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Thanksgiving Recipes: Turkey, Stuffing, Pumpkin Pie

Thanksgiving Recipes: Turkey, Stuffing, Pumpkin Pie

Thanksgiving is celebrated the fourth Thursday in November in the United States. It's a remembrance of the first Pilgrim feast in 1621 where they gave thanks for a bountiful harvest.

This is also one holiday that warrants nearly as many recipes for leftovers as it does the meal itself. In fact, many people claim that the leftovers are their favorite part of the holiday!

Every few years a new trendy fad develops to put a new spin on the traditional fare. For example, deep frying a turkey in place of roasting has become popular over the last few years as has brining the bird before cooking it.

Traditional Thanksgiving food (not to be confused with the food served at the original feast, only some of which is still served today) consists of a roasted turkey, gravy, stuffing (dressing), mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin or pecan pie. Of course, many variations are common in different parts of the country and every family has developed their own traditions.

Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October (same as the former Columbus Day in the U.S.). Many of the same foods are eaten on both US and Canadian Thanksgivings.



jump to the recipes

mashing the potatoes

Learn the tricks of the trade for keeping your potatoes lump free and preventing them from turning gluey

gravy basics

Lose the lumps, brown your flour, and other handy gravy tips

storing leftovers

A handy guide on how long to safely store those leftovers.

cooking the turkey

Tips for a perfectly juicy and tasty turkey every time



thanksgiving recipe finder

 
Enter a word or two in the box to find recipes within the thanksgiving section. You can search the title, ingredients, or entire recipe by selecting the appropriate option.

Recipes  /   thanksgiving
recipe for brown sugar-glazed carrots

Brown Sugar-Glazed Carrots

Simple but delicious! Carrots are glazed with brown sugar, butter, and orange peel.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for quick candied yams

Quick Candied Yams

Want to dress up a can of sweet potatoes? This simple recipe creates a sweet and buttery dish that's ready in no time.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for apple brined turkey

Apple Brined Turkey

A spectacular brine of apple cider, orange juice, and warm spices gives your holiday bird sweet and spiced undertones and keeps it super moist.

Method:   oven, stovetop
Time:   over 5 hours


recipe for kentucky bourbon sweet potatoes

Kentucky Bourbon Sweet Potatoes

Butter, vanilla, and a golden-baked marshmallow topping turn some sweet potatoes into an utterly life-changing casserole.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for oven orange-glazed carrots

Oven Orange-Glazed Carrots

Oven-roasting the carrots in a sweet butter sauce gives them a caramelized-like glaze.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

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recipe for spicy cajun turkey gravy

Spicy Cajun Turkey Gravy

This isn't your typical turkey gravy. The pilgrims might not have approved of the jalapenos and spicy Cajun seasoning, but you'll be converted to the zesty side real quick.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for apple brined and hickory smoked turkey

Apple Brined And Hickory Smoked Turkey

Turkey is brined in a mixture of apple juice, brown sugar, salt, oranges, ginger, cloves, garlic, and bay leaves. To further enhance the flavor it's cooked in a...

Method:   outdoor grill
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for cranberries jubilee

Cranberries Jubilee

You'll be "jubilant" from this tangy cranberry jubilee. A simple warm sauce of cranberries, sugar and a splash of brandy poured over vanilla ice cream makes a phenomenal...

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for sweet potatoes with marshmallow creme sauce

Sweet Potatoes With Marshmallow Creme Sauce

Put the sweet back in sweet potatoes, then add a layer of marshmallow creme on top. This decadent dish is the perfect sweet and savory bridge between dinner...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for night before mashed potatoes

Night Before Mashed Potatoes

The night before Thanksgiving or other big family event, make this easy recipe for mashed potatoes. This is a great way to cut down on your cooking time during busy...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for apple and onion dressing

Apple And Onion Dressing

Say goodbye to boxed stuffing and hello to a delightful combination of apples, onions, and a medley of fresh ingredients. This apple and onion dressing is not just a side, it...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for mom's left-over mashed potato casserole

Mom's Left-Over Mashed Potato Casserole

Don't settle for just reheating your leftover mashed potatoes, turn them into a loaded up casserole with bacon and cheese.

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for leftover mashed potatoes croquettes

Leftover Mashed Potatoes Croquettes

What do you do with leftover mashed potatoes? Try potato croquettes! They're crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and make for a great appetizer or side...

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for jack daniel's pecan pie

Jack Daniel's Pecan Pie

This Jack Daniel's pecan pie takes the beloved Southern staple and gives it a unique spin with the addition of whiskey and chocolate chips.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours


recipe for slow cooker citrus turkey breast

Slow Cooker Citrus Turkey Breast

Let's face it, turkey can sometimes be a bit bland, but not with this recipe. A combination of spices and citrus juices turns a classic into a standout dish that...

Method:   crock pot
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for diabetic pumpkin pie

Diabetic Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those watching their sugar intake. It's made with pumpkin puree and sugar-free pudding, making it rich...


Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for old-fashioned green beans

Old-Fashioned Green Beans

With bacon as a sidekick, these green beans turn into a Rockstar and steal the dinner table show. Front row tickets, please. I don't want to miss the party.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   1-2 hours


recipe for baked stuffing casserole

Baked Stuffing Casserole

A simple bread stuffing made with onion, celery, bread, seasonings and instead of plain chicken broth it uses chicken and rice soup for a different twist.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for impossible pumpkin pie

Impossible Pumpkin Pie

A crustless pumpkin pie made with pumpkin pie filling, evaporated milk, butter, eggs, sugar, Bisquick, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for cream style corn

Cream Style Corn

Discover a delicious and easy recipe for cream-style corn. Made with fresh corn, milk, and simple seasonings, this side dish is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours


recipe for herbed thanksgiving slow cooker stuffing

Herbed Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Stuffing

This stuffing does so many things right, but here's what really sets it apart: adding a sweet, tart, apple to balance out the savory flavors. Truly a stand-out...

Method:   crock pot, stovetop
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for savory stuffing balls

Savory Stuffing Balls

A great way to serve stuffing in individual portions. The outside gets a nice, crispy texture while the inside is moist and delicious.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for best turkey dressing

Best Turkey Dressing

The combination of white bread and cornbread cubes mixed with pork sausage makes the best turkey dressing you'll ever have.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for turkey lasagna with cranberries

Turkey Lasagna With Cranberries

A great way to use up leftover holiday turkey! And, even though it is rich tasting and filling, this recipe is lower in calories and fat than other lasagna recipes.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for baked mashed potato omelet

Baked Mashed Potato Omelet

This oven-baked omelet is made with minced bell peppers, onion, mushrooms, eggs, mashed potatoes and Parmesan cheese.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for elvis presley's favorite sweet potato pie

Elvis Presley's Favorite Sweet Potato Pie

This popular pie is made with a combination of sweet potatoes and russets for a lighter flavor than other pies.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   1-2 hours


recipe for candied sweet potatoes

Candied Sweet Potatoes

Brown sugar and butter are standard fare for candied sweet potatoes, but the real genius of this recipe is adding in some OJ

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for extra special pumpkin pie

Extra Special Pumpkin Pie

Buckle up for a pumpkin pie that's boldly going where no pie has gone before. This one's strutting a fancy apricot layer and a crust that'll make you want to write home about...

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for slow cooker apple sausage stuffing

Slow Cooker Apple Sausage Stuffing

Sweet and savory stuffing can be a Thanksgiving game changer. Slow cooked apples and pork sausage makes an absolutely stand-out stuffing that's miles ahead of the...

Method:   stovetop, crock pot
Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for make your own poultry seasoning

Make Your Own Poultry Seasoning

No need to buy poultry seasoning when you can make your own better version. This herby medley is heavenly on roasted chicken and turkey, and it's super convenient to...


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for maple bacon roast turkey

Maple Bacon Roast Turkey

Voted the best Thanksgiving turkey ever (by CDKitchen staff). The turkey is covered in slices of bacon and basted with maple syrup while roasting. Heavenly!

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for pumpkin pie with splenda

Pumpkin Pie With Splenda

This pumpkin pie With Splenda is for everyone who's sweet enough already. It's the same spiced, cozy treat you love, just slimmed down in the sugar department. Hello, healthier...

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours


recipe for slow cooker baked sweet potatoes

Slow Cooker Baked Sweet Potatoes

These crockpot baked sweet potatoes are perfect for fall, whether you're going sweet with butter and cinnamon sugar or savory with roasted veggies.

Method:   crock pot
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for farmhouse sweet potato pie with pecan streusel

Farmhouse Sweet Potato Pie With Pecan Streusel

Who says only apple and cherry pies deserve a crumb topping? Crunchy spiced pecan streusel turns a good sweet potato pie into a great one, adding textures...

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for easy turkey pot pie

Easy Turkey Pot Pie

This recipe is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey or chicken. The gravy and vegetables create a savory filling, while the biscuit dough adds a fluffy, flaky topping.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for stuffed cranberry sauce slices

Stuffed Cranberry Sauce Slices

A different way to serve cranberry sauce at the holidays. Slice canned cranberry sauce into layers and sandwich together with a filling of cream cheese, mayo, and pecans.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for cornbread dressing made with neck meat

Cornbread Dressing Made With Neck Meat

Who knew turkey neck meat could be the star of the show? This cornbread dressing is rich, hearty, and just the thing to make any dinner feel like a special...

Method:   oven, stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for turkey spread

Turkey Spread

Tired of those holiday leftovers? Try this dressed up turkey spread that is delicious as a sandwich or served on crackers.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for glazed baby carrots with parsley

Glazed Baby Carrots With Parsley

Cooked baby carrots are mixed with butter, brown sugar, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. It's a simple recipe but it makes a great side dish.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for pecan green beans

Pecan Green Beans

Nutty and buttery, these green beans are a perfect holiday side dish

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for easy karo pecan pie

Easy Karo Pecan Pie

Karo corn syrup was introduced in 1902. While pecan pies were around already, in the 1930's Karo corn syrup became a popular ingredient in them in place of molasses or other sugar...

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours


recipe for fancy sweet potato casserole

Fancy Sweet Potato Casserole

This casserole is the perfect dish for any holiday gathering or family dinner. It is packed with flavor and everyone will love the sweet graham cracker crumb topping.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for slow cooker apple-raisin stuffing

Slow Cooker Apple-Raisin Stuffing

Ready to impress your friends with a stuffing recipe that's anything but ordinary? This apple-raisin stuffing can be whipped up in a snap, whether you prefer the crock...

Method:   crock pot
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for leftover turkey burritos

Leftover Turkey Burritos

Use up leftover turkey in a different way with these zesty burritos. All it takes is a few seconds in the microwave and dinner is served.

Method:   microwave
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for cranberry sausage stuffing

Cranberry Sausage Stuffing

This is a festive holiday stuffing with the addition of fresh cranberries.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for pumpkin mousse

Pumpkin Mousse

Why settle for ordinary when you can dazzle your dessert repertoire? Our Pumpkin Mousse offers layers of smooth, spicy, pumpkin prowess with a snappy gingersnap finish.


Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for classic roast turkey and homestyle gravy

Classic Roast Turkey And Homestyle Gravy

Preparing a classic roast turkey doesn't have to be complicated. This recipe emphasizes a no-fuss roasting method accentuated by a gravy that pulls it all...

Method:   oven, stovetop
Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for turkey egg salad

Turkey Egg Salad

Throw in some leftover turkey to really turn egg salad into something substantial. Mayo, eggs, and relish make a creamy and crunchy mixture perfect for lunch in a lettuce wrap or a...


Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for libby's famous pumpkin pie

Libby's Famous Pumpkin Pie

Made with pie shell, evaporated milk, eggs, pumpkin, sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for easy pumpkin pie

Easy Pumpkin Pie

Want a perfectly easy pumpkin pie? Pumpkin puree blended with sweetened condensed milk and a blend of spices are your ticket to this holiday favorite.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours





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