Thanksgiving is the perfect time to indulge in delicious food, surrounded by loved ones and a table full of heartwarming dishes. Get ready to explore some mouthwatering recipes that will make your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable.
Classic Herb-Roasted Turkey
Imagine the aroma of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage swirling around a perfectly golden-brown turkey. This classic herb-roasted turkey combines a savory blend of herbs and spices that infuse deep into the bird, offering a tender, juicy bite in every piece.
This recipe is special because it uses a simple yet effective dry brine technique, which involves rubbing a mixture of salt and herbs directly onto the turkey’s skin. This process not only enhances the flavor but also helps to achieve that coveted crispy skin we all love so much. A touch of butter under the skin ensures the meat remains moist, while the herbs provide a fragrant, savory profile that pairs perfectly with traditional sides like stuffing and cranberry sauce.

Maple-Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes from Two Peas & Their Pod
Rating: 4.4 (26 reviews). Total Time: 40 min.
Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon and Caramelized Onions from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.8 (107 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 35 min.
Sweet potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple, and this recipe elevates them with a delightful maple glaze that adds a sweet, caramelized finish. The combination of pure maple syrup, a hint of cinnamon, and a sprinkle of nutmeg makes for a dish that is both comforting and exciting to the palate.
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way the natural sweetness of the potatoes is complemented by the rich glaze. As the sweet potatoes roast, they absorb the syrupy goodness, creating a tender, flavorful side dish that’s as amazing to eat as it is easy to prepare. It’s the kind of dish that’s sure to impress guests and leave them asking for seconds.
What makes this recipe really stand out is how it balances sweetness with a slight spiciness from the cinnamon and nutmeg, ensuring it’s not overly sugary. It’s a harmonious blend that works beautifully with the savory elements of the Thanksgiving meal.
Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic butter potato mash from Daen's Kitchen
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of fluffy mashed potatoes. This recipe takes the traditional dish to new heights with the addition of roasted garlic and creamy butter. The result? An irresistible side that’s smooth, buttery, and packed with flavor.
The secret to these mashed potatoes is the roasted garlic. Roasting the garlic mellows its pungency, creating a sweet, nutty profile that complements the creaminess of the potatoes. Combined with a generous amount of butter and a splash of cream, these mashed potatoes are velvety, rich, and indulgent enough to be the star of the meal.
Pecan Pie with a Twist
Classic Pecan Pie with a Twist from Food52
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a decadent dessert, and this pecan pie offers a delightful twist on the classic. With a buttery crust and a gooey filling made from toasted pecans, brown sugar, and a hint of bourbon, this pie is sure to end your meal on a high note.
What sets this pecan pie apart is the addition of a touch of bourbon, which adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dessert. The alcohol cooks off during baking, leaving behind a subtle warmth and complexity that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pecans and the richness of the brown sugar.
This pie is a showstopper that looks as good as it tastes. The glossy, nutty top layer is both beautiful and delicious, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dessert table.
Pro Tricks for Amazing Thanksgiving Dishes
50 Thanksgiving Side Dishes: Easy Mashed Potatoes from Love and Lemons
Rating: 5 (38 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 10 min.
Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas: The Best Mashed Potatoes from What's Gaby Cooking
Rating: 5 (2 reviews). Total Time: 30 min.
Thanksgiving recipes from BBC Good Food
Brine for the Win
For a juicy turkey, don’t skip the brine. Whether wet or dry, brining infuses flavor and helps retain moisture. Remember to plan ahead, as it needs to sit for at least 12 hours for optimal results.
Sweet Potato Perfection
Cut your sweet potatoes into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. This guarantees each bite is perfectly tender and infused with the delicious maple glaze.
Garlic Magic
Roast your garlic for mashed potatoes a day in advance. This allows the flavors to develop, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about on the big day.











