Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you’re like many people, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed by the thought of cooking a delicious meal for your loved ones. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with this list of 20 easy and delicious Thanksgiving recipes that are perfect for beginners.
From classic roast turkey to creamy green bean casserole, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular and flavorful dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? Each recipe is designed to be easy to make, with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions that will leave you feeling confident and stress-free in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks for beginner-friendly Thanksgiving recipes, from savory main courses to sweet treats and everything in between. So whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, we’ve got something for everyone. Let’s get started!
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
A perfectly roasted turkey is the centerpiece of any holiday meal, and this classic recipe elevates the dish with a flavorful herb butter. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to a show-stopping main course that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, sage, thyme, and rosemary)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with aromatics like onion, carrot, and celery.
5. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this simple recipe that combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Add a tangy and flavorful twist to your holiday meals with this easy-to-make cranberry sauce recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious condiment that’s perfect for topping turkey, yogurt, or even using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
– 1 tablespoon orange juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. If using orange zest and juice, stir them in during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick and Creamy Green Bean Casserole
This classic comfort food dish is a staple for many families, and our recipe makes it easier than ever to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook green beans in boiling water until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté onion until softened.
4. Add cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper to the pan; stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked green beans and sauce mixture; pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions on top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits
A classic Southern treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a side dish, these Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits are tender, buttery, and utterly delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a batch of golden brown biscuits in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out shapes.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
No-Fuss Sweet Potato Casserole
A warm and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this sweet potato casserole is easy to prepare and requires minimal fuss. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, heavy cream, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. If using pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Herb-Roasted Vegetables
Easy Herb- Roasted Vegetables Recipe
Summary: This recipe showcases a flavorful and colorful vegetable dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side to your favorite main course. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a deliciously aromatic and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, etc.)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, lemon zest, or other herbs of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bowl until they’re evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Gravy
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Gravy: A Deliciously Easy Meal
Are you looking for a stress-free meal that’s packed with flavor? This slow cooker turkey breast recipe is the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a tender and juicy turkey breast served with a rich, savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and red wine (if using).
3. Place the seasoned turkey breast in the slow cooker and top with olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
6. Strain the juices from the slow cooker to create a delicious gravy, served over the sliced turkey.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Simple Sausage and Herb Stuffing
Transform your holiday turkey or chicken with this savory stuffing recipe that combines juicy sausage, fresh herbs, and soft bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, cooked sausage mixture, parsley, sage, salt, and pepper. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Pumpkin Pie with Store-Bought Crust
Get ready to enjoy a delicious pumpkin pie without the fuss of making your own crust! This recipe uses store-bought crust and a simple filling made with canned pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought graham cracker crust
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Roll out the store-bought crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the crust.
5. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Cornbread Muffins
Moist and flavorful, these cornbread muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. With only a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying warm, crumbly goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Honey or maple syrup for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
7. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
One-Pan Thanksgiving Stuffing
Get ready to simplify your holiday cooking with this effortless one-pan stuffing recipe that yields a deliciously moist and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup turkey drippings (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bread cubes, chicken broth, turkey drippings (if using), sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until bread is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Basic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts, making them a delicious and healthy side dish. This simple recipe enhances their flavor with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. If desired, sprinkle with garlic powder for added flavor.
4. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Effortless Gravy from Drippings
Elevate your meals with a rich and savory gravy made easily from pan drippings. This recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want to add depth to their dishes without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups pan drippings (from cooking meat or vegetables)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and a splash of the pan drippings until smooth.
2. Gradually add the remaining pan drippings, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Baked Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic, this recipe yields a creamy, cheesy macaroni dish with a golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Dinner Rolls with Honey Butter
Elevate your dinner table with these soft and fluffy dinner rolls, slathered with a sweet and savory honey butter. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Punch down dough and shape into small rolls. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– Mix 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, with 1 tablespoon honey.
– Spread or drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Pecan Pie Bars
These bars combine the richness of pecan pie with the convenience of a bar cookie, perfect for potlucks or snacking. With a short ingredient list and simple instructions, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. Add melted butter, pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
This creamy and flavorful no-bake cheesecake is a perfect dessert for fall gatherings or any occasion when you want to impress your guests. With the warmth of pumpkin and spices, this treat will become an instant favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Add softened butter and mix until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
5. Add pumpkin puree, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
6. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Release springform pan sides and slice to serve.
Cooking Time: None (no baking required!)
Slow Cooker Apple Cider
Cozy up with a warm and comforting cup of apple cider, perfect for the fall season. This slow cooker recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 2 liters apple cider
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced onion and minced garlic.
2. Add the apple cider, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and nutmeg to the slow cooker. Stir until well combined.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the cinnamon stick and strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or individual cups.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
5-Ingredient Cranberry Brie Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these easy-to-make Cranberry Brie Bites, perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Place the softened brie cheese in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Top the cheese with cranberries and drizzle with honey.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush the tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a stress-free Thanksgiving with these 20 easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From classic roast turkey to simple homemade cranberry sauce, and from creamy green bean casserole to no-fuss sweet potato casserole, this collection has something for everyone. Plus, discover quick and easy desserts like pumpkin pie bars and no-bake cheesecake, as well as savory sides and main courses that require minimal effort but maximum flavor. Perfect for those new to cooking or looking to simplify their Thanksgiving preparations.
