Looking for Thanksgiving Dinner Menu Ideas? From traditional favorites like turkey and stuffing to creative twists on classic sides, this guide has everything you need for a memorable holiday meal. With easy-to-make dishes and tips for a stress-free dinner, your Thanksgiving feast will be big on flavor and full of joy!
A Feast to Remember: Best Recipes for Thanksgiving Dinner Menu Ideas! 🍽️
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and if you’re hosting this year, it’s time to start planning some seriously delicious recipes!
Let’s be real—coming up with the perfect Thanksgiving dinner menu can feel overwhelming. Your mind is probably racing with thoughts of turkeys, casseroles, and pies, all competing for oven space.
Whether you’re throwing a big family bash or planning an intimate, cozy gathering, these Thanksgiving dinner menu ideas will take your feast from “meh” to magnificent.
So, skip the stress this year and get ready to pull off a feast that everyone will remember!
Tips to Make Your Thanksgiving Dinner Stress-Free
Plan Ahead Like a Pro 📋
For a smooth Thanksgiving dinner, a little planning goes a long way! Start by making a menu list, checking your pantry, and writing down a shopping list. To avoid last-minute scrambling, decide which dishes you can prep in advance, and do your shopping a few days ahead. This will save you from kitchen chaos!
Mix Classic & Creative Dishes 🍽️
It can’t just be about a good roast turkey—add a few unexpected dishes to the spread. Think zesty cranberry salsa, cheesy gratin, or a unique cheesecake. Create a menu with a mix of classic and creative Thanksgiving dinner recipes, without straying too far from tradition!
Prep, Prep, Prep! 🔪
Most of the recipes on this Thanksgiving dinner menu are make-ahead friendly, like casseroles and pies. Make sure you have enough space in your fridge and freezer in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. Prepping most of the dishes ahead of time will give you more time to relax and enjoy with your guests.
Balance Heavy and Light Dishes 🥗
Festive dinners tend to have rich, hearty dishes, so be sure to include some lighter options to balance out the menu and make sure guests don’t feel too stuffed by dessert time. Think simple roasted veggies or a refreshing salad for a nice break from the heavier fare.
Set the Mood with Music & Decor 🎶
A Thanksgiving feast isn’t just about the food; it’s all about the vibe. Put up those fall decorations, light some scented candles, add twinkling lights, and play some cozy music to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that will make your guests feel right at home.
Wrapping Up the Thanksgiving Dinner Feast!
With these thoughtful Thanksgiving dinner menu ideas, a little planning, and a pinch of creativity, you’ll create a Thanksgiving spread that’s big on flavor and heart.
Happy cooking and an even happier Thanksgiving! 🦃
Thanksgiving Appetizers
Thanksgiving Turkey Cheese Board
Recipe by Half Baked Harvest
Ready in ~ 30 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Get the Recipe for Thanksgiving Turkey Cheese Board!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 539 kcal
3-Ingredient Bacon Wrapped Dates
Recipe by Gimme Some Oven
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 20 mins
Servings ~ 20 dates
Get the Recipe for Bacon Wrapped Dates!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 180kcal
Protein: 9g
Carbs: 1g
Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms
Recipe by Nora Cooks
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 20 mushrooms (depending on the size)
Get the Recipe for Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 39kcal
Carbs: 3g
Protein: 1g
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball (Party Favorite!)
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Ready in ~ 15 minutes
Yields ~ 24 servings
Get the Recipe for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball!
Baked Turkey Stuffing Meatballs
Recipe by The Yummy Bowl
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Get the Recipe for Baked Turkey Stuffing Meatballs!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 105kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 16g
Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tarts
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Ready in ~ 15 minutes
Yields ~ 24 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Flaky, golden puff pastry shells filled with buttery, creamy Brie cheese that pairs beautifully with sweet, fruity cranberry sauce infused with hints of orange. You can freeze the baked and cooled tarts for up to 3 months. This warm, gooey treat is sure to be a crowd favorite!
Get the Recipe for Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tarts!
Antipasto Wreath
Recipe by Averie Cooks
Ready in ~ 20 mins
Yields ~ 10 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A festive and fun appetizer with a touch of elegance! Made with skewered salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs, and more amazing ingredients. Perfect for entertaining and sure to impress your guests!
Get the Recipe for Antipasto Wreath!
Sauces, Relishes & Gravy
Cranberry Salsa
Recipe by Fresh Coast Eats
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Chill: 1 hour
Yields ~ 8 servings
Get the Recipe for Cranberry Salsa!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 47kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 0.3g
Cinnamon Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Recipe by Kale Junkie
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 8 serving
Get the Recipe for Cinnamon Bourbon Cranberry Sauce!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 268kcal
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 16g
The Best Turkey Gravy
Recipe by Damn Delicious
Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins, Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 serving
Get the Recipe for Turkey Gravy!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 268kcal
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Creamy Garlic Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Recipe by Ambitious Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 4 hours
Yields ~ 10 serving
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ These mashed potatoes are a healthier twist, packed with garlic flavor and creamy goodness from sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can whip them up in the slow cooker a day or two ahead and stash them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them back in the slow cooker and add a splash of milk if they need it. Easy peasy!
Get the Recipe for Creamy Garlic Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 204kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Mushrooms
Recipe by Bites with Bri
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 1 hour 5 mins
Yields ~ 10 serving
Get the Recipe for Green Bean Casserole!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 268kcal
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing
Recipe by Averie Cooks
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 2 hours 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 serving
Get the Recipe for Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 210kcal
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Reduction
Recipe by Platings and Pairings
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 30 mins
Yields ~ 8 serving
Get the Recipe for Roasted Brussels Sprouts!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 356kcal
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Recipe by Cucina By Elena
Ready in ~ 20 mins
Yields ~ 4-5 serving
Get the Recipe for Steakhouse Creamed Spinach!
Honey Roasted Beets & Carrots
Recipe by The Creative Bites
Ready in ~ 20 mins
Yields ~ 6 serving
Get the Recipe for Honey Roasted Beets & Carrots!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 84kcal
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Candied Yams
Recipe by Diethood
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 1 hour 20 mins
Yields ~ 8 serving
Get the Recipe for Candied Yams!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 363kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 65g
Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole (Vegan + GF)
Recipe by Eating Bird Food
Ready in ~ Prep: 25 mins, Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 16 serving
Get the Recipe for Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 277kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Waldorf Chicken Salad
Recipe by All the Healthy Things
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with tender chicken, fresh fruit, and veggies, all doused in a creamy herbed dressing. It’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal prep routine!
Get the Recipe for Waldorf Chicken Salad!
Nutritional Info for Per Serving
Calories: 304kcal
Carbohydrates: 9.3g
Protein: 28.5g
Sausage and Grilled Vegetables
Recipe by The Modern Proper
Ready in ~ Prep Time: 10 mins, Cook Time: 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A quick, refreshing, and tangy grilled sausages and veggies dish, contrasted with a creamy dip. Perfect for summer cookouts, outdoor gatherings, BBQs, and more!
Get the Recipe for Sausage and Grilled Vegetables!
Breads & Rolls
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Recipe by Modern Honey
Ready in ~ Prep: 3 hours 35 mins, Cook: 25 mins
Yields ~ 14-16 serving
Get the Recipe for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 636kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Extra Flaky Pumpkin Biscuits {with Garlic Herb Butter}
Recipe by Plays Well With Butter
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins, Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 9-10 serving
Get the Recipe for Extra Flaky Pumpkin Biscuits!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 213kcal
Protein: 3.8g
Carbohydrates: 28.3g
Best Butter Garlic Rolls
Recipe by Rich and Delish
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins, Cook: 25 mins
Yields ~ 12 serving
Get the Recipe for the Best Butter Garlic Rolls!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 199kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Thanksgiving Mains
Crispy Skin Slow Cooker Turkey (& Homemade Gravy)
Recipe by Cafe Delites
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 4 hours 20 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Get the Recipe for Crispy Skin Slow Cooker Turkey!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 586kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 71g
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Recipe by Girl With The Iron Cast
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Loaded with Italian sausage, apples, sage, thyme, and topped with crunchy Parmesan panko, this savory and satisfying dish is perfect as an elegant thanksgiving side dish!
Get the Recipe for Stuffed Acorn Squash!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 537kcal
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 15g
Herbed Cranberry Chicken
Recipe by Table for Two
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Full of herby and earthy flavors, this easy yet elegant fall dinner recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner party or family gathering. Vibrant colors, fragrant herbs, and tart cranberries offer a burst of fall flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe for Herbed Cranberry Chicken!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
Recipe by Foodie Crush
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins Cook: 3 hours
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ These tender, meaty, and fall-off-the-bone braised beef short ribs have been slow-cooked in a bold red wine sauce with fragrant herbs, veggies, and a hint of garlic. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes for a special dinner or cozy weeknight meal!
Get the Recipe for Red Wine Braised Short Ribs!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 376kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 33g
Slow Cooker Beef Roast
Recipe by Le Creme De La Crumb
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 6 hours
Yields ~ 8 serving
Why You’ll Love It ~ Enjoy perfectly tender beef roast that’s been simmering all day in your slow cooker. Seasoned with savory herbs, hearty veggies, and rich sauce, it’s perfect for a comforting and no-fuss dinner!
Get the Recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Roast!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 378kcal
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Vegetarian Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Recipe by Platings and Pairings
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 1 hour 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A deliciously creamy, comforting bake made with roasted squash, tomatoes, Italian spices, creamy ricotta cheese, and Parmesan. This hearty, vegetarian-friendly casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners!
Get the Recipe for Vegetarian Spaghetti Squash Casserole!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 223kcal
Carbs: 25g
Protein: 11g
Spaghetti Squash with Creamed Spinach and Chicken
Recipe by The Modern Proper
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins, Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Spaghetti squash baked with chicken, spinach, and cheese creates the perfect scoop, offering a quick and easy way to turn your leftovers into a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe for Spaghetti Squash with Creamed Spinach and Chicken!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 731kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 41g
Easy Instant Pot Pot Roast
Recipe by Creme De La Crumb
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins, Cook: 1 hr 20 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A low-calorie, family-friendly dinner that even picky eaters will enjoy! Ready in a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot, it’s perfect for a hearty, filling weekend meal.
Get the Recipe for Easy Instant Pot Pot Roast!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 133kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 4g
Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Wild Rice Pilaf
Recipe by The Recipe Critic
Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins, Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with crunchy pecans, tart cranberries, creamy sweet potatoes, tender wild rice, and aromatic herbs, this sweet and savory dish will be a great addition to your holiday menu or a comforting weeknight meal!
Get the Recipe for Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Wild Rice Pilaf!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 322kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 9g
Herb Butter Roast Chicken
Recipe by A Simple Palate
Ready in ~ Prep: 25 mins, Cook: 1 hr 20 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Perfectly juicy and tender, this whole chicken is roasted with sage, rosemary, and butter for a crisp, golden skin, with caramelized veggies at the bottom of the pan, all drizzled with a flavorful sauce. Ideal for a holiday dinner or family gatherings!
Get the Recipe for Herb Butter Roast Chicken!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 213kcal
Carbohydrates: 10.7g
Protein: 10.1g
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Recipe by Little Sunny Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 40 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made in just one large skillet and loaded with ground beef, rice, fresh tomatoes, and gooey cheese, this comforting twist on a classic dish is ready in under an hour and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
Get the Recipe for Stuffed Pepper Casserole!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 486kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 28g
Thanksgiving Desserts
Bourbon Buttermilk Pumpkin Pie
Recipe by Aberdeen’s Kitchen
Ready in ~ 3 hrs 15 mins
Yields ~ 6-8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A sophisticated twist on traditional pumpkin pie! Buttery, flaky crust with a velvety filling, infused with classic fall spices and a splash of bourbon for an added layer of warmth.
Get the Recipe for Bourbon Buttermilk Pumpkin Pie!
Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart
Recipe by Addicted to Dates
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with a gluten-free crust, layered with a luscious cranberry filling, and sprinkled with the sweet-tart burst of pomegranate seeds. Brighten up your Thanksgiving feast with this deliciously vegan, no-bake, and absolutely beautiful tart that’s slightly tangy!
Get the Recipe for Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 303kcal
Carbs: 48g
Protein: 4g
Apple Cider Cake
Recipe by In Bloom Bakery
Ready in ~ Prep: 1 hour, Cook: 50 mins, Frost: 30 mins
Yields ~ 16 slices
Get the Recipe for Apple Cider Cake!
Spiced Pumpkin Tart
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Ready in ~ Prep: 1 hr Cook: 1 hr 10 mins
Yields ~ 8-10 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with the warm fall flavors of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and a touch of black pepper, this elegant pumpkin dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or a special family dinner!
Get the Recipe for Spiced Pumpkin Tart!
Salted Caramel Pear Cobbler
Recipe by Blue Bowl Recipes
Ready in ~ Prep: 45 mins, Cook: 1 hour 6 mins
Yields ~ 12 servings
Get the Recipe for Salted Caramel Pear Cobbler!
Gluten-Free Cranberry Frangipane Tart
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Ready in ~ Prep: 25 mins, Cook: 38 mins
Yields ~ 9 inch tart, 8-10 servings
Get the Recipe for Gluten-Free Cranberry Frangipane Tart!
Vegan Baked Cranberry Cheesecake
Recipe by Lazy Cat Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 8”inch cheesecake
Get the Recipe for Vegan Baked Cranberry Cheesecake!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 272kcal
Carbs: 26g
Protein: 5g
Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie (Without Corn Syrup)
Recipe by In Bloom Bakery
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins, Cook: 41 mins
Yields ~ 8 slices
Get the Recipe for Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie!
Thanksgiving Drinks
Pomegranate Cranberry Moscow Mule
Recipe by Kitchen Confidante
Ready in ~ 5 mins
Yields ~ 1 serving
Get the Recipe for Pomegranate Cranberry Moscow Mule!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 1g
Spiced Homemade Hot Buttered Rum
Recipe by Fork in the Kitchen
Ready in ~ 10 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Get the Recipe for Spiced Homemade Hot Buttered Rum!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 349kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 1g
Holiday Sangria
Recipe by The Modern Proper
Ready in ~ 10 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Get the Recipe for Holiday Sangria!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 277kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Harvest Apple Cider Punch
Recipe by Eat Yourself Skinny
Ready in ~ 10 mins
Yields ~ 16 servings
Get the Recipe for Harvest Apple Cider Punch!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 227kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 0.1g
Chai Caramel Apple Martini
Recipe by The Foul Mouth Gourmet
Ready in ~ 30 mins
Yields ~ 1 serving
Get the Recipe for Chai Caramel Apple Martini!
Pumpkin Spice Kentucky Mule
Recipe by So Much Food
Yields ~ 1 serving
Get the Recipe for Pumpkin Spice Kentucky Mule!
Classic Mulled Wine
Recipe by The Novice Chef
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Get the Recipe for Classic Mulled Wine!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
And there you have it – The Best Fall Dinner Recipes for you to try!
Thank you for taking the time to read the post! ❤️
I really hope you give one of the recipes a try and love it! Don’t forget to leave a star rating ★ in the comment section below. Your feedback will help others and also means a lot!
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Happy cooking!
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