Home » Trending » 31 Festive Thanksgiving Recipes That Bring the Spirit of the Season to Every Bite You Take

31 Festive Thanksgiving Recipes That Bring the Spirit of the Season to Every Bite You Take

Nothing brings people together quite like a Thanksgiving table packed with everything from old favorites to a surprising new pie. In this collection of 31 creations, there’s a recipe to help every cook pull off a memorable feast. With a little help from this lineup, there are plenty of ways to create stories and leftovers that last beyond the holiday.

A closeup of a bowl of Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup.
Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

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.

With Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon on the table, you offer a combination of flavor contrasts brought together by simple ingredients. Cabbage takes on a pleasant tang complemented by tasty bacon, finding balance without being overpowering. A touch of sweetness from the cabbage and acidity from vinegar bring a break from richer dishes. This recipe can serve as a side that stands out for its color and taste, making each bite uniquely enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

A slice of Pumpkin Crunch Cake on a white plate, topped with whipped cream, with a checkered cloth beside it and a baking dish in the background.
Pumpkin Crunch Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Guests are sure to notice Pumpkin Crunch Cake for its appealing texture and spiced pumpkin base adorned with a layer of crunchy topping. A straightforward preparation makes this cake accessible to any home baker while delivering plenty of flavor. A crumbly finish pairs well with coffee or tea, offering a nice contrast to softer desserts. Sharing this cake adds a touch of tradition and warmth to gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Crunch Cake

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

I've gathered 31 of my favorite casseroles for you and your family to love! I've created and tested each recipe many times, and you can be sure of no AI. Just dependable, scratch-made dishes to dig into!

You'll get ad-free recipes like:

  • Spaghetti Casserole
  • Sloppy Joe Casserole
  • Sausage-Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
  • Tuna Noodle Casserole.
  • and so many more!
$7.99 for a limited time!
This is a digital product. You'll receive an instant download link after purchase.

Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

A sweet potato on a plate with a fork.
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Using Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer allows for a quicker and lighter take on a classic side dish, with crisp edges and tender centers. These sweet potatoes require minimal oil, preserving their natural sweetness and lightness. Their ease of preparation means you can serve them as a snack or a side without much effort. Each piece turns out evenly cooked, making them ideal for last-minute dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

A Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins cut in half on a plate reveals a creamy filling, with more muffins in a basket and a bowl of diced fruit in the background.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

In Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins, a rich cream cheese center complements the soft pumpkin muffin, creating a pleasantly balanced treat. The recipe combines staple pantry ingredients so anyone can make them on short notice. A gentle sweetness comes through without being too bold, highlighting both pumpkin and spice. These muffins work well at breakfast or as an afternoon tea snack, adding versatility to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

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

People enjoy Smoked Dill Pickle Wings because the brine adds unexpected flavor complexity to each bite. Smoked preparation delivers a pleasant char while preserving the juicy interior of the wings. Dill and pickle notes come together for something a bit different from traditional wing recipes. These wings can be served as appetizers or paired with salads, offering something new for adventurous eaters.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Three white plates with pumpkin turnovers topped with cinnamon sugar, on a rustic wooden table with utensils and autumn-themed decorations.
Easy Pumpkin Turnovers. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Hosting with Easy Pumpkin Turnovers gives you a pastry filled with soft pumpkin and gentle spices, using ready-made dough for convenience. Each turnover develops a golden, flaky exterior that contrasts nicely with the creamy inside. Preparation is quick and simple, enabling you to serve fresh pastries even if pressed for time. These turnovers can be offered for breakfast or dessert, giving flexibility in meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

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

Choosing Air Fryer Turkey Breast is ideal for anyone wanting a fast yet moist turkey option, perfect for smaller gatherings. Air frying helps lock in juices while giving a crisp skin with minimal effort. Simple seasoning is enough to highlight the natural flavors of turkey without requiring extensive preparation. This recipe lets you serve a classic protein without relying on lengthy oven roasting.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Puff Pastry Apple Tart

A Puff Pastry Apple Tart topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkled with powdered sugar sits on a light green plate.
Puff Pastry Apple Tart. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Guests appreciate Puff Pastry Apple Tart for its light and flaky crust topped with sliced apples and a touch of sweetness. Preparation is simple, especially since store-bought pastry works well, saving time on busy days. Each tart slice offers a nice contrast in texture between crisp pastry and softened apples. Presentation is elegant, making this dessert a welcome finish to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

A serving of Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli on a black plate.
Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

With Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli, you bring together tender broccoli and fluffy rice in a creamy base, creating a comforting side dish. Fresh broccoli ensures vibrant color and mild flavor, blending nicely with melted cheese and subtle spices. Preparation is straightforward, allowing for easy assembly ahead of time. This casserole pairs well with roasted meats and other classic sides, filling out your meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

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.

Offering Apple Crisp with Ice Cream gives guests a warm dessert featuring baked apples beneath a crunchy oat topping. Adding a scoop of ice cream creates contrast in temperature and texture, making each mouthful enjoyable. The easy-to-follow recipe lets anyone achieve pleasing results with minimal prep work. Whether for a crowd or a quiet evening, this classic dessert is always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

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.

Serving Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup presents a smooth and velvety option combining natural sweetness from squash and potatoes. Blended until silky, this soup can be balanced with gentle spices or simple salt and pepper. A finishing garnish of herbs or seeds adds visual appeal and a subtle crunch. This dish provides warmth and comfort in one bowl, serving as a first course or a light main.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

An apple cinnamon roll on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

With Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls, you merge two beloved flavors into one treat by wrapping apples and cinnamon inside soft, baked dough. Spiced apple filling brings a nostalgic taste, complemented by a drizzle of glaze on top. Preparation may require a bit more time, but the aroma and results make it well worth the effort. Each roll offers layers of flavor perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties in a black dish.
Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you make Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties, you repurpose leftovers into flavorful, crispy patties using turkey and mashed potatoes. Simple seasonings and quick pan-frying transform surplus ingredients into something new and appealing. These patties suit lunch, brunch, or casual dinner settings. They prove it’s easy to give classic holiday foods a second life with just a few steps.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting on wooden serving board.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Anyone preparing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls enjoys the combination of fluffy roll dough and pumpkin-spiced filling, topped with a sweet glaze. Pumpkin purée adds moisture and subtle flavor, making the rolls soft and enjoyable. Baking these rolls creates an inviting aroma throughout your kitchen. Whether for breakfast or brunch, these rolls add a flavorful twist to a familiar treat.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Texas Corn Succotash

Texas Corn Succotash in a black bowl with spoon.
Texas Corn Succotash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You can create a colorful side with Texas Corn Succotash, which combines corn, peppers, and beans for a blend of texture and flavor. Seasonings are kept simple to showcase fresh ingredients, resulting in a vibrant dish. This recipe works well on its own or paired with grilled meats and other sides. The preparation is quick, fitting well into any busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

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.

Bakers appreciate Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies for their pillowy soft cookies sandwiched with a creamy filling. The pumpkin base brings gentle undertones, rounded out by spices in both cookie and filling. This dessert can be assembled ahead, making it convenient for serving during any gathering. Their hand-held size makes them perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

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.

With Twice-Baked Potato Casserole, you enjoy a rich and creamy take on classic potatoes, loaded with cheese and bacon. Baking the casserole twice ensures a pleasurable, fluffy interior and a gently crisp top layer. Preparation is simple, making it easy for anyone to bake ahead or serve warm. This dish fits well as a hearty side alongside turkey or beef.
Get the Recipe: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Apple Fritter Bread

Three slices of apple fritter bread on a white plate.
Apple Fritter Bread. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Anyone who loves bakery-style treats will enjoy Apple Fritter Bread, which features ripe apples folded into moist quick bread with a light, sugary glaze. Chopped apples provide bursts of flavor and a pleasing texture in every slice. The recipe is approachable enough for any home baker and can be sliced for breakfast or dessert. Each slice warms up nicely, making it suitable throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

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

With Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans, preparation takes little effort while the slow cook brings out a deeper flavor in every bean. Smoked meat or simple bacon adds richness, requiring only minimal seasoning. The slow cooker method keeps the beans tender without losing their shape, making this side easy to manage during busy meal preparations. You can leave them simmering while focusing on other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Dutch Apple Danishes

Golden brown Dutch Apple Danishes, topped with a fruit and nut filling, drizzled with white icing, displayed on a dark baking sheet.
Dutch Apple Danishes. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Kitchens glow with Dutch Apple Danishes, which layer spiced apple mixture onto a flaky pastry base. The apple filling combines a hint of cinnamon and sugar, tucked beneath golden pastry. A quick drizzle of icing on top finishes these pastries, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. Preparation is straightforward, and they bake up beautifully for guests or family.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Danishes

Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

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

Anyone can serve Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup with its rich, caramelized onions and a hearty broth topped with melted cheese. Toasted baguette slices float on top, soaking up the tasty soup for added substance. Preparation is uncomplicated, relying on simple techniques and minimal ingredients. Each bowl turns into a comforting start to any meal, pleasing both old and new fans of classic soups.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

A piece of Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. sits on a plate with a fork. More cake is visible in the background on a wooden board.
Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Anyone looking for a new dessert can try Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake, which creates a chocolate base blended with pumpkin for balance. This cake is easy to prepare and uses everyday pantry ingredients, making it accessible to busy home bakers. Each slice gives a familiar taste with a subtle twist thanks to the pumpkin. Serving this dessert allows you to share something both chocolatey and spiced.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You can prepare Turkey à la King for a creamy main dish, combining turkey and vegetables in a smooth sauce. Ingredients come together quickly in one pan, streamlining preparation. Pouring the mixture over rice, pasta, or toast makes serving flexible and practical. This recipe is a popular way to use leftover turkey and still enjoy a homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Two small white bowls of applesauce topped with cinnamon are placed on a wooden board next to cinnamon sticks, an apple, and a jar of applesauce.
Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cooks choosing Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe appreciate the fresh fruit flavor and limited ingredients for a healthy, homemade applesauce. The Instant Pot speeds up cooking, making it easy to process apples without lots of effort. Simple spices enhance but do not overpower the natural apple taste. Serve this applesauce as a snack, dessert, or side to balance heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

A black plate holds Pumpkin Linzer cookies dusted with powdered sugar.
Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Baking Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies creates sandwich-style cookies with a hint of pumpkin spice, filled with sweet jam or preserves. Prepping these cookies can be a family activity, using store-bought dough or making it from scratch. Cookie cutters allow for creative shapes and festive presentations without too much difficulty. These treats add a bright note to dessert platters or afternoon tea.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Families often serve Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole for its comforting combination of creamy mashed potatoes baked with cheese and a touch of seasoning. Layers of potato deliver a familiar, soothing flavor profile, great for pairing with meats and gravies. The simple preparation ensures this casserole is foolproof even for novice cooks. It is a dependable side that adds heartiness to any menu.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

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.

Hosting breakfast with Easy Pumpkin Waffles is a simple way to bring pumpkin flavor and fluffy texture to your morning meal. The batter requires only basic ingredients and cooks quickly in any standard waffle iron. These waffles can be served plain or topped with syrup and fruit, offering plenty of options for customization. Preparing in batches keeps everyone happy at the table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Waffles

Smoked New York Strip Roast

A piece of smoked New York strip roast meat on a cutting board next to a knife.
Smoked New York Strip Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You can serve Smoked New York Strip Roast when you want a juicy, tender roast, smoked to perfection with simple seasoning. Smoking the roast brings out natural beef flavors while ensuring a memorable, mouthwatering centerpiece. The recipe involves minimal prep work but delivers robust results when done correctly. Slicing and plating this roast gives your guests a special dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Smoked New York Strip Roast

Pumpkin Spice Scones

Five Pumpkin Spice scones with vanilla glaze are arranged in a circle on a round metal cooling rack over a light-colored surface.
Pumpkin Spice Scones. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

With Pumpkin Spice Scones, your kitchen becomes filled with the aroma of spices and pumpkin combined into a tender baked good. Easy mixing and shaping allow for quick baking, making them convenient for any baker. The scones work well as a breakfast option or for serving with afternoon refreshments. A touch of icing or glaze finishes each scone, adding a sweet accent.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Scones

Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

A white plate with loaded sweet potato casserole topped with sour cream, bacon, cheese, and green onions, set on a brown charger plate with a fork and cooking utensils in the background.
Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You can prepare Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole featuring mashed sweet potatoes layered with nuts, marshmallows, and spices. The casserole balances natural sweetness from potatoes with crunch and subtle flavors from toppings. Baking until golden gives an appealing finish that works well alongside roasted meats or poultry. Each scoop is rich and hearty, offering plenty of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

Air Fryer Corn on The Cob

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob with slices of butter on top.
Air Fryer Corn on The Cob. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serving Air Fryer Corn on The Cob brings out crisp kernels and a lightly charred exterior, achieved with little oil and less time than boiling. Corn cooks evenly in the air fryer, locking in its natural juiciness and sweet flavor. Quick cleanup and minimal fuss make this a practical side for any meal. You can top the corn with butter, herbs, or cheese for a personal touch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on The Cob

By

Leave a Comment