Thanksgiving traditions stick around for a reason: the classics work. With 37 time-honored crowd-pleasers on the table, the excitement to see what comes out of the oven next is very real. There is something about these trusted favorites that keeps everyone gathered in the kitchen, peeking through the oven window like excited kids.

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray. — Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel

Families often find Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel a perfect centerpiece for gatherings, as their soft, spiced texture pairs well with the gooey caramel topping. When baked to perfection, these cookies tend to fill the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. People love sharing them straight from the oven, and many also wrap them up for thoughtful gifts.
Get the Recipe: Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel

White Bean Salad

Guests usually appreciate how White Bean Salad brings freshness and a hearty element to the table, thanks to the protein-rich beans and crisp vegetables in each bite. A simple vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together, making this dish easy to prepare ahead of time. Those looking for lighter options during meals often gravitate towards this salad, finding it both filling and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Salad

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Home cooks often rely on Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup for a meal that combines tender chicken, wild rice, and vegetables in one generous pot. The creaminess balances well with the earthy flavor of the rice, making it a comforting choice for dinnertime. Families commonly enjoy how this soup feels, both nourishing and fulfilling without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Apple Fritter Bread

Many people turn to Apple Fritter Bread when they want a fragrant slice full of apples and a hint of cinnamon, baked into a sturdy loaf. With bits of tender apple throughout, every piece provides a blend of tender dough and a sweet glaze on top. Having it available for breakfast or dessert offers flexibility for hosts managing busy kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Families searching for creative ways to use extra ingredients find Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties a simple and tasty solution. Combining mashed potatoes and cooked turkey into golden, pan-fried patties brings a new twist to familiar flavors. This dish works well as a snack or meal, since the patties hold together easily and can be made ahead.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Two bowls of cream of butternut squash and sweet potato soup on a wooden table. — Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Gathering a blend of root vegetables in Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup results in a dish with a smooth texture and gentle sweetness in every spoonful. A touch of cream adds richness, while spices complement the natural flavors without overpowering them. Hosts often welcome how quickly this soup can be made in advance and kept warm until serving time.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Six pumpkin whoopie pies with cream filling are arranged on a gray plate, viewed from above. Two cinnamon sticks are visible at the edge of the plate. — Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Party planners frequently add Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies to dessert trays, knowing guests appreciate the nostalgic treat of fluffy cake sandwiching a creamy filling. Each pie features the warmth of pumpkin and spices, making them memorable among baked goods. The handheld size lets people enjoy them without utensils, which keeps things simple during gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

A bowl of French onion soup with bread on top. — Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Many home cooks attempt Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup for its deeply flavored broth and golden layer of melted cheese and toasted bread. Onions slowly caramelized offer richness, while beef stock infuses every spoonful with hearty taste. This soup always feels upscale yet approachable, encouraging guests to linger over each bowl.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Nanna’s Apple Cake

An apple cake on a white plate with cinnamon sticks. — Nanna’s Apple Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Guests often look forward to Nanna’s Apple Cake because it combines slices of sweet apple with a soft, homemade batter, making each serving moist and flavorful. Tradition and nostalgia are common themes when this cake is brought to the table. Aromas from baking invite everyone to the kitchen, while the glaze adds a simple finishing touch.
Get the Recipe: Nanna’s Apple Cake

Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Host kitchens rely on Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese to offer potato lovers an extra smooth and creamy twist at the dinner table. The addition of cream cheese adds just enough tang to balance buttery notes within every spoonful. People with busy schedules appreciate that the recipe can be made in advance and reheated without losing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Creative bakers are drawn to Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake because it fuses rich chocolate flavor with festive pumpkin notes in every slice. The brownie base is soft and decadent, while the pumpkin layer adds both color and moisture. Finishing with a simple frosting or whipped topping, the cake becomes a conversation piece at any dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

A square slice of corn pudding casserole with eggs, red bell pepper, and chives sits on a white plate with a serving spoon underneath. — Classic Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Many families serve Classic Corn Pudding Casserole for its comforting texture and sweet corn flavor woven into a creamy mix. The casserole holds up well over time, making it ideal for potlucks and large group dinners. Quick assembly means this dish can be part of any menu with minimal preparation stress.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A rectangular white plate with cooked red cabbage and bacon pieces, placed on a light surface next to a floral-patterned cloth. — Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Home cooks enjoy preparing Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon because it balances tangy and smoky flavors while adding a vibrant color to the spread. Crisp bacon bits mix into finely sliced cabbage that’s gently simmered until tender. This dish stands out as both a salad and a warm side, supporting various menu choices.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Busy households often rely on Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins for quick breakfasts and sweet snacks, blending moist pumpkin dough with a creamy filling that stays soft even after baking. The muffins keep well for several days, making them practical for advanced cooking. Each bite offers a contrast of flavors and textures most people find appealing.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Entertaining is made easier by Puff Pastry Apple Tart, which features thinly sliced apples laid over a crispy, buttery pastry base. The tart comes together quickly, using store-bought pastry for convenience and minimal cleanup. Guests often remark on the beautiful presentation and balanced sweetness, making it ideal for showing off fruit at its best.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate. — Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fans of unusual flavor combinations gravitate towards Smoked Dill Pickle Wings thanks to the tangy marinade and the smoky depth achieved during slow roasting. Chicken wings absorb pickle brine and spices, then develop a tender texture with a crispy exterior. The recipe stands out for gatherings since many enjoy its bold flavors with a variety of sauces.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Easy Pumpkin Waffles

Two stacked square waffles with syrup on a white plate, set on a white textured surface. — Easy Pumpkin Waffles. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Households looking for quick morning options turn to Easy Pumpkin Waffles, which blend pumpkin puree and spices into a classic batter for light, flavorful waffles. A nonstick waffle iron makes preparation simple and consistent, keeping breakfasts stress-free. These waffles pair well with syrups and toppings, letting everyone personalize their plates.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Waffles

Turkey à la King

Classic meals often feature Turkey à la King, where leftover turkey is gently simmered in a creamy sauce with mushrooms and sweet peppers. The sauce coats each piece, making it comforting and easy to serve over toast, biscuits, or rice. Hosts appreciate how quickly this dish can be assembled without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

A loaf of glazed pumpkin bread with two slices cut sits on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by bowls containing glaze and orange puree. — Best Ever Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Bread bakers always enjoy preparing Best Ever Pumpkin Bread because it stays moist and flavorful for days after baking, thanks to pumpkin puree and warming spices. Slices show a tender crumb and hold up well for sandwiches or spreads. People frequently add nuts or chocolate chips to make the recipe their own, and leftovers freeze nicely for snacking later.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

Smoked New York Strip Roast

Many hosts look to Smoked New York Strip Roast when they want to feature a centerpiece with robust flavor and juicy slices served straight from the oven. Slow smoking brings out complex tastes and a tender interior, keeping guests coming back for seconds. Resting the roast before carving ensures that each slice stays moist and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Smoked New York Strip Roast

Baked Spanish Rice

Potluck organizers favor Baked Spanish Rice because it provides a filling side that features tomatoes, peppers, and spices stirred into fluffy rice. Baked in the oven, the dish achieves a crust on top and holds its shape for easy plating. Leftovers usually taste even better as the seasoning develops overnight.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate. — Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cooks enjoy preparing Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans since they require minimal attention and result in tender beans with smoky ham or bacon flavors. The slow cooker method allows for even cooking without watching the stove. A comforting alternative to simple steamed vegetables, this dish finishes with a rich broth that is excellent for dipping bread
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Hosts looking for fast meal solutions choose Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin for its quick assembly and smooth consistency. Using canned pumpkin ensures convenience and reliable flavor without peeling and roasting. This soup welcomes a range of garnishes, from seeds to croutons, and works well as both a starter and a light lunch.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Leftover integration becomes straightforward with Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry, which envelops turkey, vegetables, and gravy under flaky, golden pastry. Individual pies can be baked in ramekins for personal servings or as one large pie. This recipe helps with portion control and easy reheating, appealing to busy families.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Dessert fans appreciate Pumpkin Crunch Cake for its mix of soft, spiced cake and crunchy topping, usually featuring pecans or walnuts. The layers create texture contrast that keeps interest from first bite to last. Baking in a single pan makes clean-up simple and lets the topping toast beautifully. This cake pairs with whipped cream or ice cream when served, handling special occasions or everyday cravings.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

Many hosts opt for Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli, as it merges fluffy rice, sharp cheese, and tender broccoli into a single baking dish. Fresh broccoli provides that bit of crunch which stands out against creamy elements. Families benefit from how easily leftovers reheat for lunches or quick dinners.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

Turkey & Apple Panini

Sandwich lovers enjoy Turkey & Apple Panini thanks to its pairing of sliced turkey, crisp apples, and melty cheese pressed between golden bread. Each bite gives a blend of sweet and tangy flavors, appealing to a range of palates. The sandwich is quick to grill, making it a reliable option for busy meal times.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Two bowls of quinoa salad topped with avocado slices, cheese, and sour cream. — Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cooks looking for nourishing options often try Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa for its rich mix of hearty sweet potatoes, protein-packed quinoa, and beans. Robust spices infuse each spoonful, making the chili both comforting and interesting. One-pot convenience allows for easy serving and clean-up, which is helpful during busy gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Pumpkin Spice Scones

Breakfast tables get an upgrade from Pumpkin Spice Scones, offering a balance of tender crumb and warm pumpkin flavor complemented by classic spices. The recipe’s dough comes together quickly, supporting busy morning routines. Scones suit both casual coffee breaks and special celebrations, presenting well with a simple glaze or drizzle.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Scones

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Appetizer fans enjoy how Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets combine tasty mushrooms and crispy bacon in buttery pastry shells baked to golden perfection. Each tartlet presents bite-sized convenience for parties and open house events. The recipe is flexible enough to accommodate different herbs and cheeses, catering to diverse tastes.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Pumpkin Brownies

Baking enthusiasts choose Pumpkin Brownies for their tender texture and subtle pumpkin flavor layered with rich chocolate in each square. Combining chocolate and pumpkin keeps the treat moist without heaviness, making it appealing to many. The brownies cut cleanly, helping with presentation for parties and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Brownies

Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

Baked apple-crumble dessert with ice cream and caramel drizzle, homemade cozy fall treat. — Apple Crisp with Ice Cream. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Home cooks frequently make Apple Crisp with Ice Cream because baked apples blend with a crumbly oat topping for an unforgettable combination. Warm crisp comes straight out of the oven, and a scoop of ice cream on top finishes the dish perfectly. This recipe adds a comforting, shareable touch to any get-together or quiet night in.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Cooks aiming for fresh vegetable sides select Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill, which roasts or steams cauliflower and tosses it with bright lemon and fragrant dill. The result is a side that’s easy to prepare and welcomes simple customization. This dish fits into both formal dinners and casual meals without overwhelming heavier entrees nearby.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Dessert makers prefer No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake when oven space is at a premium, as it produces creamy slices with pumpkin flavor and spiced crust entirely without baking. Setting in the refrigerator keeps preparation stress low, and neat slices serve well for parties. Its versatility with toppings allows each chef to make the dish their own.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon pieces, with one square being served from the dish using a spatula. — Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Dinner organizers gravitate to Twice-Baked Potato Casserole for its creamy, loaded layers featuring potatoes, cheese, bacon, and green onions. The baking process ensures everything blends smoothly and flavors deepen before serving. This dish reheats well, letting hosts prepare ahead and focus on other meal details.
Get the Recipe: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Maple Pecan Pie Bars

A slice of maple pecan pie bar topped with chopped pecans sits on a floral-patterned plate. — Maple Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet tooth cravings find relief in Maple Pecan Pie Bars, which layer gooey maple filling and crunchy pecans over a buttery shortbread crust. Cutting into bars makes them easy to serve and share, whether at gatherings or packed lunches. The simple assembly suits busy days, and the bars maintain their texture for several days.
Get the Recipe: Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced turkey breast on a white plate with sprigs of thyme. — Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Many home cooks rely on Air Fryer Turkey Breast for speed and juicy results without using the oven. The air fryer delivers crisp skin and evenly cooked meat while saving time for other meal prep. This technique supports portion control, enabling hosts to prepare only what’s needed for the moment. Sliced and served right away, it satisfies groups looking for lighter poultry options.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast