CDKitchen, it's what's cooking online!
  • contact the CDKitchen helpdesk

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 slow cooker thanksgiving bone-in turkey breast with bacon gravy

Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Bone-In Turkey Breast With Bacon Gravy

Made with dried sage, Worcestershire sauce, bacon, bone-in turkey breast, garlic pepper, turkey gravy, all-purpose flour

Method:   crock pot, stovetop
Time:   over 5 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

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 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 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

get our recipe newsletters!
Get our daily recipe newsletter!

Every day we send out a featured recipe and our editor's favorite picks. Don't miss out!


recipe for soft potato bread stuffing

Soft Potato Bread Stuffing

This soft potato bread stuffing is the perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving feast or alongside any poultry or pork dish.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

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 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 roasted garlic mashed potatoes with fresh rosemary

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Rosemary

For a side dish that stands out, try these roasted garlic mashed potatoes. The unique combination of roasted garlic's depth and the fresh herbal notes...

Method:   oven, stovetop
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 make-ahead turkey gravy

Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

This flavorful gravy made from roasted turkey wings can be made up to a week in advance (longer if you freeze the gravy). Perfect time saver over the holidays.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for slow cooker green bean casserole

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a holiday staple. This version has a twist in that it's made in the crock pot.

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

recipe for sourdough stuffing with sage, thyme, and marjoram

Sourdough Stuffing With Sage, Thyme, And Marjoram

Turkey may be the star of the Thanksgiving spread but a good herb-packed stuffing is a huge part of the supporting cast, and this sage and sourdough...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   1-2 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 pumpkin pie coffee creamer

Pumpkin Pie Coffee Creamer

Make your own pumpkin pie coffee. The ground ginger in there really sends it over the edge. You can take this stuff with you wherever you need a holiday-flavored cup of joe....


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for 3 layer pumpkin pecan cake

3 Layer Pumpkin Pecan Cake

Made with carrot cake mix, pumpkin, eggs, water, powdered sugar, butter, cream cheese

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for cranberry punch

Cranberry Punch

This festive holiday drink works well with low sugar/diet ingredients as well as regular. Float the cranberries on top for a festive look.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for pumpkin flan

Pumpkin Flan

A baked pumpkin custard-type dessert that is served chilled.

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for honey and spice glazed turkey

Honey And Spice Glazed Turkey

Made with vegetable oil, chili powder, garlic powder, ground allspice, cumin, salt, ground red pepper, honey, water, turkey

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for southern cornbread dressing

Southern Cornbread Dressing

Southerners know their stuff-ing! Some other southern traditions include adding fresh chopped sage, hard boiled eggs, or cooked giblets to the cornbread dressing.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for apricot glazed turkey

Apricot Glazed Turkey

Made with butter, onions, shallots, turkey, chicken broth, fresh thyme, sage, salt and pepper

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   2-5 hours

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 glazed carrots and brussel sprouts

Glazed Carrots And Brussel Sprouts

Made with black pepper, brown sugar, baby carrots, Brussels sprouts, chicken broth, butter

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for mashed sweet potatoes

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

This is a great alternative to regular mashed potatoes or to the usual sweet potato casserole at the holidays.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for so easy sweet potatoes

So Easy Sweet Potatoes

Transform canned sweet potatoes into a show-stopping side with just butter, sugar, and a little marshmallow magic.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for candied acorn squash

Candied Acorn Squash

A little maple syrup and allspice gives these acorn squash some delightful sweetness. Serve them as a side or even as a dessert with some cool vanilla ice cream.

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for plymouth rock cocktail

Plymouth Rock Cocktail

A simple and refreshing holiday-flavored cocktail made with gin, cranberry juice, and fresh cranberries for garnish


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for celery and sage bread stuffing

Celery And Sage Bread Stuffing

This savory stuffing combines the earthy flavors of celery and sage with soft bread cubes. Whether you prefer it slightly crispy on top or tender throughout, this dish...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for slow cooker orange-spiced sweet potatoes

Slow Cooker Orange-Spiced Sweet Potatoes

Cooking sweet potatoes just got a whole lot cooler. With a splash of orange and a sprinkle of spice, you'll be wondering why you didn't make these sooner.

Method:   crock pot
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 dark chocolate and pumpkin cheesecake

Dark Chocolate and Pumpkin Cheesecake

Layers of chocolate pecan cookie crust, chocolate cheesecake, pumpkin cheesecake, and chocolate ganache make up this out of this world dessert.

Method:   oven, stovetop
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for pumpkin pie spice with cloves

Pumpkin Pie Spice With Cloves

Pumpkin pie seasoning with kicks from allspice, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. You'll find uses for it far outside the pie crust. Smoothies, granola, coffee, pancakes -...


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for bread and butter stuffing with fresh sage

Bread And Butter Stuffing With Fresh Sage

Truly a stuffing that pulls all the stops. Fresh sage is an absolute must, of course, but the sweet apples and raisins in this spectacular stuffing help...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for white castle turkey stuffing

White Castle Turkey Stuffing

White Castle isn't just for late night burger cravings! Chopped up burgers actually make a great stuffing for your Thanksgiving turkey (or weeknight chicken).


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for apple gobbler cocktail

Apple Gobbler Cocktail

This bourbon apple cider cocktail is the epitome of fall flavors.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for green beans with caramelized shallots

Green Beans With Caramelized Shallots

Made with dried thyme, olive oil, butter, haricots verts or slender green beans, shallots

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for turkey, cranberry, and stuffing sandwiches

Turkey, Cranberry, and Stuffing Sandwiches

These turkey, cranberry, and stuffing sandwiches offer a clever way to repurpose holiday leftovers while introducing a fresh twist.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for sweet potato & leftover turkey salad

Sweet Potato & Leftover Turkey Salad

Made with fresh ginger, cooked turkey, sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, raisins, walnuts, mayonnaise, lemon juice, orange juice, orange peel


Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for traditional stuffing

Traditional Stuffing

This is a simple, traditional stuffing made with white bread, celery, onions, and sage. It is a staple recipe on many holiday tables.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for marinated thanksgiving turkey

Marinated Thanksgiving Turkey

Ready to spice up your Thanksgiving feast? This marinated turkey recipe uses an intriguing mixture of savory and citrus, which makes it a great option for those seeking...

Method:   oven, outdoor grill
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for apple and sage stuffing

Apple and Sage Stuffing

If you thought stuffing was just a sidekick, think again. This apple and sage version is here to steal the spotlight at your next holiday or dinner gathering.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for mini-thanksgiving turkey

Mini-Thanksgiving Turkey

Want a turkey dinner without all the work? Try this small-scale version made with turkey tenderloins and homemade bread stuffing.

Method:   oven, stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for broth injected turkey

Broth Injected Turkey

If you're looking for an extra flavorful turkey this holiday season, try injecting it with broth! This simple technique can really boost the taste of your bird.

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for pumpkin pie shot cocktail

Pumpkin Pie Shot Cocktail

Pumpkin pie in a glass! Vodka is mixed with pumpkin puree, simple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg and heavy cream.


Time:   under 30 minutes


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 slow cooker cranberry orange relish

Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Relish

Made with cranberries, sugar, orange peel, orange juice

Method:   crock pot
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for slow cooker red wine cranberry sauce

Slow Cooker Red Wine Cranberry Sauce

Souse up your cranberry sauce this holiday season. Red wine enhances the flavor of the cranberries in ways you won't believe!

Method:   crock pot
Time:   1-2 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 thanksgiving maize

Thanksgiving Maize

Made with margarine, sour cream, corn muffin mix, whole kernel corn, cream corn

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for turkey baste paste

Turkey Baste Paste

This homemade concoction is a balanced blend of spices to boost your turkey's flavor. Its perfect for rubbing inside the turkey's cavity and under the skin.


Time:   under 30 minutes





About CDKitchen

Online since 1995, CDKitchen has grown into a large collection of delicious recipes created by home cooks and professional chefs from around the world. We are all about tasty treats, good eats, and fun food. Join our community of 200K+ members - browse for a recipe, submit your own, add a review, or upload a recipe photo.