Thanksgiving Dinner Foods are a cornerstone of the holiday, bringing family and friends together through delicious dishes. At larosafoods.com, we understand the importance of creating a memorable Thanksgiving feast, so we’ve curated a list of exceptional recipes to elevate your holiday table. These Thanksgiving meals provide a balanced, flavorful, and heartwarming experience.
Discover new culinary horizons and impress your loved ones this Thanksgiving with our diverse collection of Thanksgiving dinner ideas, ranging from timeless classics to innovative twists. Explore a variety of Thanksgiving side dishes, desserts, and main courses, ensuring a flavorful and unforgettable holiday gathering with our Thanksgiving recipe collection.
1. Kenji López-Alt’s Cheesy Hasselback Potato Gratin
Are you looking for a show-stopping potato dish? Yes, Kenji López-Alt’s Cheesy Hasselback Potato Gratin is a must-try for your Thanksgiving dinner. This dish elevates the humble potato to new heights with its crispy, cheesy top and tender interior.
According to food critic Tejal Rao, two potato dishes are a priority for Thanksgiving, and this cheesy Hasselback potato gratin is an absolute winner. The combination of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy edges makes it a crowd-pleaser. This dish provides a comforting and indulgent experience.
Recipe: Cheesy Hasselback Potato Gratin
2. Michael Romano and Danny Meyer’s Hashed Brussels Sprouts With Lemon
Do you want a snappy and refreshing side dish to balance your Thanksgiving plate? Absolutely, Michael Romano and Danny Meyer’s Hashed Brussels Sprouts With Lemon is the perfect choice. This dish offers a bright, lemony flavor that cuts through the richness of traditional Thanksgiving fare.
Kim Severson, a food writer, suggests that a snappy respite is needed on every Thanksgiving plate, and this Brussels sprouts hash fits the bill perfectly. The lemon juice adds a zesty flavor. It provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing counterpoint to heavier dishes.
Recipe: Hashed Brussels Sprouts With Lemon
3. Melissa Clark’s Pumpkin Bread With Brown Butter and Bourbon
Is pumpkin bread a requirement on your Thanksgiving dinner plate? Yes, Melissa Clark’s Pumpkin Bread With Brown Butter and Bourbon adds a touch of warmth and sweetness to your holiday feast. The brown butter and bourbon elevate the flavor of this classic bread, making it irresistible.
Food enthusiast Scott Loitsch loves when pumpkin bread soaks up some of the gravy, creating a salty-sweet combination that he finds delightful. The moistness of the bread combined with the rich flavors of brown butter and bourbon make it a Thanksgiving favorite. The bourbon adds a touch of sophistication.
Recipe: Pumpkin Bread With Brown Butter and Bourbon
4. Angela Dimayuga’s Beef Empanadas
Are you looking for a unique and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving appetizer spread? Absolutely, Angela Dimayuga’s Beef Empanadas are a perfect choice. These savory pastries are great for making in big batches and snacking on before dinner.
Gina Fernandez has been making empanadas for Thanksgiving since she was a child, and Angela Dimayuga’s recipe is perfect for the occasion. The flaky crust and savory beef filling make these empanadas a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving celebration. The batch-friendly nature of the recipe makes it ideal for large gatherings.
Recipe: Beef Empanadas
5. Julia Moskin’s Lemon-Garlic Kale Salad
Do you need a tangy-green counterpoint to balance the richness of your Thanksgiving plate? Yes, Julia Moskin’s Lemon-Garlic Kale Salad is always a hit. This salad provides a refreshing and flavorful contrast to the heavier dishes on the Thanksgiving table.
Margaux Laskey notes that some people might give a side-eye to salads at Thanksgiving, but this lemon-garlic kale salad is always well-received, even by her 8-year-old. The combination of kale, lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious and nutritious side dish. This dish provides a welcome break from traditional Thanksgiving fare.
Recipe: Lemon-Garlic Kale Salad
6. David Tanis’s Cranberry Curd Tart
Are you searching for a festive and flavorful dessert to complete your Thanksgiving meal? Yes, David Tanis’s Cranberry Curd Tart is the perfect choice. This tart combines the tartness of cranberries with the creamy richness of curd, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Vaughn Vreeland made this cranberry curd tart for good luck before a New York Times interview and has been making it ever since. The vibrant color and delicious taste of this tart make it a standout dessert for Thanksgiving. The unique flavor profile of cranberry curd offers a refreshing alternative to traditional pies.
Recipe: Cranberry Curd Tart
7. Alison Roman’s Buttered Stuffing With Celery and Leeks
Looking for a stuffing recipe that will impress your guests? Yes, Alison Roman’s Buttered Stuffing With Celery and Leeks is a go-to recipe for Thanksgiving. This stuffing is packed with flavor and features the delightful addition of leeks.
Noah Lewis has made this stuffing his go-to recipe for Thanksgiving, and an ex’s mom even said it was the best stuffing she’d ever had. The combination of butter, celery, and leeks creates a savory and aromatic stuffing that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This stuffing provides a rich and satisfying complement to the rest of the Thanksgiving meal.
Recipe: Buttered Stuffing With Celery and Leeks
8. Samin Nosrat’s Buttermilk-Brined Turkey Breast
Do you want to keep things easy and delicious for a small Thanksgiving gathering? Absolutely, Samin Nosrat’s Buttermilk-Brined Turkey Breast is the perfect solution. This recipe takes the stress out of cooking the main course while ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.
Krysten Chambrot finds that this recipe takes the stress out of the main course, making it ideal for a small Thanksgiving crew. The buttermilk brine ensures that the turkey breast remains moist and flavorful, even when roasted. This recipe provides a hassle-free option for a delicious Thanksgiving centerpiece.
Recipe: Buttermilk-Brined Turkey Breast
9. Genevieve Ko’s Crispy Ginger Sticky Rice
Are you looking for a unique and flavorful rice dish to add to your Thanksgiving spread? Yes, Genevieve Ko’s Crispy Ginger Sticky Rice is a delightful choice. This recipe offers a combination of textures and flavors that will impress your guests.
Genevieve Ko adapted this recipe to recreate her family’s sticky rice stuffing, and it has become a beloved Thanksgiving dish. The crispy texture and the aromatic ginger make this rice dish a standout side. The savory and slightly sweet flavor profile makes it a perfect complement to other Thanksgiving dishes.
Recipe: Crispy Ginger Sticky Rice
10. Fannie Farmer and Marion Cunningham’s Parker House Rolls
Do you want to make fresh, homemade rolls for your Thanksgiving meal? Yes, Fannie Farmer and Marion Cunningham’s Parker House Rolls are a classic choice. These rolls are soft, buttery, and perfect for serving alongside your Thanksgiving feast.
Sara Bonisteel turned to this recipe to recreate her grandmother’s fresh rolls, forming the dough into clovers, as her grandmother did. The tender texture and buttery flavor of these rolls make them a comforting and nostalgic addition to any Thanksgiving celebration. These Parker House Rolls provide a perfect way to soak up gravy and enjoy the flavors of the meal.
Recipe: Fannie Farmer’s Parker House Rolls
11. Hayden Hall’s Ale-Braised Collards With Ham
Looking to add a Southern touch to your Thanksgiving dinner? Yes, Hayden Hall’s Ale-Braised Collards With Ham are a flavorful and comforting choice. The addition of amber ale adds a unique depth of flavor to this classic dish.
Mark Josephson boldly brought this recipe to his grandmother’s house, where his uncle was the designated collard greens cook. Despite initial skepticism about the amber ale, one sip of the potlikker won him over. The rich, savory flavor of the collard greens, combined with the smoky ham, makes this dish a standout side. This dish provides a taste of Southern comfort to your Thanksgiving spread.
Recipe: Ale-Braised Collards with Ham
12. Millie Peartree’s Southern Macaroni and Cheese
Are you ready to experience macaroni and cheese like never before? Yes, Millie Peartree’s Southern Macaroni and Cheese is a game-changer. This recipe, adapted by Kiera Wright-Ruiz, is a must-have for any Thanksgiving feast.
Emily Weinstein believes that if you haven’t had this macaroni and cheese, you haven’t really lived. The creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors of this dish make it a Thanksgiving staple. Its velvety texture elevates the classic dish to new heights.
Recipe: Southern Macaroni and Cheese
13. Melissa Clark’s Hot Crab and Oyster Dip
Looking for a decadent appetizer to kick off your Thanksgiving celebration? Yes, Melissa Clark’s Hot Crab and Oyster Dip is a luxurious choice. This creamy, savory dip is perfect for serving with toast or crackers.
Brett Anderson makes this hot crab dip with chopped Gulf of Mexico oysters to cap off the Thanksgiving celebration season. The rich flavors of crab and oysters, combined with the creamy base, make this dip a crowd-pleaser. This appetizer provides a taste of indulgence to your Thanksgiving gathering.
Recipe: Hot Crab and Oyster Dip
14. John Down’s Chocolate-Pumpkin Layer Cake
Are you searching for a dessert that will satisfy both chocolate and pumpkin lovers? Yes, John Down’s Chocolate-Pumpkin Layer Cake is the answer. This cake combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the warm spices of pumpkin, creating a delightful and unique dessert.
Florence Fabricant created this cake to accommodate her chocolate-loving husband who wasn’t a fan of traditional pumpkin pie. The combination of chocolate and pumpkin, studded with pecans, satisfied everyone at the table. Butter pecan ice cream with a drizzle of chocolate sauce is an appropriate gilding. This cake provides a perfect balance of flavors for a memorable Thanksgiving dessert.
Recipe: Chocolate-Pumpkin Layer Cake
15. Susan Spungen’s Roasted and Raw Brussels Sprouts Salad
Do you need a salad that will appeal to both salad lovers and skeptics at your Thanksgiving table? Yes, Susan Spungen’s Roasted and Raw Brussels Sprouts Salad is a win-win. This salad combines the textures and flavors of roasted and raw Brussels sprouts with nuts and dried fruit.
Becky Hughes finds that this hot-meets-cold salad is a compromise that feels like a win for all parties involved. The combination of roasted and raw Brussels sprouts, along with the sweetness of dried fruit and the crunch of nuts, creates a balanced and flavorful salad. This salad provides a refreshing and nutritious addition to your Thanksgiving meal.
Recipe: Roasted and Raw Brussels Sprouts Salad
16. Sue Li’s Five-Spice Roasted Carrots With Toasted Almonds
Are you looking for a quick and flavorful side dish that can stand out on your Thanksgiving spread? Yes, Sue Li’s Five-Spice Roasted Carrots With Toasted Almonds are a perfect choice. These carrots are easy to make, deeply flavorful, and can be served hot or at room temperature.
Alexa Weibel describes these carrots as a true 30-minute side that is deeply flavorful, equally good straight out of the oven or at room temperature. They have just the right amount of nuance to stand out, but can still mingle with the rest of the Thanksgiving spread. This recipe provides a hassle-free and delicious option for your Thanksgiving meal.
Recipe: Five-Spice Roasted Carrots With Toasted Almonds
17. Alverta Hart’s Persimmon Pudding
Are you searching for a unique and seasonal dessert to add to your Thanksgiving menu? Yes, Alverta Hart’s Persimmon Pudding is an excellent choice. This pudding is made with fresh persimmons, which are in season around Thanksgiving, giving it a fruity and sweet flavor.
Allison Jiang discovered this recipe while looking for ways to use up a drawer full of persimmons, and the end result was much better than she imagined. The texture of the blended fruit makes it light and bouncy, the flavor fruity and sweet. This pudding provides a delightful and unexpected twist to your Thanksgiving dessert selection.
Recipe: Persimmon Pudding
18. Meathead Goldwyn’s Pulled Turkey With Jus
Do you want a quick and easy way to prepare a turkey for a small Thanksgiving gathering? Yes, Meathead Goldwyn’s Pulled Turkey With Jus is the perfect solution. This recipe is designed for a 12-pound turkey and results in the best and juiciest leftovers.
Julia Moskin adapted this quick-and-dirty recipe for a 12-pound turkey, and it’s perfect for a smallish group. The pulled turkey is incredibly moist and flavorful, and the jus adds an extra layer of richness. This recipe provides a hassle-free and delicious option for your Thanksgiving main course.
Recipe: Pulled Turkey With Jus
19. David Tanis’s Vermont Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
Are you looking to elevate your mashed potatoes with a cheesy twist? Yes, David Tanis’s Vermont Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are a must-try. The addition of Vermont cheddar and an egg creates an extra creamy and delicious side dish.
Kim Gougenheim’s daughter always requests mashed potatoes, and after trying many different recipes, they found this one from David Tanis to be their favorite. The cheese is great, but the addition of an egg, which she’d never used before, makes the potatoes extra creamy and delicious. This recipe provides a comforting and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving meal.
Recipe: Vermont Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
20. David Tanis’s Brussels Sprouts With Chorizo
Do you want to add a burst of flavor and texture to your Thanksgiving menu? Yes, David Tanis’s Brussels Sprouts With Chorizo are a fantastic choice. The zing of smoky chorizo and pimentón brings these sprouts to life.
Patrick Farrell finds that the Thanksgiving menu can easily turn into a whiteout of bland flavors and mushy textures, but David Tanis’s sprouts always bring his to life with the zing of smoky chorizo and pimentón. The combination of Brussels sprouts and chorizo creates a flavorful and satisfying side dish. This recipe provides a welcome contrast to the richer dishes on the Thanksgiving table.
Recipe: Brussels Sprouts With Chorizo
21. Melissa Clark’s Brandied Pumpkin Pie
Want to make your pumpkin pie even better this Thanksgiving? Yes, Melissa Clark’s Brandied Pumpkin Pie is a delicious upgrade. This pie is made with fresh butternut squash purée and a touch of brandy for a sophisticated flavor.
Melissa Clark finds that pumpkin pie is even better when made with fresh butternut squash purée. The addition of brandy enhances the flavor and adds a touch of warmth. This pie provides a delicious and elevated take on a classic Thanksgiving dessert.
Recipe: Brandied Pumpkin Pie
22. David Tanis’s Stir-Fried Sticky Rice
Are you looking to incorporate a unique and flavorful side dish into your Thanksgiving celebration? Yes, David Tanis’s Stir-Fried Sticky Rice is an excellent choice. This savory rice dish is packed with umami and comforting flavors.
Amanda Choy shares that for her Chinese American family, no Thanksgiving is complete without an oversize tray of sticky rice. David Tanis’s take on this savory, comforting side is second only to her mother’s family recipe. For those who like a little kick, drizzle chile crisp right on top before serving. This dish provides a cultural twist to your Thanksgiving menu.
Recipe: Stir-Fried Sticky Rice
23. Samantha Seneviratne’s Cloverleaf Rolls
Do you want to impress your guests with homemade rolls that are both beautiful and delicious? Yes, Samantha Seneviratne’s Cloverleaf Rolls are the perfect choice. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and easy to shape.
Emily Fleischaker resolved to make her own rolls at Thanksgiving a few years ago, knowing it would be extra work. She was deeply thrilled when they came out perfectly and it’s now the dish she’s most proud to serve year after year. These Cloverleaf Rolls provide a comforting and memorable addition to your Thanksgiving meal.
Recipe: Cloverleaf Rolls
24. Kim Severson’s Sweet Potatoes With Cranberry Chutney
Are you looking for a sweet and tangy side dish that will brighten up your Thanksgiving plate? Yes, Kim Severson’s Sweet Potatoes With Cranberry Chutney are a delightful option. The combination of sweet potatoes and cranberry chutney creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Sam Sifton loves Kim Severson for many reasons, but high among them is her delicious recipe for roasted sweet potatoes with cranberry chutney. The sweetness of the potatoes and the tartness of the chutney complement each other perfectly. This recipe provides a flavorful and colorful addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Recipe: Sweet Potatoes With Cranberry Chutney
25. Alexa Weibel’s Celery Salad With Apples and Blue Cheese
Do you want a refreshing salad that cuts through the richness of your Thanksgiving meal? Yes, Alexa Weibel’s Celery Salad With Apples and Blue Cheese is a perfect choice. This salad is crisp, tangy, and packed with flavor.
Adina Steiman auditions at least one new recipe for every Thanksgiving, but one thing never budges from the menu: a bracingly refreshing apple and celery root salad that cuts through all the richness and makes the next bite of stuffing even better. This year, she’s going for Alexa Weibel’s version with pomegranate arils for even more crunch. This salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the heavier dishes on your Thanksgiving table.
Recipe: Celery Salad With Apples and Blue Cheese
26. Melissa Clark’s Scalloped Potato Gratin
Are you looking for a comforting and indulgent potato dish to add to your Thanksgiving feast? Yes, Melissa Clark’s Scalloped Potato Gratin is a fantastic choice. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy sauce, and Gruyère cheese create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.
Lee Manansala is excited to make this dish for herself and her sister, as it will fill her little apartment with the aroma of warm, melty Gruyère. The use of a mandoline ensures that the potatoes are sliced evenly, creating a beautiful and uniform gratin. This recipe provides a comforting and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving meal.
Recipe: Scalloped Potato Gratin
27. Pumpkin Bread With Chocolate Chip Streusel
Are you searching for a simple and satisfying sweet treat for your Thanksgiving celebration? Yes, Pumpkin Bread With Chocolate Chip Streusel is a delightful option. This bread is easy to make and packed with the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate.
Ross Laing admits to being hopeless in the kitchen, but he can easily make this pumpkin bread, and he often does. Melissa Clark always delivers, and this fantastic pumpkin bread is his go-to Thanksgiving sweet treat. The combination of pumpkin, spices, and chocolate chips makes this bread a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe: Pumpkin Bread With Chocolate Chip Streusel
What Are the Top 5 Search Intentions for Thanksgiving Dinner Foods?
Understanding the user intent behind searches for Thanksgiving dinner foods is crucial for providing relevant and helpful content. Here are five key search intentions:
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Recipe Ideas: Users search for Thanksgiving dinner recipes to find inspiration and guidance on what to cook for their holiday feast. They may be looking for classic dishes, innovative twists, or recipes that cater to specific dietary needs.
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Cooking Tips and Techniques: Many users seek advice on how to prepare Thanksgiving dinner foods, including tips on roasting a turkey, making perfect mashed potatoes, or creating a delicious gravy.
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Nutritional Information: Health-conscious individuals search for nutritional information about Thanksgiving dishes to make informed choices and maintain a balanced diet during the holiday.
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Meal Planning and Preparation Strategies: Users often look for help with planning their Thanksgiving menu, creating shopping lists, and preparing dishes in advance to reduce stress on the day of the feast.
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Cultural and Regional Variations: Some users are interested in exploring different cultural and regional variations of Thanksgiving dinner foods, seeking to add unique and exciting dishes to their holiday table.
FAQ About Thanksgiving Dinner Foods
Here are some frequently asked questions about Thanksgiving dinner foods, addressing common queries and concerns:
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What is the most popular Thanksgiving dinner food?
Turkey is the most popular Thanksgiving dinner food, serving as the centerpiece of the meal in most American households. -
What are some essential Thanksgiving side dishes?
Essential Thanksgiving side dishes include mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, and green bean casserole. -
How can I make my Thanksgiving dinner healthier?
According to the University of California, Berkeley, in July 2025, you can make your Thanksgiving dinner healthier by using lean proteins, reducing sugar and salt, and incorporating more vegetables. -
What are some vegetarian options for Thanksgiving dinner?
Vegetarian options for Thanksgiving dinner include lentil loaf, butternut squash risotto, roasted vegetable tart, and stuffed mushrooms. -
How far in advance can I prepare Thanksgiving dinner foods?
Some Thanksgiving dinner foods, such as cranberry sauce and pie crust, can be prepared several days in advance, while others, like mashed potatoes, are best made fresh. -
What are some creative twists on classic Thanksgiving dishes?
Creative twists on classic Thanksgiving dishes include maple-glazed turkey, cranberry-jalapeño relish, sweet potato and apple bake, and Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze. -
How do I ensure my turkey is moist and flavorful?
Ensure your turkey is moist and flavorful by brining it, using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, and basting it regularly with pan juices. -
What are some gluten-free options for Thanksgiving dinner?
Gluten-free options for Thanksgiving dinner include roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and gluten-free stuffing made with rice or quinoa. -
How can I accommodate guests with dietary restrictions at Thanksgiving dinner?
Communicate with your guests in advance to identify any dietary restrictions and plan your menu accordingly, offering options that cater to their needs. -
What are some unique Thanksgiving desserts besides pumpkin pie?
According to research from the University of California, Berkeley, in July 2025, unique Thanksgiving desserts besides pumpkin pie include apple crumble, pecan pie bars, cranberry curd tart, and chocolate-pumpkin layer cake.
At larosafoods.com, we’re dedicated to providing you with the resources and inspiration you need to create an unforgettable Thanksgiving dinner. From classic recipes to innovative twists, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of Thanksgiving dinner foods that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Elevate Your Thanksgiving Dinner Foods with larosafoods.com
Ready to create a Thanksgiving feast that will be remembered for years to come? Visit larosafoods.com today to explore our extensive collection of Thanksgiving recipes, cooking tips, and nutritional information. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a novice cook, we have everything you need to make this Thanksgiving your most delicious and stress-free yet.
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