55 Best Classic Thanksgiving Dinner Recipes Ideas

You’ll find everything you need to plan a cozy and delicious Thanksgiving: main dishes, easy appetizers, classic side dishes, and sweet desserts and pies. Whether you’re cooking the whole meal or just bringing a dish to share, there’s something here for every part of your holiday table. Check them all out in the list below!

Turkey and Ham Recipes for the Perfect Thanksgiving Main Dish

Crockpot Turkey Breast – An Easy Slow Cooker Recipe

Making a Crockpot turkey breast is one of the easiest ways to serve Thanksgiving dinner, especially if you’re hosting a smaller crowd. Whether you’re using boneless or bone-in, this slow cooker recipe gives you juicy, tender turkey without heating up the whole kitchen. It’s a great option if you want a fuss-free Thanksgiving main dish that still tastes amazing.

How To Roast A Thanksgiving Turkey: An Easy Recipe

Roasting a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner doesn’t have to be stressful. If this is your first time, don’t worry—this easy Thanksgiving turkey recipe walks you through every step. The prep is simple, and the result is a juicy, flavorful, perfectly seasoned turkey your family will love. Everything is done before the turkey even goes in the oven, so you can relax and enjoy the holiday.

How Long to Cook A Turkey

Wondering how long to cook a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner? Whether you need to know thawing time, how much turkey to buy, or exact oven times at 350°F (or any temp), this guide has you covered. You’ll also get access to a simple turkey cook time calculator to take the guesswork out of your holiday prep.

Easy Brown Sugar Pineapple CrockPot Spiral Ham

This easy CrockPot spiral ham with brown sugar and pineapple is one of the best set-it-and-forget-it recipes for a big holiday dinner. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas, or Easter—any time you want a delicious main dish without the extra work. Just add your spiral-cut ham and sweet brown sugar glaze to the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

How Long to Cook a Ham (For Your Favorite Holiday Recipe)

Already have a favorite ham recipe and just need to know how long to cook it? Whether it’s pre-cooked or uncooked, bone-in or boneless, this guide helps you figure out exactly how long to bake your ham based on its weight. Use the Ham Cooking Time Calculator to make sure your ham is cooked perfectly for Thanksgiving dinner or any holiday meal.

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Tasty Thanksgiving Appetizers to Kick Off Your Holiday Feast

7-Layer Taco Dip Appetizer

This 7 Layer Taco Dip is a colorful and flavorful Thanksgiving appetizer that adds a fun twist to your holiday menu. With creamy, cheesy, and zesty layers, it’s easy to prep ahead and serve with chips for a laid-back snack before Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a festive and tasty way to kick off the holiday season.

Original Oven Baked Homemade Chex Mix

Homemade Chex™ Mix is a salty, crunchy snack that’s perfect for a Thanksgiving appetizer table. Full of classic flavor and easy to make ahead, it’s a fun addition to your Thanksgiving menu that both kids and adults will snack on while waiting for dinner. Set out a big bowl during the holiday season and watch it disappear before the turkey is even carved.

Crockpot Meatballs in Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce

Crockpot meatballs in grape jelly and chili sauce are a sweet and tangy Thanksgiving appetizer that brings a retro touch to your holiday spread. They’re simple to make with just a few ingredients, and the slow cooker does all the work while you prep the rest of your Thanksgiving dinner. Add them to your Thanksgiving menu for a warm and flavorful bite guests can enjoy as they gather. If you need a new Crockpot/Slow cooker, check out these deals!

Knorr Vegetable Spinach Dip In A Classic Bread Bowl

Classic Knorr spinach dip iin a pumpernickel bread bowl is a creamy and nostalgic Thanksgiving appetizer that brings back all the holiday memories. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it’s a comforting addition to your Thanksgiving menu. Serve it in a bread bowl for a festive touch that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking before dinner.

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Pre-Cooked Bacon (Rumaki)

Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts make a bold and flavorful Thanksgiving appetizer that’s always a hit on the snack table. The crispy bacon and sweet glaze paired with that satisfying crunch fit perfectly into your Thanksgiving menu. They’re easy to prep ahead and quick to bake, making them a tasty addition to your holiday season lineup without adding stress to the big day.

Candied Spiced Mixed Nuts 

These sweet, salty, and spicy roasted nuts are a festive Thanksgiving appetizer that’s easy to make ahead. Full of warm holiday flavor, they’re perfect for setting out while everyone gathers for Thanksgiving dinner. This simple snack adds a cozy touch to your Thanksgiving menu and disappears fast once you set out the bowl.

Easy Beer Cheese Fondue

This easy beer cheese fondue is a warm and creamy Thanksgiving appetizer that adds a fun, cozy touch to your holiday season spread. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s quick to make and perfect for dipping bread, pretzels, or veggies. A great last minute Thanksgiving appetizer, it’s simple to serve and sure to be a favorite at the table.Make sure you have a fondue kit!

Best Butter Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Roasted pumpkin seeds are a salty and crunchy Thanksgiving appetizer that’s full of fall flavor and fun to snack on. They’re a great make-ahead option for your Thanksgiving menu and a perfect way to use up those leftover pumpkin seeds. This easy appetizer is a healthy, crowd pleasing party snack that fits right into the holiday season.

Easy Guacamole Recipe for a Crowd

Guacamole is a creamy and fresh Thanksgiving appetizer that’s quick to make and always a hit with guests. It’s the perfect way to add a simple, crowd pleasing party appetizer to your Thanksgiving menu. Serve it with chips or veggie sticks for a light and tasty option before the big meal.

Riced Cauliflower Vegetarian Buffalo Chicken Dip

This easy vegetarian buffalo dip is a spicy and creamy Thanksgiving appetizer that brings bold flavor without the meat. Made with cauliflower rice, it’s a great plant-based option for your Thanksgiving menu and fits right in with the holiday season. Quick to make and full of heat, it’s a crowd pleasing party appetizer that pairs perfectly with chips or veggies for dipping.

Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Dip

This easy Jalapeño Popper Dip is a warm and cheesy Thanksgiving appetizer with just the right kick. The crispy panko topping adds texture and makes it a standout on your Thanksgiving menu. It’s the perfect way to add a little spice to the holiday season and a crowd pleasing party appetizer that’s simple to make last minute. Check out the beautiful white ceramic oblong baking dishes.

Baked Brie with Walnuts and Honey

Baked brie with walnuts and honey is a warm and creamy Thanksgiving appetizer that feels festive and fancy without the fuss. The sweet honey and crunchy walnuts make it a perfect way to add something special to your Thanksgiving menu. Quick to prep and always a hit, this easy appetizer is a crowd pleasing party appetizer that brings a cozy touch to your holiday season. You will love these smaller cast iron skillets.

Artichoke Dip Hot & Cheesy

This hot, cheesy artichoke dip s a rich and comforting Thanksgiving appetizer that guests will dig into the second it hits the table. Creamy and savory, it’s a classic appetizer that fits right in with your Thanksgiving dinner lineup. Serve it warm with crackers, bread, or veggies for a crowd pleasing party appetizer that’s easy to make last minute and perfect for the holiday season.

Easy Creamy Pumpkin Hummus with Savory Spices

Pumpkin hummus is creamy, savory, and full of fall flavor, making it a perfect Thanksgiving appetizer. It’s a healthy twist on a classic dip that fits right into your Thanksgiving menu and adds a cozy touch to the holiday season. Quick to make and easy to serve with pita chips or veggies, it’s a last minute Thanksgiving appetizer your guests will love.

Caprese Mozzarella Grape Tomato Skewers

Caprese mozzarella, grape tomato skewers are fresh, simple, and always a hit. With just three ingredients, they make an easy finger food for Super Bowl, tailgate food trays, or football food appetizers everyone can enjoy. They’re also a great option for your vegetarian guests.

Super Simple Salsa

This super simple salsa is a bright and flavorful Thanksgiving appetizer that adds a pop of color to your holiday table. It’s quick to make, easy to prep ahead, and pairs perfectly with chips for a simple start to your Thanksgiving menu. This easy appetizer is a perfect way to keep guests happy while the big meal finishes cooking, and always turns out to be a crowd pleasing party appetizer.

Roasted Poblano Hummus Vegan Appetizer

Roasted poblano hummus is a smooth and smoky dip that’s perfect as a Thanksgiving appetizer. It brings bold flavor to your holiday season snack table and is a lighter option to balance your Thanksgiving menu. This easy appetizer can be made ahead of time and served with veggies or pita chips, making it a crowd pleasing party appetizer that fits right in on Thanksgiving Day.

Classic Easy Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic appetizer that fits right in with any Thanksgiving menu. They’re creamy, simple, and easy to make ahead, making them a go-to for Thanksgiving dinner or any holiday season gathering. This version skips the relish and sticks to the basic ingredients for that rich, smooth filling everyone loves. Deviled eggs are the perfect way to start the big day and are always a crowd pleasing party appetizer that disappears fast.

Healthy Grilled Pizza on a Pizza Stone

Easy and Delicious Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Complete Your Holiday Meal

Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe 

In our house, the classic green bean casserole with cream of mushroom soup is a must for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with comforting green bean flavor, and the best part is, you can mix it all together the day before.

This post contains some affiliate links, for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link, I will earn a small commission, which helps keep my blog up and running, but it won’t cost you a penny more)! Click here to read my full disclosure policy.  

Cornbread Stuffing – Copycat Liberty Tree Tavern Recipe

If you’ve ever eaten at Liberty Tree Tavern in Disney World, then you know how amazing their cornbread stuffing is. It quickly became a family favorite and is now a must-have Thanksgiving side dish at our house. This delicious recipe is our daughter’s favorite and has become one of our most cherished holiday traditions. Porcelain Rectangular Baking Dish Set of 2, Casserole Dish for all your casseroles.

Saltine Cracker Turkey Stuffing Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving

Saltine cracker stuffing is a retro holiday tradition in our family—moist, savory, and so simple to make. We stuff the cracker mixture right into the turkey cavity, then bake any extra as a cozy casserole side that everyone loves.

Instant Pot German Red Cabbage with Apple

German red cabbage, also known as Rotkohl or braised red cabbage, is a traditional side dish that brings old-world flavor to our Thanksgiving table. I use a modern twist by making it in the Instant Pot, and it always turns out tender and perfectly seasoned. This easy side dish has become a surprising favorite with the whole family.

Old-Fashioned Candied Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

When I think of classic Thanksgiving sides, old-fashioned candied sweet potatoes with marshmallows always come to mind. This nostalgic dish brings back cherished memories of holidays spent with loved ones. Sweet potato recipes have come a long way, but this one stands out for its timeless flavor and cozy charm. Autumn Plates set of 4, you may like.

Easy Corn Bake Casserole Recipe with Jiffy Mix

Corn bake casserole is a quick and easy holiday side that you can mix together the day before and pop in the fridge. It’s fluffy, creamy, and full of sweet corn flavor, always a hit with the kids. This comforting dish is a close second to green bean casserole on our family’s list of favorites.

How to Bake Acorn Squash with Butter and Brown Sugar

The easiest way to make baked acorn squash is to simply cut it in half and roast it in the oven. It’s quick to prepare and turns out sweet, tender, and perfect alongside any fall or winter meal. The naturally rich flavor gets even better with a touch of butter and a sprinkle of seasoning.

Homemade Fresh Cranberry Relish Sauce 

Homemade cranberry sauce is a classic side dish that always makes our list of favorite Thanksgiving side dishes. Sweet, tangy, and made with fresh or frozen cranberries, it adds a burst of color and flavor to any holiday dinner. We love making this cranberry relish year-round—it’s too good to save just for the holidays.

Easy Instant Pot Fresh Corn on the Cob

Instant Pot corn on the cob is one of the easiest Thanksgiving side dishes to make when you need something quick and delicious. Just add a cup of water and fresh corn, and in 4 minutes, you have perfectly tender sweet corn. This simple corn recipe is a great addition to any holiday dinner menu. To speed up your cooking, you need one of these Instant Pots, check out these prices.

Easy Crispy Parmesan Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Smashed Brussels sprouts with grated parmesan cheese turn crispy and golden in the oven, making them one of our favorite Thanksgiving side dishes. Even if you’re not usually a fan of holiday Brussels sprouts, this recipe just might change your mind. The crispy edges and savory flavor make these a must-try at any holiday dinner.

Simple Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Handmade mashed potatoes are a classic Thanksgiving side dish, just as essential as turkey and stuffing. I’ve made them so many ways over the years, but the Instant Pot version is my go-to for perfect results every time. From retro family dinners to holiday meals, creamy mashed potatoes always bring comfort to the table.

Sweet Moist Cornbread -Traditional Recipe or Quick Mix

Sweet, moist cornbread is one of those traditional Thanksgiving side dishes that never goes out of style. Whether I make it from scratch or use a quick mix, it always turns out soft, golden, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect companion to turkey, stuffing, and all the cozy holiday favorites.

Cheesy hash brown potato casserole is a recipe I got from a friend after a cozy dinner party at her house. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with cheesy goodness. This easy, make-ahead dish has been a go-to for our holiday dinners ever since.

Party Raspberry Sherbet Punch Non Alcoholic

This Christmas sherbet punch is a non alcoholic party favorite that’s always a hit at our holiday gatherings. Made with scoops of raspberry sherbet and bubbly soda, it’s a fun and refreshing treat for all ages. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a birthday party, this easy sherbet punch recipe never disappoints. If you want to level up the elegance of your Thanksgiving, these punch bowls will make your holiday table feel timeless and beautifully festive.

Best Instant Pot Apple Butter

Instant Pot apple butter is an easy from scratch fall recipe that fills the whole house with a warm, spicy aroma. With just a few ingredients and some cozy spices, it comes together in under an hour. This old-fashioned favorite is perfect when apples are fresh from the farmers’ market or your own backyard. Pair your homemade Instant Pot apple butter with classic Ball canning jars; they’re perfect for gifting, storing, and sharing this cozy fall favorite.

Easy Instant Pot Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

This creamy Instant Pot pumpkin soup with canned pumpkin is the ultimate cozy fall recipe. It’s rich, comforting, and comes together quickly in the pressure cooker—perfect for busy holiday prep. When pumpkin season rolls around, this easy soup is always a favorite at our Thanksgiving table.

Jello Salad Mold Holiday Vintage Recipe

This Christmas jello salad mold is a holiday vintage recipe that’s been passed down from my mother-in-law and loved by our whole family. With festive layers and sweet flavors, it’s the perfect dessert for Christmas dinner or any holiday party. This classic jello salad is a fun and colorful family favorite we make year after year. Bring back vintage holiday charm with the Retro Gelatin Mold by Chef’s Pride, perfect for creating a classic Thanksgiving Jell-O salad that looks as festive as it tastes.

Easy Creamy Pumpkin Hummus

This easy homemade pumpkin hummus is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional hummus for the fall season. Made with savory spices, it’s creamy, nutritious, and packed with fiber—perfect for a healthy Thanksgiving side or appetizer. We love serving this smooth and slightly spicy hummus as a festive fall treat everyone enjoys

Irresistible Classic Scalloped Potatoes Casserole with Bacon

Homemade scalloped potatoes are a creamy and comforting side dish that fits right in on the Thanksgiving table. Made with just six ingredients, these thinly sliced potatoes bake in a rich white sauce and get perfectly crispy on top. This classic recipe, topped with bacon, is always a holiday dinner favorite.

Sweet and Simple Thanksgiving Pies and Dessert Ideas

Dutch Apple Crumble Pie

Dutch Apple Crumble Pie is the perfect Thanksgiving dessert—sweet, spiced apples in a flaky crust topped with a thick layer of buttery cinnamon crumble. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the cozy scent of fall. This pie brings together all the flavors you love about autumn in one easy-to-make dessert. Perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, Friendsgiving, or any chilly fall night.

Easy Pecan Pie

This easy pecan pie made with dark Karo syrup is the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and rich, just right for Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s a traditional holiday dessert in many homes and fun to make with the kids. Pecan pie has been a holiday favorite for generations, and this version is simple enough for even beginner bakers.

Libby’s Classic Pumpkin Pie

There’s nothing like the warm memories of grandma’s famous pumpkin pie served at Thanksgiving or Christmas. This easy homemade pumpkin pie is a classic holiday dessert that brings back all the cozy feelings. You’ll love how simple it is to make while still tasting just like the one you grew up with. Perfect for your Thanksgiving dessert table

Sweet Delicious Cherry Pie

Cherry pie is one of my go-to desserts for holidays and family dinners—especially Thanksgiving—because it’s a classic favorite that many people don’t make for themselves. I love cherry pie just as much as apple, and it always feels a little extra special. I start baking them as soon as cherry season hits at the pick-your-own farms in our community. It’s a bright, fruity addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table.

Easy Blueberry Pie

My favorite summertime pie is blueberry pie, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. Even if it comes out a little rustic, it’s packed with sweet berry flavor and never lasts long. No matter how it looks, your family will love every bite. It’s a great make-ahead pie to serve alongside your favorite Thanksgiving or holiday desserts.

Old-Fashioned Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb pie is a timeless classic that’s just as welcome on the Thanksgiving dessert table as it is in spring. This old-fashioned rhubarb pie has the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a flaky, buttery crust made from scratch in a mini food processor. It’s simple, nostalgic, and always a crowd-pleaser, especially for those who grew up with it on the holiday menu.

Perfect Flaky Pie Crust Without a Food Processor

If you have a rolling pin, a pie pan, and a few basic ingredients, you can make a flaky homemade pie crust in minutes. Whether you’re baking a classic apple pie, your grandmother’s pumpkin pie, or even a savory holiday dish, this easy crust will bring it all together. It’s a must-have for your Thanksgiving pies, simple, reliable, and delicious.

Easy Pecan Pie Shortbread Bar Cookie 

These easy pecan pie shortbread bars have all the flavor of a classic pecan pie, baked into a buttery cookie bar. They’re sweet, salty, and perfect for sharing during the holidays. The shortbread crust is simple to make and holds up beautifully under the rich, nutty topping. A great alternative to traditional pie for your Thanksgiving dessert table!

Apple Cider Fall Cupcakes

You’ll want to try these fluffy apple cider cupcakes topped with creamy vanilla cinnamon buttercream, perfect for fall baking and Thanksgiving dessert trays. They’re fun to make with the kids and come together easily with simple ingredients. Decorated with fall sprinkles and sugar leaves, these cupcakes are as cute as they are delicious.

Baked Apple Cider Cake Mix Donuts with Maple Glaze

These baked apple cider donuts with maple glaze are a fun and easy fall treat your whole family will love. Made with spiced cake mix, apple cider, and a simple donut pan, they bake up soft, flavorful, and ready in no time. They’re perfect for cozy weekends, fall parties, or even a sweet Thanksgiving morning breakfast.

Easy 7 Layer Magic Cookie Bars

Magic Cookie Bars are a quick and easy dessert bar that’s rich, sweet, and always a crowd-pleaser. Made with layers of chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, pecans, coconut, and sweetened condensed milk, all on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are a childhood favorite that still shows up at holiday gatherings year after year. Add them to your Thanksgiving dessert spread for something fun and irresistible.

Easy Peppermint Bark

This rich dark chocolate peppermint bark is topped with creamy white chocolate and crushed Hershey’s chocolate mint candy canes. It’s an easy, festive treat that’s loaded with flavor and perfect for holiday gifting or party trays. The mix of dark chocolate and minty candy crunch makes this peppermint bark impossible to resist.