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, planning the perfect Thanksgiving dinner can feel overwhelming. Between the turkey, casseroles, pies, and everything else, there’s a lot to fit into one menu and one oven!
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 stress-free Thanksgiving, plan your menu, check what you already have, and get your shopping done a few days early. Prep anything you can ahead of time and you’ll have way less last-minute chaos.
Mix Classic & Creative Dishes 🍽️
Don’t stick to the same old Thanksgiving dishes! Add a few fun twists to the table, like a zesty cranberry salsa, cheesy gratin, or a unique cheesecake. Mix classic favorites with a few creative recipes to keep things interesting!
Prep, Prep, Prep! 🔪
Most of these Thanksgiving recipes can be made ahead, so prep early, make sure you have enough fridge space, and enjoy more time with your guests!
Balance Heavy and Light Dishes 🥗
Thanksgiving dishes can get pretty rich, so add a few lighter options like roasted veggies or a fresh salad to balance out the menu.
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
Why It’s Great ~ A fun and delicious spread of your favorite cheeses, meats, seasonal fruits, and crackers. It’s the perfect holiday appetizer for a crowd before the big feast.
Nutritional Info ~ Calories: 539 kcal
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3-Ingredient Bacon Wrapped Dates
Recipe by Gimme Some Oven
Prep: 15 mins • Cook: 20 mins • Serves: 20 dates
Why It’s Great ~ Made with crispy bacon, tender Medjool dates, and a gooey cheese filling. A simple, crowd-pleasing bite that’s sweet, salty, and irresistible!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 180kcal | Protein: 9g | Carbs: 1g
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Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms
Recipe by Nora Cooks
Prep: 30 mins • Cook: 20 mins • Yields: 20 mushrooms (depending on the size)
Why It’s Great ~ Filled with a savory mix of vegan parmesan and herb breadcrumbs then baked until golden and fragrant. They’re the perfect plant-based bite for parties, holidays, or any gathering!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 39kcal | Carbs: 3g | Protein: 1g
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Ready in ~ 15 minutes • Yields ~ 24 servings
Why It’s Great ~ An easy, make-ahead Thanksgiving appetizer coated in chopped chives, dried cranberries, and pecans. Creamy, flavorful party favorite!
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Baked Turkey Stuffing Meatballs
Recipe by The Yummy Bowl
Ready in ~ 35 minutes • Yields ~ 8 servings
Why It’s Great ~ The ultimate cozy holiday appetizer! Made in just one bowl with a handful of simple ingredients, savory, herb-infused, and perfectly juicy!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 105kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 16g
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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 creamy Brie and sweet cranberry-orange sauce. It’s easy to freeze for up to 3 months and always a crowd favorite!
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Antipasto Wreath
Recipe by Averie Cooks
Ready in ~ 20 mins • Yields ~ 10 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with skewered salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs, and more amazing ingredients. Perfect for entertaining and sure to impress your guests!
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Sauces, Relishes & Gravy 🍯
Cranberry Salsa
Recipe by Fresh Coast Eats
Prep: 10 mins • Chill: 1 hour • Serves: 8
Why It’s Great ~ Bursting with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors! A zesty twist perfect for dipping or topping your holiday favorites!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 47kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 0.3g
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Cinnamon Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Recipe by Kale Junkie
Ready in ~ 30 mins • Yields ~ 8 serving
Why It’s Great ~ A healthy, refined sugar-free twist on the classic, made with just 7 simple ingredients for a simple yet delicious holiday appetizer!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 268kcal | Protein: 14g | Carbohydrates: 16g
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The Best Turkey Gravy
Recipe by Damn Delicious
Ready in ~ 20 mins • Yields ~ 8 serving
Why It’s Great ~ So rich, so smooth, and super easy to make. It’s the perfect cozy addition to pour over your turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 268kcal | Protein: 14g | Carbohydrates: 16g
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Thanksgiving Side Dishes 🥗
Creamy Garlic Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Recipe by Ambitious Kitchen
Prep: 15 mins • Cook: 4 hours • Serves: 10
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A healthier, garlicky twist with creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt. Make ahead in the slow cooker, store in the fridge, and reheat with a splash of milk when ready. Easy peasy!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 204kcal | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 31g
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Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Mushrooms
Recipe by Bites with Bri
Prep: 10 mins • Cook: 1 hour 5 mins • Serves: 10
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Crispy bacon, tender green beans, and sautéed mushrooms in a rich, creamy homemade casserole made entirely without canned soup.
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 268kcal | Protein: 14g | Carbohydrates: 16g
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Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing
Recipe by Averie Cooks
Prep: 10 mins • Cook: 2 hours 15 mins • Serves: 8
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Classic, easy, and full of simple, flavorful ingredients, baked to golden perfection for a comforting holiday side. The best homemade stuffing!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 210kcal | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 33g
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Reduction
Recipe by Platings and Pairings
Ready in ~ 40 mins • Yields ~ 8 serving
Why It’s Great ~ Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, drizzled with a luscious balsamic reduction, bursting with savory-sweet flavor in every tender, caramelized bite.
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 356kcal | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 56g
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Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Recipe by Cucina By Elena
Ready in ~ 20 mins • Yields ~ 4-5 serving
Why It’s Great ~ Rich, velvety, and irresistibly flavorful! Lusciously cheesy and creamy, packed with flavor, and ready in just 20 minutes for a decadent, quick side.
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Honey Roasted Beets & Carrots
Recipe by The Creative Bites
Ready in ~ 20 mins • Yields ~ 6 serving
Why It’s Great ~ An easy, healthy side dish with naturally sweet, caramelized vegetables that add color and flavor to your holiday meal!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 84kcal | Protein: 1g | Carbohydrates: 12g
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Candied Yams
Recipe by Diethood
Prep: 15 mins • Cook: 1 hour 20 mins • Serves: 8
Why It’s Great ~ Sweet tender yams coated in a caramelized glaze, brightened with orange juice and bourbon, and topped with crunchy pecans. The classic thanksgiving side dish everyone loves!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 363kcal | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 65g
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Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole (Vegan + GF)
Recipe by Eating Bird Food
Prep: 25 mins • Cook: 45 mins • Serves: 16
Why It’s Great ~ Plant-based, gluten-free, and lower in sugar, with tender sweet potatoes and a crunchy, flavorful oatmeal pecan topping. Perfect vegan thanksgiving side dish for your guests!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 277kcal | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 40g
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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!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 304kcal | Carbohydrates: 9.3g | Protein: 28.5g
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Sausage and Grilled Vegetables
Recipe by The Modern Proper
Ready in ~ 25 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 any gatherings, parties, and more!
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Breads & Rolls 🍞
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Recipe by Modern Honey
Prep: 3 hours 35 mins • Cook: 25 mins • Serves: 14-16
Why It’s Great ~ Soft, fluffy rolls infused with a dose of caramelized, nutty browned butter and aromatic sage, made from just 9 simple ingredients.
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 636kcal | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 19g
Extra Flaky Pumpkin Biscuits {with Garlic Herb Butter}
Recipe by Plays Well With Butter
Ready in ~ 40 mins • Yields ~ 9-10 serving
Why It’s Great ~ Laced with fresh sage and warm fall spices, served with rich garlic herb butter for a savory-sweet autumn twist. Perfect for fall meal or Thanksgiving menu!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 213kcal | Protein: 3.8g | Carbohydrates: 28.3g
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Best Butter Garlic Rolls
Recipe by Rich and Delish
Prep: 30 mins • Cook: 25 mins • Serves: 12
Why It’s Great ~ Warm, golden, and totally addictive! These soft butter garlic rolls are brushed with rich herb and garlic butter. They’re so good, they’ll disappear before dinner’s ready!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 199kcal | Protein: 6g | Carbohydrates: 34g
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Thanksgiving Mains 🍽️🧡
Crispy Skin Slow Cooker Turkey (& Homemade Gravy)
Recipe by Cafe Delites
Prep: 10 mins • Cook: 4 hours 20 mins • Serves: 8
Why It’s Great ~ Rubbed with a buttery garlic-herb mix and slow-cooked until juicy and tender, this turkey has crispy golden skin and the best homemade gravy.
Nutrition ~ Calories: 586kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 71g
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Stuffed Acorn Squash
Recipe by Girl With The Iron Cast
Prep: 15 mins • Cook: 45 mins • Serves: 6
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 dish!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 537kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 15g
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Herbed Cranberry Chicken
Recipe by Table for Two
Prep: 15 mins • Cook: 45 mins • Serves: 4
Why You’ll Love It ~ Full of herby and earthy flavors, this easy yet elegant dish is perfect for a cozy dinner party or family gathering. Vibrant colors, fragrant herbs, and tart cranberries!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 480kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 28g
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Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
Recipe by Foodie Crush
Prep: 30 mins • Cook: 3 hours • Serves: 6
Why You’ll Love It ~ Tender, fall-off-the-bone braised beef short ribs in a rich red wine sauce with herbs, veggies, and garlic. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes for a special dinner or cozy thanksgiving meal!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 376kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 33g
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Slow Cooker Beef Roast
Recipe by Le Creme De La Crumb
Prep: 10 mins • Cook: 6 hours • Serves: 8
Why You’ll Love It ~ 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 no-fuss dinner!
Nutrition ~ Calorie: 378kcal | Protein: 42g | Carbohydrates: 31g
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Vegetarian Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Recipe by Platings and Pairings
Prep: 10 mins • Cook: 1 hour 15 mins • Serves: 8
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with roasted squash, tomatoes, Italian spices, and creamy cheeses. Creamy, hearty, and vegetarian-friendly casserole!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 223kcal | Carbs: 25g | Protein: 11g
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Spaghetti Squash with Creamed Spinach and Chicken
Recipe by The Modern Proper
Prep: 20 mins • Cook: 45 mins • Serves: 4
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.
Nutrition ~ Calories: 731kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 41g
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Easy Instant Pot Pot Roast
Recipe by Creme De La Crumb
Prep: 20 mins • Cook: 1 hr 20 mins • Serves: 6
Why You’ll Love It ~ A 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 holiday meal.
Nutrition ~ Calories: 133kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 4g
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Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Wild Rice Pilaf
Recipe by The Recipe Critic
Prep: 5 mins • Cook: 45 mins • Serves: 4
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with crunchy pecans, cranberries, sweet potatoes, wild rice, and aromatic herbs, this sweet and savory dish will be a great addition to your holiday menu!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 322kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 9g
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Herb Butter Roast Chicken
Recipe by A Simple Palate
Prep: 25 mins • Cook: 1 hr 20 mins • Serves: 4
Why You’ll Love It ~ Juicy, tender whole chicken roasted with sage, rosemary, and butter, with caramelized veggies and a flavorful pan sauce. Perfect for holidays or family dinners.
Nutrition ~ Calories: 213kcal | Carbohydrates: 10.7g | Protein: 10.1g
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Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Recipe by Little Sunny Kitchen
Ready in ~ 50 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 perfect for a holiday dinner!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 486kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 28g
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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, fall spices and a splash of bourbon for an added layer of warmth.
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Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart
Recipe by Addicted to Dates
Ready in ~ 45 mins • Yields ~ 8 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with a gluten-free crust, layered with cranberry filling, and topped with tart pomegranate seeds. Deliciously vegan, no-bake, and absolutely beautiful tart!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 303kcal | Carbs: 48g | Protein: 4g
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Apple Cider Cake
Recipe by In Bloom Bakery
Prep: 1 hour • Cook: 50 mins • Frost: 30 mins • Yields: 16 slices
Why It’s Great ~ Extra moist apple cider cake bursting with cider flavor, swirled with rich apple cider caramel for a cozy, irresistible treat for thanksgiving.
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Spiced Pumpkin Tart
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Prep: 1 hour • Cook: 1 hour 10 mins • Serves: 8-10
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!
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Salted Caramel Pear Cobbler
Recipe by Blue Bowl Recipes
Prep: 45 mins • Cook: 1 hour 6 mins • Serves: 12
Why It’s Great ~ Made with fresh, spiced pears, drizzled with rich homemade salted caramel sauce, and topped with flaky, buttery biscuits. Warm, comforting, and totally delicious!
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Gluten-Free Cranberry Frangipane Tart
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Prep: 25 mins • Cook: 38 mins • Yields: 9 inch tart, 8-10 servings
Why It’s Great ~ A naturally gluten-free tart with sweet, buttery almond cream, juicy cranberries, and a toasty almond crust. So soft, so moist, and utterly delicious!
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Vegan Baked Cranberry Cheesecake
Recipe by Lazy Cat Kitchen
Prep: 30 mins • Cook: 45 mins • Yields: 8”inch cheesecake
Why It’s Great ~ An oh-so-creamy baked vegan cheesecake, infused with citrus and warming ginger, and topped with juicy, stewed cranberries for a luscious, plant-based thanksgiving treat.
Nutrition ~ Calories: 272kcal | Carbs: 26g | Protein: 5g
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Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie (Without Corn Syrup)
Recipe by In Bloom Bakery
Prep: 30 mins • Cook: 41 mins • Yields: 8 slices
Why It’s Great ~ Sweet, gooey maple-bourbon pecan pie with a flaky crust, a layer of toasted pecans, and absolutely no corn syrup! Nutty, and irresistibly sweet!
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Thanksgiving Drinks 🍂🍷
Pomegranate Cranberry Moscow Mule
Recipe by Kitchen Confidante
Ready in ~ 5 mins • Yields ~ 1 serving
Why It’s Great ~ A festive twist on the classic Moscow Mule with pomegranate-cranberry juice, ginger beer, vodka, and a splash of lime!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 1g
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Spiced Homemade Hot Buttered Rum
Recipe by Fork in the Kitchen
Ready in ~ 10 mins • Yields ~ 4 servings
Why It’s Great ~ A luxurious, satisfying hot buttered rum made with butter, warm spices, vanilla, and brown sugar. Plus, it’s made without ice cream.
Nutrition ~ Calories: 349kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 1g
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Holiday Sangria
Recipe by The Modern Proper
Ready in ~ 10 mins • Yields ~ 6 servings
Why It’s Great ~ Brandy-spiked holiday sangria with ruby-red wine, lightly sweet and fizzy, packed with vibrant, colorful fruit for the perfect seasonal sip.
Nutritional Info ~ Calories: 277kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g
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Harvest Apple Cider Punch
Recipe by Eat Yourself Skinny
Ready in ~ 10 mins • Yields ~ 16 servings
Why It’s Great ~ Combines all your favorite fall spices and seasonal ingredients into a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink. Perfect for holiday parties!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 227kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 0.1g
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Chai Caramel Apple Martini
Recipe by The Foul Mouth Gourmet
Ready in ~ 30 mins • Yields ~ 1 serving
Why It’s Great ~ A cozy, creamy chai caramel apple martini with chai-spiced cider syrup and caramel vodka. Sweet, spicy, and totally creamy!
Pumpkin Spice Kentucky Mule
Recipe by So Much Food
Yields ~ 1 serving
Why It’s Great ~ A festive Pumpkin Spice Kentucky Mule with bourbon, fresh lemon juice, ginger beer, and a dash of bitters. Perfect holiday sipper!
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Classic Mulled Wine
Recipe by The Novice Chef
Ready in ~ 15 mins • Yields ~ 4 servings
Why It’s Great ~ Mulled wine that’s hot, spicy, and earthy, infused with festive spices and perfect for cozy nights by the fire. Your new favorite holiday treat!
Nutrition ~ Calories: 95kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g
✦ GET THE RECIPE! ✦
And there you have it – The Ultimate Thanksgiving Dinner Menu Ideas 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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