Browse all of our soup recipes for more menu inspiration.

    Thanksgiving Salads

    Choose a salad with autumn ingredients to bring freshness and texture to a rich holiday plate.

    Kale and Wild Rice Salad

    Total Time: 20 minutes
    You’ll love how fast this Kale and Wild Rice Salad comes together. Just 20 minutes, and you’ve got a dish packed with wild rice, Parmesan, crunchy breadcrumbs, and a refreshing lemon dressing.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-7 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-7-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.67 from 6 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Warm Israeli Couscous Salad with Roasted Vegetables

    Total Time: 20 minutes
    Elevate your mealtime experience with our warm Israeli Couscous Salad – a delightful mix of taste and texture. This satisfying dish is made with aromatic fennel and fresh vegetables, promising to add a burst of flavor to every bite.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-8 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-8-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.37 from 115 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Explore additional salads in our salad recipes.

    Thanksgiving Main Dishes

    Turkey is the classic centerpiece, but a glazed ham or Puerto Rican pernil makes a flavorful alternative—or a second main dish for a larger gathering.

    Honey Glazed Turkey

    Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
    Enjoy the flavors of the holidays with this Honey Glazed Turkey recipe. Juicy turkey topped with a sweet honey glaze perfect for any occasion!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-9 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-9-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 4 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

    Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
    Thick, savory, and coated with a sweet glaze this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is sure to be a star on your holiday table!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-10 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-10-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 2 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Puerto Rican Pernil

    Total Time: 5 hours
    This Puerto Rican Pernil recipe is easy to make, deliciously flavored with garlic, oregano, and adobo marinade. It slow-cooks for fall-apart tenderness, with a crispy skin on top.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-11 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-11-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.24 from 52 votes

    Get The Recipe

    For additional dinner ideas, browse our complete main dish recipes. Whether you choose turkey, ham, or pernil, plan the cooking schedule around the centerpiece before selecting your sides.

    Thanksgiving Side Dishes

    Build the plate around potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and a tart cranberry sauce. A little variety is better than several nearly identical casseroles.

    Red Skin Mashed Potatoes

    Total Time: 30 minutes
    These Red Skin Mashed Potatoes are fluffy, creamy, and sure to be a favorite whether you’re serving them with dinner for your family or at a holiday gathering!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-12 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-12-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 1 vote

    Get The Recipe

    Arkansas Green Beans

    Total Time: 55 minutes
    These Arkansas Green Beans are bathed in a rich glaze that perfectly balances sweet and savory with brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic. Experience how this simple side dish is transformed into a delectable comfort food.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-13 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-13-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.35 from 203 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Brown Sugar Carrots

    Total Time: 25 minutes
    Indulge in these delicious Brown Sugar Carrots. Soft, tender carrots, coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze that everyone will love.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-14 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-14-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 3 votes

    Get The Recipe

    The Best Ever Oven Roasted Green Beans

    Total Time: 30 minutes
    Fresh green beans are oven-roasted with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and capers. Fancy enough for a holiday meal, easy enough for a weeknight side dish!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-15 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-15-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.44 from 2441 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Fennel Roasted Fall Vegetables

    Total Time: 50 minutes
    Experience the warm flavors of fall with our Roasted Fall Vegetables. This recipe combines fennel, parsnips, carrots, and Brussels sprouts, delicately seasoned with garlic and white pepper, creating a perfect, savory side.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-16 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-16-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.38 from 81 votes

    Get The Recipe

    No Fuss Blueberry Cranberry Sauce

    Total Time: 35 minutes
    Get ready for a flavor explosion! Our Cranberry Blueberry Sauce recipe blends traditional and bold, delivering a quick, irresistible addition to your extraordinary taste!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-17 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-17-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.46 from 37 votes

    Get The Recipe

    For more Thanksgiving side-dish inspiration, visit our Thanksgiving Side Dishes collection.

    Thanksgiving Breads

    A warm bread on the table is always welcome for soaking up gravy or enjoying alongside the meal; these homemade options offer different flavors from standard dinner rolls.

    Honey and Herb Bread

    Total Time: 3 hours
    Savor the unexpected twist with our Honey and Herb Bread – a harmonious blend that elevates your taste buds with its unique sweet meets savory charm. Turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-18 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-18-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.45 from 58 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Easy Rustic Olive Bread

    Total Time: 3 hours
    This Easy Rustic Olive Bread recipe uses salty kalamata olives to add a depth of flavor to this rustic bread recipe!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-19 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-19-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.48 from 1505 votes

    Get The Recipe

    See more homemade bread ideas in our bread recipes.

    Thanksgiving Desserts

    Offer a mix of fall fruit, pecans, and bite-size sweets. An international pastry can sit comfortably beside the familiar holiday favorites without being labeled traditional Thanksgiving fare.

    Pecan Pie Cookies

    Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
    These Pecan Pie Cookies capture the the rich, buttery flavor of the classic pecan pie in a chewy cookie topped with gooey and flavorful pecans.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-20 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-20-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 1 vote

    Get The Recipe

    French Apple Cake

    Total Time: 55 minutes
    Baking this French Apple Cake fills the house with a wonderful aroma, and the result is a perfectly fluffy cake with crispy apple bits and a sweet powdered sugar finish.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-21 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-21-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.64 from 11 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Apple Strudel

    Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
    Celebrate the season with a slice of tradition with our Apple Strudel, packed with juicy apples, sweet raisins, almonds, and a dusting of cinnamon sugar, embodies the essence of fall.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-22 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-22-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.43 from 7 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

    Total Time: 1 hour
    You can’t go wrong with Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls, a deliciously rich dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-23 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-23-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.63 from 8 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Danish Kringle

    Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
    Treat yourself to the quintessential Danish delight – our Danish Kringle! Packed with savory remonce, nuts, and draped in a silken glaze, it’s a pastry that promises a taste of Copenhagen’s charm!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-24 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-24-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.88 from 8 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Pumpkin Blondies

    Total Time: 45 minutes
    Warm and chewy, Pumpkin Blondies bake into soft squares made with brown butter, pumpkin, and spice. White chocolate melts in gently, adding a creamy contrast to the pumpkin-rich batter.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-25 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-25-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 2 votes

    Get The Recipe

    For more pies, pastries, and small sweets, see our Thanksgiving Desserts.

    Thanksgiving Drinks

    A seasonal cocktail can add a festive touch, while water and nonalcoholic drinks should also be available for guests.

    Fresh Cranberry Vodka Cocktail with Rosemary

    Total Time: 9 hours 5 minutes
    This Fresh Cranberry Vodka Cocktail is simpler than you think – grab a bag of zesty cranberries and a bottle of your favorite vodka. But here’s the twist: blend these with homemade rosemary simple syrup to create a festive holiday cocktail!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-26 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-26-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.41 from 101 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Caramel Apple Martini

    Total Time: 5 minutes
    Immerse yourself in this delicious Caramel Apple Martini recipe that has all the flavors of fall packed into a bright green cocktail!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-27 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-27-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    5 from 20 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Gingerbread Martini

    Total Time: 15 minutes
    This Gingerbread Martini brings the cozy flavors of your favorite holiday cookie to a creamy, spiced cocktail that makes any evening feel festive.

    Get The Recipe

    Pumpkin Martini

    Total Time: 5 minutes
    When sweater weather calls for something a little more spirited, this Pumpkin Martini brings cozy fall flavor and a festive twist to your cocktail glass.

    Get The Recipe

    Caramel Apple Sangria

    Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
    Fall flavors come alive in this Caramel Apple Sangria! Crisp apples, white wines, cider, and caramel vodka blend perfectly for a refreshing and irresistible drink!

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-30 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #ffd63c; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30-33 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30-50 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-30-66 stop { stop-color: #ffd63c; }

    4.41 from 10 votes

    Get The Recipe

    Explore additional drinks in our Thanksgiving cocktail recipes.

    Thanksgiving Menu FAQs

    What should be included in a Thanksgiving dinner menu?

    Start with one main dish, a potato side, one or two vegetables, cranberry sauce, bread, and a couple of desserts. Add appetizers, soup, or salad depending on your guest count and serving style.

    Do you have to serve turkey on Thanksgiving?

    No. Honey Glazed Turkey is a classic choice, but Brown Sugar Glazed Ham and Puerto Rican Pernil offer flavorful alternatives or second-main options for a larger gathering.

    Which Thanksgiving recipes can I make ahead?

    Some desserts, cranberry sauce, soups, and appetizer components can be prepared in advance. Follow each linked recipe for cooling, storage, reheating, and food-safety directions.

    How much turkey should I buy per person?

    If turkey is the only main dish, roughly 1 to 1½ pounds of whole turkey per guest is a commonly used planning estimate, with more generous amounts allowing leftovers. Reduce that estimate if serving another meat.

    How long does a frozen turkey take to thaw?

    In a refrigerator at 40°F or below, allow about 24 hours per 4–5 pounds. A 16-pound bird may need around four days. Never thaw turkey on the counter.

    How can I avoid running out of oven space on Thanksgiving?

    Write down the required temperature and time for each dish. Reserve the oven first for the main dish, use stovetop recipes where appropriate, and finish breads or reheat sides as oven space opens up.

    More Thanksgiving Recipe Collections

    Looking for more ideas to complete your holiday feast? Explore these Thanksgiving recipe collections for everything from easy appetizers to festive cocktails and delicious desserts.

    • Thanksgiving Appetizers — warm cheese, savory mushrooms, crostini, and crowd-pleasing dips to start your celebration.
    • Thanksgiving Side Dishes — comforting potatoes, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, and breads to complete your holiday table.
    • Thanksgiving Desserts — apple pastries, pumpkin treats, chocolate desserts, and other delicious sweets beyond pumpkin pie.
    • Thanksgiving Cocktails — festive fall drinks featuring seasonal flavors that are perfect for sipping and celebrating with family and friends.

    With your main dish, favorite sides, desserts, and holiday drinks planned ahead, you can spend less time making last-minute decisions and more time enjoying Thanksgiving with the people around your table.

    Powered by WordPress | Food News by WP Mag Plus