Planning a Thanksgiving spread can be a fun and delicious way to gather with friends and family. From classic turkey and stuffing to creative sides and decadent desserts, there are endless options to make your meal memorable. Here are 27+ ideas to inspire your Thanksgiving menu this year!
Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic dish that brings a fresh and crunchy element to your Thanksgiving spread. The vibrant green beans are perfectly cooked, maintaining their crispness, and are tossed with toasted almonds for a delightful crunch.
This dish is not only simple to prepare but also adds a pop of color to your table. The combination of green beans and almonds creates a lovely contrast, making it visually appealing.
To make Green Bean Almondine, you’ll need fresh green beans, sliced almonds, butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of lemon juice for brightness. Start by blanching the green beans until they are tender yet crisp. In a pan, melt some butter, add minced garlic, and toast the almonds until golden. Toss everything together and finish with a squeeze of lemon.
This dish is a great way to balance out the heavier items on your Thanksgiving table. It’s light, refreshing, and sure to be a hit with your guests!
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a must-have for any Thanksgiving spread. They bring comfort and warmth to the table, making them a favorite among family and friends. The image shows a bowl of fluffy mashed potatoes, topped with fresh chives, surrounded by autumn leaves and pumpkins, setting a cozy holiday vibe.
To make these delightful potatoes, you’ll need simple ingredients: potatoes, garlic, butter, cream, salt, and pepper. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender. While they cook, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Once the potatoes are ready, mash them with the garlic butter and cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
These mashed potatoes pair perfectly with turkey and gravy, making them a staple on the Thanksgiving table. Their creamy texture and rich flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving spread. Their bright orange color adds a pop of vibrancy to the table. The sweet glaze enhances the natural flavors of the carrots, making them a favorite among guests.
To make honey glazed carrots, you’ll need fresh carrots, honey, butter, and a pinch of salt. Start by peeling and cutting the carrots into even pieces. Then, melt butter in a pan, add honey, and toss in the carrots. Cook until they are tender and coated in the sweet glaze.
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of sweetness to balance out savory dishes. Serve them warm for the best taste. They are sure to impress everyone at your Thanksgiving gathering!
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet potato casserole is a classic dish that brings warmth to any Thanksgiving table. The image shows a beautifully baked casserole topped with golden-brown marshmallows, creating a delightful contrast with the vibrant orange of the sweet potatoes.
This dish is not just about looks; it’s packed with flavor. The creamy sweet potatoes are often mixed with butter, brown sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The marshmallows on top add a sweet, gooey finish that everyone loves.
To make this casserole, start by boiling sweet potatoes until tender. Mash them and mix in your favorite ingredients. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, then layer marshmallows on top. Bake until the marshmallows are toasted and the casserole is heated through. It’s simple and sure to impress your guests!
Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry orange relish is a bright and tangy addition to any Thanksgiving spread. This dish combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweet zest of oranges, creating a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday foods.
The vibrant colors in the image showcase the chopped cranberries and orange pieces, making it visually appealing. The glossy texture hints at a delightful sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
To make this relish, you’ll need fresh cranberries, oranges, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. Start by chopping the cranberries and oranges, then mix them with sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Let it chill for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together.
This relish pairs perfectly with turkey, adding a burst of flavor to each bite. It can also be enjoyed on sandwiches or as a topping for desserts. It’s a simple yet delicious way to brighten up your Thanksgiving table!
Stuffing with Sausage and Sage
Stuffing with sausage and sage is a classic dish that brings warmth to any Thanksgiving table. The golden-brown cubes of bread mix perfectly with savory sausage and fragrant sage, creating a delightful combination of flavors.
This dish is not just about taste; it also adds a beautiful texture to your spread. The crispy edges of the stuffing contrast with the tender sausage pieces, making every bite enjoyable. The colors of the stuffing, with hints of brown and golden yellow, complement the autumnal decorations around it.
To make this stuffing, you’ll need ingredients like bread cubes, sausage, fresh sage, onions, and broth. Start by browning the sausage in a skillet, then mix in the onions and sage. Combine this with the bread cubes and broth, and bake until golden. It’s simple yet satisfying!
When serving, consider pairing it with cranberry sauce or gravy for an extra layer of flavor. This stuffing is sure to be a hit, making it a must-have for your Thanksgiving spread.
Savory Herb Roasted Turkey
The star of any Thanksgiving spread is often the turkey, and a savory herb roasted turkey is a classic choice. Picture a beautifully roasted turkey, golden and glistening, sitting proudly at the center of the table. This turkey is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with flavor from a blend of fresh herbs.
Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as the turkey cooks. It’s seasoned with rosemary, thyme, and sage, giving it a delightful taste that pairs perfectly with cranberry sauce and stuffing. The skin is crispy, while the meat remains juicy and tender.
To make this dish, start with a whole turkey. Rub it with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Roast it in the oven until it reaches a safe internal temperature. Let it rest before carving to keep all those delicious juices inside.
Serve it alongside seasonal sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal. This turkey will surely be the highlight of your Thanksgiving celebration, bringing everyone together around the table.
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
There’s something special about pumpkin pie during Thanksgiving. This classic dessert brings warmth and comfort to the table. The rich, spiced filling is perfectly balanced by a flaky crust, making it a favorite for many.
The pie is often topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream, adding a light and airy texture. This combination creates a delightful contrast that enhances the overall experience. Each slice is a reminder of cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations.
To make your own pumpkin pie, you’ll need simple ingredients like pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. The steps are straightforward: mix the filling, pour it into the crust, and bake until set. It’s easy to whip up and sure to impress your guests.
Don’t forget to serve it with a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s the finishing touch that makes this pie truly irresistible. Whether enjoyed after a hearty meal or as a late-night snack, pumpkin pie is a staple that captures the essence of Thanksgiving.
Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream
Apple crisp is a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any Thanksgiving spread. The image shows a delightful serving of apple crisp topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The golden-brown topping contrasts beautifully with the soft, baked apples underneath.
This dish is simple to make and requires just a few ingredients. You’ll need fresh apples, sugar, cinnamon, oats, flour, and butter for the crisp topping. Combine sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon, then mix oats, flour, and butter to create the crunchy topping.
To prepare, layer the apple mixture in a baking dish, sprinkle the topping over it, and bake until bubbly and golden. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. The combination of warm apples and cold ice cream is a crowd-pleaser.
Pecan Pie with Caramel Drizzle
Pecan pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any Thanksgiving table. This pie features a rich filling made from pecans, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla, all encased in a flaky crust. The star of the show is the caramel drizzle that adds a touch of indulgence.
In the image, you can see the pie beautifully arranged with whole pecans on top, creating a stunning presentation. The caramel drizzle glistens, inviting everyone to take a slice. A scoop of whipped cream sits on top, making it even more tempting.
To make this delightful pie, gather ingredients like pecans, corn syrup, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Start by mixing the filling and pouring it into the crust. Bake until set, then let it cool. Finally, drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving for that extra special touch.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Brussels sprouts with bacon are a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving spread. The combination of tender Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start by trimming the sprouts and cutting them in half. Cook the bacon until crispy, then remove it from the pan and sauté the Brussels sprouts in the bacon fat. Season with salt and pepper, and toss in the crispy bacon at the end for that extra crunch.
This dish not only looks great on the table but also brings a savory element that complements the traditional Thanksgiving flavors. It’s a simple yet satisfying side that everyone will love.
Herbed Dinner Rolls
Herbed dinner rolls are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving spread. These soft, fluffy rolls are infused with fresh herbs, adding a burst of flavor to your meal. They are perfect for soaking up gravy or enjoying with butter.
Imagine a warm basket filled with these golden rolls, their tops sprinkled with green herbs. The inviting aroma fills the room, making it hard to resist grabbing one right away. They not only taste great but also look beautiful on your table.
To make these rolls, you’ll need basic ingredients like flour, yeast, and water, along with your choice of herbs. Mixing in rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor. After kneading the dough, let it rise until it doubles in size. Shape them into rolls and bake until golden brown.
Serve these herbed dinner rolls warm, and watch them disappear quickly. They bring a cozy, homemade touch to your Thanksgiving feast.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
This roasted butternut squash salad is a colorful and tasty addition to your Thanksgiving spread. The bright orange squash cubes contrast beautifully with the fresh greens, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
The salad features roasted butternut squash, which adds a sweet and nutty flavor. Tossed with mixed greens and topped with crunchy pecans, it’s a delightful mix of textures. The nuts not only provide a satisfying crunch but also a rich source of healthy fats.
For a simple dressing, a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar works wonders. This salad is not just a side; it can easily stand alone as a light meal or a refreshing starter.
To make this dish, start by roasting the butternut squash until tender. While it cools, prepare your greens and nuts. Combine everything in a bowl, add the dressing, and toss gently. It’s that easy!
Mulled Wine with Spices
Mulled wine is a cozy drink that warms you up during chilly gatherings. The image shows a beautifully crafted glass filled with rich, dark red wine, garnished with a slice of orange and a star anise. The spices and citrus add a festive touch, making it perfect for Thanksgiving.
To make this delightful drink, you’ll need red wine, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and a bit of sugar. Start by heating the wine gently in a pot. Add the spices and orange slices, letting everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Once ready, strain the mixture into mugs and garnish with extra orange slices or a cinnamon stick. Serve it warm, and watch as your guests enjoy this aromatic treat. It’s a simple way to add a special touch to your Thanksgiving spread!
Classic Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to any Thanksgiving spread. This creamy, cheesy delight is a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults. The image showcases a warm, inviting bowl of macaroni, perfectly baked to golden perfection.
The dish features tender pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce, often made from a blend of cheddar and other cheeses for extra flavor. Topped with a sprinkle of herbs, it’s not just tasty but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to your holiday table.
To make this classic dish, you’ll need elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and a mix of your favorite cheeses. Start by cooking the pasta until al dente. In a separate pot, create a roux with butter and flour, then gradually whisk in milk to form a smooth sauce. Stir in the cheese until melted and creamy, then combine with the pasta. Bake until bubbly and golden.
This macaroni and cheese can be customized with add-ins like bacon, breadcrumbs, or vegetables. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly alongside turkey and other Thanksgiving favorites. Serve it hot, and watch it disappear!
