26 Thanksgiving Recipes You’ll Make Again and Again
Pecan Coffee Cake
This pecan coffee cake is the kind of treat that makes mornings feel extra special. It starts with a soft, moist cake that’s layered with a rich, nutty filling and topped with a sweet, gooey glaze that soaks in just the right amount. Every bite gives you that warm, comforting flavor that feels like a hug in dessert form. If you love pecan pie at Thanksgiving, you’ll adore how those same flavors come together in this easy-to-enjoy breakfast cake. Perfect with a hot cup of coffee, it’s sure to become a favorite for holidays or any cozy weekend morning.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Coffee Cake
Southern Mac and Cheese
Southern Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with rich, creamy, and cheesy goodness in every bite. The tender pasta is coated in a smooth, velvety sauce and baked to perfection with a golden layer of crunchy bread crumbs on top. It’s the kind of dish that feels both nostalgic and indulgent, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Best of all, it comes together in less than an hour, so you can enjoy homemade comfort without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mac and Cheese
Potato Casserole With Bacon
These creamy mashed potatoes are taken to the next level with a generous topping of smoky bacon and golden, crunchy bread crumbs. The smooth, buttery base pairs perfectly with the savory crunch, making every bite rich and satisfying. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels both familiar and a little extra special, perfect for gatherings where you want something hearty yet crowd-pleasing. Best of all, it can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy the holidays without extra stress in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole With Bacon
Caramel Apple Cheesecake
This dessert is pure comfort in every bite, starting with a rich and creamy caramel cheesecake nestled inside a warm, chewy cinnamon blondie crust. It’s then topped with tender cinnamon apples that add just the right touch of sweetness and spice, making it taste like fall wrapped up in a slice. A generous drizzle of decadent caramel brings it all together, creating a dessert that feels both cozy and indulgent. Perfect for a chilly snow day project or as a show-stopping Thanksgiving treat, it’s the kind of sweet that brings everyone back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
These creamy and flavorful Instant Pot mashed potatoes are the kind of side dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. With just a few simple ingredients and the help of the pressure cooker, they turn out perfectly fluffy, smooth, and rich every single time. The best part is that they’re ready in only 8 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re serving them with a holiday feast or alongside a simple dinner, these mashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a comforting favorite at the table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Cranberry Brie Bites
These Cranberry Brie Bites take the classic baked brie and turn it into a perfectly portioned appetizer that’s as elegant as it is delicious. Each bite starts with a golden, flaky puff pastry shell that’s filled with creamy brie cheese and a spoonful of tangy cranberry sauce, creating a beautiful balance of sweet and savory flavors. A topping of toasted pecans adds just the right amount of crunch, while a sprinkle of fresh rosemary brings a festive, aromatic touch. They’re simple to make yet look impressive on any table, making them the perfect addition to holiday gatherings, Thanksgiving spreads, or Christmas parties. Guests will love how these little bites feel indulgent but are so easy to pop and enjoy while mingling.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites
Smoked Sweet Onion Honey Glazed Ham
Smoked sweet onion honey glazed ham is the kind of dish that instantly elevates any special occasion. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey and caramelized onions, creating a savory-sweet balance that feels both comforting and indulgent. It’s the perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, bringing everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma. With its tender texture and rich glaze, this ham is a crowd-pleaser that makes celebrations feel even more memorable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Onion Honey Glazed Ham
Apple Butter Pie
This Apple Butter Pie is a cozy twist on the traditional pumpkin pie, bringing together the tangy sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon and spices. It has the same smooth, custard-like texture you’d expect from pumpkin pie, but with the comforting and familiar flavors of apples that feel perfect for fall. With options to make it gluten-free and dairy-free, it’s a dessert that everyone at the table can enjoy. Whether you serve it for Thanksgiving or at a casual autumn gathering, this pie is sure to be a seasonal favorite that captures the essence of fall in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Apple Butter Pie
Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing
Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing is one of those timeless dishes that makes the holiday table feel complete. It’s made with a simple but delicious blend of sautéed celery and onions, plenty of butter, savory broth, and herb-seasoned bread cubes that soak up all the flavors. Baked to golden perfection in a casserole dish rather than inside the turkey, it comes out with a soft, tender center and just the right amount of crispy edges. Comforting, hearty, and packed with flavor, this side dish is one everyone looks forward to piling onto their plate year after year.
Get the Recipe: Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing
Traeger Smoked Turkey
This recipe walks you through how to smoke a turkey on a Traeger grill, giving you a bird that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor in every bite. The slow smoking process infuses the meat with a rich, wood-fired taste while also creating a perfectly crispy skin that’s hard to resist. It’s a foolproof way to elevate your holiday table and impress your guests with something a little extra special. Whether you’re preparing Thanksgiving dinner or hosting a big family gathering, this smoked turkey is sure to be the star of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey
Turkey and Dumplings
This Turkey and Dumplings recipe is the kind of cozy, heartwarming meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, especially when you’re looking for a delicious way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey. The creamy, savory broth is simmered with tender vegetables, creating the perfect base for soft, fluffy Southern-style biscuit dumplings that soak up all the flavor. Every spoonful delivers a comforting mix of rich turkey, hearty veggies, and pillowy dumplings that will leave you completely satisfied. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table and is sure to become a family tradition. For the ultimate comfort, pair it with some crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of goodness.
Get the Recipe: Turkey and Dumplings
Thanksgiving Breakfast Frittata
Kick off your Thanksgiving morning with a wholesome and flavorful breakfast frittata that feels just as festive as the holiday itself. Packed with earthy mushrooms, sweet roasted butternut squash, and caramelized shallots, every bite is warm and satisfying. Fresh herbs bring an aromatic touch that ties all the flavors together, making it feel special without being overly complicated. It’s a hearty yet light way to start the day, giving you the perfect fuel to enjoy all the festivities ahead.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Breakfast Frittata
Pumpkin Roll
This pumpkin roll is a classic fall dessert that combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice with the richness of cream cheese frosting. The cake is soft, moist, and perfectly spiced, then rolled up with a smooth and fluffy cream cheese filling that creates a beautiful swirl in every slice. It’s an eye-catching dessert that feels festive and indulgent, yet still light enough to enjoy after a hearty Thanksgiving meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or simply treating your family to a seasonal sweet, this pumpkin roll is sure to bring warmth and smiles to the table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll
Apple Bottom Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake
Apple Bottom Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake is more than just a dessert—it’s an indulgent experience that feels like a celebration in every bite. The creamy, tangy cheesecake base pairs beautifully with layers of tender apples kissed with caramel and a rich bourbon flair, while the crunchy praline pecan topping adds the perfect finishing touch. Though it takes a bit of time and care, from the water bath to the slow cooling process, the end result is a show-stopping treat that’s worth every step. Bring this to the table, and you won’t just be serving dessert—you’ll be serving a memory that everyone will talk about long after the last slice is gone.
Get the Recipe: Apple Bottom Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake
Southern Sweet Potato Pie
This Southern Sweet Potato Pie is a comforting dessert that comes together easily with simple ingredients and warm, cozy spices. The filling is smooth and creamy, with just the right balance of sweetness and spice, making every bite feel like a taste of home. It’s the kind of pie that brings comfort to the table, whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a festive holiday feast. Perfect for fall and Thanksgiving, this classic treat is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again because it never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet Potato Biscuits
These tender sweet potato biscuits are wonderfully soft, fluffy, and have just the right touch of natural sweetness from the sweet potatoes. They’re a cozy twist on a classic biscuit, bringing a bit more flavor and warmth to every bite. Perfect for pairing with a savory bowl of chili, serving as a comforting side at brunch, or adding to your Thanksgiving table, these biscuits fit in with just about any meal. Whether enjoyed on their own with a little butter or used to soak up hearty dishes, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Biscuits
The Best Butternut Squash Pie (Easy Recipe)
This Butternut Squash Pie is a cozy and comforting dessert that will truly shine on your Thanksgiving table. With its smooth, creamy filling and warm blend of spices, it captures everything we love about fall in every bite. The natural sweetness of butternut squash pairs beautifully with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, giving it a rich, homemade flavor that feels both familiar and unique. Whether you serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoy it plain, this pie is sure to become a holiday favorite year after year.
Get the Recipe: The Best Butternut Squash Pie (Easy Recipe)
Spinach Salad with Apples, Feta Cheese and Pecans
This Spinach Salad with Apples, Feta Cheese, and Pecans is a fresh and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and nutty notes. Juicy apple slices add a crisp sweetness, while crumbled feta brings a creamy, salty bite that contrasts beautifully with the buttery crunch of toasted pecans. All of these ingredients rest on a bed of tender spinach, then get lightly coated in a simple vinaigrette that enhances the flavors without being too heavy. Not only does it taste delicious, but its bright colors also make it a gorgeous addition to any table. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or setting out a festive holiday spread, this salad is a simple yet elegant choice that feels special every time.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Salad with Apples, Feta Cheese and Pecans
Cranberry Turkey Salad
This Cranberry Turkey Salad is the perfect way to breathe new life into your Thanksgiving leftovers. With tender turkey and tart cranberries coming together in a creamy, flavorful mix, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and refreshing. The best part is how quick and easy it is—you can have it ready in under 15 minutes with almost no prep work. It’s incredibly versatile too, whether you scoop it up with crackers, serve it over fresh greens, or tuck it into soft brioche buns or buttery croissants. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a light snack, this salad is one of those recipes everyone will look forward to after the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Turkey Salad
Mediterranean Rice Stuffed Pumpkin
This Mediterranean Rice Stuffed Pumpkin is a beautiful and flavorful dish that brings something truly unique to the table. The pumpkin is filled with fragrant rice seasoned with warm Mediterranean spices, then topped with toasted nuts and bursts of juicy pomegranate for a balance of textures and flavors. It’s an easy recipe to put together but feels festive and impressive, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion. Pair it with turkey or your favorite main dish, and you’ll have a side that stands out as both delicious and memorable. It’s the kind of dish that guests look forward to year after year!
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice Stuffed Pumpkin
Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast
Cooking a boneless turkey breast in the Crock Pot is such an easy way to enjoy tender, flavorful turkey without the fuss of roasting a whole bird. The slow cooker does all the work, keeping the meat juicy and allowing the flavors to fully develop, and you even end up with a rich, savory gravy to serve alongside it. This recipe is a perfect solution for a smaller Thanksgiving gathering when you don’t need a full turkey, but still want that classic holiday taste. It’s also simple enough to make during the week, giving you a comforting, home-cooked meal that feels special without taking up much effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast
Hershey’s Kisses Acorn Treats
These Hershey Kisses Acorn Treats are as fun to make as they are to eat, and they come together in just minutes. With only a handful of simple ingredients—chocolate kisses, mini Nutter Butter cookies, mini chocolate chips, and Reese’s peanut butter chips—you can create adorable little acorns that look festive and taste delicious. They make a charming addition to any Thanksgiving table, fall gathering, or holiday party, and are guaranteed to spark smiles from both kids and adults. Not only are they a creative dessert idea, but they’re also an easy project to do with little helpers in the kitchen. These bite-sized treats are cute, tasty, and perfect for celebrating the season.
Get the Recipe: Hershey’s Kisses Acorn Treats
Turkey Sliders
These turkey sliders made with soft and sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls are a delicious way to enjoy tender slices of leftover turkey. Each slider is layered with melty cheese and a generous dollop of tangy cranberry sauce, creating the perfect balance of savory and sweet in every bite. They’re incredibly versatile—you can mix in stuffing, add a little mayo, or even a touch of mustard to make them your own. Quick and easy to assemble, these sliders are ideal for a casual lunch, a festive gathering, or even a game day snack. Everyone will love how flavorful and satisfying these little bites are!
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders
Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole is a beloved classic that often steals the spotlight on Thanksgiving and Christmas tables. Tender green beans are smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying, while a generous topping of crispy fried onions adds the perfect crunch to every bite. The combination of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures makes it impossible to stop at just one serving. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, sparking warm conversations and happy memories around the table. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is sure to become a favorite that everyone will ask for year after year.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole
Tater Tot Turkey Casserole
This turkey tater tot casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying. Loaded with tender chunks of turkey, crispy tater tots, and a mix of colorful vegetables, it comes together in one easy dish or skillet—perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s also an excellent way to give leftover Thanksgiving turkey a delicious second life. The creamy, cheesy layers make it incredibly comforting, while the tater tots add a fun, crispy twist that kids and adults alike will adore. Simple to make but full of flavor, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Turkey Casserole
Shrimp and Grits Dressing
Shrimp and Grits Dressing brings together the best of two beloved dishes—your classic Thanksgiving stuffing and the rich, savory flavors of a Southern low-country favorite. It’s a creative twist that adds something new and exciting to the holiday table while still feeling warm and comforting. Each bite is hearty, flavorful, and just the right balance of tradition and surprise, making it perfect for both Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving gatherings. This dish is bound to spark conversation, impress your guests, and quite possibly become the standout recipe everyone requests year after year.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Dressing
