TRADITIONAL THANKSGIVING RECIPES: AN UNFORGETTABLE MEAL – Thanksgiving recipes are a cornerstone of the holiday, bringing families together around the table to celebrate gratitude and enjoy comforting, time-honored dishes. Every year, certain recipes consistently shine as the most popular choices, cherished for their flavors and deep-rooted connection to the season.
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Traditional Thanksgiving Recipes
The 5 Most Cooked
1. Roasted Turkey
©Greg Dupree | Food Styling by Torie Cox | Prop Styling by Christine Keely
The centerpiece of any Thanksgiving feast, roasted turkey is not just a dish, it’s a tradition that brings families together to celebrate gratitude and abundance. Perfectly roasted turkey, with its golden-brown skin and tender, juicy meat, is the highlight of the holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 4 cups stuffing (optional)
- 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
Editor’s Choice
2. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a quintessential side dish that elevates any Thanksgiving meal. With their smooth texture and comforting flavor, they provide the perfect accompaniment to roasted turkey, stuffing, and gravy.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: 1-2 cloves of garlic (for garlic mashed potatoes), chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
3. Cranberry Sauce
©Serious Eats | Fred Hardy
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without the vibrant and tangy addition of cranberry sauce. This classic condiment balances the rich flavors of roasted turkey and other holiday dishes, bringing a burst of freshness to every bite. Homemade cranberry sauce is incredibly easy to prepare and far superior, allowing you to add your own personal touch.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup water
- Optional: Zest of 1 orange, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger for added flavor
Editor’s Choice
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4. Bread Stuffing
Bread Cubes, Onion, Celery And Seasonings
©Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
Bread stuffing is a beloved holiday classic that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful side dish bursting with comfort and nostalgia. With a perfect balance of herbs, vegetables, and rich broth-soaked bread, this recipe will help you create a stuffing that is moist, savory, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of bread (about 1 pound, preferably day-old, such as French or Italian, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup onion (diced)
- 1 cup celery (diced)
- 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (adjust based on desired moisture)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Editor’s Choice
5. Pumpkin Pie
©Natasha Kravchuk
Pumpkin pie is a quintessential dessert that embodies the flavors of fall and is a beloved staple at Thanksgiving celebrations. With its rich, spiced filling nestled in a flaky crust, this iconic pie is the perfect way to conclude your holiday feast. The creamy texture and warm spices make each bite a comforting delight, evoking cherished memories of family gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 1 (15-ounce) can pure pumpkin puree (or 2 cups homemade pumpkin puree)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk)
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Traditional Thanksgiving Recipes unite family and friends in a celebration of gratitude. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or continuing a cherished tradition, these classic recipes will create lasting memories. Embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy the moments that matter most. Happy Thanksgiving! For more inspiration and ideas on how to transform your dining room, explore Dining Room Ideas.
