15 Easy Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas

Feeling stumped about what to cook for Thanksgiving dinner this year? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with mouthwatering Thanksgiving dinner ideas that are sure to impress your guests!

Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or a cozy meal for two, we’ve rounded up delicious recipes and tips to make your Thanksgiving feast memorable.

Not sure where to start? Check out our top Thanksgiving turkey recipes, including a foolproof method for a perfectly browned bird with crispy skin. Or maybe you’re in the mood to switch things up with a succulent ham or a hearty vegetarian main dish? We’ve got you covered with crowd-pleasing options.

And let’s not forget about those all-important Thanksgiving side dishes! Our Thanksgiving dinner ideas will help you create a well-rounded and delicious menu.

1. Slow Cooker Herb Honey Glazed Turkey Breast

This recipe is perfect for busy cooks or those with limited oven space. Simply toss the turkey breast with herbs, honey, and spices, then let your slow cooker work its magic. The result is a flavorful and juicy bird that practically falls off the bone.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 turkey breast (4-6 pounds)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix honey, melted butter, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker.
3. Pour the honey mixture over the turkey, making sure it is evenly coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the turkey is fully cooked and tender.
5. Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

What to Serve With: Pair this turkey with mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce.

What to Drink: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light, fruity red wine like Pinot Noir complements this dish perfectly.

2. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes are rich, creamy, and bursting with garlic flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a touch of elegance, making them a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving feast. Plus, they’re easy to prepare ahead of time, freeing up valuable oven space on the big day.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Add the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste.

What to Serve With: These mashed potatoes are perfect alongside roast turkey, ham, or beef.

What to Drink: Pair with a creamy, full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.

3. 3-Ingredient Cranberry Sauce

This cranberry sauce is so simple to make, you’ll wonder why you ever used canned sauce again. With just fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and orange juice, you can create a bright and tangy sauce that complements all the flavors of your Thanksgiving dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.

What to Serve With: Serve this cranberry sauce with turkey, ham, or as a topping for desserts.

What to Drink: A sweet Riesling or a sparkling wine pairs well with the tartness of the cranberry sauce.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple

Brussels sprouts get a delicious upgrade in this recipe. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while bacon adds a salty richness. A touch of maple syrup ties everything together, creating a side dish that’s both savory and sweet.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and sprinkle with chopped bacon.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy.
5. Drizzle with maple syrup and toss to coat before serving.

What to Serve With: These Brussels sprouts are a great side dish for roast chicken, turkey, or pork.

What to Drink: Enjoy with a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

5. Sausage and Apple Stuffing

This stuffing is a flavor-packed twist on the classic Thanksgiving side. Sausage adds savory depth, while apples bring a touch of sweetness and tartness. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage)
• 1 large apple, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 8 cups cubed bread
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook the onion, celery, and apple until softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, onion, celery, apple, cubed bread, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chicken broth and mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.

What to Serve With: Serve this stuffing with roast turkey, chicken, or pork.

What to Drink: A glass of Pinot Noir or a hearty ale complements the flavors of this stuffing.

6. Creamy Green Bean Casserole

This green bean casserole is a Thanksgiving staple for a reason. It’s creamy, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Fresh green beans are mixed with a creamy mushroom soup mixture and topped with crispy fried onions for a textural contrast.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the green beans in boiling water until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Drain and transfer to a baking dish.
4. In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour over the green beans.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden.

What to Serve With: Perfect alongside roast turkey, ham, or beef.

What to Drink: Pair with a glass of Chardonnay or a light, crisp lager.

7. Easy Dinner Rolls

Homemade dinner rolls are the perfect way to elevate your Thanksgiving meal. This recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner bakers. The rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up all the delicious gravy.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar.
2. Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, and salt.
3. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes.
5. Divide into small balls and place in a greased baking dish.
6. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 minutes, until golden brown.

What to Serve With: These rolls are perfect with any main course, from turkey to ham to beef.

What to Drink: A versatile option like sparkling water or a mild white wine like Pinot Grigio works well.

8. Honey Glazed Carrots

These honey glazed carrots are a simple and elegant side dish. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, while a honey glaze adds a touch of sticky goodness. They’re a healthy and colorful addition to your Thanksgiving table.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter and honey together over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced carrots and toss to coat.
4. Transfer the carrots to a baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes, until the carrots are tender and glazed.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

What to Serve With: Perfect with roast chicken, turkey, or beef.

What to Drink: Pair with a light, refreshing white wine like Riesling or a non-alcoholic option like sparkling apple cider.

9. Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Pecans

Mashed sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious Thanksgiving side dish. This recipe adds cinnamon for a warm and cozy flavor, while pecans provide a satisfying crunch. It’s a perfect side dish for those who prefer a sweeter option.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes.
2. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
3. Add the butter, brown sugar, milk, and salt.
4. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. In a small pan, toast the pecans with cinnamon until fragrant.
6. Sprinkle the cinnamon pecans over the mashed sweet potatoes before serving.

What to Serve With: Great with turkey, ham, or any holiday main dish.

What to Drink: A warm, spiced beverage like mulled wine or apple cider pairs perfectly.

10. Pumpkin Pie with Gingersnap Crust

Pumpkin pie is a quintessential Thanksgiving dessert. This recipe features a creamy pumpkin filling nestled in a delicious gingersnap crust. The gingersnaps add a spicy kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the gingersnap crumbs with melted butter. Press into a pie dish to form the crust.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, spices, and salt.
4. Pour the filling into the crust.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set and the crust is golden.
6. Let cool before serving.

What to Serve With: Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

What to Drink: A spiced latte or a glass of dessert wine like Sauternes pairs wonderfully.

11. Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for fall. This recipe is easy to make and uses simple ingredients. Fresh apples are topped with a buttery oat crumble and baked to golden perfection.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 cups sliced apples
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Spread the apples in a baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the oats, flour, and brown sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly.
5. Sprinkle the topping over the apples.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is golden.
7. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream if desired.

What to Serve With: Perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

What to Drink: A cup of hot coffee or a glass of chilled apple cider pairs well.

12. Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan pie bars are a delicious and portable alternative to traditional pecan pie. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd and can be easily made ahead of time. The rich and buttery pecan filling is topped with a flaky crust for a truly decadent treat.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup cold butter, cubed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Press the mixture into a greased baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 20 minutes.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust.
6. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the filling is set.
7. Let cool before cutting into bars.

What to Serve With: Great with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

What to Drink: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

13. Honey Glazed Ham

The juicy ham is bathed in a luscious honey glaze that caramelizes beautifully, creating a mouthwatering crust. With hints of brown sugar, mustard, and cloves, each slice offers a harmonious balance of richness and zest.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked ham (8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan.
3. In a bowl, mix the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cloves, and cinnamon.
4. Brush the glaze over the ham.
5. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes, until the ham is heated through and caramelized.
6. Let rest before slicing and serving.

What to Serve With: Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls.

What to Drink: A glass of sparkling wine or a light beer like a pilsner pairs well.

14. Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin cheesecake bars are a delightful combination of two Thanksgiving favorites. They have a creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling on a graham cracker crust and are topped with a swirl of white chocolate for an extra special touch.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Whipped cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into a greased baking pan to form the crust.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
4. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, and spices. Beat until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture over the crust.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the center is set.
7. Let cool before cutting into bars.
8. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

What to Serve With: Perfect on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream.

What to Drink: Pair with a spiced chai latte or a glass of dessert wine like Moscato.

15. Cranberry Orange Muffins

Cranberry orange muffins are a delicious way to start your Thanksgiving morning. They’re moist and flavorful, with tart cranberries and bright orange zest. They’re perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup orange juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Stir in the cranberries.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, egg, orange zest, and orange juice.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Spoon the batter into a greased muffin tin.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool before serving.

What to Serve With: Enjoy these muffins with butter or cream cheese.

What to Drink: Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of fresh orange juice.

Related posts:

15 Dinner Ideas for Kids 15 Dinner Ideas with Ground Beef 15 Dinner Ideas with Rice 15 Seafood Dinner Ideas 15 Gluten Free Dinner Ideas 15 Easy 30 Minute Dinner Ideas 15 Best Comfort Dinner Recipes 15 Chicken Dinner Ideas