Find the best easy Thanksgiving recipes to celebrate the holiday. From appetizers and side dishes to main courses and desserts, we’ve got everything you need to host a spectacular feast!
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Tips to Prepare for Thanksgiving
Whether you’re hosting your entire family or simply bringing a side dish to a gathering, preparing for Thanksgiving day can be a little hectic. So, we’re gathering our top tips along with our favorite easy Thanksgiving food ideas. With our tips and tricks, you’re sure to get through the day with ease!
- Make a menu and shopping list. Several weeks before the big day, write out your menu and make a shopping list of all the ingredients you’ll need.
- Shop early. Stores get busy this time of year. So, we recommend shopping a week or two in advance. This eliminates some of the stress and makes sure you have plenty of time to get everything you need. No more scrambling when you can’t find marshmallows at the last minute!
- Cook ahead of time. Prepare everything you can ahead of time from the turkey to the veggies. The less time you have to spend in the kitchen on Thanksgiving, the easier your day will be.
- Ask for help! Don’t be afraid to ask friends and family to bring a dish to pitch in, or simply request their help in the kitchen. You shouldn’t have to do everything alone!
- Set the table ahead of time. We’ve found it helpful to set the table and lay out any decorations or items you’ll need the night before Thanksgiving.
- Clean as you go. Do your best to clean up your kitchen as you cook, wiping off counters, cleaning dishes, and throwing away scraps. It might be tedious. However, it will be a huge relief when your kitchen isn’t a complete disaster at the end of the day!
The Best Easy Thanksgiving Recipes
The Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe
Learn how to make the best Thanksgiving turkey recipe with simple ingredients for a tender, juicy turkey every time you bake!
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How to Make Turkey Gravy from Drippings
Learn how to make turkey gravy from drippings with just five ingredients to add flavor to all your holiday meals and weeknight dinners!
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Marinated Chickpeas with Whipped Feta
Make this marinated chickpeas with whipped feta dip for a sweet and savory appetizer or snack that requires no cooking!
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Warm Feta Dip with Marinated Olives
This Warm Feta Dip with Marinated Olives is savory, tangy, and unbelievably delicious. Pair it with all your favorite dippers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer everyone will enjoy!
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Brown Butter Cornbread with Whipped Honey Butter
Prepare this sweet, tender brown butter cornbread with whipped honey butter for an easy side dish to pair with all your favorite main dishes!
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Sweet Potato Salad with Chickpeas
Enjoy the flavors of fall with this easy, flavorful sweet potato salad with chickpeas for a nutritious main course, side dish, or appetizer!
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Oven Roasted Whole Carrots with Tahini Dressing
These carrots are delicious on their own, but top it with tahini dressing, fresh mint, and pistachios to take them up a notch!
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Bread Stuffing Recipe
Give your favorite holiday side dish an upgrade with this sweet and savory Mediterranean style oven baked bread stuffing recipe!
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Cheesy Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Upgrade your holiday menu with this quick and easy cheesy green bean casserole recipe ready in just over an hour!
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The BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Make the BEST mashed potatoes recipe with whole milk and sour cream for the smoothest texture and richest flavor ever!
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Apple Crisp
Easy apple crisp with a streusel topping, salted caramel and sea salt flakes!
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Easy Banana Pecan Bread
Enjoy the flavors of your favorite dessert with half the work thanks to this easy banana pecan bread complete with a sweet pecan topping!
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Easy Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Experience all the taste and texture of pecan pie with a fraction of the work thanks to this crowd-pleasing easy pecan pie bars recipe!
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Easy Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe
Make this ooey gooey delicious pecan pie cobbler recipe with just a few simple ingredients for an indulgent dessert perfect for the holiday! Serve warm topped with vanilla ice cream.
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Common Questions About Easy Thanksgiving Recipes
What are five traditional Thanksgiving foods?
Of course, everyone’s menu looks a little different. However, in general, turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato sides, and cranberry sauce are traditional recipes for the holiday.
What are three main foods on Thanksgiving?
The three most popular foods are turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green beans.
What can I make for Thanksgiving dinner instead of turkey?
Any main course you like! Try serving roasted chicken, spiraled ham, prime rib, or brisket instead.
