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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

 
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Recipes  /   thanksgiving
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 baked creamed corn with cheese

Baked Creamed Corn With Cheese

A great way to dress up frozen corn. The corn is baked in a creamy sauce with a hint of sugar and a savory dash of Romano cheese.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for sweet potato buttermilk waffles

Sweet Potato Buttermilk Waffles

Use up leftover sweet potatoes in this delicious breakfast recipe. Mashed sweet potatoes are mixed with buttermilk, egg, pancake mix, sugar, and cinnamon and cooked in a...

Method:   waffle maker
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 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

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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 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 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 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 garlic horseradish mashed potatoes

Garlic Horseradish Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are good and garlic mashed potatoes are better, but horseradish garlic mashed potatoes are best. The spicy horseradish works great with savory...

Method:   stovetop
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 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 deluxe mushroom green bean casserole

Deluxe Mushroom Green Bean Casserole

What makes this casserole deluxe, you ask? Some might say it's the fresh sliced mushrooms. Others might suggest the crispy fried onions.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for homestyle turkey

Homestyle Turkey

A simple roast turkey recipe with some tips and tricks for getting super moist meat.

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours


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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 glazed turkey

Apple Glazed Turkey

This apple glazed turkey swaps out traditional savory flavors for a sweeter twist with apple cider and maple syrup, making it a standout choice for any festive occasion.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   2-5 hours


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 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 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 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 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 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 herb roast turkey

Herb Roast Turkey

The herb roast turkey combines the classic elements of a traditional turkey with the distinct flavors of fresh herbs and aromatic vegetables. This recipe not only promises a moist...

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 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 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 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 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 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

recipe for grand marnier cranberry sauce

Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce

The perfect way to add a little bit of holiday cheer to your meal. The tart cranberries are balanced perfectly by the sweet orange liqueur, making it a delicious addition...

Method:   stovetop
Time:   over 5 hours


recipe for citrus roast turkey

Citrus Roast Turkey

Two lemons, two limes and an orange with fresh bunches of sage, marjoram, and thyme add the herbal notes for a uniquely flavored bird.

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for apple walnut stuffing

Apple Walnut Stuffing

Anyone can open a box of stuffing, but why not take it one step further? Turn that packaged stuffing into a dish that tastes made from scratch.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

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 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 baked cranberry sauce

Baked Cranberry Sauce

This baked cranberry sauce is almost as easy as opening a can of sauce but tastes worlds better.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

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 pumpkin flan

Pumpkin Flan

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

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for turkey leftover pot pie

Turkey Leftover Pot Pie

A great way to use up turkey (or chicken) leftovers. Use whatever veggies you have on hand and you can substitute sauteed onion in place of the pearl onions if desired.

Method:   oven, stovetop
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 basic roast turkey

Basic Roast Turkey

Basic recipe, sophisticated result. A honey citrus glaze spiked with orange zest elevates the flavor of the turkey in a major way while keeping the steps simple and the ingredients...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for bourbon and brown sugar sweet potatoes

Bourbon And Brown Sugar Sweet Potatoes

This bourbon and brown sugar sweet potatoes recipe brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite. By incorporating bourbon, you introduce a complex layer of...

Method:   oven
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





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